AT THE BHITARKANIKA NATIONAL PARK, SET SAIL AND SPOT A CROCODILE

From Gupti in Odisha, we set sail on a luxury catamaran and spot saltwater crocodiles, spotted deerand a host of birds at the Bhitarkanika National Park, India’s second largest Mangrove ecosystem

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As we settle down comfortably on the sun deck of our luxury catamaran, the MV Brahmani, we hear the shouts of the boat captain from down below. “Crocodile! Crocodile relaxing!” He almost sounds too jubilant for having spotted the mostly terror-inducing, yet fascinating reptile. We look out over the waters on our right and sure enough, spot our first crocodile. Much like us, the crocodile is sunning itself on the muddy banks of theriver.

The second largest mangrove system in India after the Sunderbans, the Bhitarkanika National Park, Odisha is home to many crocodiles in the creeks and estuaries of the Brahmani-Baitarani river systems, as well as migratory birds, and a host of other flora and fauna. While the park is accessible by road, we are exploring the region by water — on a luxury catamaran by Antara River Cruises.

The vessels come fully furnished with two bedrooms, bathrooms and a dining space in front, inaddition to the sun deck furnished with comfortable chairs. The boats are best suited for groups of four (priced at 225,000 per person for two nights inclusive of meals) who can be accomodated in the two bedrooms. Locals from the area staff the fleet of fourcatamarans, and are only too pleased to chat about their favourite crocodile sightings. “There is one 23-foot crocodile that goes fora long morning swim. I hope all of you get to see it,” one of them cheerily informs us.