Travel Diaries 1: A Stay at Satkosia Eco Retreat

 ECO RETREAT ODISHA

Eco Retreat Odisha is an initiative of the state government to promote eco-tourism in Odisha. The current edition is in full force from 9th December, 2020 and will continue till 28th February, 2021. It is being held at the following 5 locations:

1. Satkosia (Tiger reserve), Angul

2. Hirakud (World's longest earthern dam), Sambalpur

3. Konark (Sun Temple), Puri

4. Daringbadi (Kashmir of Odisha), Kandhamal

5. Bhitarkanika (Saltwater crocodile), Kendrapada

There are two packages available for staying in Royal/Deluxe tents:

1. 2 days, 1 night

2. 3 days, 2 nights

THE EXPERIENCE 

Day 1

Satkosia Eco Retreat is located at the outskirt of Baliput village in Angul district. We reached the place around 1:30 pm on Tuesday. All our luggages were collected from the car and while we were checking in, these were taken to our designated tent.

We went to the dining hall where we were served soup, papad and salad. We had the maincourse afterwards which consisted of a chicken dish, a fish curry, a paneer delicacy and a dry vegetable apart from the usual rice, dal and rotis. Finally we were served delicious gulaab jamun. All the food items were yummy.

After having lunch, we took rest for a while in our tent. At 3:30 pm, we gathered in front of the reception from where we were taken to the trekking spot. The trekking was basically a walk in the forest and that too a short one. We walked for a couple of kilometres. On our way, we encountered an uprooted tree. The guide told us that it had been demolished by the elephants. We found elephant dumps at many places emphasising that the place had been a walking path for elephants. Also, the place has been cleared for Eco Retreat and for the safety of the tourists, the guided forest trail  has been kept short.

After the trail, we went to the Mahanadi River where a net has been kept to rest. We relaxed there for a while and enjoyed the setting Sun and the soothing breeze.

We stayed there till 5 pm and went to the dining room for snacks and tea. The food was very good, but we could not eat much as our tummies were already full because we had had a lot during lunch.

We went for a bicycle ride thereafter. We cycled for around 4 km and passed two small villages on our way. The ride was quite smooth. When we were back to the camp, it was already dark and the street lights were switched on.

We got freshened up and went to watch the cultural programmes. The folk songs and dances were quite mesmerising. We danced to the beats.

After checking the beautiful photos for the day and talking among ourselves, we headed for dinner a little after 8 pm. This time we were given starters/appetizers in addition to soup, papad and maincourse items. The food was again very tasty. During dinner, a local composer sang to melodious bollywood songs. His voice made the songs even more soothing. Overall, the dinner was fantastic.

It was time for star-gazing. The sky was looking beautiful with full of stars. The operator told us about the important starts and constellations visible that night with the help of a telescope. The view from the telescope was only as good as with naked eyes.

There were four movies available for screening that night - "Uri", "Johnny English", "Dabangg 3" and a fourth one. As we were feeling tired, we skipped this part and went to bed.

Day 2

Before going to bed the previous night, we had planned to attend yoga and meditation sessions in the morning. But, we woke up late (around 7 am) and it was still cold out there. Thus, we did not attend the sessions.

After finishing our morning routine, we went for breakfast. All the major South Indian dishes, such as, idly, dosa, vada, sambar were served. We were also served puri, tea, boilled egg, pineapple, watermelon, fresh orange juice, Minute Maid mango juice. In short, it was a perfect breakfast.

The mini-bus took us to the bank of Mahanadi where we enjoyed boating. The scenery was breathtaking. The river was surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges on both sides. The water of Mahanadi was clear and 40 ft deep. This ensured a smooth sailing of the boat. On our way, we spotted a crocodile resting on the sand with some of its parts in the water.

We spotted another one in the river. There were numerous small turtles staying still on the fallen wood in the river. We stayed in the river for an hour. Shortly, we checked out from the Eco Retreat.

Though the price seems a little bit expensive, it is a perfect getaway for a weekend. Also, throughout our stay, we were treated like royalty. This is a very good initiative by the Government of Odisha.

OTHER BENEFITS

Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are available at the bar on payment. A group can enjoy bonfire at some additional cost.

RATINGS

Food

The lunch, snacks, dinner and breakfast were all very tasty. Bottled water and cold drinks were chargeable. I give 4.5 stars for this category.

Tent

It was an air-conditioned cottage with attached washroom. There is ample space for two persons. A bit congested for three persons. I give 4 stars for this category.

Price

The cost of stay is ₹ 4720 per person per night which is expensive. I give 3.5 stars for this category.

Forest Trail/Trekking

This can be of a longer distance and duration to suite for youngsters. I give 3 stars for this category.

River Bank/Sunset Point and Cycling

Awesome place to chill and beautiful scenery. I give 5 stars for this category.

Cultural Programmes

These were good. I give 4 stars for this category.

Star-gazing

It was not upto the mark. I give 3 stars for this category.

Boating

Perfect end to the trip. I give 5 stars for this category.

Overall

My overall rating for the stay is 4 stars.