This is a perfect destination if you wish to stay somewhere near Bhubaneswar, set off the beaten path among nature, find some peace away from the urbanity of a city, and observe wildlife-Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary.
The next question is, what would be the best accommodation option out there? Glamping or forest huts?
Both options, besides being way into the natural view, differ quite a lot regarding the experience. Let us explain the details of each in the simplest of terms before you settle on which is suited for you.
Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary: An Overview
Chandaka Sanctuary is situated around 20 km from Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha. This habitat is mainly characterized as the permanent habitat of elephants. Here you get a glimpse of deer, wild boars, bears, jackals, hundreds of birds and rare flora.
This place is a paradise for those who:
- Want to stay close to nature.
- Want to spend time in peace, away from the crowd.
- Want to promote eco-friendly travel.
What is glamping?
Glamping means “glamorous + camping”. That is, you will get the fun of camping, but with all the comfortable facilities. It is for those who want to experience the jungle but without much discomfort.
What does glamping include?
- Luxury tents: Massive, sprawling tents with superior bedding, either an air conditioning unit or fan, hard wooden flooring, and their own bathroom.
- Facilities: Hot water, Wi-Fi (in some areas), organic meals, bonfire, guided jungle trails, and sometimes spa services.
- Experience: Stargazing is an experience in serenity far from the buzzing mosquitoes’ hum and discomfort.
Best for whom?
- Couples on a honeymoon trip.
- An important aspect of designing a family-friendly holiday is hygiene and comfort.
- First-time jungle tourists wishing for a new experience but not wanting to take a risk.
What are forest huts?
Forest huts are simple, natural-material huts or homes built in the middle of the forest. The idea is to let you live in nature — but like people did in the olden days, without all the noise and artificial amenities.
What do forest huts have to offer?
- Basic structure: Structure made of wood, bamboo, mud or straw. Most places have limited electricity and bathrooms may be shared.
- Basic amenities: Self-cooking, fetching water, sometimes bathing is done using a bucket. But that’s where the real thrill lies.
- Hack accepted: I would mail the required screen shots to Mr. Jones. When your eyes open to the sunlight in the morning, then you understand what the forest is.
Best for whom?
- Trekkers, adventure lovers and nature photographers.
- People who want to spend a few days in peace away from mobile, internet and crowd.
- Solo travelers or youth on a budget trip.
What is the difference between glamping and forest huts?
| Features | Glamping | Forest huts |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Excellent, Hotel-like | Limited, basic facilities |
| Price | Relatively expensive | Budget friendly |
| Experience | Nature + luxury | 100% with nature |
| Food and drink facility | Food served by tent staff | Cook yourself or community kitchen |
| Security | staff, lights, CCTV | Less technical arrangements, more self-reliance |
Where to find what near Chandaka Sanctuary?
Places for Glamping:
- Some private eco-resorts and tented camps are available between Bhubaneswar and Chandaka that offer luxury glamping experiences.
- You can check out projects like “Eco Retreat Odisha” where you can experience nature in government-built tents.
Options for Forest Huts:
- Some community-run forest huts and eco lodges are available on the outskirts of Chandaka.
- The local tribal community is also very hospitable and introduces you to the local cuisine, lifestyle and customs.
What to consider before booking?
1. What is your purpose?
- If you are just visiting the forest and want to relax, then glamping will be fine.
- If you really want to feel the jungle, then choose forest huts.
2. Are you with kids or elderly people?
- Glamping will be safer and more convenient.
- Forest huts are exciting but require more adjustments.
3. What is your budget?
- Glamping can range from ₹3000 to ₹8000 per night.
- Forest huts are also available for ₹500 to ₹1500.
4. Which is eco-friendly?
Both options can be eco-friendly — but you need to check if their waste management, local support, and eco building materials are up to the mark.
Do these things before booking
- Check online portals like Booking.com, Goibibo, or local Odisha tourism websites.
- Read reviews on TripAdvisor.
- Contact a local travel agency that offers regular trips to Chandaka.
- Check the weather and facilities — many forest huts don’t operate during the rainy season.
Conclusion: Your experience will be exactly the way you want it
Glamping and forest huts both have their own advantages. One gives you comfort, the other intimacy.
Chandka Sanctuary has both these options available, you just have to decide whether you want to relax with natural tranquility or feel the real beats of the raw jungle.
