A tourist at Khordha said that two locations, Mangalajodi and Nalabana, attract large numbers of migratory birds each year
Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: File pic
Odisha Bihanga Utsav 2026 has been underway from December 1 in 2025 and will continue till February 28 in 2026. The nearly three-month-long programme is being held to celebrate migratory birds at Chilika Lake and attract bird lovers.
A tourist at Khordha said that two locations, Mangalajodi and Nalabana, attract large numbers of migratory birds each year. She also emphasised the difficulty of visiting Nalabana, as it is located within a protected forest and public access is restricted. However, the Odisha government's initiative has made it easier for visitors to explore Nalabana every weekend for three months, i.e., from December to February. As a result of the initiative, the tourist observed many species of migratory birds.
The tourist named Priyankita said, "In Odisha, there are two locations, Mangalajodi and Nalabana, that attract many migratory birds each year. Previously, visiting Nalabana was challenging because it is located in a protected forest with restricted public access. However, thanks to an initiative by the Odisha government, visitors can now explore Nalabana on Saturdays and Sundays from December to February. This program allows us to observe numerous migratory birds from Siberia, including pelicans, flamingos, golden ducks, and a variety of other bird species..."
The Odisha Bihanga Utsav 2026 is a state-wide celebration of avian diversity, primarily focused on the migratory season at Chilika Lake, which is known to be Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, and not only has the Nalaban Island, but also the Kalijai Temple. The area also sees a lot of different kinds of aquatic life apart from migratory birds. Some of them are the Northern Pintail, Black-tailed Godwit, and Flamingos among others, and the Odisha Bihanga Utsav, which is also called the National Bird Festival, is one of the most popular state-run festivals that showcase their rich diversity, that started in 2018.
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