The Odisha Government has introduced a luxury cruise service on Chilika Lake, inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida. The initiative, launched ahead of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations in January 2025, aims to enhance tourism in the state by showcasing the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of Chilika, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon.
The cruise service features two state-of-the-art vessels, aptly named Lake Queen and Diamond Princess. These luxury boats are equipped with air-conditioned cabins, onboard food services, and modern amenities, offering seating for 40 passengers each. Tourists can enjoy breathtaking views while exploring iconic spots like Kalijai Island and the Nalabana Bird Sanctuary, renowned for its migratory bird population.
Deputy Chief Minister Parida highlighted the potential of the new service to boost Odisha’s tourism industry. “The luxury cruises on Chilika Lake allow visitors to experience the scenic splendor of Kalijai Island and Nalabana Bird Sanctuary, contributing to the state’s vision of becoming a premier tourism destination,” she said.
The project is part of the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, an initiative by the Union Ministry of Tourism to promote theme-based tourist circuits across India. It is expected to significantly enhance Odisha’s appeal as a travel destination for both domestic and international tourists.
The timing of the launch aligns with Odisha’s preparations to host the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas from January 8 to 10, 2025. This prestigious event celebrates the contributions of the Indian diaspora and is anticipated to attract global visitors, further bolstering the state’s tourism prospects.
With the addition of the luxury cruise service, Chilika Lake now offers a beautiful experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
