Chilika Lake: A Brackish Water Paradise
If you are looking for a serene and scenic destination in Odisha, then Chilika Lake is the place to be. Chilika Lake is the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia and the second largest in the world. It covers an area of over 1100 square kilometers and is home to a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. Chilika Lake is also a popular spot for birdwatching, boating, fishing, and dolphin sighting. Here are some of the things you need to know before you plan your trip to Chilika Lake.
Best Time to Visit Chilika Lake
The best time to visit Chilika Lake is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and the lake is full of migratory birds. You can witness more than 160 species of birds, including flamingos, pelicans, cranes, storks, herons, egrets, and more. You can also spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins, which are found only in Chilika Lake and a few other places in the world. The lake also hosts various festivals and events during this time, such as the Chilika Mahotsav, which showcases the culture and cuisine of the region.
Things to Do in Chilika Lake
There are plenty of things to do in Chilika Lake that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable. Some of the activities that you can try are:
- Boating: You can hire a boat from any of the nearby towns or villages and explore the lake at your own pace. You can visit the various islands and sandbars that dot the lake and enjoy the scenic views. You can also take a guided tour to see the dolphins, birds, and other attractions of the lake.
- Birdwatching: You can indulge in birdwatching at various spots around the lake, such as Nalabana Island, Mangalajodi, Kalijai Temple, and more. You can see a variety of birds, both resident and migratory, and capture them with your camera. You can also join a birdwatching camp or workshop to learn more about the avian life of Chilika.
- Fishing: You can try your hand at fishing at Chilika Lake, which is known for its rich fishery resources. You can catch fish such as prawns, crabs, mullets, catfish, and more. You can also buy fresh seafood from the local fishermen and enjoy a delicious meal.
- Temple Visits: You can visit some of the temples that are located around or on the islands of Chilika Lake. The most famous one is the Kalijai Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Kalijai. It is believed that she protects the fishermen and sailors of Chilika. The temple is also a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. Other temples that you can visit are Narayani Temple, Raghurajpur Temple, Alarnath Temple, and more.
Puri to Chilika Lake
Puri is one of the nearest towns to Chilika Lake and is well-connected by road and rail. You can reach Puri by train from Bhubaneswar or other major cities in India. From Puri, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Chilika Lake. The distance between Puri and Chilika Lake is about 50 km and it takes about an hour to reach by road. You can also hire a boat from Puri to reach Chilika Lake by water.
Chilika Lake is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and adventure seekers. It offers a unique experience of witnessing the beauty and diversity of the brackish water ecosystem. So pack your bags and head to Chilika Lake for an unforgettable holiday.
