Chilika Overview

Chilika Lake is a brackish water lake and a shallow lagoon with coastal features located in the districts of Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam in the Indian state of Odisha. Chilika's water spread area ranges between 900 and 1165 square kilometers throughout the summer and monsoon seasons, thanks to 52 rivers and creeks. It is one of the most beautiful spots in the places to visit in Chilika list.

The lagoon is approximately 64.5 kilometers long and varies in breadth from 5 to 18 kilometers. It is linked to the Bay of Bengal by a 32-kilometer-long and 1.5-kilometer-wide waterway. It typically runs along the Bay and separates it by a slender spit ranging in width from 100 meters to several kilometers.

What is Chilika Lake famous for?

Chilika Lake is the most important wintering location for migrating birds on the Indian subcontinent. It is one of the country's biodiversity hotspots. Some IUCN Red List vulnerable animal species spend at least part of their life cycle in the lake. If you are traveling to Orissa, this place must be in your Chilika Tour Packages.

Is Chilika Lake saltwater or freshwater?

Chilika Lake is India's largest saltwater lake. The lake spans the districts of Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam in the Indian state of Odisha. Chilika Lake's essential features include its water spread area, which ranges from 900 to 1165 square kilometers and is formed by 52 rivers and creeks.

Are there dolphins in the Chilika Lake?

A three-hour ride on a country boat brings you to a dolphin viewing area and the junction of the Chilika and the Bay of Bengal. A boat ride on the lake includes dolphin watching and sailing to the lake-sea junction. Throughout the year, tourists can see the resident dolphins.

Where is Chilika Lake located in Orissa?

Chilika is Asia's largest brackish water estuary lake. It occupies 1100 square kilometers. It covers portions of three Odisha districts: Puri on the east, Khurda on the north, and Ganjam on the south. It is the world's second-largest lagoon and India's largest coastal lagoon.

When to visit Chilika Lake?

Chilika Lake is open all year, although the ideal months to visit are November to February. It is especially migrating bird season, so exploring this lake during these months is even more enjoyable.