Nestling in the heart of coastal Orissa, Chilika is Indias biggest inland lake. Spread over 1,100 square kilometers stretching across the length of the three districts of Puri, Khurdha and Ganjam and finally joins the Bay of Bengal through narrow mouth, forming an enormous lagoon of brackish water. Dotted with many emerald green islands with colourful names such as Honeymoon Island and Breakfast Island, Chilika is home to a rich variety of aquatic fauna.
It is also a sanctuary and winter resort for migratory birds, some coming from as far as Siberia. Containing a large variety of fish, the lake provides a livehood to thousands of fisherman. Hundreds of boats sail out daily on the lakes blue expanse in search of mackerel, prawn and crabs- the sight providing an insight into the pageant of rural India at its colourful best. Encircled by hills all along its arched shape shores, Chilika lakes colour changes with passing clouds and the shifting sun.
The water ripples languidly, occasionally dancing with a gentle breeze from across the Bay of Bengal.