Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Along India’s eastern seaboard, Odisha is renowned for its natural scenery and cultural variety. Among its many attractions, Odisha’s lakes are serene oases that offer breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems. Not only are these famous lakes in Odisha habitats to many flora and fauna, but they are also great tourist and recreational destinations. These lakes are significant, from the expansive Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, to the serene Ansupa Lake. Tours to these famous lakes in Odisha show the state’s ecological and cultural diversity.
Top 10 Lakes In Odisha
Here are the top 10 lakes in Odisha that showcase the state’s natural splendor:
1. Chilika Lake
Chilika Lake is one of the most famous lakes in Odisha, spreading across more than 1,100 square kilometres in Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam districts. The large brackish lagoon is a biodiversity hotspot, with more than 160 species of birds visiting it as their migratory destination. The brackish waters of the lake are teeming with fish, supporting the livelihood of the local fishing population. Chilika is a tourist destination for bird watching, boating, and watching the playing of Irrawaddy dolphins at Satapada. The natural beauty of the lake, along with its ecological importance, makes it a must-visit destination.
Location: Spreads across Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam districts
Entry Fees: Free
2. Ansupa Lake
Photo: Nirmalbarik / Wikimedia Commons
Ansupa Lake, in the Cuttack district, is the state’s largest freshwater lake. The horseshoe-shaped lake is nestled among the Eastern Ghats and is fed by the Mahanadi River. The lake is renowned for its vast biodiversity, ranging from migratory birds to various types of fish. Ansupa Lake is heaven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. The government has created tourism-friendly infrastructure like boating and a park to promote eco-tourism. The peaceful ambience and beautiful surroundings make Ansupa Lake the perfect holiday destination for someone seeking peace.
Location: Cuttack district
Entry Fees: Free
3. Hirakud Reservoir
Photo: Nitun007 / Wikimedia Commons
Hirakud Reservoir was formed by the Hirakud Dam, built across the Mahanadi River in the Sambalpur district. It is over 55 kilometres long and is the longest earth dam in the world. The reservoir is utilized for irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectricity generation. Hirakud, for tourists, has beautiful sceneries, especially from the Gandhi and Nehru Minarets, giving a panoramic view of the lake. The forests and hills in the area make it more picturesque, and it is a favourite picnic and nature walk spot.
Location: Sambalpur district
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
4. Kanjia Lake
Photo: Chinmayee Mishra / Wikimedia Commons
Kanjia Lake is located within the campus of Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar. The natural lake spreads over an area of 66 hectares and is one of the reasons behind the beauty of the zoo. Kanjia Lake is full of biodiversity, with numerous fish species and migratory birds during the winter season. Boating facilities are also available for the tourists to enjoy the peaceful environment. The lake is also a significant feature of the area’s ecological balance and is useful for various research work related to limnology and aquatic life.
Location: Bhubaneswar
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
5. Tampara Lake
Photo: Navneet Sharma / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tampara Lake, located close to Berhampur in Ganjam district, is the most sought-after lake in Odisha. This huge freshwater lake is renowned for its pristine beauty, dense forests, and calm waters, which are also perfect for recreation and adventure. Odisha Tourism has promoted Tampara Lake to a great extent as a major eco-tourism destination, where boating, jet skiing, and kayaking are provided. The presence of clean parks and picnic areas makes it a great destination for nature lovers and family picnics. Bird lovers can observe various migratory and local birds around the lake.
Location: Near Berhampur, Ganjam district
Entry Fees: Free
6. Balimela Reservoir
Photo: Naksh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Balimela Reservoir, located in the Malkangiri district, is a picturesque artificial lake created by the Balimela Dam across the Sileru River. It is among the most important lakes of Odisha because it is very important for hydroelectric power generation and irrigation. The serene blue lake waters amidst green hills are a paradise for nature lovers. It is an ideal destination for boating, fishing, and photography. Although not well known, it is one of Odisha’s most tranquil and picturesque lakes, providing a haven for natural beauty lovers.
Location: Malkangiri district
Entry Fees: Free
7. Rengali Reservoir
Photo: Daniel Romanson / Wikimedia Commons
Rengali Reservoir, located in Angul district, is a vast artificial lake formed by the Rengali Dam on the Brahmani River. It is one of the state’s most essential lakes and serves mainly for hydroelectric power generation, flood control, and irrigation. The calm atmosphere and grassy hills offer it a lovely location for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The lake is famous for boating and fishing, and local villagers and tourists come to see it abundantly. The expansive stretch of tranquil blue water offers picturesque views, especially during the sunrise and sunset.
Location: Angul district
Entry Fees: Free
8. Upper Jonk Reservoir
Photo: Franz26 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Upper Jonk Reservoir in Nuapada district is not one of Odisha’s better-known lakes but is worth visiting. Created by the Upper Jonk Dam construction, the reservoir is a vital source of irrigation and drinking water for villages surrounding the lake. The lake is characterized by clear waters, greenery all over the place, and peaceful surroundings, which makes it one of Odisha’s favourite lakes for nature lovers and photographers. The lake has various types of fish and birds. Therefore, it is a nice destination for bird watching and fishing.
Location: Nuapada district
Entry Fees: Free
9. Dandadhar Lake
Photo: stoffl6781 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Dandadhar Lake, located in the Dhenkanal district, is a peaceful lake formed by the Ramial Dam on the Ramial River. It is arguably one of Odisha’s most famous lakes that welcomes tourists of all ages to its peaceful water, green surroundings, and nature’s serenity. The lake is a wonderful spot for boating, fishing, and a picnic. The hills and forests around it are ideal spots for a nature walk or bird-watching. The lake is most enjoyable at dawn and dusk when golden light comes down on the silky surface of the water.
Location: Dhenkanal district
Entry Fees: Free
10. Sara Lake
Photo: shogun / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Sara Lake in Keonjhar district is among the most peaceful lakes in Odisha. Even though smaller in area compared to other famous lakes in Odisha, Sara Lake is renowned for its natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. The lake is a perfect spot for picnics, meditation, and shoots. Forests and rolling hills surround the lake, so it is suitable for trekking and nature walks. Tourists visit the place mostly to relax in the serene waters, feel the breeze, and watch bird varieties. Unlike overcrowded celebrated lakes in Odisha, Sara Lake is pure and gives a truly natural experience.
Location: Keonjhar district
Entry Fees: Free
lakes in Odisha are awe-inspiringly beautiful and play a vital role in irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and biodiversity conservation. From the vast expanse of Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, to the serene waters of Sara Lake, each of these famous Odisha lakes offers a unique and refreshing experience. Whether you are an adventure tourist, photographer, or nature lover, these Odisha lakes have the most scenic getaways. Plan your tour, explore these well-known Odisha lakes, and experience the thrill of a lifetime!
Cover Photo: Mark Felix Pisan Jr. / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
