Explorers Conquer Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in 3-Day Hiking Expedition

Debrigarh: A group of 22 avid hikers from across India embarked on an exhilarating 3-day, 2-night hiking expedition through the picturesque landscapes of Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary. The journey, which commenced on March 21st, saw participants hailing from various states including Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Kerala, Haryana, Odisha, Karnataka, Chandigarh, Jharkhand, and Delhi.

Led by seasoned trekking experts and organized in collaboration with India’s largest trekking organization, IndiaHikes, the hiking expedition provided enthusiasts with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of the sanctuary’s diverse terrain.

The first leg of the journey took the adventurers to the breathtaking valleys, cliffs, mountains, grasslands, and islands that dot the sanctuary. Scaling altitudes of up to 500 feet on the inaugural day, the hikers set up camp at Ranibasa, where they spent the night surrounded by the tranquil wilderness.

On the following day, the group descended through rugged mountains and verdant valleys, ultimately reaching Batisland, another enchanting destination within the sanctuary. As night fell, the intrepid explorers made their way to “cattle island,” an uninhabited oasis nestled within the serene waters of the Hirakud Lake, where they camped under the starlit sky.

In a concerted effort to minimize environmental impact, the hiking expedition adhered to eco-friendly practices, ensuring zero plastic and zero litter throughout the journey. Temporary night camps were erected using sustainable materials, while limited biotoilets were strategically placed along the route to promote responsible waste management.

For the first time in the sanctuary’s history, night camping on cattle island was orchestrated in an environmentally conscious manner, leaving behind no trace of human presence. The expedition also incorporated various activities aimed at fostering a deeper connection with nature, including tree conversations and mindfulness practices.

Under the Nature Education Program of the Hirakud Wildlife Division, trained naturalists accompanied the hiking group, providing invaluable insights into the rich diversity of flora and fauna that call the sanctuary home.