Nanda Devi Island

ନନ୍ଦ ଦେବୀ ଦ୍ବୀପ

A small island within Chilika Lake housing the ancient Nanda Devi Temple dedicated to the goddess, accessible by boat from different points around the lake. The island offers spiritual significance and scenic views of the surrounding lagoon and countryside.

Things to do

• Nanda Devi Temple Darshan — Visit the ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi, the presiding deity of the island, and participate in morning or evening prayers with devotees.
• Boat circumnavigation of the island — Take a guided boat tour around Nanda Devi Island to observe the scenic lagoon ecosystem, migratory birds, and the surrounding Chilika landscape.
• Birdwatching at Chilika Lake — Spot migratory birds including flamingos, pintails, and teals that visit the surrounding waters of Chilika Lake, especially during winter months.
• Sunrise viewing from the island — Wake early to witness the sunrise over Chilika Lake from the island, offering golden light reflections across the water and countryside.
• Photography of temple architecture — Capture the intricate stone carvings and traditional Odia architectural style of the ancient Nanda Devi Temple and its surroundings.

Food to try

• Chilika Lake fish curry — Freshly caught fish from Chilika Lake cooked in mustard oil, turmeric, and local spices, a staple dish of the region served in local eateries.
• Prawn preparations — Sweet and succulent prawns from Chilika Lake prepared as curry or dry fry with coconut and spices, available at lakeside food stalls.
• Rice and dal with local vegetables — Simple Odia meal of steamed rice served with locally grown spinach dal and seasonal vegetables cooked in traditional style.
• Crab omelette — Freshly prepared omelette with crab meat from the lake, commonly served for breakfast at guesthouses and local restaurants near the shore.
• Pakhala — Traditional Odia fermented rice dish served with water, yogurt, and accompaniments like fish or vegetables, especially refreshing in warm months.

Local customs & good to know

• Temple visit etiquette — Visitors should remove shoes before entering the Nanda Devi Temple, dress modestly, and participate respectfully in rituals or seek permission before photography inside sacred spaces.
• Boat accessibility timing — Access to the island depends on Chilika Lake water levels and weather conditions; plan visits during the dry season (October to March) for reliable boat services from nearby villages.
• Local fishing community respect — The island and surrounding lake are home to traditional fishing communities; be respectful of their livelihoods, avoid interference with nets or boats, and consider purchasing fish directly from local fishermen.
• Festival participation — If visiting during Chaitra Parva (spring festival in March-April), witness special temple celebrations and traditional rituals dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi with local devotees and pilgrims.