Nalabana Bird Sanctuary – Chilika Lake’s Migratory Bird Paradise

Located in the heart of Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, Nalabana Bird Sanctuary is one of the most important wintering grounds for migratory birds in India. Declared a bird sanctuary in 1987, Nalabana Island spreads across 15.53 sq. km, completely submerged during monsoon and emerging in winter as a haven for birds.

Every year, more than 200,000 migratory birds from Siberia, Central Asia, and the Himalayas flock to Nalabana, making it a paradise for birdwatchers, researchers, and eco-tourists.

Location & Accessibility

• Location: Inside Chilika Lake, Odisha

• Nearest City: Puri (~48 km), Bhubaneswar (~60 km)

• Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (~65 km)

• Nearest Railway Station: Balugaon (~8 km), Puri (~48 km)

• By Boat: Access only by boat ride from Balugaon or Barkul

A boat ride across Chilika’s shimmering waters to Nalabana is itself a magical experience.

Birds at Nalabana

Nalabana is famous for its flocks of migratory birds. Some highlights include:

• Greater Flamingos

• Grey-headed Lapwings

• Spot-billed Pelicans

• Northern Pintails

• Shovelers

• Gulls & Terns

• White Ibis

• Herons & Egrets

• Brahminy Ducks (Ruddy Shelducks)

During peak season, the island looks like a living carpet of birds, one of the grandest avian spectacles in India.

Timings & Entry Fee

• Sanctuary Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Entry Fee: Free (boat ride charges apply, approx ₹100–₹1500 depending on type and distance)

Best Time to Visit

• November – February: Peak bird migration season, with thousands of flamingos and ducks.

• Avoid Monsoon (July – September): The island is submerged.

Things to Do

1. Birdwatching – Spot flamingos, pelicans, and rare migratory species.

2. Boat Safari – Explore Chilika Lake’s islands and dolphins.

3. Wildlife Photography – Capture massive bird congregations.

4. Eco-tourism – Learn about conservation at Chilika Lake.

5. Island Hopping – Visit Satapada (Irrawaddy dolphins) & Kalijai Temple. 

Nearby Attractions

• Chilika Lake Dolphin Sanctuary (Satapada): Home to Irrawaddy Dolphins.

• Kalijai Temple: Famous temple on a Chilika island.

• Puri (48 km): Jagannath Temple & Golden Beach.

• Bhubaneswar (60 km): Lingaraja Temple, Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves.

Travel Tips

• Best to hire authorized boats from OTDC counters at Barkul or Balugaon.

• Carry binoculars and telephoto lenses for birdwatching.

• Pack water, sunscreen, and hats for the boat ride.

• Avoid littering – Chilika is a protected ecosystem.

• Reach early morning for the best bird activity and photography light.

Travel Quick Facts

Fact	Details
Location	Chilika Lake, Odisha
Nearest City	Puri (48 km), Bhubaneswar (60 km)
Nearest Airport	Biju Patnaik International Airport (65 km)
Nearest Railway Station	Balugaon (8 km), Puri (48 km)
Access	By boat from Balugaon or Barkul
Timings	6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee	Free (boat charges apply)
Best Time to Visit	November – February
Famous Birds	Flamingos, Pelicans, Pintails, Brahminy Ducks
Nearby Attractions	Satapada, Kalijai Temple, Puri, Bhubaneswar

FAQ

Q1: Where is Nalabana Bird Sanctuary located?
A1: Nalabana Bird Sanctuary is located on Nalabana Island inside Chilika Lake, Odisha.

Q2: Why is Nalabana Bird Sanctuary famous?
A2: It is famous for hosting over 200,000 migratory birds each winter, including flamingos and pelicans.

Q3: How do I reach Nalabana Bird Sanctuary?
A3: The sanctuary can be reached only by boat rides from Balugaon or Barkul on Chilika Lake.

Q4: What is the best time to visit Nalabana?
A4: The best season is November to February, during peak bird migration.

Q5: Is there an entry fee for Nalabana?
A5: No, entry is free, but you must pay for boat rides to access the island.

Q6: Can tourists see dolphins at Chilika Lake along with Nalabana?
A6: Yes, the Satapada area of Chilika Lake is famous for Irrawaddy dolphins.