India, Dec. 27 -- The ongoing tourist season has led to a sharp rise in footfall at the Maa Kalijai shrine in Chilika Lake, with visitors from across Odisha and other states flocking to the island shrine amid favourable weather conditions. Pilgrims and tourists are combining spiritual visits with leisure activities, particularly boat rides across the blue waters of Asia's largest brackish water lagoon. Authorities and local stakeholders reported steady crowds over the past few days, reflecting a seasonal surge that is typical during this period.

Pilgrimage And Leisure Draw Visitors Tourists arriving at Chilika are availing boat services to reach the Maa Kalijai shrine, regarded as the presiding deity of the lagoon. Alongside religious si...