Destination Features

A marvel of nature, Chilika in Orissa is indeed one of nature's many wonders.  It is not only the country's largest inland lake but also Asia's largest brackish water lake. Part freshwater and part sea water, the lake is home to many resident and migratory birds who make this 1100 sq.km water body their home for the winter.  The lake's many islands not only afford excellent bird watching sites but are also a great spot for watching the sunrise and sunset.One can also go there for a picnic and get a view of the rare fresh water Irrawady dolphins and the limbless lizard Barkudia insularis who too have made this lagoon their home.

Best time to visit:  October - March

Getting there:

The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar, 100 km away while the nearest railway station for Barkul is at Balugaon (5kms). Many express and passenger trains touch down there, so you can be assured as far as rail journey is concerned. For those who prefer to take the road then it’s NH 5 for them. The Highway runs along the lake and touches Balugaon, Barkul and Rambha. But, while the road from Bhubaneshwar to Balugaon is smooth, it becomes a bit bumpy after that.