Chilika Lake is the unique combination of marine, brackish and fresh water with the ecosystem. The water spread area of the lagoon that varies between 1165 to 906 sq. km. The island within the lagoon is notified as a bird sanctuary. The Chilika lake bird sanctuary is spread over three districts of Ganjam, Puri and Khurda. Travellers can enjoy boating, fishing and bird watching along with enjoying the serene and calm environment. The beautiful islands amidst the lake provide the view of the amazing Birds Island, Satapada and Nalabana Island. Chilika sanctuary is the largest hub for migratory birds in winter that hosts over 160 species of birds. Here birds arrive from Caspian Sea, Lake Baikal, Aral Sea and from Kirghiz steps of Mangolia, Russia, Central and Southeast Asia, Ladakh and Himalayas. Inland Chilika Lake is also home to 14 types of raptors and Irrawaddy Dolphins.
Best places to visit in Chilika includes picnic spots like Narayani, Nirmalijhara, Goddess Bhagabati, temple of Dakhya Prajapati at Banapur, Nalabana Island, Satapada Island, Kalijai Island, Breakfast Island, Becon Island and Honeymoon Island, Mangalajodi and many more. Best time to visit Chilika Lake is From October to March.
Nearest airport is Bhubaneswar situated at 120 kms distance. Berhampur is the nearest railway station and from Balugaon and Rambha buses and cabs are available to reach at this largest sanctuary.