Blue Lake Picnic Spot: An Unconventional Attraction in Odisha’s Balasore District. Located within a serene landscape at Mitrapur, the Blue Lake Picnic Spot is probably one of the most captivating yet less-known tourist spots in Odisha. Having been in this area quite several times and reviewing various destinations across Odisha, I can confidently say that Blue Lake is one place that stands out for its inherent beauty, recreational aspects, and cultural zest rather than one of the destinations in Eastern India.
History and Geography
The Blue Lake, as it is popularly called, Neel Pukhari, was the name of an earlier stone quarry. Generations later, it filled up with rainwater and underground springs to become this magnificently blue-green lake. The abandoned quarry fills with rainwater and underground springs, presenting us with a resplendent blue-green water body almost encircled by boulders and rocky terrain. The color of the lake is attributed to the mineral makeup of the quarry rocks along with the lake’s depth. It certainly does create a striking visual spectacle that changes with different angles of sunlight throughout the day.
Beauty and Layout
What is truly fascinating about Blue Lake is its location. The lake is enfolded by rough hills and indigenous vegetation, forming a micro-ecosystem that sustains various local flora and fauna. The rocky outcrops that surround the lake provide natural viewing points offering thrillingly grand vistas of not only the water body but also of the surroundings. This place offers spectacular views during sunrise and sunset, creating an enchanted photographic opportunity.
Recreation and Entertainment
Over the last few years, this picnic site has grown in leaps and bounds with remarkable accommodation according to the growing tourist interest while yet retaining the natural beauty of the area. Several recreational activities for visitors are found here:
- Picnicking and Recreation: Families and groups can enjoy a perfect day out in nature at well-kept picnic spots with basic amenities. Under the natural shade provided by the surrounding trees, day-long picnicking is certainly at ease.
- Photography: The unique landscape is a playground for amateur and professional photographers alike. The play of light on the water, the rocky terrain, and the surrounding vegetation provide all the right ingredients for great landscape photography.
- Nature Walks: The area itself is threaded with many informal trails around the lake, offering exploration for nature lovers and those who want a short hike. The corridors serve up different views of the lake’s beauty.
- Birdwatching: The Blue Lake region has become a haven for bird lovers, with both indigenous and migratory species being attracted to the ecosystem. Early mornings are especially conducive to bird-watching activities.
Cultural Significance
Blue Lake is of cultural significance to the local community besides its natural beauty. The area has witnessed numerous local festivals and cultural gatherings and is more or less the social heartbeat of “Mitrapur.” The local folklore deepens the site’s interest with tales passed on from generation to generation about the lake’s formation and its spiritual importance.
Accessibility and Best Time to Visit
Blue Lake is easily reached by road, as it is located just 15 km from the town of Balasore. The route to the lake is well marked, although care is required for the last kilometer or so during the monsoon season. The months from October to February make the ideal visiting time, as this is when the weather is pleasant and the landscape lush and green after the rains.
Conservation Works & Sustainable Tourism
I would like to take notice of the conservation efforts that have begun since I feel very strongly about the whole issue of sustainable tourism. The local authorities and community organizations have taken it upon themselves to join forces in a carefully considered ecological balance of the area while promoting tourism:
- Regular cleaning drives ensure that the area remains clean
- Picnic areas are designated to contain human impact on the environment
- Local guides promote responsible tourism practices
- The local community comes into play in maintaining and protecting the site
Future Prospects & Development
The increasing popularity of Blue Lake creates opportunities and challenges. While increased tourism can create opportunities for the local economy, one needs to work out how to maintain a balance between development and conservation. Plans are afoot for the upgrading of basic amenities without compromising the natural environment.
Visitor Guidelines & Tips
For those intending to visit Blue Lake, my suggestion is to:
- Leave early in the day, to avoid the crowd and get the right light for shooting
- Take adequate water and snacks since shops may not be as easily available
- Use comfortable shoes for walking across rocky terrain
- Observe the local caution around water bodies
- Respect the natural setting and the customs of the local community
Tourist Facilities, Transportation, Tourist Attractions, How to Reach, Accessibility
Entry Time
Mitrapur Blue Lake open timings are every 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Best Time to visit
The best time to visit Mitrapur Blue Lake at all times of the year and winter season
The Closest Bus Stand
The Closest Bus stand is Nilagiri, which is located around 13 KM distance from Mitrapur Lake
The Closest Railway Station from Blue Lake Picnic Spot
The Closest Railway Station is Balasore, which is located around 15 KM distance from Mitrapur Lake Picnic Spot
The Closest Airport
The Closest Airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, which is located around 203 KM distance from Blue Lake
