Chilka

Partly freshwater, partly brackish lake southwest of Puri, Orissa state, northeast India. Separated only by a sand-bar from the sea, the lake is 70 km/43 mi long and averages 15 km/9 mi in width. Fisheries and salt-pans adjoin the lake, which is renowned for its wildlife. A tourist complex has been established at Satpada on the banks of the lake, with water sports facilities planned.

Chilka has numerous islands, and provides the winter home for many species of migratory birds, although deteriorating conditions may be reducing their numbers. Increasing number of prawn farms, river pollution, silting and salinity have been blamed for this.