The Lake
Nestling in the heart of coastal Orissa, Chilka is India's largest inland lake.Spread over 1,100 square kilometers stretching across the length of three districts of Puri, Khurda and Ganjam it joins up with the Bay of Bengal through a narrow mouth, forming an enormous lagoon of brackish water. The lake is dotted with numerous islands like Kalijai Island, Honeymoon Island, Breakfast Island, Nalabana (Island of Reeds), Parikud Island, Bird Island. Enriched by hills all along its arched shape which raise their heads here and there, Chilika lake's colour changes with passing clouds overhead and the shifting sun.Sunset and sunrise are enthralling experiences here.
There are about 160 variety of fish in the lake.One can enjoy boating on the shimmering blue waters and enjoy fishing.The fishermen around the lake practise prawn farming. Much of the lake's prawns are exported.
Rich in acquatic flora and fauna, this lake becomes a bird-watchers' paradise when migratory birds like flamingoes, teals, bar headed geese, brahminy ducks, coots, pigeons, Shovellers, and white bellied sea eagle etc. visit Chilka during winter from as far as Siberia and make it their winter-abode. The nesting grounds are 19 km from Barkul, the water bird sanctuary can be visited by boat.Close to the lake mouth near Satapada there is a large population of dolphins.
For cruising and visiting the islands one can make use of the motor launches of OTDC at Barkul or Rambha and of the Revenue dept at Balugaon. Private boats aare also available.OTDC organises Water Sports in Chilika at the Water Sports Complex, located at Barkul.
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