Chilika Satapada Dolphin Habitat

3.9

Location: PC38+389, Chilika Lake, P u r i, Puri-Satapada Road, Bankijala, Odisha 752011, India

Estimated Visiting Time: 2-3 Hours (depends on your interest in exploring this place)

Chilika Satapada Dolphin Habitat is a part of Chilika Lake, both India and Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. Chilika Lake is a Ramsar Convention Site (a wetland of international importance). Bay of Bengal’s sea water mixes with 12 rivers freshwater and rivulets that drain into the lake make a fine Salain like balance in water. This balance supports a wealth of aquatic plants, avian, and animal life. Along with fish, crustaceans, and reptiles, over 200 species of migratory and resident birds inhabit the lagoon. But the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin is the flagship species here.
The cetacean is only found in Odisha and the Sundarban in India and in pockets across Asia, from Bangladesh to the Philippines globally.

Attraction

Obviously, the main attraction of Chilika Satapada Dolphin Habitat is witnessing dolphins closely in their own place. These Irrawaddy Dolphins are known for their unique appearance and playful behavior in the brackish water of Chilika Lake.

Boat rides are available for visitors, and they offer a great opportunity to see dolphins in their natural habitat. These boats are specially organized to watch dolphins.
Satapada and its surrounding holds a beautiful view of Chilika Lake, India’s largest water lagoon. The charm of that serene landscape adds another dimension mixed with the experience of watching dolphins.
Chilika Lake is considered as heaven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. More than 200 species of birds migrate in the lake from different countries during the winter season. The combination of dolphin and birds makes Satapada a biodiversity hot-spot.
Visitors can dedicate themselves to seafood like fresh prawns and fish. Nearby villages offer a rich culture, including their handicrafts and eateries.

History

The Wildlife Protection Act 1972 in India categorized the Irrawaddy Dolphin as a Schedule I species. In 2011, a report by the Chilika Development Authority stated that Chilika Lake harbours the “highest single population”. In 2021, the census places their count at 156. Continuous research and monitoring have been crucial in understanding the behavior, population dynamics, and threats to the dolphin. They are known to be a shy, elusive species, and sighting them is a matter of luck and chance.

Inside/Outside Views

Chilika Satapada Dolphin Habitat is located on the shores of Chilika Lake, the largest coastal lagoon in India and Asia. The expansive lake has stunning vistas of serene blue water merging with the horizon. A dense mangrove forest surrounds the lake, which not only enhances its scenic beauty but also serves as a crucial habitat for various bird species, fish, and other wildlife. Irrawaddy Dolphins are noticed in their natural habitat. These playful dolphins offer a glimpse of their smooth, round heads and occasional leaps above the water’s surface.
This is an excellent vintage point for witnessing amazing sunrises and sunsets. A breathtaking sunrise and sunset is seen over the lake.

Opening Hours

Monday 24 Hours

Tuesday 24 Hours

Wednesday 24 Hours

Thursday 24 Hours

Friday 24 Hours

Saturday 24 Hours

Sunday 24 Hours

Entry & Others Fees

Entry fee : Rs. 10/- (per person)

Boating fee: Rs. 1800 – Rs. 2500 (per trip)

Near Restaurants

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport at Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport to reach Chilika Satapada Dolphin Habitat. It is around 104 kilometers from the airport.

By Train: Puri Railway Station is the nearest railway station to reach Chilika Satapada Dolphin Habitat. It is around 50 kilometers from the Irrawaddy Dolphin Sighting Place.

By Road: The nearest bus stop to reach Chilika Satapada Dolphin Habitat is in Brahmagiri. It is around 28 kilometers from Satapada Lake Tower.