Gopalpur Beach:Most Beautiful Beaches in the World

Introduction

Odisha is blessed with around 482 kilometers of coastline and has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.Added to their seductive beauty is a vast hinter land of antiquities and holy shrines Chilika, Asia's largest brackish water lake, not only provides a haven for millions of birds, but is also one of the few places in India where one can view dolphins.Some of the popular beaches are detailed below.

Gopalpur Beach

Hardly 16 kilometers from Berhampur, the beach retreat of Southern Odisha, happens to be the tiny town of Gopalpur on the Bay of Bengal. Enjoying the reputation of being a popular Beach Resort of Odisha, the deep and clear blue water instantly provoke those who are good swimmers. The temptation of bathing here is irresistible. Not-so-good swimmers take the hands of the Nolias (local fishermen who help bathers) and enjoy a pleasant bath. White surf splashing on the golden sands makes Gopalpur-on-Sea as one of the finest beaches on the eastern coast. A fascinating haunt for avid beach combers, it is a splendid retreat. Watching the life on the beach is also exciting. The fishermen pulling their catch or mending their nets add local color.

Beautiful objects made of seashells available in abundance are worth buying souvenirs for decorating a drawing room or giving some one a present. Sand sculptures here and, there made by some local artists are a feast to the eyes. Mouth watering sea foods, especially fish from the deep sea, satisfies the hungry stomach. Green-coconuts quench the thirst.

Intense heat of the summer is temperate by the sea breeze in the fantastic quietness of the beach amidst palm, coconut and casuarinas. Gopalpur was once buzzing with maritime activities which Odisha is known for ages. It was one of the outlets through which early settlers of South East Asia sailed off. It was a famous and popular seaport during the British Rule till about 1942 when it ceased to operate due to the Second World War and separation from Burma (now Myanmar). The crumbling walls and pillars and the light house stand witness to the past port. Remains of several bungalows and mansions belonging to the European merchants give the place a colonial look. A modern port is being developed here to revive the lost glory. A trip to Gopalpur-on-sea is a rewarding experience of sun and sea, fun and frolic.