Chilka Lake Tourism

Chilka Lake - Home of Bird Population

Chilka lake is the greatest endowment that nature has bestowed upon Orissa. Chilka Lake is the largest brackish water lake in Asia covering an area of around 1,100 sq. km. Although in dry seasons, the area of the lake comes down to 906 sq. km. Formed due to the silting action of River Mahanadi, the lake is separated from Bay of Bengal only by a small sandy ridge. There are 52 rivers and rivulets that drain into Chilka Lake. Chilka Lake is dotted with some wonderful small islands that make the lake more picturesque. Nalabana Island, Honeymoon, Island and Breakfast Island are the most famous of all. He Island of Kalijai is an important pilgrimage place as the Temple of Goddess Kalijai is situated here. The temple is the venue of a huge fair that attracts not only locales but tourists as well. The fair is held on the day of Makar Sakranti which falls in the month of January. The pear shaped lake has the richest and most unique range of flora and fauna. For this reason, Chilka Lake was recognized as a Ramsar Site, which means it has been designated as a wetland of international importance.