Chandipur Beach

In the state of Odisha, near Balasore Village in the small town of Chandipur, Chandipur Beach is a secluded place shrouded in mystery. It’s unique because the seawater periodically disappears right in front of your eyes, then reappears after some time.

Also called the ‘hide-and-seek’ beach, Chandipur Beach is a sprawling stretch of golden sand surrounded by Casuarina trees, pristine waters, and lush coastal vegetation. But a strange natural phenomenon occurs here every day. Believe it or not, the seawater recedes up to 5 kilometers (3 miles), twice a day during low-tide, leaving behind only the shells. The water returns during the high tide.

This extreme natural phenomenon has really enriched the biodiversity of sea creatures in the area. When the seawater re-appears, it brings along with it horseshoe crabs and red crabs, which otherwise live further from the beach.

The Chandipur beach falls in the Integrated Test Zone of Indian Defense Research and Development Organization. Several nuclear-capable missiles have been launched here for testing including the Akash, Agni, Surya, and Prithvi. This research center is highly confidential and its integrated Test Range also not reachable for common tourists. The tourist zone of Chandipur Beach is not affected by the D.R.D.O. integrated test range and visitors can move here fearlessly. When the waters disappear and the sea is exposed one can make a long walk on it. Being a quiet and peaceful beach resort with its lovely quiet dunes, wild creepers and Kasuriana trees whistling in the breeze center Chandipur provides you a special charm that no one would find ever.

Chandipur lies around 200 km from state capital Bhubaneswar. From here, one can either take the train to Balasore, the closest town at a distance of 10 km, and then travel by road, or take the entire journey by road on National Highway 5. One can be assured of a good journey thanks to the green scenery that follows you throughout and good roads.