Hardly 16 km from Berhampur, the club of Southern Odisha, is the tiny town of Gopalpur on the Bay of Bengal. Enjoying the reputation of being a popular Beach Resort of Odisha, 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 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 colour. 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 temperated by the sea breeze in the fantastic quietness of the beach amidst palm, coconut and casuarina trees.
Gopalpur was once buzzing with maritime activities which Odisha (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 Bunna (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 frolick.
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)
ACCOMMODATION
Swosti Palm Beach Resort is the best property available in Gopalpur. Except Swosti, there are some other hotels ranging from budget to middle class hotel.