Lake/WildlifeFree entry
Chilika Lake (Ganjam Portion)
Bhanjanagar/Chhatrapur, Berhampur
About this place
Chilika Lake is Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, spread across 1,100 square kilometers. The lake is a UNESCO Ramsar Wetland of International Importance (designated 1981). During winter, the lake hosts over 200 bird species including migratory waterfowl from Siberia, Central Asia, and Europe. The lake supports resident Irrawaddy dolphins and is a critical fishery ecosystem.
Why it matters
Asia's largest brackish water lagoon (1,100 sq km); UNESCO Ramsar Wetland site 1981; Ancient Kalinga port ecosystem
N/A (natural lagoon; Ramsar designation 1981)
boatingfishingcouple friendlyfamily friendlykid friendlysenior friendlysolo friendlycrowded on weekendsinstagrammableUNESCOwinter bestisland
Getting there
Nearest railway
Balugaon RS (on Chilika shore, 15 km from Rambha) or Berhampur RS (45 km)
Nearest airport
Biju Patnaik Intl Airport, Bhubaneswar (130 km)
By road
Good — NH-16 to Rambha/Balugaon; regular buses from Bhubaneswar and Berhampur
Plan your visit
6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
4–8 hours needed
Free entry
October to March (peak migratory bird season; cool weather)
Moderate
Kid friendly Photo spot 10/10