Not known to many, the birth of Chilika Lake actually has got an interesting tale, and has many folklores surrounding it. It’s believed that a long time ago, there was an evil pirate king named as Raktabahu who planned to ransack Puri along with his navy, and a huge fleet of ships. That was a time when angels and demons inhabited the earth as freely as humans. Well, as per the plan, the ships anchored offshore to avoid detection so that the pirates could launch a surprise attack.

As they anchored out of sight to avoid detection, the sea gave their secret away by washing up the refuse from the ships to the shore, hence sending out a warning to the townsfolk who sensed trouble and fled away. Raktabahu found a deserted city when he finally arrived, which made him extremely furious. He marched to the sea, intending to punish it for the ‘betrayal’. However, the sea dutifully parted to let the pirates march in, and surged back as soon as they entered, drowning everyone and forming a large lake in the process, which is now the Chilika Lagoon.

That’s how the legend of Chilika goes. As it’s known today, a lot of local, national and international tourists visit this spectacular lake to view the sight and do some exotic bird-watching. The lagoon is said to be a favorite of migratory birds with nearly 225 species flocking to it during the winters, some covering as much as 12000 km to reach here.

As much as the place is a photographer’s paradise, it is also more serene and looks magical during the sunrise and sunsets. A lot of life can also be seen surrounding the place here – fishermen setting their nets for daily harvest, hawkers selling wares for their livelihood, and a lot more glimpses. This clearly indicates the symbiotic connection of people with the lake, and their close dependency on the lake itself.

Apart from bird watching and other activities, visitors can also go for boating here, walk across the lake side road, take a close look at the fish aquarium and dolphin watch tower at Chilka Development Authority and indulge in a lot more exciting activities. Best part is, while boating you may even spot the Irrawaddy Dolphins out here, which makes up for a rare and beautiful sight.

And if that’s not enough, you can stop by at the mouth of the lake, wherein it meets the sea, for spending some nice, quality time at the Crab Island, which is mostly uninhabited and has got a nice, scenic charm to it. While there, you can also try out the fresh sea-food, which tastes just amazing.

Apart from being an extraordinary place for bird lovers, there are also a large number of beautiful and serene islands around the Chilika Lake, which are a must-visit and also attracts millions of tourist every year. Some of them include Honeymoon Island, Breakfast Island, Somolo, Nalabana, Kalijai, Rajahansa and a lot more. Besides, Maa Kalijai Temple is even one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chilika, wherein thousands of Hindus visiting frequently to offer their prayers to Maa Kalijai.

So, the next time you’re in Odisha, do plan on visiting the majestic Chilika Lake and explore it well.

The post Why You Must Visit Chilika When You Are In Odisha first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.

Each district and corner of Odisha is unique in every sense, and has varied landscape, different cultures, which can elevate the curiosity of any regular traveler to see more and learn more about the region.

Talking about some really interesting facts and facets of Odisha, we’ve got some little and big things about this state which make it even more spectacular. You may not know but the ancient rocks of Mayurbhanj date back to 3 billion years old. It’s a fascinating fact because earth itself is 4.5 billion years old. In Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, there are around 600 temples, owing to the fact that this city is also renowned as the “Temple City.”

The tribal communities of Odisha are no secret. But what’s not known is the fact that there are more than 62 distinct tribal groups in Odisha and each have their own culture and traditions. Plan your tribal tour with us.

Lord Jagannath is revered all around the world, yet Odisha is blessed to have the Lord’s abode in its Puri district. Surprisingly, the Jagannath Temple here, houses the world’s biggest kitchen, where everyday food is being cooked by 400 cooks for a minimum of 2 lakhs devotees.

Chilika Lake of Odisha is a birdwatcher’s paradise, but did you know it’s also the saltwater lagoon in the world? Yes, that’s true you can spot the rare migratory birds here, endangered Irrawaddy dolphins, and also let the world know, about this spectacular fact of Chilika.

While the list of what only Odisha is comprised of is still on, we’d like to bring to light the fact that this state has the only leaning temple of the world, which is the “Leaning Temple of Huma”, situated in the Sambalpur district. Not just that, this district is also home to the Hirakud Dam, which is fourth largest in the world, besides being the longest earthen dam in the world as well as the largest artificial lake of Odisha.

The state’s pristine beaches are so amazing and serene, that it can give even the beaches of Goa a run for their money. Especially the Chandipur beach is so special, that it’s termed as Odisha’s hide-and-seek beach, because of the fact that it appears and disappears with every high and low tide, to an approximate of 5 kms.

Being a state of enchanting wildlife, Odisha is also renowned for its world’s largest saltwater crocodile in the Bhitarkanika Park, apart from being a home to the white tigers at Nandankanan Zoological Park, and also for being the breeding ground of Olive Ridley Sea Turtles at the Gahirmatha Beach of Kendrapada district.

With so much uniqueness to the state, one cannot miss out on visiting Odisha, and experiencing the multiple joyous moments which Odisha is best known for, and all the breathtaking views which it provides.

For an amazing tour of this state, book your odisha tour package today.

The post There’s Something About Odisha Tour Which Cannot Be Found In Any Other State first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.

Duration: 04 Days/05 Nights

The perfect balance of beauty, spirituality and nature

Our country, India is blessed with so much of beauty and nature and indeed thousands of attractions to visit to including forests, waterfalls, rivers, hills, beaches, and so much more. Chilika Lake is one of them, referred to as the biggest brackish water coastal lagoon of the country. Have you ever been to the sacred land of Odisha yet? If not, indeed it is one of the most popular travel destinations where travellers and visitors come by in thousands from all over the world. The state, Odisha is been popular for so many things as visitors can come by to check out lakes and waterfalls, beaches, temples, wildlife, and so much more, all at once and can actually enjoy an enriching great experience altogether.

Puri Chilika Lake tour could be one of the best and soul soothing experiences that one can opt for. The package will include visit to the Chilika Lake, the second biggest lagoon in the world, hosting more than 160 different species of migratory birds flocking down from all over, the rare Irrawaddy dolphins to catch out for, and much more. At the Southern end of the magnificent lake, many great islands are there involving Honeymoon Island, Breakfast Island, Bird Island, Kalijai Island, Parikud Island, and more. Nature lovers and wildlife freaks especially wish to come here from all corners of the globe to experience the finest eco system of the state along with large varieties of wildlife and do grasp knowledge and do research on them. Even, good accommodation facilities and amenities are been available here for visitors that could be arranged by the tour planner in Odisha – Best Choice Holiday as per the preference. Puri is been reckoned among one of the famous Char Dhams and for its spirituality and Hindu devotees in large numbers come from all around to visit the temple, seek blessings of the divine and get good luck and fortune for the long run.

Best Choice Holiday is a reckoned and well established tour operator in Odisha and is been devising Odisha tour packages itinerary from years. One of them is Puri Chilika Lake tour and kindly go through the well devised itinerary been mentioned in below and also get in touch with the travel agent in case of any request or customization required.

Day 01: Bhubaneswar

Upon your arrival at the Airport/Railway Station, our representative will take you to do check-in at the hotel. Feel free to relax and enjoy the leisure time as you want to.

Day 02: Bhubaneswar – Mangalajodi

In the morning, after breakfast, head to Mangalajodi which is a 2 hour drive from the city. Mangalajodi is famous for checking out different migratory birds and have lunch there. Later, drive back to Bhubaneswar city, and the overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Day 03: Chilika Lake – Nalban – Rambha

Early morning, head to Barkul and from there; proceed to Nalban to check out the beautiful migratory flemingos. Take the lunch at Barkul and then drive towards Rambha and do check-in at the hotel there at Chilika Lake. Spend the leisure time as you want to and the overnight stay will be there.

Day 04: Satapada – Puri

After breakfast, proceed to Satapada by simply crossing the lake by ferry, which is a famous joint for watching the wild Irrawaddy dolphins. Later, proceed to Puri which is about at 1 and a half hour distance from there and once reached, do check-in at the hotel in Puri. Spend the leisure time as per the preference and the overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Day 05: Puri

Early morning after breakfast, proceed to check out the Lord Jagannath temple and get the blessing of the deity. Later, enjoy your time being at the Puri beach or doing shopping by visiting the local villages of the city. In the evening, our representative will take you back at the Airport/Railway Station as desired with happy and pleasant memories of the trip back altogether.

End of the tour and services!

To book this packages Call/WhatsApp on +91-811-437-8182 or email at book@bestchoiceholiday.com!

The post How to Plan Your Puri Chilika Lake Tour – Here’s A Detailed Itinerary to Follow first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.

As per the legends, there is a fable well known behind this temple. As per that, there was a newly married girl named Jaai, and she was going to meet with her husband along with her father. Her in-law’s house was on an island in Chilika Lake, and to reach there they had to take a boat. As the coastline of Odisha is well known for cyclones, Jaai and her father faced an encounter with a severe cyclone during the trip and as an outcome, their boat was flipped in the Chilika Lake. Her father, along with the boatmen survived anyhow, but Jaai never made it through. They looked for her, but were unable to find her. After this accidental death of Jaai, the newlywed girl, she actually became famous as the Goddess among locals and people living nearby and till now, she is worshipped as a citation of Kali. And this is how it got its name. Isn’t that so much interesting? The area is easily accessible from Barkul. The interesting part here is that tourists can see flocks of peacocks roaming here and there, blending in with devotees and all. Even, fishermen used to visit the temple before diving into the deep sea and these days, it is famous as a tourist spot visited by many from all around and throughout the year.

On this temple, even famous poet Pandit Godavarish Mishra wrote a poem depicting about the newlywed girl Jaai, her encounter with the cyclone and all. The Kalijai temple was constructed in year 1717 by Sri Jagannath Mansingh, King of Bankad. Chilika Lake is certainly one of the highly visited tourist attractions in Odisha and this is also another prime reason that such huge crowd come and visit Kalijai temple to seek the blessing of the deity. Recognized to be the largest coastal lagoon of the country and second biggest worldwide, Chilika Lake is known to provide the best ecosystem and that’s why many fishery resources could be seen here. A home to more than different 160 kinds of species and migratory birds, indeed there is so much to see here. So, be ready to enjoy the heavenly and natural beauty of the place and Best Choice Holiday travel agent could help in visiting it in much more enjoyable and pleasant way.

The post More to The Famous Holy Shrine Kalijai Temple in Odisha first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.

To enjoy the private houseboat facilities and services, now travellers and vagabonds need not to go Kerala or anywhere else across the country, as Odisha is ready to pamper its travellers experience with providing the same at the three major most sought after tourist destinations including the following.

• Chilika Lake – It is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and known to have the best eco system supporting a large breed of migratory birds coming from all over. This spot is counted among the prime attractions of Odisha.
• Hirakud – A small township located in Sambalpur in Odisha, it was a village and came into limelight when Asia’s one of the longest and largest man made artificial lake and dam is constructed over here that is Hirakud dam. A lot of tourists come here to visit the spot all round the year.
• Bhitarkanika – Recognized as the soul of Odisha, the spot is surrounded with natural beauty, migrating birds, lush green mangroves, tranquillity with echoing of chirping of birds and lots more. It is must to visit this spot for sure.

The emphasis will be always given to use of eco friendly and clean mechanism ensuring the eco system will remain intact, and water body’s ecology safe and completely friendly. Earlier, the house boat facility was been introduced by the Odisha Tourism Development Corporation at Chilika Lake which is also reckoned as the Asia’s largest brackish salt water lagoon. One houseboat has the facility and service that can accommodate about two families in general and it was even introduced at Barkul. These attractions are undoubtedly highly preferred by visitors to stay especially in Kerala, Goa, Jammu and Kashmir and now in Odisha, it has been started.

Even the tourism department has identified about 357 spots in the state where such activities could be started but as of now, the focus is on the eight particular tourist circuits in Odisha involving Buddhist Circuit, Golden Triangle, and eco friendly tourism spots such as Hirakud, Bhitarkanika and Debrigarh along with few beach resorts. The plan is to begin with Bhitarkanika and Konark and the land is already acquired for the same. Are you one of them who wish to enjoy by simply living and relaxing at a houseboat in Odisha? If yes, get in touch with a reliable tour organizer – Best Choice Holiday, who can make all the arrangements related to your visit in the state to stay in a houseboat and everything in the way you want it to be. Feel free to discuss anything with them freely including if you want any change in the itinerary or something personal while your visit and stay in Odisha. What are you planning to? Be ready to enjoy your time in a houseboat in Odisha, enjoy the nature and awesome weather of the place and make it memorable with your special one.

The post Forget Kerala – Now Enjoy Beholding Houseboat Facility at 3 Prime Destinations in Odisha first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.

The festival will be held on January 27-28th, 2019 at Mangalajodi on Chilika Lake. On the very first day, a workshop will be held focusing on the diversity of birds and film shows. Before the event, painting and photography competition will be held and winning team will be appreciated. For all participants, online registration will be held. Moreover, there will be a wide range of other activities as well like adventure sports, tenting facilities, promotional stalls, photography competitions, and more. A film show highlighting the beauty and charisma of the spot and lake will be screened during the event. On the second day, a bird watching session will be conducted where everyone will be taken to different sites in and around the place and it will cover Nalabana, Rambha bay, Barkul and Satapada.

The event is supposed to be hosted by the Odisha State Tourism, along with Chilika Development Authority. In the past years, Mangalajodi has gained a special place and recognition on world tourism map as it is known to be adopting unique conservation method used by the locals, resulting in such high parish of migratory birds in the lake. The aim is to attract the attention of tourists at a large scale. It will also help in spreading awareness and knowledge about the wide diversity in fauna and flora of the state as well. This event is going to increase the number of tourists that are coming to the Odisha state. And for people coming over, special arrangements involving boats and security have been made.

Location and How to Reach:

The event is held at Mangalajodi village on Chilika Lake, which is about 70 kms South-West of Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The best way is to reach Bhubaneswar first by flight or via train. It will take about an hour from Bhubaneswar to reach Mangalajodi by car, so opt for a private taxi service from there to be in this event. If you wish to opt for Bus service, the nearest bus stop is Tangi.

Famous as a bird’s paradise and treat to all nature lovers, along with migratory birds, Chilika Lake has so much to offer and watch out like adventure sports, amazing islands, unique biodiversity, etc. Are you planning to go and register for this National Bird Fest in January’19? It is certainly going to be once in a lifetime experience and if you are planning to, let Best Choice Holiday travel agent arrange the accommodation, travel and other arrangements as per your choice and desire.

The post National Bird Fest 2019: Gear up for First National Bird Fest at Mangalajodi, Chilika Lake in January’19 first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.

History:

In accord to few ancient texts, Chilika Lake in Odisha was been a prime dock centre for international trading. The known Chinese traveller used to sail on the banks of the lake and later excavations were been conducted and it has been determined out that this open and deep bay is a major port for trading ships heading towards Asia. Even, legends from 4th century proved that the pirate king Red Arm/ Raktabahu travelled across the seas to mob the holy Puri town people. In the fear of attack that time, the locals of the city left the place and the king later felt that he had been betrayed by the sea tides but unluckily, was being strangled along with the troop into the tides. Since then, the region has evolved as Chilika Lake that holds legendary prominence along with famous for wildlife expedition at present.

Wildlife:

The lake is been a real paradise for ornithologists as well as bird lovers and fanatics as it allures the attention of tourists from all around especially in the winter season for the aquatic birds and migratory species. The Chilika lake bird sanctuary is a habitant of the biggest breeding destinations for flamingos worldwide. The prime species, which can be glanced, are purple moorhen, white bellied sea eagles, flamingo jacana, Graylag geese, herons, etc. Aside from avifaunal species, a large variety of wild animals could also be checked out here including spotted deer, golden jackals, blackbuck and hyenas. The basin area of the lake is very prosperous and affluent and this is the reason that more than 160 varied species of fishes, crustaceans, ‘Chilika Dolphin’ and other marine species are available. The locals of the place are believed to be dependent on the crab, prawn, limbless lizard and mackerel to run their livelihood.

Flora Varieties in Nandan Kanan:

Aside from its wildlife expedition, migratory species and history, Chilika Lake is been famous for supporting eco tourism in Odisha. The lake and its vicinity is been blessed with rich floral system with an abundance of both aquatic and non-aquatic plants. As per the recent environmental survey conducted, over 710 species of plants are been available and this is the prime reason to consider the spot as “Ramsar” site as well.

Also Read: Tribal Life of Odisha – One of Its Own Kinds of World

Safaris:

Chilika Lake Bird Sanctuary is famous as a picnic spot where travellers all round the year come to spend some leisure moments with one and loved ones, enjoy marine wildlife, and check out some of the most interesting species present nearby regions and islands. A boating experience could really add up to one’s cherishing experience, held in between sunrise to sunset daily. Safaris are not held in the area, and tourists can make a complete tour by walking throughout the jungle.

Places of Interest:

• Satapada – The term Satapada refers to seven villages, and it is located at an approximate 50 kms distance from Puri and at the meeting point of Chilika Lake and Bay of Bengal. The prime attraction of the spot is dolphin watching and boating. The number of Irrawaddy dolphins is known to be more than 100 at Satapada and there are specific points from where they could be easily spotted and the locals are well aware of them. Another attraction is Rajhans Island, an half an hour boat ride from Satapada on Chilika Lake. It is also popular for Sea Mouth Island, where Chilika Lake is known to meet with Bay of Bengal.

• Barkul – It is one of the prime nodal points in Chilika Lake, if you want to pay a visit to holy Kalijai temple, Mangala Jodi, Nalaban Birds Island and other small migratory bird nesting islands. A large number of people come in huge numbers especially in January to bow to Maa Kalijai. Nalabana Island is quite big in area and among the designated bird sanctuary that comes under the Wildlife Protection Act, and a large number of migratory and resident avians prove as a treat for bird lovers. Mangalajodi village is reckoned to be a community, owned by wildlife venture and supported by Mangalajodi Ecotourism.

• Rambha – It is another prime and widely visited nodal point in Chilika Lake where travellers and honeymooners come by to visit Honeymoon Island. Honeymoon Island is among one of those chief islands, also famous as Barkuda Island surrounded by plants and trees and the attraction is the aquatic species especially the limbless lizards. Another attraction is the Breakfast Island, which is a 20 minutes boat ride from Rambha bay.

• Bird Sanctuary – Chilika Lake is been famous for its bird sanctuary and availability of so many birds and aquatic species, wild animals, flora and fauna, avifaunal varieties, etc. Indeed, it is a perfect place for all ornithologists to watch birds in their natural form and habitat amongst serene surroundings.

• Brahmagiri – This destination is been famous for its scenic beauty, natural surroundings and acts as a great picnic spot for travellers. Alarnath Temple and most popular picnic spot Baliharchandi is the best place to enjoy your vacation here.

You May Like: Buddhist Heritage and Ancestry of Odisha

Nearby Excursions:

• Government College of Arts and Crafts – Located in the palace of former king of Khallikote, the art gallery is known to have some splendid paintings depicting Odisha’s culture and tradition. The gallery is surrounded with marvellous mountains and as the alumni; it depicts works of several popular contemporary painters.

• Nirmaljhara – It is located nearby to the art gallery and the perpetual stream is channelled into different ponds, illuminated by several temples. Adventure seekers can even take a bath in one of those ponds there, if desired.

• Banapur – This area is famous for shopping, hangout activities and religious Bhagawati temple.

• Narayani – Located in the Eastern Ghats of Odisha, it has a temple surrounded with beautiful ambience. Locals and Oriya people find it extremely lucky if all temples including Kalijai temple, Narayani temple and Bhagwati temple are visited on the very same day.

• Salia Dam – Located at an approximate distance of 15 kms from Barakul and 25 kms from Rambha, it is another interesting location for adventurous leisure trips and sightseeing activities.

• Puri – It is counted among the holiest destinations of the country, blessed with appealing sea beaches, Lord Jagannath temple and pilgrims in large numbers come to visit Rath Yatra at Jagannath temple held in the month of June and July every year.

Also Read: Top 11 Must-Visit Wildlife Sanctuaries in Odisha for Thrilling Adventurous Experience

How to Reach:

• By Air – The nearest airport is at Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, which is 105 kms away from Barkul, 98 kms far from Balugaon, 108 kms far from Satapada and 130 kms far from Rambha.
• By Rail – The nearest rail station is at Balugaon, 6 kms far for Barkul and Puri, 50 kms far for Satapada. Bhubaneswar is a convenient railway junction to visit Chilika Lake and Rambha is also an option.
• By Road – Rambha, Balugaon and Barkul are located on NH 5. Regular bus service is available running in between Bhubaneswar and Berhampur that stops by at Balugaon and Rambha. Travellers can hire taxis and autos from any of these places and reach the lake in a short time span. The bus service is also available from Puri to Satapada and it is about 50 kms far from the lake, which could be covered via a taxi or an auto.

Also Read: Odisha – The Land of Temples and Grandeur

Best time to Visit:

The best time to visit Chilika Lake is in between October to March, during which the place is crowded with over 50 to 70 species of migratory birds. The weather in general remain moderately warm throughout the year and pilgrims prefer to visit in January at the time of Makar Mela held at the time of Makar Sankranti festival to bow in front of mighty Goddess Kalijai temple located on Kalijai island in Chilika lake.

Where to Stay:

Living at the vicinity of Chilika Lake could be extremely entertaining and exciting. The lovely surroundings, calm ambience and the locality can bewitch anyone to stay longer than desired and the place has good residing options as well. There are few good options including bungalows, lodges and rest houses available on the banks of the Chilika Lake as well as at Rambha and Barkul with pleasant views and relaxing environment.

Planning to reside at Chilika Lake with your loved ones in a peaceful setting? Avail services and tour package from Best Choice Holiday as per your desire and within your budget and let the time be the best of your lifetime.

The post Chilika Lake – Asia’s Largest Brackish Salt Water Lake first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.