Planning to visit the unique Kankansikhari islet in Chilika Lake? In this article, you’ll learn how to reach Kankanashikhari from Bhubaneswar, with step-by-step routes, transport tips, and insider advice to make your journey smooth and memorable.
1. Overview: What is Kankanashikhari?
Kankanashikhari, also known as Leelakhetra Nairi, is a small island temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath in Chilika Lake. Most famously, during Rath Yatra, the deities are taken on boats joined as a floating chariot—a water-based procession that is rare and captivating.
Since the island is accessible exclusively by boat from Nairi village, your journey will include a combination of road travel, possibly rail or bus, followed by a boat ride.
2. Step‑by‑Step Guide: How to Reach Kankanashikhari from Bhubaneswar
To begin with, let’s break down the journey into two major legs: land travel to Nairi (on Chilika lake bank) and then boat transfer to Kankanashikhari.
A. From Bhubaneswar to Nairi (by Car, Taxi, or Bus)
By Road (Private Vehicle / Taxi)
The fastest and most convenient way is to drive via NH 316. The total distance from Bhubaneswar to Nairi is approximately 80 km, and it takes around 2 hours to 2.5 hours depending on traffic and stops. Along the route, you may pass through Pipli, Puri, and Satapada, all of which are scenic spots and good for short breaks- By Bus
OSRTC and private buses run from Bhubaneswar Bus Station to Balugaon, Rambha, or directly to Satapada. From there, you can take a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Nairi. Typically, the bus fare is under ₹100 per person and the total journey may take 2.5 to 3 hours - By Train
You can board a South Eastern Railway train from Bhubaneswar to Balugaon station. Multiple trains stop at these stations daily (Intercity Express, Hirakhand, etc.). From the station, auto-rickshaws are there to take you to Nairi (5–6 km away) for about ₹50–100
B. From Nairi to Kankanashikhari – Boat Ride
Once you reach Leelakhetra Nairi, you’ll find local boat operators who can take you across the water to Kankanashikhari island. While the island is just a few minutes away by boat, you should plan for:
Boat fare: Generally modest and negotiable. Government boats may charge less, while private operators may offer guided tours at slightly higher rate.
Scams alert: Beware of oyster-pearl scams—operators may show “pearls” inside oysters after stopping at islands, hoping to sell you overpriced fake gems. Just enjoy the ride and politely decline offers
- Boat tours for Rath Yatra: If travelling during the festival, join guided boat chariot events arranged by locals or trusts managing the temple
3. Detailed Route Summary
| Leg | Mode | Distance / Time | Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bhubaneswar → Nairi | Car / Taxi | ~80 km / 2–2.5 h via NH 316 | Scenic, flexible, stops en route |
| Bhubaneswar → Nairi | Bus | ~2.5–3 h | Budget-friendly, frequent buses |
| Bhubaneswar → Balugaon via Train | Train + Auto | 1.5 h by train + auto to Nairi | Comfortable local experience |
| Nairi → Kankanashikhari | Boat | 5–10 min | Hire locally, small boat, safe |
4. What to Expect on the Journey
Firstly, you will traverse from the capital to the edge of Chilika’s scenic brackish waters. This estuarine lagoon, India’s largest, is a Ramsar site and home to birds, dolphins, and lush islands
Then, at Nairi, besides booking your boat, take some time to explore the shoreline—village life, fishing boats, and scenic vistas are quite photogenic. In fact, Leelakhetra Nairi is especially beautiful in winter when migratory birds and calm waters create serene views.
Upon reaching Kankanashikhari, you’ll witness the floating chariot procession during Rath Yatra—boats joined together, carrying deities around the island amid devotional chants and ghanta beats
5. Travel Tips & Advice
Best Season: Visit between November and February, when the weather is cool and migratory birds add charm to Chilika Lake.
Arrive early morning to catch the first boats and avoid crowds during festivals.
Ride smart: Share rides where possible, and pre-negotiate fair rates. Government boating points usually charge more transparent fares.
Safety: Carry water, sunscreen, and respect local customs—remove shoes before entering temple areas.
Language: Local operators understand basic Hindi and English. A friendly greeting in Odia (“Namaskar”) goes a long way.
6. In Summary
In short, how to reach Kankanashikhari from Bhubaneswar involves:
Traveling by road/train/bus to Leelakhetra Nairi (Chilika).
From there, a short boat ride to Kankanashikhari island.
Although it may take several hours in total, the trip is richly rewarding—combining spiritual depth, local culture, and nature’s calm.