Chandrabhaga Beach: A Scenic and Sacred Destination in Odisha
How to Plan a Trip to Chandrabhaga Beach of Odisha
Chandrabhaga Beach of Odisha is a scenic and sacred destination that attracts tourists from all over the world. The beach is located near the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is the first beach in India to receive the Blue Flag certification, a tag given to environment-friendly and clean beaches. The beach is also known for its annual Magha Saptami Mela, a festival that celebrates the Sun God and his healing powers. If you are looking for a beach vacation that offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and eco-friendly tourism, then Chandrabhaga Beach of Odisha is the place for you. Here are some tips on how to plan a trip to this amazing beach.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Chandrabhaga Beach of Odisha is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. You can also witness the Magha Saptami Mela, which is held on the seventh day of the full-moon fortnight of Magha month (usually in February), and see thousands of devotees taking a holy dip in the shallow pool of water and offering prayers to the Sun God. The beach also offers stunning views of the sunrise and sunset, and is ideal for relaxing, swimming, surfing, and boating.
How to Reach
Chandrabhaga Beach of Odisha is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is approximately 64 km away from the beach. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to reach the beach. The nearest railway station is Puri, which is approximately 35 km away from the beach. You can take a taxi or a bus from the station to reach the beach. You can also drive to the beach from Bhubaneswar or Puri, as the road is well-maintained and scenic.
Accommodation
There are several accommodation options available near the beach, ranging from budget to luxury. You can choose from hotels, resorts, and guest houses, depending on your preference and budget. Some of the popular hotels near the beach are Lotus Resort Konark, Sun Temple Hotel, Nature Camp Konark Retreat, and Chandrabhaga Hotel. You can also book online or through travel agents to get the best deals and discounts.
Things to Do
There are many things to do and see near the beach, apart from enjoying the sand and the sea. Here are some of the attractions and activities that you can explore near the beach:
- Visit the Konark Sun Temple: The temple is a masterpiece of architecture and art, and is dedicated to the Sun God. The temple is famous for its intricate carvings, sculptures, and wheels that depict the movement of the sun and the seasons. The temple is also a symbol of Odisha’s rich culture and history.
- Explore the coral reef: The beach is home to a coral reef, which is one of the prominent living coral reefs of India, and is rich in marine biodiversity. You can see a variety of fish, crabs, starfish, and other aquatic creatures in the reef. You can also take a boat ride on the Chandrabhaga River and enjoy the view of the reef and the beach.
- Try local cuisine: Odisha is known for its delicious seafood, and you can try some of the local delicacies at the beach. Some of the dishes that you can try are crab curry, prawn fry, fish curry, and chenna poda, a sweet dish made of cheese and sugar.
- Explore the nearby villages: The area around the beach is dotted with small villages that offer a glimpse of rural life in Odisha. You can take a walk or a cycle ride to the villages and interact with the locals, who are friendly and hospitable. You can also see the traditional crafts and art forms of the villagers, such as applique work, stone carving, and palm leaf painting.
Chandrabhaga Beach of Odisha is a gem of a destination that offers a unique and memorable experience to its visitors. Whether you are looking for a relaxing, adventurous, or spiritual vacation, you will find something to suit your taste at this beach. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this amazing beach.