Chilika Lake — Asia's Largest Lagoon
Chilika Lake (ଚିଲିକା ହ୍ରଦ) is Asia's largest brackish water lagoon and the second largest coastal lagoon in the world. Spread across 1,100 sq km, it's a natural wonder that straddles three districts of Odisha.
Quick Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Area | 1,100 sq km (monsoon) / 900 sq km (summer) |
| Depth | 0.9m to 4.2m |
| Location | Puri, Khordha, Ganjam districts |
| UNESCO Status | Ramsar Wetland since 1981 |
| Islands | 132+ islands |
The Biodiversity Haven
Migratory Birds
Chilika hosts over 1 million migratory birds every winter from as far as:
- ✦Siberia
- ✦Central Asia
- ✦Mongolia
- ✦Ladakh
Bird species include:
- ✦Flamingos — Stunning pink flocks
- ✦White-bellied Sea Eagles
- ✦Brahminy Kites
- ✦Painted Storks
- ✦Spoonbills
The best time for bird watching is November to February.
Irrawaddy Dolphins
Chilika is home to one of the largest populations of Irrawaddy dolphins (around 150-160). These rare dolphins can be spotted near:
- ✦Satapada
- ✦Malud
Marine Life
- ✦225+ fish species
- ✦Crabs and shrimp
- ✦Prawns (major export)
Kalijai Temple
On an island in the middle of Chilika sits the sacred Kalijai Temple (କାଳିଜାଇ ମନ୍ଦିର), dedicated to Goddess Kalijai.
Legend: A young bride named Jai drowned in the lake on her way to her husband's home. She is now worshipped as Goddess Kalijai.
The temple is especially crowded during Makar Sankranti (January).
Tourism Attractions
| Activity | Location |
|---|---|
| Boat rides | Satapada, Barkul |
| Dolphin watching | Satapada |
| Bird watching | Nalabana Bird Sanctuary |
| Temple visit | Kalijai Island |
| Sunrise/Sunset | Multiple points |
Islands to Visit
- ✦Kalijai Island — Sacred temple
- ✦Nalabana Island — Bird sanctuary
- ✦Honeymoon Island — Scenic spot
- ✦Breakfast Island — Fishing community
How to Reach
From Bhubaneswar
- ✦By Road: 100 km via Puri Highway
- ✦Time: 2-2.5 hours
- ✦Entry Points: Satapada, Barkul, Rambha
Best Season
- ✦October to March — Pleasant weather, migratory birds
- ✦Avoid: June-September (monsoon)
Conservation Efforts
Challenges facing Chilika:
- ✦Siltation from rivers
- ✦Pollution
- ✦Overfishing
- ✦Invasive species (water hyacinth)
The Chilika Development Authority works to:
- ✦Monitor water quality
- ✦Protect wildlife
- ✦Regulate fishing
- ✦Promote sustainable tourism
Cultural Significance
Chilika appears in:
- ✦Ancient texts and poetry
- ✦Odia folklore
- ✦Local fishing communities' way of life
The lake supports 200,000+ fishermen who depend on it for livelihood.
Related: Konark Sun Temple • Odia History