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Hardly 16 km from Berhampur, the hub of Southern Orissa, is the
tiny town of Gopalpur on the Bay of Bengal. Enjoying the reputation
of being a popular Beach Resort of Orissa, the deep and clear blue
waters 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 and sea worshippers, 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 colour. 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 food, especially fish from the deep
sea, satisfy the hungry stomach. Green-coconuts quench the thirst.
Intense heat of the summer is temperated by the sea breeze in the
fantastic quietness of the beach amidst palm, coconut and casuarina
trees.
Gopalpur was once buzzing with maritime activities which Orissa
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 frolick.
How To Reach There
Road :
Gopalpur is well connected by an excellent all-weather road which
branches off from the NH 5 on the outskirts of Berhampur (16 km).
Regular bus services are available. Taxis and Autorickshaws are
also available.
Rail :
Nearest railhead is Berhampur (16 km) on the S.E. Rly. served by
a number of fast trains on Kolkata-Chennai route.
Air :
Nearest airport is Bhubaneswar (190 km) and Visakhapatnam (260 km
