The Chilka Lake is one of the largest brackish water lagoon, spread over the Puri, Khurda and Ganjam districts of Odisha state on the eastern coast of India. It is a major tourist attraction in India. The daya and the bhargavi rivers feed the lake during the dry season from December to june. Salt water water enters the Chilka lake from a small passage. Although the lake spreads over 1165 sq km, the depth is only between 6 to 8 feet. The lake is marked with exotic small islands which adds to its rare scenic beauty. It is a paradise for fish hunting and boating. Chilka lake is a sanctuary to many migratory birds that arrive here from Siberia. There are also famous olive ridley turtles. Actually it is a breeding center for Olive ridley turtles. Apart from turtles, crabs, lobsters one can find plenty of dolphins swimming around. An area of c hilka lake is marked at dolphin park which attracts lots of tourists. One can reach the islands with small mechanized boats. It is a journey of an hour or so.
Kalijai is a ravishing island in the midst of the Chilka Lake. The noticeable charm of this place is the temple of Goddess Kali. According to many legends, this place is considered as very powerful that’s attracting quite a number of devotees round the year. The word Kalijai represents Goddess Kali and a young girl Jai. As per the legends, Jai was drowned while traveling through the lake. There are many luxurious as well as budget hotels in Chilka for night stay. Night stay accommodation is also arranged by the Govt of Orissa at very reasonable rates.