Crowds swell at Maa Kalijai Shrine as tourist season peaks in Chilika

The ongoing tourist season has led to a sharp rise in footfall at the Maa Kalijai shrine in Chilika Lake, with visitors from across Odisha and other states flocking to the island shrine amid favourable weather conditions. Pilgrims and tourists are combining spiritual visits with leisure activities, particularly boat rides across the blue waters of Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon.
Authorities and local stakeholders reported steady crowds over the past few days, reflecting a seasonal surge that is typical during this period.

Pilgrimage And Leisure Draw Visitors

Tourists arriving at Chilika are availing boat services to reach the Maa Kalijai shrine, regarded as the presiding deity of the lagoon. Alongside religious significance, the natural setting has added to the appeal, with visitors enjoying panoramic views of the lake during the journey.
The nearby bird sanctuary has emerged as another major attraction, with the presence of migratory birds enhancing the overall visitor experience. The calls and movements of these birds have drawn nature enthusiasts and families alike, contributing to the rise in tourist numbers.

Visitor Experience Mixed

While many visitors expressed satisfaction with the arrangements at the shrine, some pointed to areas that require improvement. A tourist said, “We could have darshan of the Goddess without any issues. All the arrangements are in place to streamline the process, and the experience was smooth. We also saw many migratory birds, which made the visit peaceful and memorable.”
However, concerns were raised over boat management and safety. Another visitor noted, “There is no streamlined parking of boats. One tourist nearly slipped while climbing up. This issue needs to be addressed to ensure safety.”

Focus On Crowd Management

With heavy footfall continuing at the shrine and surrounding areas, attention is now centred on crowd regulation, safety measures and visitor facilities. As the tourist season progresses, effective coordination among boat operators and local authorities is expected to play a key role in ensuring a safe and orderly experience for pilgrims and tourists visiting Maa Kalijai and Chilika.