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 haunt for avid beach combers, 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 foods, especially fish from the deep sea, satisfies 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. 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 ceased to operate due to the Second World War and separation from Burma (now Myanmar). The crumbling walls and pillars and the light house 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.

How to Reach

By Air : the nearest airport is Bhubaneswar (190 km) and Visakhapatnam (in Andhra Pradesh) (260 km).

By Rail : the nearest railhead is Berhampur (16 km) on the East Coast Railway

By 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 Auto rickshaws also ply by the hour.