subject: Largest Bird Century Chilika Lake,orrissa,india [print this page] The islands are not great for bird watching but offer an exceptional romantic view of the sunrise and sunset. Chilka Lake also makes a great picnic destination!
Historically Speaking
Some ancient texts refer to Chilka as a major harbour. The famous Chinese traveler Fa-Hien also refers to a port from where ships bound for South East Asia. This port was said to be located at Chhatragarh on the banks of the Chilka Lake. Excavations of the 7th century revealed ship anchors, and
10th century documents refer to the Chilka Lake as being a vital port and shelter for ships going to Asia.
Shopping
There is not much scope for shopping here.
Events
Pilgrims flock here in January during Makar Mela to pay obeisance to the Goddess Kalijai.
Night Out
Roadside stalls are an option but it is recommended that you eat at the OTDC guest houses or hotels.
Activities
Cruising in the lake is the most indulged in activity by the tourists. Take a boat ride to all the islands which is definitely going to be a wonderful experience.
Sights
In Chilka just take in the bounty of nature! An impressive array of bird life, both native and migrant, makes Chilka one of the best places in India for a bit of satisfying bird-watching. White bellied sea eagles, greylag geese, purple moorhen, jacana, herons and flamingos are among the many
species which make the lake a bird watcher''s delight Other than the birds, Chilka''s shores are home to blackbuck, spotted deer, golden jackals and hyenas, and the lake is rich in aquatic life- its waters harbour around 160 species of fish, crustaceans and other marine creatures, including the famous Chilka dolphin. There are also motor launches take you cruising to Satapada Island where dolphins can be seen playing the year round at the entrance to the sea. The brackish water encourages prawn, crab and mackerel fishing and hundreds of small fishing boats set sail each morning, their sails rippling in the gentle breeze blowing in from the Bay of Bengal.
How to get there by Air
Bhubaneshwar is the only airport 100 kms away. One will have to hire cab to get to Chilka Lake.
How to get there by Rail
Balugaon is the nearest railway station 5 kms away. Several express and passenger trains touch this station.
How to get there by Bus
NH5 runs along the lake and brings you to Barukul.
Best time to Visit
The weather remains moderately warm the whole year round, so come any time of the year except during the rainy season from June to September October to March is the best time to visit.
Where to Stay
The OTDC offers the Panthanivas resorts at Rambha and Barkul. The Ashoka Hotel at Balugaon and the Yatrinivas at Satapad. The hotels are moderately priced.
Emergency Number
Orissa State Tourism: 06810-78346
Nearby Places
Nirmala Jhar, Narayani, Banpur are the nearby excursions that are worth a visit.
For more information for this Destination please check india Travel Guide
