Chilka Lake

The best time to visit Chilka is in the winter months, when migratory birds arrive there.

Nalabana

– A designated bird sanctuary under the Wildlife Protection Act, Nalabana is a big island in the center of the lake. A treat for bird-watchers in the winter months, this island is completely submerged in the monsoon months.

Mangalajodi

– A former poachers village which has become a community owned wildlife venture. The community is supported by Mangalajodi Ecotourism.

Bird Island

– watch birds in their natural habitat.

Kalijai Island

– abode of Goddess Kalijai. Pilgrims flock here in January during Makar Mela at the time of Makar Sankranti to pay obeisance to the Goddess. Is very close from Barkul. Flocks of peacocks roam here, mingling with the devotees.

Legends say, around 2-300 years ago, a girl named Kali drowned, near the presently situated Kalijai Temple, while returning to her maternal house from her husband's. A few years later her sister, Jai, came looking for Kali and came to the island. She died on the islandreasons unknown. Fishermen and other local folks used to hear cries of two girls at nights. But soon after the temple was built the cries stopped for good. Earlier fishermen used to visit the temple before venturing into the deep sea, but nowadays, its just another tourist spot.

Satapada

Is close to Dolphin point, where the critically endangered Irrawady dolphins and occasionally, bottle-nosed dolphins can be seen. Chilka is one of the only 2 lagoons in the world where Irrawady dolphins can be seen.

Brahmaputra

The place is known for its scenic beauty.

Breakfast Island

Is a 20 minutes boat ride from Rambha. Tourists pack breakfast from the OTDC panthanivas at Rambha and have it here in pristine surroundings. Beacon Island and Honeymoon Island are close by.

Rambha is a good place from which to discover Chilika Lake and this guide offers boat trips to visit the islands and watch birds.