Explore Anshupa, be lost in its charm

Distance from Bhubaneswar: 70 kms

Anshupa lake is situated literally in the middle of the twin cities - Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. The beautiful landscape enhanced by the lake makes for a perfect weekend destination especially during the winters when the lake hosts the winged guests from far off places like Siberia and Central Eurasia. Anshupa literally meaning "Horse Shoe" derives its name from the shape of the lake. It is the largest fresh water lake in Odisha. Anshupa Lake’s ecology is currently managed by the Chilika Development Authority.
 
Anshupa was an erstwhile princely state. The ruins of the erswhile Sarandagarh Fort are found at the Saranda Hills located adjacent to the lake . The fort is believed to have been built by King Subarnakeshari of the Ganga dynasty who was enamoured by the beauty of the lake and built a sort of getaway palace for himself. Some of the structures still standing are the ammunition depot or the Baruda Ghara in Odia, an ancient twin-well called Bhai Bohu Kua in Odia (Brother-Sister-in-law well) and a broken entrance/exit point made of stones pointing towards Anshupa. From the construction point of view the gate appears to be an exit way and could have been used as a safe passage in case of any emergency as seen in other forts across India.