MEET IRRAWADDY DOLPHINS IN ODISHA

Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, Chilika Lake in Odisha, is home to a unique creature: the Irrawaddy dolphin. Chilika Lake has emerged as the single largest habitat of the endangered species. Hire a boat at the lake for a sight of the peculiar dolphin with a bulging forehead and a short beak. While watching these gentle creatures arch in and out of water is a soothing experience, Bhitarkanika National Park (258 km away) in the same state offers a more thrilling wildlife encounter: crocodiles. Home to the world’s second-largest mangrove ecosystem, the park is famed for its population of giant estuarine crocodiles that can grow as long as 23 feet. Book a 12- day wildlife tour to Odisha with 365 Hops. 365hops.com

GETTING THERE

The nearest airport is in Bhubaneswar ( 120 km), from where taxis, trains, and buses are available to the lake.

STAY

Swosti Chilika Resort has luxury accommodation on offer (starts from ` 7,400/USD103; swostihotels.com)