|
Area : 1100 sq. km.
Description :
Situated southwest of Puri, Chilka is the largest brackish
water lake in Asia. It is doted with the islands and is
noted for the many migratory birds which flock to the
nesting sanctuary here in winter ( December to January).
The shallow lake is about 70 km long and averages 15 km
wide It's separated from the sea only by a narrow sand
bar. The railway line and the main road run along the
inland edge of the lake. It's a peaceful enough place but
of greatest interests to ornithologists. Environment and
human problems - such as siltation and commercial prawn
fishing - are threatening this important wetland. The lake
is spread over an area of 1100 sq km and is a good picnic
spot. One can enjoy boating on the shimmering blue waters
and enjoy fishing at leisure. There are about 160 variety
of fish in the lake. Birds come here from as far as
Siberia.
ATTRACTIONS WITHIN CHILKA :
Nalabana: It is a forest of reeds and is famous for the
long-range migratory birds in winter.
Birds Island: It is heaven for the resident and migratory
birds. One can watch the birds in their natural habitat
here.
Kalijai: The abode of Goddess, Kalijai. The island is
famous for the temple and the scenic surroundings.
Satapada: The famous Chilka Dolphins are can be seen in
their natural best.
Parikud and Malud: They are islands within the lake.
Brahmaputra: The place is known for its scenic beauty.
Cruising on Chilka:
There are motor launches of OTDC at Barkul and Ramba. The
Revenue Department also maintains some boats at Balugaon.
We can also arrange the country boats at these places and
at Satapada as well.
Access :
The nearest airport - Bhubaneshwar. Later, drive to
Chilka.
The nearest railhead- Balugaon (South Eastern railway
section)
The major station - Puri (train services from all over the
country)
Accommodation & facilities :
Plenty of accommodation is available at various places in
and around the lake. Some of the hotels, rest houses,
lodges and huts are maintained and managed by OTDC and
many are privately owned. Panthaniwas at Ramba and
Panthaniwas at Barkul are among the famous hotels in the
area. Ashoka hotel at Balugaon is another hotel which
attracts many visitors. At Satpada the Yatriniwas provides
excellent accommodation.
|
