Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Chilika Lake in Odisha is the largest coastal lagoon in India and second in the world. The brackish water lagoon that covers a little more than 1,100 sq km is famous for its biodiversity, landscapes, and species of migratory birds. Chilika, a Ramsar site, is home to the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins and myriad avian species. The lake attracts nature lovers, photographers, and bird watchers, particularly at Nalabana Island. The lake’s serene waters, scenic islands, and colourful local fishing villages are worth experiencing for travellers looking for a balance of adventure, culture, and nature.
Quick Details About Chilika Lake
Location: Odisha, India
District: Spanning Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam
Total Area: 1,165 sq km (varies seasonally)
Maximum Depth: 4.2 meters
Main Entry Points: Satapada, Barkul, Rambha, and Balugaon
Major Islands: Nalabana, Kalijai (temple island), Breakfast Island, Honeymoon Island, Somolo and Dumkudi, and Rajhans Island
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Location
Photo: Dr. Asim Kumar Chowdhury / Wikimedia Commons
Chilika Lake spans across Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam districts of Odisha, with major entry points at Satapada, Barkul, Rambha, and Balugaon. Satapada, known for dolphin spotting, is around 50 km from Puri. Barkul, a picturesque spot along NH-16, is 105 km away from Bhubaneswar. Rambha boasts serene views of islands and is located 130 km from Bhubaneswar. The lake is located conveniently on NH-16, which connects Bhubaneswar to Berhampur, from where Balugaon and Rambha are two major entry points.
How To Reach
Photo: Aditya Mahar / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 105 km away from Barkul and Satapada. Taxies, private cabs, and OSRTC buses can be used from the airport to visit various entry points of Chilika Lake.
By Rail: Chilika Lake has its railway stations at Balugaon (8 km from Barkul), Rambha (4 km from Rambha Bay), and Khurda Road Junction (50 km from Barkul), on the Howrah-Chennai mainline.
By Road: Chilika can be approached through NH-16 (old NH-5) from Bhubaneswar, Puri and Berhampur. The distance from Bhubaneswar to Barkul is 105 km and from Puri to Satapada it is 50 km on Marine Drive Road.
Things To Do
Experience bird watching or admire dolphins; there are countless activities to enjoy at Chilika Lake in Odisha, which is adorned with stunning landscapes and islands.
1. Dolphin Watching At Satapada
Photo: NASA / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Satapada, on the eastern bank of Chilika Lake, is well known for watching the rare Irrawaddy dolphin. You can enjoy a romp with the playful dolphins while cruising through pristine water as a boat ride from Satapada takes you through the expansive site of the lake, with dolphins surfacing gracefully. Dolphin sightings are best in the early morning or late afternoon. Apart from dolphins, you are treated to sweeping views of the lake’s ecosystem and a stop at Rajhans Island, a remote sandbar at the confluence of Chilika and the Bay of Bengal.
2. Birdwatching At Nalabana Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Mike Prince / Wikimedia Commons
Nalabana Bird Sanctuary, a submerged island in the middle of Chilika Lake, is a true paradise for bird lovers. Covering 15.53 sq km, the sanctuary draws migratory birds from Siberia, Central Asia, and Europe in winter, making it among India’s best birdwatching spots. The marshy wetlands are alive with colourful flocks of flamingos, pelicans, herons and sea eagles. Barkul or Rambha makes a wonderful boat ride up to these amazing birds. In the lake, thousands of birds nest in the ideal time of November to February, which is an incredible and blissful experience.
3. Visit Kalijai Temple On An Island
Photo: Aruni Nayak / Wikimedia Commons
Goddess Kalijai, also known as Goddess Kalijai Devi, is a very popular goddess with a very popular pilgrimage temple known as Kalijai Temple on an island in Chilika Lake in Odisha. Its connections to local tales and the large number of devotees the temple attracts, particularly during Makar Sankranti when thousands of devotees gather there, render it significant. Besides that, the island is also a holy place as it provides a very peaceful environment with some scenic views of the calm land as well as the infinite view of Chilika, which makes it a perfect cultural and spiritual destination.
Places To Visit Near Chillika Lake In Odisha
Add to your experience in Odisha by visiting other fascinating locations close to Chilika Lake.
1. Banapur
Photo: SUDEEP PRAMANIK / Wikimedia Commons
This historic town is well known for the Bhagabati temple, dedicated to Goddess Bhagabati, an important goddess worshipped across Odisha. The temple is a showcase of luring Kalinga architecture and its mix of thousands of devotees during Durga Puja. It is also famous for its brass and bell metal crafts, where artisans harvest a range of utensils and idols using methods that have been handed down for generations. Wandering the narrow streets of Banapur, where craftsmen put in fascinating work, reveals the cultural heritage of Odisha.
Distance From Chilika: 30 km (near Barkul)
Best Time To Visit: October to February
2. Gopalpur-On-Sea
Photo: Rishabh Tatiraju / Wikimedia Commons
Gopalpur-on-Sea is a sleepy, picturesque coastal town that boasts a beach, a derelict port dating back to the British Raj and delectable seafood. In contrast to the busier Puri Beach, Gopalpur is a tranquil escape with golden beaches and mild waves perfect for relaxation. No trip is complete without visiting the Gopalpur Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal and is a must-see at the golden-hour sunset. Vestiges of British-era buildings and old port warehouses give it a rustic charm.
Distance From Chilika: 90 km (near Rambha)
Best Time To Visit: October to March
3. Nirmaljhar
Photo: Aditya Mahar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nirmaljhar is another waterfall and low-profile temple complex; it’s a small area overgrown with grass, shrubs and trees. The site derives its name from clear springs (Nirmal Jhar) that run through it, forming natural pools. The main attraction of the site is the Narayani Temple, which houses Goddess Durga and is built based on Kalinga-style architecture. Believers say the holy spring water has curative powers. The cool climate and pristine surroundings with gushing streams make it an ideal picnic place.
Distance From Chilika: 20 km (near Rambha)
Best Time To Visit: November to February
4. Mangalajodi
Photo: Anjan Kumar Kundu / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the northern fringes of the Chilika Lake in Odisha, the stunning wetland ecosystem called Mangalajodi is an ecotourism hotspot known for its community-led efforts for the conservation of migratory birds. It has gone from being a poach-free hunting ground into a bird refuge for more than 300 varieties of birds, including bar-headed geese, northern pintails and purple moorhens. The best way to explore Mangalajodi is to hire a country boat ride with local guides who help spot rare birds up close. The village also encourages sustainable tourism and has homestays for you to experience local Odia cuisine and country life.
Distance From Chilika: 35 km (near Tangi)
Best Time To Visit: November to March
5. Udayagiri And Khandagiri Caves
Photo: Athulvis / Wikimedia Commons
The Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves outside Bhubaneswar are an ancient rock-cut cave complex from the 2nd century B.C.E. Inside its caves, an ornate collection of sculptures, inscriptions, and meditation chambers that were once home to Jain monks, built by King Kharavela of the Mahameghavahana dynasty. Rani Gumpha (Queen’s Cave) is the largest and most exquisitely carved, featuring royal processions and celestial beings. Reaching the top, you are welcomed with a spectacular sunset view over Bhubaneswar city.
Distance From Chilika: 90 km (near Bhubaneswar)
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Where To Stay
Photo: Keegan Checks / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
For a cosy stay, OTDC Panthanivas at Barkul and Rambha offer budget lakeside cottages and AC rooms with restaurant facilities (₹1,500 to ₹3,500 per night). Private resorts such as Swosti Chilika Resort (₹7,000 to ₹12,000 a night) offer luxury accommodations with multiple modern amenities and guided tours of the lake. Hotel Golden Anchor, Balugaon (₹2,000 to ₹4,500 a night) is a decent midrange stay. Satapada has guesthouses for budget travellers (₹800 to ₹2,000 per night). Several hotels have boat ride packages in place to explore Chilika.
Where To Eat
Photo: Subhashish Panigrahi / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Seafood aficionados should visit Chilika Dhaba near Barkul for chilika crab, prawn curry, and fish thali (₹300 to ₹700 a meal). Authentic Odia, dalma and seafood specialities at OTDC Panthanivas restaurants (₹250 to ₹600 per meal). Local restaurants in Balugaon serve up fresh chilika prawns and fish fry (₹150 to ₹500 a dish). The Mangalajodi Ecotourism Centre offers homemade Odia vegetarian meals (₹150 to ₹300 per meal).
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Krupasindhu Muduli / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
A chilled-out budget trip to Chilika Lake in Odisha can cost you ₹4,000 to ₹6,000 per person for a 2-day trip, which includes food, accommodations, and internal transport. Mid-range travellers who spend on cosy stays and guided excursions might require ₹8,000 to ₹12,000. At premium resorts like Swosti Chilika, luxury stays can go up to ₹15,000 and above per person.
Tips For Travellers
- For boat rides, book through OTDC or registered operators for reasonable prices.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, and wear light cotton clothes, sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Do not visit during monsoon (June to September) when boat rides are less available.
- In remote areas, have some cash, as it is easier for vendors to deal in cash.
- If boat rides make you queasy, pack motion sickness medicine and find lodgings at Barkul or Rambha for views of the lake.
Chilika Lake in Odisha is a spectacular balance of nature, culture and adventure, with mesmerising landscapes rich in wildlife and unconventional experiences. Enjoy watching dolphins or birds while boating in the calm waters of Chilika. This destination is perfect for those not just looking for scenic views but also for biodiversity and cultural significance. So plan your trip here with TripXL, which guarantees relaxation, adventure, and memories to last a lifetime.
Cover Photo: Vaibhavraj241 / Wikimedia Commons
