Hukitola Island, or Jambu Hukitola, is a secluded island in the coastal Kendrapara district in Odisha. It is located near the Bhitarkanika National Park. There is a lot of history associated with Hukitola Island and its surroundings. Hukitola Island has beautiful surroundings, rich culture, and history.
Hukitola Island is situated in Odisha, India, north of the Mahanadi River delta. The island is formed from silt deposits. On the island, there is a structure that British colonists built in 1867 that served as a rice storehouse.
As we can see from previous historical landmarks, it was once an administrative capital during the British squatters, followed by the salt production and ship trade of the colonial period, where today, disengaged attention from nature lovers and history lovers is what draws people to Jambu Hukitala. The surrounding mangroves and tranquil waters offer an oasis from the busy city life.
With colonial ruins to visit, while birdwatching and enjoying the unspoiled beaches of coastal Odisha, you should explore Hukitola Island. Whether you are an eco-tourist or a history lover, it promises to leave every visitor with a profound and unique experience.
Historical Significance of Hukitola Island
Hukitola Island has a special place in Odisha’s colonial history. During the British Raj, it was a significant commercial and administrative centre, especially for salt and shipping. The name Hukitola derives from the Persian word “huk” for “salt”, and it is easy to picture the island as a hub for salting fish and salt-making.
There are still a few remnants of the buildings from that time; they are not only crumbled bricks of buildings but deserted warehouses and old offices that mark the remnants of a time and place when Hukitola had a glorious past as a shipping and commercial hub. Hukitola Island is located next to the Mahanadi River and delta, and it provided important anchorage facilities and a transit point for ships.
Today, as we admire history at the ruins, we can only imagine the island that once thrived with activity. Visiting Jambu Hukitala is like stepping into Odisha’s history. It is an incredible opportunity to learn about Odisha’s history and maritime industry.
Natural Beauty and Biodiversity of Hukitola Island
Hukitola Island, surrounded by the rich mangroves of Bhitarkanika, is a destination for eco-tourists and birdwatchers alike. The natural ecosystem is home to countless flora and fauna, including some of the rarest birds, crabs, and fish. The region draws migratory birds each winter in large flocks, showcasing a remarkable stopover location with abundant, sustainable habitats, thus enhancing the birdwatcher experience.
The quiet mangrove waters enhance the calmness of the visited areas, where nature and wildlife are embraced. Boat rides through the creeks will also be available, canoeing through the estuary creeks will provide glimpses of crocodiles and wildlife, and appreciations by visual naturalists give way to naturalist instinct.
The unspoilt sensation of Jambu Hukitala may be perfect to find your solitude in nature. Regardless of whether it is a nature photographer or the essence of a wildlife lover, the abundance of biodiversity in the area is mesmerizing all at once.
How to Reach and Best Time to Visit Hukitola Island
Getting to Hukitola Island alone is an adventure. An island close to Bhitarkanika National Park in Kendrapara, the island is only a boat ride away from nearby villages such as Gupti or Chandbali. The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is excellent and you can often see migratory birds.
The summers are hot and humid, and entry may be difficult in the monsoon season due to high tides. Tourists should arrange their trip with local guides for a safer and informative trip. Because the island is almost unexplored, it would be advisable to take supplies such as water, something to eat, and insect repellent.
Jambu Hukitala is a great trip as it gives you an interesting blend of history, nature, and a little adventure. If you are in coastal Odisha, this makes for a great trip.
Why Hukitola Island Should Be on Your Travel List
If you’re looking for an unusual travel experience in Odisha, add Hukitola Island to your list. This island is nothing like the other tourists’ places. Instead of traveling with crowds in busy places, Jambu Hukitala gives you solitude, history, and unrivaled scenic beauty. To top it off, it’s also very close to Bhitarkanika National Park, making it an ideal addition to any Odisha travel plan.
So, if you want to explore some colonial ruins, see very active birdlife, or just chill beside the water, Jambu Hukitala has it all. Ecotourism is an up-and-coming market in travel, and most ecotourism safari destinations that call themselves ‘eco’ are acting in a sustainable way, with tourism that treats locals with the appropriate respect and acknowledges its heritage. Therefore, if you’re ready to pack your bags, jump on a plane, and see one of Odisha’s hidden gems, enjoy the opportunity.
Tourist Facilities, Transportation, Tourist Attractions, How to Reach, Accessibility
Opening Time
Hukitola Island’s open timings are Morning 10:00 am to Evening 5:00 pm.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hukitola Island is from January to December, and the Winter Season
Closest Bus Stand and Distance
The Closest Bus stand is Kendrapara, which is located around 50 KM distance from Hukitola Island
Closest Railway Station & Distance
The Closest Railway Station is Cuttack, which is located around 95 KM distance from Hukitola Island
Closest Airport and Distance
The Closest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar , which is located around 123 KM distance from Hukitola Island.
