Introduction

Turekela, a forested block in Balangir district, Odisha, is often misrepresented online as a wildlife sanctuary with animals like tigers, deer, and bears. However, during our visit to the area—located 81.8 km from Balangir, 13.8 km from Kantabanji, and 19.3 km from Belpara

Many websites and even the official Balangir district portal falsely claim that Turekela, a block in Balangir district, Odisha, is a wildlife sanctuary home to animals like tigers, deer, and bears. we found that no such sanctuary exists.Turekela is a green, hilly area with some local wildlife like foxes, elephants, birds, and rabbits, but not the exotic animals often mentioned online. This blog highlights the misleading claims and shares the real facts about Turekela.

Turekela Picnic Spot – Location, Distance & Overview Table

Join Sambalpuriverse WhatsApp Channel

Celebrating Sambalpuri Culture 💖🌿|| Timeless Heritage & Beyond

Unveiling the vibrant traditions, art, and legacy of Western Odisha, one story at a time!  From intricate Sambalpuri weaves  to ancient folklore spiritual landmarks 🏯 to hidden gems 🌄, experience the true essence of Western Odisha. 💖

Join Whatsapp

While Turekela is undeniably a beautiful and serene location, nestled between hills and dense forests, it does not host the rich wildlife that many websites, including the official Balangir district site, lead tourists to believe. Instead, visitors will experience a peaceful retreat with local animals such as rabbits, wild foxes, wild oxen, and various birds and reptiles, but the promise of spotting tigers and deer remains unfulfilled.

This blog post delves into the truth behind Turekela, exposes the discrepancies between online claims and reality, and explores the implications of such misinformation for local tourism and wildlife conservation efforts.

The Promised Turekela Wildlife Sanctuary: What Was Advertised

Over the years, Turekela has been promoted as a popular wildlife destination, and various tourism websites and platforms have highlighted its potential as a wildlife sanctuary. These websites claim that Turekela is home to a wide range of large mammals, including tigers, elephants, bears, and deer. The following are some of the websites that have contributed to the spread of this misleading information:

1. Balangir District Official Website

The official district website highlights Turekela’s biodiversity and adventure potential, but it inaccurately claims the presence of tigers, bears, and deer. Locals consistently state that these animals are not found in the area, making these claims false. Misleading information from official sources can create unrealistic expectations for tourists, highlighting the need for accurate and responsible communication about the region’s wildlife.
🔗 balangir.odisha.gov.in

2. Odisha Tour

The website odishatour.in inaccurately links Turekela Wildlife Sanctuary with content about the Mauli Maa Temple in Malkangiri, leading to misleading information. The post, instead of focusing on Turekela, describes a temple in Manyamkonda, Malkangiri, as a major pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Mauli. This content is completely irrelevant to Turekela, highlighting a serious case of misleading tourism promotion. It’s important for tourism platforms to provide accurate and location-specific details to prevent confusion among travelers.
🔗 odishatour.in

3. Odisha Lifestyle

Odisha Lifestyle have incorrectly marked Turekela as a designated wildlife sanctuary. However, after thorough on-ground verification and local insights, it is evident that no such officially declared wildlife sanctuary exists in Turekela. This widespread misinformation, including mentions on several travel blogs and district-level government websites, has created confusion among tourists and nature lovers.at
🔗 odishalifestyle.com

4. India-Box

India-Box highlights Turekela’s rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes, making it an ideal spot for group excursions and wildlife observation. However, the website makes an unsubstantiated claim that Turekela is part of a sanctuary, a statement which requires verification and correction.
🔗 india-box.in

5. Tour My Odisha

Offering insights into Turekela’s natural beauty, Tour My Odisha promotes the region’s suitability for group tourism. Despite this, the platform incorrectly markets Turekela as a sanctuary, which is misleading for potential travelers.
🔗 tourmyodisha.com

6. Orissa Tourism

The Orissa Tourism site lists Turekela as one of the top tourist spots in Balangir, appreciating its wildlife and scenic beauty. Yet, it fails to make the distinction that Turekela is not an official wildlife sanctuary under Odisha’s forest and wildlife laws.
🔗 orissatourism.org

7.Sea Water Sports

The website Sea Water Sports misleadingly  confuses Turekela with Turkey in Odisha, mixing up attractions from different regions. This misrepresentation can confuse travelers, making them think Turekela is a recognized sanctuary, which it is not. Always verify information from reliable sources to avoid such inaccuracies

🔗 seawatersports.com

8.True Yatra

The True Yatra website also falls into the trap of misrepresenting Turekela as a wildlife sanctuary. Despite being an established travel portal, the website inaccurately refers to Turekela as a sanctuary in its content. It highlights the region’s natural beauty and adventure opportunities, but the description is misleading, as it suggests that Turekela is home to a diverse range of wildlife, which it is not. The site further perpetuates false claims, including the presence of rare and sensitive animals like tigers, bears, and deer, which have never been recorded in the area. This type of misinformation can lead tourists to have unrealistic expectations about the wildlife and natural experiences available at Turekela.

🔗trueyatra.com

it’s definitely surprising when official platforms like the Odisha Tourism website and the Balangir Government Official website make incorrect claims about a tourist destination like Turekela. These sites are generally expected to provide accurate and reliable information to promote tourism, so misinformation can confuse potential visitors.

It’s especially concerning when an official platform describes Turekela as a wildlife sanctuary, which is not accurate, as there is no formal recognition of Turekela as such. Given the importance of these official websites in promoting Odisha’s tourism, any inaccuracies they publish can have a significant impact on both local tourism and public trust.

This situation could be a result of miscommunication, outdated information, or errors in content writing, but it’s essential to rectify such discrepancies to prevent confusion. It’s crucial for tourists and potential visitors to know the true nature of Turekela — that it is a beautiful natural area for eco-tourism, nature walks, and wildlife observation, but not an official wildlife sanctuary.

2. Our Visit to Turekela: Disappointment and Realization

After hearing much about Turekela’s supposed wildlife offerings, we embarked on a trip to the location with high hopes of spotting tigers and other large mammals. As we made our way through the scenic forests and hills, we were indeed enchanted by the natural beauty of the area. The lush greenery, the tranquil ambiance, and the clear skies made Turekela a fantastic picnic spot — but the promises of seeing tigers, bears, and elephants were not fulfilled.

What we did encounter were a few local species, such as rabbits and wild foxes, and some wild oxen grazing in the forest. A variety of local birds and reptiles could also be spotted, adding to the charm of the area. While these animals are an integral part of the ecosystem, they are far from the large and exotic wildlife that had been advertised.

After a day of exploring, it was clear that Turekela was not the wildlife sanctuary that had been promised. Instead, it seemed more like an untouched area of natural beauty, with local wildlife that could be seen in other parts of the region as well.

The Truth from Turekela: What the Locals Say

Deep in Balangir district lies the quiet village of Turekela—not the dense, animal-rich sanctuary often described online. To the people living here, such claims sound unfamiliar and even laughable. “Sanctuary? We’ve lived here for generations, and not once have we seen a tiger or bear,” says Ganesh Sahu of Jharmunda Pada, a nearby hamlet.

Elder Raghunath Panighrahi from Bhaludungri adds, “Our forests are home to squirrels, peacocks, and monkeys at most. Some jackals and wild boars roam, but not the wildlife the websites talk about. There’s no sanctuary board, no forest gates—only the jungle we’ve known since childhood.”

Locals like Bhima Naik from Kandhapada recall how news spread that their forest was being called a wildlife sanctuary. “Some outsiders came and clicked pictures. Next thing, we saw our Turekela on YouTube and tourist sites—with tigers in the thumbnail!” he laughs. “If that was true, we wouldn’t let our goats into the woods.”

Despite the digital buzz, people in Turekela live their simple lives—farming, collecting forest produce, and following local festivals like Nuakhai and Makar Sankranti. While they welcome visitors, they wish the world would know the real Turekela—not one created by misinformation.

Their voices paint a clearer picture—one where tradition, simplicity, and truth matter more than digital exaggeration.

3. The Real Wildlife of Turekela: What You Can Expect

While Turekela does not host tigers, bears, or deer, it is still home to a variety of wildlife, but on a smaller scale. The forested areas around Turekela offer a safe habitat for local animals, such as:

• Rabbits: These small mammals can be spotted in the meadows and forest clearings.
• Wild Foxes: Foxes are commonly seen roaming around the forest edges, especially during the cooler hours of the day.
• Wild Oxen: A small population of wild oxen can be found grazing in the grasslands.
• Local Birds: The area is home to a range of bird species, both migratory and local. Some common birds you might spot include peacocks, parakeets, and various species of finches.
• Reptiles: Various reptiles, including snakes and lizards, inhabit the area, especially near water sources.

Despite the lack of big game animals, the presence of these smaller animals and the natural beauty of the area make Turekela a charming place for nature lovers and photographers. For those who are not specifically interested in wildlife sightings, Turekela remains a hidden gem worth exploring for its tranquil surroundings and adventure opportunities.

4. The Distance and Accessibility: How to Reach Turekela

Turekela is easily accessible from Balangir town and nearby areas. Here are the distances you need to know to plan your visit:

• From Balangir: Turekela is 81.8 km from Balangir, making it a convenient spot for a day trip. The drive is scenic, passing through lush forests and picturesque hills, giving you a sense of the natural beauty that surrounds the area.
• From Kantabaji: If you’re coming from Kantabaji, Turekela is 13.8 km away, making it an ideal destination for those staying in or near Kantabaji.
• From Belpara Block: Turekela is 19.3 km from Belpara Block, offering yet another access point for visitors traveling through this region.

The drive to Turekela is relatively straightforward, and the roads are well-maintained, though some areas may be a bit remote. If you’re planning a visit, it’s advisable to take a local guide or travel with someone familiar with the area to make the journey easier and more enjoyable.

5. The Discrepancy Between Claims and Reality

✅ A beautiful green village surrounded by forested hills in Balangir District
✅ A good picnic spot for families and groups
✅ Home to local wildlife like birds, foxes, elephants, wild oxen, and reptiles
❌ Not a notified Wildlife Sanctuary under the Forest Department
❌ No tigers, bears, or deer exist here
❌ No official tourism infrastructure or wildlife trails

The question that arises is: why are these misleading claims being made? One possible explanation is that the local tourism department or certain website owners may have exaggerated the potential of the area to attract more visitors. By labeling it a “wildlife sanctuary,” they might have believed they could attract tourists who are keen on wildlife photography or safaris. However, this approach backfires when visitors discover that the promised wildlife is absent.

Another reason could be that Turekela was once home to larger wildlife species, but over time, these animals may have moved on due to habitat destruction, poaching, or human encroachment. The area may have been a more thriving sanctuary in the past, but without ongoing conservation efforts, these animals have disappeared, leaving behind only smaller, more resilient species.

Turekela forest Photos

Nearby Tourist Places from Turekela

While Turekela itself is not a wildlife sanctuary, it is surrounded by several noteworthy destinations that can make your trip more fulfilling. Here are some popular tourist spots near Turekela, perfect for a one-day detour or extended itinerary:

Join Sambalpuriverse WhatsApp Channel

Celebrating Sambalpuri Culture 💖🌿|| Timeless Heritage & Beyond

Unveiling the vibrant traditions, art, and legacy of Western Odisha, one story at a time!  From intricate Sambalpuri weaves  to ancient folklore spiritual landmarks 🏯 to hidden gems 🌄, experience the true essence of Western Odisha. 💖

Join Whatsapp

6. The Impact of Misleading Tourism Information

Misleading claims about Turekela’s wildlife can have a negative impact on both the local tourism industry and wildlife conservation efforts. Tourists who visit Turekela with expectations of seeing exotic animals are likely to leave disappointed, which could harm the reputation of the district as a tourist destination. This could lead to fewer future visits, as word spreads about the discrepancies between what is promised and what is actually present.

Moreover, the lack of transparency surrounding Turekela’s wildlife situation may prevent the local authorities from taking necessary conservation measures. If the area is falsely marketed as a wildlife sanctuary, it may delay efforts to properly safeguard the local wildlife, whether through stricter regulations, anti-poaching measures, or habitat restoration projects.

Accurate information and honest marketing are essential in promoting sustainable tourism and supporting local wildlife conservation efforts. Visitors should be encouraged to appreciate the area’s natural beauty without the expectation of large wildlife sightings. This could lead to more responsible and realistic tourism that benefits both the region and its wildlife.

7. What Needs to Be Done: A Call for Transparency

To avoid further confusion and disappointment for visitors, it is crucial that the local tourism department and various tourism platforms revise the information they provide about Turekela. The district’s official website, along with other platforms, should update their descriptions to reflect the reality of the wildlife in the area.

In addition to correcting the information, there is also an opportunity to invest in conservation efforts. Protecting the existing wildlife, even if it is limited to smaller species, should be a priority. This could include measures such as creating a more sustainable habitat, preventing poaching, and ensuring that the area remains an eco-friendly place for nature lovers.

By embracing transparency and focusing on the area’s true attributes — such as its scenic beauty, local wildlife, and potential for adventure — Turekela can still become a beloved destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature. It just needs to be marketed honestly.

8. Conclusion: Embrace the Beauty of Turekela for What It Truly Is

While Turekela may not be the wildlife sanctuary that many websites have claimed it to be, it remains a beautiful and serene destination that deserves attention. Its dense forests, scenic hills, and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect place for picnics, nature walks, and photography. The local wildlife, though less diverse than originally advertised, still adds charm to the area.

As visitors, we need to appreciate Turekela for what it truly offers — not as a wildlife sanctuary, but as a picturesque and peaceful natural escape. By sharing accurate and transparent information, we can help others appreciate the area without the false expectations created by misleading online claims.

Let’s enjoy Turekela for its natural beauty, its local wildlife, and the opportunity it offers for adventure and relaxation. Ultimately, it’s the honesty about its offerings that will make it a more rewarding experience for everyone.

Call to Action

Have you visited Turekela? What were your expectations, and how did your experience compare to the information you found online? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below — let’s start a conversation about sustainable and honest tourism in our region.

This expanded blog provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of Turekela, dispels misconceptions about its wildlife, and encourages more responsible tourism practices.

FAQs About Turekela Picnic Spot, Balangir

Join Sambalpuriverse WhatsApp Channel

Celebrating Sambalpuri Culture 💖🌿|| Timeless Heritage & Beyond

Unveiling the vibrant traditions, art, and legacy of Western Odisha, one story at a time!  From intricate Sambalpuri weaves  to ancient folklore spiritual landmarks 🏯 to hidden gems 🌄, experience the true essence of Western Odisha. 💖

Join Whatsapp