Mangalajodi – Ethereal Marsh

Mangalajodi is a serene wetland on the northern banks of Chilika Lake in Odisha. This place has come a long way from being a poachers village to now a thriving sanctuary for birds.

Winter in most parts of India not only brings a welcome respite from the relentless summer but also welcomes our much-awaited winged visitors from across the globe. At the same time, thousands of winged visitors flock to the marshes of Mangalajodi as well, the wetland come alive with their constant, purposeful activity.

After learning that Mangalajodi is as poetic as Bharatpur, I made a visit to this remarkable place in  February, winter was almost in their last leg. The mystical mist has begun to fade, sun is shining bit more brighter. 

We would start our boat ride at 6 in the morning, and as the boat gently navigates through the narrow channels of the marsh, one can witness nature waking up to a new day, full of possibilities.

Personally, for me, the boat ride at Mangalajodi is what truly sets it apart. It’s the experience of gliding almost at water level in a canoe-like boat that made me feel part of the landscape. 

Despite the traumatic history, our feathered friends have learned to trust again, comes close without fear. In the distant horizon boatman rows through the peaceful waters.

Mangalajodi has something to offer everyone. Fishing is a primary livelihood of the village while the place buzzes with tourist, birders and photographers eager to witness and capture the signature moment of  Heron, Ibis catching a water snake or fish. 

Once again, conservation has not only protected the nature but has also paved the way for tourism and the well-being of the local communities.

It’s not only Heron and Ibis who are putting up the show, Peregrine falcon was equally dramatic with all its suspicious expressions.

Sunsets in Mangalajodi offer endless opportunities to experiment with light and composition. Silhouettes of roosting birds against the orange ball looks like a pause before the cycle of new day begins. While some are reluctant to call it a day and scanning water for a last meal.

When the boats were not racing to capture the dramatic moments of ibises and herons, those were the time of quiet contemplative moments. As the boat sailed lazily across the water, the gentle breeze used to drift me along in the faraway land.