10 Scenic Lakes In Odisha To Visit On A 2024 Vacation

Odisha is a tourist’s paradise. With gorgeous temples, museums and monasteries, the state of Odisha has a bounty of scenic wonders as well. Along with sun-kissed beaches, forests and lush green hills, Odisha is famous for its stunning lakes which are perfect places for day excursions and picnics. The lakes in Odisha are both natural and man-made and are popular attractions for sightseeing amongst both locals and tourists.

10 Best Lakes In Odisha

While holidaying in Odisha, visit these emerald lakes to enjoy their natural beauty and tranquil ambiance. Have a look.

1. Chilika Lake

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Located at the mouth of Daya River, Chilika Lake is the largest and one of the most popular lakes in Odisha and there is no doubt about it. Spread over Puri, Ganjam, and Khurda districts, Chilika Lake is a stunning coastal lagoon and the largest saltwater lake in India and the second largest in the world. Surrounded by lush green forests on all sides, Chilka Lake welcomes tourists for bird watching, picnics, boating, and fishing. It is counted as one of the major tourist places for sightseeing. November to March is the perfect time to visit Chilika Lake as plenty of migratory birds fly down here from Siberia.

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2. Ansupa Lake

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Nestled on the banks of Mahanadi River and surrounded by Saranada Hills and Bishnupur Hills; Ansupa Lake boasts of immense natural beauty and exotic flora and fauna. Home to floating, submerged and emergent aquatic plants and many aquatic fauna; this lake not only attracts botanists and zoologists but its rich biodiversity uplifts its popularity to the next level. One can simply enjoy the serene surroundings, sitting by the lakeside.

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3. Kolab Dam

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Located in the Jeypore town in Koraput district of Odisha, Kolab Dam is another beautiful Odisha lake. Its stunning beauty and serenity makes it one of the best escapes that one could have in Koraput. Formed in 1993 by damming Kolab River, this man-made lake of Odisha is ideal for day picnics, leisure strolls, and boating. After visiting this lake, one can also plan to explore Deomali, Gupteshwar Cave, and Bagara Waterfalls which are located nearby.

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4. Hirakud Dam

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Constructed across Mahanadi River, Hirakud Dam is not only one of the largest man-made lakes in Odisha but also one of the largest artificial lakes in the world. Its mammoth structure makes it one of the most visited tourist spots in Odisha. People from Sambalpur visit Hirakud Dam for day outings and picnics.

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5. Pata Lake

Located near Chattarpur town, Pata Lake is one of the sweet water lakes in Odisha, flocked by tourists round the year. From beautiful surroundings to its invigorating freshness, Pata Lake is quite a beautiful place and a popular picnic spot for locals and tourists.

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6. Indravati Dam

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Built on the Indravati river by the same name, this gravity dam has formed a huge lake which is one of the best excursion places in Odisha. The picturesque surrounding and vivid flora and fauna enhance the charm quotient of the place. Plan to visit this place during monsoon when the luxuriant greenery all around enhances the beauty of the place manifolds.

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7. Kanjia Lake

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If you are in Bhubaneswar, keep Kanjia Lake on your list. Located in the outskirts of the city, this lake spreads over 66 hectares area and is considered as the principal water source. This is a wetland of national importance and the rich biodiversity of flora and fauna makes it an important lake of Odisha. People generally visit this lake while going to or coming back from Nandan Kanan Zoological Park.

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8. Bindu Sarovara

Another lake to visit near Bhubaneswar, Bindu Sarovara serves as a popular sightseeing spot in Bhubaneswar. It is one of the lakes in Odisha that bears spiritual importance. The lake is located to the north of Lingaraj temple and the east of Ananta Vasudeva Temple and is surrounded by numerous other temples, hence aptly known as the ‘sacred lake’ of Odisha. Locals believe that the water of Bindu Sarovar has therapeutic properties and cures all ailments and a holy dip in this lake washes away all sins. This lake is famed as the largest water body in Bhubaneswar.

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9. Rengali Reservoir

One of the most beautiful yet offbeat lakes in Odisha is Rengali Reservoir. Located in Bognor region, Rengali Reservoir is built across Brahmani River. This is an idyllic hangout place for families and couples. Enjoy day picnics and day outings here but make sure to carry food and water as there is a lack of food stalls in the adjoining areas.

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10. Upper Jonk

Located near river Jonk in village Patora, this lake ends our list of popular lakes in Odisha. Surrounded by verdant hills and forests, the natural beauty of this lake is outstanding and the cool breeze that blows here rejuvenates the mind and soul of every visitor. Opt for a picnic, enjoy strolls or simply take nature hikes; the choice is yours!

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Plan a holiday in Odisha with TravelTriangle and explore these beautiful lakes here. These lakes in Odisha are perfect places to spend a day or an evening with one’s folks. Enjoy the stunning beauty and tranquillity at these lakes and make your holiday a memorable one.

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