The state of Orissa is the proud owner of Asia’s largest brackish lagoon Chilika. It is 1,100 sq km fresh water lake bordering three districts of Orissa – Puri, Khurda and Ganjam. The place can to fame as the largest wintering ground for million-plus migratory birds that flock here in the months from November to mid-January from faraway lands like Siberia and Iran. Moreover, some rare, vulnerable and endangered species inhabit in the lagoon for at least part of their life cycle. There are a total of 225 fish species reported to be here. The lake also supports a variety of aquatic and non-aquatic plants. The Nalaban Island within the lagoon is a bird sanctuary.

Chilika can be reached from Puri or Bhubaneswer. Tourists generally visit Chilika as a part of packaged tour from Puri. The tour takes them to a small village called Satpada from where the boat trip into the Chilika Lake begins. Satpada is 50 km from Puri. Interested travelers can catch the only bus that leaves for Satpada from Puri in the morning. Or else can hire small car to Satpada.

November to mid-January

Government Accommodation

Satpada
Yatri Niwas
Tel: (06752) 262077

Rambha
Pantha Niwas
Tel: (06810) 278346

Barkul
Pantha Niwas
Tel: (06756) 220488

Rambha is a small town situated on the bank of Chilika in Ganjam district. It is the nearest place to stay for turtle watching on Rushikulya beach. The backwater is quite pleasant for boating. Centering Rambha tourists can visit nearby places - Temple of Narayanimata, 21 km; Nirmal jhar, 11 km.

Barkul is another tourist spot on the bank of Chilika in the Balugao district of Orissa. It is 20 km from Rambha. Boat trips are also available from here. It is best to visit Nalban Sanctuary early in the morning. Like Rambha a few more places can be peeped on boat trip from Barkul. They are – Kalijai Island, 10 km; Temple of Dakshaprajapati, 13 km; of Narayanimata, 10 km.

Accommodation is usually easily available in Satpada. However, during Durga Puja it is advised to book rooms in advance.