Situated in the districts of
Puri,
Khordha and
Ganjam of
Orissa, Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its immaculate scenic beauty and rich bio-diversity. It is managed by the Forest Department of the Government of Orissa. The sanctuary, spread over an area of 1000 sq km, was established in 1987 with the aim to protect the wildlife in Chilika, the largest brackish water lagoon. Due to its rich bio-diversity, the sanctuary is identified as a 'Ramsar Site'(a wetland of international importance).
Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary is a habitat for migratory birds and butterflies and protects endangered species such as blackbuck and spotted deer. Main attractions are lesser flamingos, grey and purple herons, egrets, spoonbills, storks and white ibis.
Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lake, supports a wide variety of fish, prawn, algae and aquatic plants.
The sanctuary is 50 km away from Puri city and 100 km away from Bhubaneswar. It is well connected to Chennai-Kolkata national highway. Chennai-Kolkata rail line passes along the western side of Chilika.
