Nalbana Bird Sanctuary

4.5

Location: Nalaban, Odisha 752030, India

Estimated Visiting Time: 1 hour

The core area of the Ramsar-designated wetlands of Chilika Lake is the Nalbana Bird sanctuary or Nalbana Island. In 1972, under wildlife protection, it was declared a bird sanctuary. One can see thousands of birds descending in the heart of the park, during the migratory season. Due to inundation, during the monsoon season, the island disappears only to emerge again in the post-monsoon.

Attraction

Moorhens, coots, and jacanas are supported by the higher vegetated areas of the lake. Along with kingfishers and rollers, pond herons and night herons can be seen along the shores. Around the lake, little cormorants are seen on perches Compact flocks of brahminy ducks, as well as shovellers, pintails, gadwall, teals, pochards, geese, and coots, are also noticed here.

History

In the Odia language, Nalbana means a weed-covered island. In the center of the lake, it is a major island with an area of 15.53 km2. During the monsoon season, the island gets completely sunken. Lake levels decrease and the island is gradually exposed in winter, as the monsoon retires. To feed on its extensive mudflats, birds flock to the island in large numbers. In the year, 1987 Nalbana was notified and in the year of 1973, declared a bird sanctuary, under the Wildlife Protection Act.

Inside/Outside Views

For birds and for the amazing views, Nalabana Bird Sanctuary is a natural gift. For bird lovers, it is a must-visit place. Here, boating is also available. Visitors can also enjoy Dolphins spotted here.

Opening Hours

Every day from 6:00 AM-6:00 PM

Entry & Others Fees

Entry is free.

Near Restaurants

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By Air: Situated at Bhubaneswar, the nearest airport to Chilka is Bhubaneshwar airport, which is 105 km from Barkul, 110 km from Satapada, and from Rambha,130 km. From the Airport, you can take any public or private transport to reach your destination.

By Rail: Chilka Lake is touched at Balugaon, Chilika, Khallikote, and Rambha by the Calcutta-Chennai railway route of South Eastern Railways touches. For Barkul, the nearest railway station is located at Balugaon at a distance of 5 km from Chilka. There are various kinds of transport available in the station through which you can reach your desired place.

By Road: Chennai National Highway No. 5 linking Calcutta at about a distance of 689 km, Cuttack at a distance of 132 km, and Visakhapatnam at about a distance of 348 km, to reach the lake. From Puri and Bhubaneswar, OTDC and other private tour operators provide luxury coaches and cars.