CHILKA LAKE, ODISHA – THE UNEXPLORED PARADISE OF THE EAST

Chilka Lake is a brackish water lagoon located in the Indian state of Odisha, on the east coast of the country. It is the largest coastal lagoon in India and the second largest lagoon in the world. The lake covers an area of over 1,100 square kilometers and is separated from the Bay of Bengal by a narrow sandy ridge.
Chilka Lake is a unique ecosystem that supports a wide variety of flora and fauna, including over 160 species of birds, 40 species of fish, and a number of endangered species such as the Irrawaddy dolphin and the Olive Ridley sea turtle. The lake is also home to a number of small islands and fishing villages, which offer a glimpse into the local way of life.

Chilka Lake is a popular tourist destination and offers a range of activities for visitors, including boating, birdwatching, fishing, and camping. The lake is also home to a number of temples and other religious sites, which are popular with pilgrims.
The lake has been designated as a Ramsar Site, a wetland of international importance, and is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Chilka Lake is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and anyone interested in exploring the unique ecosystems of India.
What makes it a Destination Worth Visiting
Chilka Lake is a destination worth visiting for several reasons:
- Unique Ecosystem: Chilka Lake is a unique and diverse ecosystem that supports a wide range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. Visitors to the lake can explore the diverse habitats of the lake and observe a wide variety of bird species, fish, and other wildlife.
- Beautiful Scenery: The lake is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including lush green forests, rolling hills, and sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the lake from various vantage points, including viewpoints on the islands and on the surrounding hills.
- Cultural Significance: Chilka Lake is home to several small islands and fishing villages, which offer visitors a glimpse into the local way of life. The lake is also home to several temples and other religious sites, which are important pilgrimage sites for many people.
- Recreational Activities: The lake offers a range of recreational activities for visitors, including boating, birdwatching, fishing, and camping. Visitors can explore the lake’s many islands, go on a birdwatching tour, or try their hand at fishing.
- Protected Ecosystem: Chilka Lake has been designated as a Ramsar Site, a wetland of international importance, and is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can learn about the efforts being made to protect and conserve the lake’s unique ecosystem.
Overall, Chilka Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, culture, and outdoor recreation.

Popular Activities Enjoyed by Tourists
There are several popular activities that tourists can enjoy at Chilka Lake, including:
- Boating: Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake to explore its many islands and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Boats are available for hire at several locations around the lake.
- Birdwatching: Chilka Lake is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 160 species of birds, including several migratory species, making it their home. Visitors can take a birdwatching tour to observe the various bird species that inhabit the lake.
- Fishing: Fishing is a popular activity at Chilka Lake, with several species of fish, including the famous Chilka Trout, inhabiting the lake. Visitors can try their hand at fishing from one of the many fishing boats available for hire.
- Island Hopping: Chilka Lake is home to several small islands that are accessible by boat. Visitors can explore the islands and their unique ecosystems, as well as learn about the traditional fishing villages that exist on some of the islands.
- Camping: Visitors can camp on some of the islands or on the lake’s shoreline. Camping is a great way to experience the lake’s natural beauty and enjoy a peaceful retreat in nature.
- Trekking: The hills surrounding Chilka Lake offer several trekking trails that offer scenic views of the lake and its surroundings. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely hike or a more challenging trek up the hills.

Top Attractions and Must Visit Places
Some of the top attractions and must-visit places at Chilka Lake are:
- Satpada: Satpada is a popular tourist spot located on the eastern side of Chilka Lake. It is known for its scenic beauty and is the main entry point to the lake. Visitors can take a boat ride from here to explore the lake and its many islands.
- Kalijai Temple: Kalijai Temple is located on an island in Chilka Lake and is a popular pilgrimage site. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kalijai and attracts a large number of devotees every year.
- Dolphin Watching: Chilka Lake is home to a large population of Irrawaddy dolphins, and visitors can take a boat ride to watch them swim and play in the lake.
- Nalabana Bird Sanctuary: Nalabana Bird Sanctuary is a small island located in the lake and is a popular destination for birdwatchers. It is home to several migratory bird species and is an important breeding ground for many waterfowl.
- Barkul: Barkul is a small town located on the banks of Chilka Lake and is known for its natural beauty. Visitors can take a boat ride from here to explore the lake and its many islands.
- Rambha: Rambha is another popular tourist spot located on the southern side of Chilka Lake. It is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for boating and birdwatching.

How to Reach
Chilka Lake is located in the Indian state of Odisha and can be reached by various modes of transportation. Here are the different ways to reach Chilka Lake:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Chilka Lake is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is about 120 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Chilka Lake.
- By Train: The nearest railway station to Chilka Lake is in Balugaon, which is about 8 km away. It is well connected to major cities like Kolkata, Chennai, and Hyderabad. From Balugaon, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach Chilka Lake.
- By Road: Chilka Lake is well connected by road, and there are regular buses from Bhubaneswar, Puri, and other nearby cities. You can also hire a taxi or drive your own vehicle to reach the lake. The National Highway 16 passes near Chilka Lake, making it easily accessible from other parts of the state.
Once you reach Chilka Lake, you can hire a boat to explore the lake and visit the different islands located within the lake. There are also local buses and taxis available for getting around the lake and nearby areas.