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Gopalpur
on Sea
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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 |
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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 color.
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 temperate by the sea breeze in the fantastic quietness of the
beach amidst palm, coconut and casuarinas trees. |
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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 was ceased to operate due to the second
world war and separation from Burma (now Myanmar). The crumbling
walls and pillars and the lighthouse 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 frolic. |
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Approach 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) |
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