Chilika Lake

Chilika Lake Mangalajodi Wetlands Odisha India 2012 - Chilika Lake Northern pintails Odisha India - Northern pintails at Mangalajodi

Chilika Lake is spread over Khurda, Ganjam and Puri neighborhoods of Odisha (formerly Orissa). Balugaon and Rambha are two major towns serving as entry points for the lake. It is Asia’s largest salt-water lagoon and is separated from the Bay of Bengal by a sandy ridge. The pear-shaped lake spreads across 1,100 km², and has a unique ecosystem with a range of aquatic flora and fauna found in and around its brackish waters. An impressive array of bird life, both native and migrant, makes Chilika one of the best places in India for bird-watching, splashing around in the water and quiet relaxation.

Chilika Lake is designated as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.

Chilika Lake Halal Travel Guide

Chilika Lake is an important habitat and breeding ground for both resident and migratory and aquatic birds, most notably flamingos. It is the largest wintering ground for migratory birds in the Indian subcontinent. Migratory birds arrive in October from as far away as Siberia, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan and the Himalayas and generally stay until March. Part of the lake is protected by the Chilika Lake Bird Sanctuary, which harbors over 150 migratory and resident species of birds. The Nalaban Island within the lagoon is classified as a Bird Sanctuary under the wildlife protection act. The lake is also home to a diverse range of aquatic life, including 225 species of fish and the Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella Brevirostris). The rare limbless lizard barkudia insularit is endemic to one of the lake's small islands.

The larger islands lie between the sandbar and the lake, separated by shallow channels, and include Parikud, Phulbari, Berahpura, Nuapara, Nalbana, and Tampara. Some of the smaller islands are Breakfast Island, Honeymoon Island, Beacon Island, etc.

How to travel to Chilika Lake

Fly to Chilika Lake

The closest airport is Bhubaneswar, about 120 kilometers away from where taxis, trains and buses are available to the lake.

Travel by train to Chilika Lake

The nearest railway stations is at Balugaon, on the Howrah-Chennai track. From Balugaon buses are available to the lake.

Some of the trains which stop at Balugaon are: 6003/6004 Howrah Chennai Mail, 2703/2704 Faluknama Express, 8645/8646 East Coast Express, 6358/6357 Gurudev Express, 2863/2864 Howrah Yeshvantpur Express, 5228/5227 Muzaffarpur Yeshvantpur Express (weekly), 2508/2507 Guwahati Ernakulam Express (weekly), 2530/2509 Guwahati Bangalore Express (triweekly), 5628/5627 Guwahati Trivandrum Express (weekly).

For timings etc. check with Indian Railways.

By road

A part of Chilika Lake is visible from NH5 and the Howrah-Chennai train track. Many buses ply from Bhubaneswar (Baramunda Bus Station) and Cuttack (Badambadi Bus Station) to Balugaon throughout the day, OSRTC buses (i.e. state-run buses) being the best ones. The journey takes 2 hours and costs less than ₹100 one way. From there, one has to hire a taxi or an auto-ricksaw to reach Barkul or Rambha (In case of Rambha, passengers can alight at Keshpur, which is further ahead from Balugaon, and from there hire an auto-rickshaw). Satapada is well connected by daily local buses from Puri. Visitors can take an OTDC day tour from Puri to see Satapada (~₹400; 3-hr boat ride and AC transport included). However, Satapada is not so well connected from Bhubaneswar and taxis have to be hired to get there.

How to get around In Chilika Lake

19.71667|85.31667 Auto rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are available. The services of local boatmen and the motorboats of Odisha Tourism Development Corporation are available for access to the islands though outboard motors are not allowed near the bird sanctuary. OTDC boats can be hired at Barkul and Rambha, and cost between ₹410 (for a 7-seater boat) to ₹790 (for a 34-seater boat) per hour. A special tour is operated by the OTDC between Barkul and Kalijai, and costs ₹40 per head. However you can find private machine operated boats for the tours, but you have to bargain a bit to get a fair deal.

A boat journey from Rambha to Satapada takes about 2½ hours.

More information on Chilika can be obtained from the Government of Odisha Tourism Counter at the Tourist Bungalow in Rambha (District Ganjam) Odisha, +91 6810 278346.

What to see in Chilika Lake

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

Goliath_heron_standing_cropped - Goliath Heron Satapada 2 - Jetty at Satapada, Chilika Lake, Odisha Satapada 5 - A tourist boat near dolphin point, Satapada, Chilika Lake, Odisha Satapada 12 - Near the Chilika Lake sea mouth, Odisha

• Bird Island 19.5172, 85.1346 Watch birds in their natural habitat.

• Brahmaputra The place is known for its scenic beauty.

• Breakfast Island 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.

• Kalijai Island - GPS: 19.66628,85.21357 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 that 200-300 years ago a girl named Kali drowned, near the present 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 island(reasons 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, it's just another tourist spot.

• Mangalajodi - GPS: 19.91935, 85.42595 A former poachers village which has become a community owned wildlife venture. The community is supported by Mangalajodi Ecotourism.

• Nalabana Bird Sanctuary 19.6945, 85.3087 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, thit island is completely submerged in the monsoon months.

• Rambha 19.51271, 85.08864 It is a good place from which to discover Chilika Lake and this guide offers boat trips to visit the islands and watch birds.

• Satapada - GPS: 19.66623, 85.43741 Close to Dolphin point, where the critically endangered Irrawady dolphins and occasionally, bottle-nosed dolphins can be seen. Chilika is one of the only 2 lagoons in the world where Irrawady dolphins can be seen.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Chilika Lake

Boat in Barkul. Water Scooters and Pedal Boats are available here. Also, drivers of speedboats allow passengers to drive if requested. There is a boating club in nearby Tampara. The place is very beautiful and pedal boats are available here for ₹75.

At Rambha: OTDC Panthanivas offers boating at the Panthanivas itself which are available from 5:30AM to 5PM. Best time for boating is just before sunrise since it is really awesome to see the rising sun from the horizon and birds literally flying in all directions. At the Panthanivas, one can hire the motorboats (10-seater) for ₹550 per hour or the speedboats (5-seater) for ₹1650 per hour. Alternatively, from Rambha, three islands (viz. and the Breakfast Island, Bird Island and Beacon Island) for ₹875 in any of the boats and five islands (viz. and the Breakfast Island, Bird Island, Beacon Island, Sanakuda and Honeymoon Island) for ₹1650.

• muhan | satapada Opening Hours: 5 ₹2000chilika lake and puri beach joint

}} Do not be tempted to buy pearls or corals from Chilika lake. Fresh water Oysters are brought from Hyderabad & broken in our presence to take out the cultured pearls. Agents sell them as natural pearls. These are available for ₹20 onwards. Agents also claim the efficacy of "black pearls" and sell them to unsuspecting victims.

Shopping in Chilika Lake

Fish, prawn and the famous crab (always sold live) from Balugaon market. Numerous trinkets are available in Kalijai.

• Chilika Foods Malud Market, Malud tiger prawn ₹350-₹800/kg, king crab ₹500-₹1200/kg, fish₹30-₹400 You can buy all kinds of chilika products like tiger prawn,king crab and other varieties of fishes.

Halal Restaurants

Please be informed that on some destination such as Chilika Lake we had no local Muslim/a that has researched some of the area. If you are a Muslim/a and have been to Chilika Lake or would like to maintain the eHalal Guide to Chilika Lake, please contact us at guides@ehalal.io or email us your updates.

Chilika is famous for sea food like crab and prawn.

• Chilika Dhaba - near Barkul Panthanivas
• Chilika Hotel - Balugaon Main Road

• Kites Beach Resort Nabaa,Malud 28km from NH-5,turn at palur junction From ₹499 Thit is an upcoming project to cater tourists coming for Chilika Lake. It is at the shore of Bay of Bengal and will be functioning under Kites-on-tour travel agency. It will be providing stay, meal, site seeing, boating and transportation to the tourists.

• Narayani Restaurant-near Barkul Panthanivas Road. Mob:9861364135
• OTDC Panthanivas- At Rambha and Barkul, excellent food and very reasonable prices.
• Rambha Dhaba - Close to Chilika. Best and freshest veg and non veg stuff. Its one of the best dhabas in the area.
• Sagar fastfood and restaurant - Balugaon Main Road.

Drinks are available but if any one is particular about brands and such things, it is safer to carry one's own.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Chilika Lake

Chilika Lake - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Chilika Lake, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Chilika Lake. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Chilika Lake and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Chilika Lake. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Chilika Lake. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Chilika Lake: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Chilika Lake.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Chilika Lake: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Chilika Lake, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Chilika Lake.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Chilika Lake, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Chilika Lake, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Chilika Lake and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Chilika Lake, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Chilika Lake, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Chilika Lake without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Chilika Lake is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Chilika Lake.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Chilika Lake is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Chilika Lake, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Chilika Lake Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Chilika Lake

eHalal Group Chilika Lake is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Chilika Lake. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Chilika Lake.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Chilika Lake ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Chilika Lake. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Chilika Lake, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Chilika Lake are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

OTDC (Odisha Tourism Development Corp.) panthanivas are the best options anywhere in Odisha, are very affordable and boats owned by OTDC can be booked here as well, which are once again the best boats in the region.

• Kites Beach Resort Nabaa, Malud ₹1799-6999

]] At Rambha

• Panthanivas - Odisha Tourism Development Corporation | 19.5138, 85.0954 ☎ +91 6810 278346 - Rambha, / Rooms are ₹700 for Non-AC double bed rooms and ₹1300 for AC double bed-rooms, dormitory beds ₹150. Cottages, with stunning views of the lake, are ₹2650 plus 5.15% service charges. Consult website for discounts offered to day visitors, students, senior citizens, etc.

At Balugaon & Barkul

• Hawa Mahal, 19.7448, 85.2134 ☎ +91 6756 220246 - College Road, Balugaon, Rooms ₹80-₹200.

• Hotel Ashoka Main Road, Balugaon, Telephone +91 6756 220409, bar & restaurant also available with SBI ATM facility, rooms ₹350-₹950.
• Hotel Digantika Main Road, Balugaon, Telephone +91 6756 220514; 9937460725, Chinese, Indian restaurant available, rooms A/C and non A/C (single, double, triple, lake facing) ₹500-1500.

• Narayani Lodge, - ☎ +91 6756 220521-220212 - Banapur Road, Balugaon, rooms ₹80-120.

• Panthanivas - Odisha Tourism Development Corporation | 19.7053, 85.1904 ☎ +91 6756 220488 Check-in: 07/05/2018 / Check-out: 08/05/2018 Barkul, At/ PO Balugaon, Dist. Khurda, PIN 752 030, / Rooms ₹650-2400.

• Patro Lodge, - ☎ +91 6756 220308 - Chilika Road, Balugaon, rooms ₹60-180.

• Shree Krishna Lodge, Panthanivas Road, Barkul 19.7058, 85.1845 ☎ +91 9938263157, +91 9861364135 - Non A/C-A/C rooms ₹250-800, 500 m from Chilika Lake

]] At Satapada

• Yatrinivas Satapada 19.6672, 85.4398 ☎ +91 6752 262077 Yatrinivas Satapada is next to the ferry terminal on Satpada. The resort consists of 20 AC double bed rooms and 3 non AC double bed rooms. It also has 2 suites and a conference hall. The restaurant serves good food, including crabs and prawns.

More Muslim friendly Destinations from Chilika Lake

• Banapur - Known for Bhagawati Temple and markets.
• Gopalpur-on-sea
• Govt College of Arts and Craft - Located in Khallikote, about 25 kilometers from Balugaon and 12 kilometers from Rambha, it is located in the palace of the erstwhile king of Khallikote. Surrounded on all sides by mountains, it affords some stunning vistas and counts many famous Indian contemporary painters as its alumni. The art gallery here has some beautiful paintings reflecting Odisha's culture.
• Narayani - About 15 kilometers from Balugaon, it has a temple in scenic surroundings in the Eastern Ghats.
• Nirmaljhara - Also in Khallikote, very close to the art college, it is a perennial stream which has been channeled into different ponds. Built in 1676, it also features many temples. Adventurous persons can take a bath in one of the ponds here.
• Puri
• Salia Dam- Built on River Salia amidst stunning locales. About 25 kilometers from Rambha and 15 kilometers from Barakul.

Oriya people consider it to be lucky if Kalijai Temple, Bhagwati Temple and Narayani temple are visited on the same day.

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