Mangalajodi (Wildlife Sanctuary)

Mangalajodi is largest and one of the oldest village among 130 villages located on the banks of Chilika lake. The village is coming under Tangi block of Khurda district in Odisha, 75 km from Bhubaneswar towards Berhampur with a huge marshland along the northern edge of the brackish lake. Its vast wetlands attract thousands of migratory birds, journey from as far different places of the world. Its wetland now host around 200 species counting more than 1.5 lakhs of birds in the peak season. it is believed that Mangalajodi was a harbor where all big ships used to halt during their trading spree in Odisha. This region has is a significant global waterfowl habitat and is declared as an ‘Important Bird Area (IBA)’. Mangalajodi also has its cultural importance. ‘Danda Yatra’, one of the important ritual performed by the villagers in an interesting way, is celebrated in the month of Chaitra (March-April). ‘Paika Akhada’ is another marshal art dance form performed by the villagers on important occasions. Religious places like Patita Paban temple(oldest, largest), raghunath Temple(250yrs old), Gupteswar temple, Nilakanthaswara Dev temple, Maa Mangala temple, Maa Bramhani temple, and Maa Balimajhi Devi temple are the famous among tourists. Ancient architechture of these temples give a unique status to this village. Maa Balimajhi Devi temple is popular picnic spot for locals. October to March is the best time to visit this place.

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