Each winter, Chilika Lake transforms into a vibrant haven for migratory birds, creating one of India’s most remarkable natural spectacles. The 6th National Chilika Bird Festival, scheduled from 6th to 8th January 2026, celebrates this seasonal wonder as nearly 10 lakh birds representing over 200 species arrive at Mangalajodi, Odisha.
The festival offers an immersive experience in the heart of nature, where the air resonates with calls, chirps, whistles, quacks, and trills. These natural sounds form a living narrative of migration, survival, and coexistence, making the festival a unique platform for bird lovers, photographers, conservationists, and nature enthusiasts.
Chilika Lake & Mangalajodi – A Birding Paradise
Situated on the northeastern edge of Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, Mangalajodi is widely known as the “Birds’ Paradise of Asia.” It is one of India’s most celebrated birding destinations and a powerful example of community-led conservation, where local communities have successfully replaced poaching with sustainable eco-tourism.
Chilika lies along the Central Asian Flyway, serving as a vital stopover for migratory birds traveling from the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. Recognised as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, Chilika supports diverse habitats that attract both resident and migratory waterfowl. Mangalajodi and Nalabana Bird Sanctuary are also designated Important Bird Areas (IBA).
Birdlife You Can Experience
Visitors can witness extraordinary bird diversity, including:
- Large congregations of ducks, waders, gulls, and teals
- Raptors actively hunting across wetland landscapes
- Rare species such as Grey-headed Lapwing and Greater Painted Snipe
- Near-threatened and long-distance migratory birds
- Flamingos, pelicans, godwits, sandpipers, and Northern Shovellers
- Massive flocks of Eurasian Wigeon, often numbering close to one lakh
Festival Highlights
- Guided birdwatching and boating experiences
- Exclusive access to Nalabana Bird Sanctuary, open only during the festival
- Sightings of Greater Flamingos, locally known as Hira Pakhi
- Nature walks and wetland exploration
- Wildlife photography opportunities
- Expert talks and technical capacity-building sessions
- Chilika Boat Festival celebrating local lake culture
- Evening cultural programs and award ceremonies
Activities at a Glance
- Bird Watching
- Sanctuary Visits
- Nature Walks
- Boating Experiences
- Technical & Awareness Sessions
- Nature and Wildlife Photography
Festival Schedule
Book Ticket : https://tinyurl.com/3dpkmy9h
Day 1 – 6 January 2026
Venue: Lokseva Bhawan, Bhubaneswar
- Inauguration of the photo exhibition
- Opening session and thematic panel discussions
- Expert presentations and participant briefing
- Transfer to Barkul
- Evening debriefing, state destination presentation, and dinner at Panthanivas
Day 2 – 7 January 2026 (Chilika)
- Flagship birding experiences at Mangalajodi
- Bird race activities
- Technical sessions and local awareness programs
- Evening cultural engagements
Day 3 – 8 January 2026 (Chilika)
- Continued birding and boating activities
- Youth and community-focused conservation programs
- Concluding cultural events and award ceremony
Day 4 – 9 January 2026
- Breakfast and departure for Bhubaneswar
What the Festival Fee Includes
- Local transportation (Bhubaneswar–Chilika–Bhubaneswar)
- Accommodation on a twin-sharing basis
- All meals during the festival period
- Guided boating charges for birding activities
- Entry fees and full logistical support
Location: Mangalajodi & Nalabana Bird Sanctuary, Chilika Lake, Odisha
Dates: 6–8 January 2026
Timing: Morning to evening, as per daily program
Final Note
The 6th National Chilika Bird Festival is more than a celebration—it is a reminder of the deep connection between wetlands, wildlife, and communities. Set against one of India’s most important bird habitats, the festival offers a rare opportunity to observe nature responsibly, learn from experts, and experience the living heritage of Chilika.
