Chilika Lake, the largest fresh salty inland lake in the whole of Asia, is only 45km away from Gopalpur and is a must visit spot for those who visit Gopalpur by sea. It is a large lake which expands over 1000 square km and is one of the biggest habitation centers in the cold season for migratory birds arriving from regions such as Siberia. An area of the lake of about 20km inhabited by a large variety of waterfowl is considered to be a protected territory and sanctuary.