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Chilika Lake is the largest coastal lagoon in India and also the second-largest in the whole world. It is heaven for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and adventure seekers. The brackish water lagoon stretches itself over Odisha and boasts of rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and a peaceful atmosphere. If you ask yourself what to do in Chilika Lake, you’ll be amazed at its diverse experiences. This guide takes you through the top 10 things to do in Chilika Lake and will ensure you have a great visit to this natural wonder.
10 Things To Do In Chilika Lake
Explore the top 10 things to do in Chilika Lake, India’s largest brackish water lagoon, for an unforgettable nature experience.
1. Take A Boat Ride Across The Lake
Photo: Ckpcb / Wikimedia Commons
One of the famous things to do in Chilika Lake is to go for a boat ride to cover the vastness of the area. Whether it is a government ferry or a private motorboat, gliding over the placid waters of the lake will surely be an exhilarating experience. The boat rides offer mesmerising views and take you to attractions such as Rajhans Island, Satapada, and Kalijai Temple. In case you are wondering what to do in Chilika Lake, a boat ride must be on your must-do list, as you may find dolphins frolicking and many different types of birds.
Best Known For: Scenic boat rides, dolphin spotting, island hopping
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
2. Dolphin Spotting At Satapada
Photo: Lucia Barreiros Silva / Pexels
One of the most thrilling things in Chilika Lake is dolphin spotting at Satapada. Hiring a boat safari from Satapada is the most rewarding way to see Irrawaddy dolphins in their natural habitat. The Irrawaddy dolphin is an endangered species that is sometimes seen swimming and playing in their natural habitat. It is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Chilika Lake for wildlife lovers. The sight of these rare dolphins surfacing gracefully out of the water is simply mesmerizing, making it one of the must-experience things in Chilika Lake.
Best Known For: Irrawaddy dolphin sightings, boat safaris
Timings: 7 AM – 4 PM
3. Take A Tour Of The Sacred Kalijai Temple
Photo: Aruni Nayak / Wikimedia Commons
Kalijai Temple, located on a small island within the lake, besides being a popular pilgrimage centre, is also one of the best sites to visit when you look for spirituality in Chilika Lake. The devotees reach the temple from a small boat, pray at the shrine, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. However, besides spirituality, this place’s serene settings and picturesque views contribute to the charm of one of the most beautiful attractions in Chilika Lake. If you are wondering what to see in Chilika Lake, a marriage of spirituality with beauty would be a visit to Kalijai Temple.
Best Known For: Pilgrimage, mythological significance, scenic island views
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
4. Visit Nalabana Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Mike Prince / Wikimedia Commons
Bird-watching at Nalabana Bird Sanctuary is among the prime things to do in Chilika Lake, especially for nature enthusiasts. The island bird sanctuary is submerged during monsoons and rises above water in the winter, providing a vital stop for thousands of migratory birds coming from different corners of the world. Bird watchers can find flamingos, pelicans, herons, and so on during one of the major things to see in Chilika Lake that will thrill bird lovers. The flip side to seeing these exotic birds glide over the glittering surface of the lake is unquestionably an enchanting sight.
Best Known For: Migratory birds, nature photography, winter birdwatching
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
5. Uncover The Beauty Of Rajhans Island
Photo: David Kanigan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Rajhans Island is one of the best things to do in Chilika Lake for those looking for serenity, an idyllic strip of land separating Chilika Lake from the Bay of Bengal. The Lonely Isle has stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a respite from magnetic tourist spots. Without a doubt, it’s one of the calmest things to see in Chilika Lake, perfect for nature lovers. Visitors can sunbathe, swim, or simply bask in the scenic beauty created by nature.
Best Known For: Pristine beaches, solitude, breathtaking landscapes
6. Explore The Village Of Barkul
Photo: Anugrah Lohiya / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
A visit to Barkul offers another look into the life of local fishermen, making it one of the more culturally auspicious things to see in Chilika Lake. The colourful fishing villages dotting the shores of the lake provide a window into traditional fishing techniques and the lifestyle of the people who inhabit such territories. A stunner is witnessing fishermen cast nets and gather fish as their daily haul. Guests also have an opportunity to interact with the locals to learn about their lifestyle and fishing traditions.
Best Known For: Traditional fishing culture, local interactions, scenic surroundings
7. Watching Sunrise Or Sunset
Photo: Erik, A van Dijk / Wikimedia Commons
Those seeking breathtaking lake views should not miss the chance to observe the sunrise or sunset. With the changing colours of the sky taking on a brilliant hue on the water, it unfolds a mesmerizing sight. Satapada and Barkul stand as the best possible locations to witness calm waters reflecting gold as the beacon of the sun is lowered. Photographers and nature lovers consider it one of the best things to see in Chilika Lake to get their nice shots.
Best Known For: Stunning lake views, photography, tranquil ambiance
Timings: 5:30 AM – 6:30 AM, 5 PM – 6:30 PM
8. Relish Local Seafood Delicacies
Photo: Wiki.cullin / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring Chilika Lake entails indulging in its tasteful seafood, making it one of the most outstanding things to do in Chilika Lake. From fresh crabs to prawns and fish prepared with traditional Odia spices, local eateries on the banks of the lake serve local delicacies. If you are a food lover wondering what to do in Chilika Lake, tasting seafood specialities of the region should be your priority. With their unique flavours and fresh catch from the lake, these dishes create a culinary experience worth savouring.
Best Known For: Fresh seafood, Odia-style cooking, authentic flavors
Timings: 11 AM – 10 PM
9. Visit The Mangala Temple In Kalupara Ghat
Photo: Pratheek K / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
One of the first things to do in Chilika Lake involves a visit to the Mangala Temple, which is of great religious significance. The temple is visited by devotees and tourists in search of blessings for themselves, as well as an admiration of its architecture. It is one of the best things to do in Chilika Lake, especially if cultural and religious tourism is your thing. Being nestled in tranquil nature, the temple satisfies spiritual wanderers with its calm and serene atmosphere.
Best Known For: Religious significance, spiritual ambiance, local pilgrimage
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
10. The Chilika Lake Festival
Photo: Róbert Kóta / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Chilika Lake Festival allows you to witness the most colourful sights in Chilika Lake. The festival showcases local art, culture, and water sports for the visitors to enjoy. This annual event is one of the best things to do in Chilika Lake, bringing a little bit of everything from festivals to adventure activities. From cultural presentations to stalls of delectable food, the festival is a grand celebration of the lake’s importance. Various eco-tourism activities are also organized, making your experience stand out all the more.
Best Known For: Cultural celebrations, water sports, local traditions
Event: Annual Event Usually held in January
Chilika Lake is a treasure trove of adventures and cultural significance infused with natural beauty. Explore charming islands and rare Irrawaddy dolphins-Fun never falls short in feeding your wonderful memory. The numerous best things to do in Chilika Lake cater to any kind of traveller who craves peace, wildlife encounters, or spiritual evolution. Summer or winter; something marvelous is always waiting to mesmerise you around Chilika Lake. Plan your trip with TripXL and experience the best things to do in Chilika Lake for an unforgettable adventure.
Cover Photo: Government of Odisha / Wikimedia Commons
