Exploring Ansupa: The Largest Fresh Water Lake Of Odisha
Ansupa, which is 382 kilometres in length and situated in the Cuttack district near Banki on the banks of the Mahanadi River, draws migrating birds in the winter.
The largest freshwater lake in the state of Odisha, Ansupa, is still not as adored as Chilika. Ansupa, which is 382 kilometres in length and situated in the Cuttack district near Banki on the banks of the Mahanadi River, draws migrating birds in the winter. This lake is an oxbow lake, a U-shaped body of water created when a broad river meander is severed, leaving the water alone. The lake, which is about 40 km from Cuttack, is surrounded by lush green woods of bamboo, mango, and other trees.
The Saranda and Bishnupur hills around the lake, which lies close to the bank of the Mahanadi River, the lake’s depth makes it perfect for boating and fishing. Mechanised and paddle boats are available for hire. It’s a well-liked picnic location as well, with tranquil waters and abundant greenery.
Due to its unique biodiversity and the variety of migratory and permanent birds that call it home, the lake is of national and international significance. Ansupa Lake became a Community Reserve in 2003 after the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 underwent an update. As per the research on inland wetlands of India, 11,860 individuals belonging to 42 bird species were recorded. The lake has been classified as a Ramsar site since 2021.
In the vicinity of Ansupa, Saranda Hills is a fantastic place to visit. Migratory birds from far-off places spend their days on the waters of Ansupa Lake and their evenings on Saranda Hill. There are a lot of migrating birds living here. It was once known as Saranda, but it is now called Saranda Garh. Saranda Hill is mentioned in both mythology and historical accounts. It is said that Subarna Keshari, the final ruler of the Keshari dynasty, came here after defeating Chodaganga Dev of the Ganga dynasty.
How to reach: Ansupa is 50 kilometres from Cuttack on a highway that connects the Athagarh and Banki blocks of the Cuttack district.
The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar, 88 km away. The nearest railway stations are Cuttack, 62km and Bhubaneswar, 72km away. Regular bus services are available up to Subarnapur, Banki near Ansupa & to Athagarh from Cuttack.
