post news network, Bhubaneswar, April 30: This may not be the best of places to visit during a summer noon with the sun beating down hard on you. But if you are a resident of the city you may drive down to this place on a weekend morning or an evening and soak in the prevailing tranquility as you freshen up in the cool breeze, peculiar to a large water body.
Ansupa Lake, a horse-shaped fresh water lake at Banki in Cuttack district, is 50 kms from Bhubaneswar and lies on the left bank of the Mahanadi River. It is spread across an area measuring 141 hectares. At its western side stand the Sarada hills and the Bishnupur hills are on the northern side of the lake. The lake has a direct link with Mahanadi. The channel that connects the lake to the river is called Kabula Nala. Migratory birds from other countries flock to the lake during winters making it the best time in the year to visit the spot.
Many people living in Bhubaneswar or adjoining areas are now eyeing this sweet water lake and its adjoining areas for spending some quality time there. There are many attractions for the visitors not only on the site, but also on the way to it which can make their visit a memorable one. “There are numerous attractions which pull us to the site. The foremost thing that will attract every visitor is the road that leads to the Lake. Going up the Naraj Bridge on Mahanadi and the path beyond, bordered by lush green mountains kissing the horizon on both sides, will ensure you have a memorable drive. The lake view that you finally catch as you drive into the site is potent enough to rid you of all your journeys-related tiredness,” said Amit Singh, a 3rd year BTech student of KIIT.
Besides the terrain, the maverick beauty of the lake and its adjoining area mesmerizes the travel aficionados. “The most pleasing thing about the lake is its natural picturesque landscape, beautifully carved out of the nearby area. The beauty of the lake is complimented by the lush green hills nearby, while the mighty Mahanadi provides a distant backdrop. The scene is amazing during sunrise and sunset,” said Rajeev Behera, a marketing professional from the city.
As the prevalent scorching heat hampers the prospects of visiting the place during noon, many however, have changed their travel time and hit the spot, either early in the day or around sunset. “The lake is best suited for winter season. However, several enthusiastic travellers do not wait for seasons to hit the road. Whenever some friends from other states come to my home, I take them to Ansupa. But I make sure I take them in the morning or during the evening, so that we can enjoy the beauty without facing the heat,” says Swosti Patel, a housewife, who lives in Palasuni.
An official from the state tourism department said, “The site has been witnessing increased footfall. Although more visitors visit the site during the winters and the monsoon, but it has become a perennial tourist site. Many people often visit the site to enjoy quality time there. The scenic beauty often attracts them.”