Astaranga Beach
Sandy Beach with swimming and cooking options, a great nature center, and attractions like stunning bird watching and witnessing the spectacular view of turtle nesting make Astaranga an excellent, family-friendly destination that one can visit. One of the most popular beaches in Odisha, Astaranga lies on the Bay of Bengal coast in the Prachi Valley.
The word means colorful sunset, a combination of two Odia words Asta meaning sunset, and ranga meaning colorful. It is 91 kilometers away from the Jagannath temple and 19 km far from Konark Sun temple. The beach attracts tourists as well as many photographers for its beauty.
The environs are picture perfect and also offer an unusual distinct view of the vibrant sunset, and this is why the beach is called a photographer’s delight. The beach caters to a small fish market that operates every morning. Because of its panoramic views, it attracts lots of visitors every year so you will always find the warmth of people around you.
The beach is slightly different from other beaches in Odisha in terms of temperature, crowd, and accommodation. There are no nearby resorts/places to stay if one is visiting and hence it forces you to find a shelter in Puri, Konark, or Bhubaneswar.
Things to Do at Astaranga Beach
Enjoy the Scenic Sunsets: True to its name, Astaranga Beach is renowned for its mesmerizing sunsets. The sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors as the sun sets over the Bay of Bengal, offering a perfect backdrop for photography and relaxation.
Fishing with the Locals: Astaranga is a traditional fishing village, and visitors can witness or even participate in daily fishing activities. Watching the fishermen cast their nets and haul in their catch is an experience that connects you with the local culture.
Bird Watching: The beach’s location near the Devi River estuary makes it a haven for bird watchers. Migratory birds and a variety of local species can be seen around the beach, especially during the winter months.
Photography: The beach, with its serene environment, fishermen at work, and picturesque sunsets, provides ample opportunities for photography. Capturing the local lifestyle and natural beauty is a favorite activity for many visitors.
Picnicking: The tranquil surroundings of Astaranga Beach make it an ideal spot for picnics. Visitors can enjoy a day out with family and friends, surrounded by the sound of waves and the cool sea breeze.
Exploring the Devi River Mouth: The confluence of the Devi River and the Bay of Bengal is a sight to behold. Visitors can explore this area to observe the unique flora and fauna, and the landscape created by the merging waters.
