The correct option is (c) Chandipur.
Explanation
The phenomenon described is a result of the rhythmic rise and fall of ocean water known as tides, combined with specific coastal topography. In areas with an extremely flat continental shelf or beach slope, the horizontal distance between the high-tide line and the low-tide line (the intertidal zone) can be significant.
Detailed Analysis:
- Chandipur Beach (Odisha): Located in the Balasore district, this beach is unique due to its extremely flat slope. During the ebb tide (low tide), the sea water recedes away from the shore by as much as 5 kilometers. During the flood tide (high tide), the water returns to the shoreline. This cyclic event occurs twice a day, allowing visitors to walk on the exposed sea floor during the recession period. It is often referred to as the "Hide and Seek" beach.
- Bhavnagar (Gujarat): While the Gulf of Khambhat near Bhavnagar experiences very high tidal ranges (vertical difference), the specific phenomenon of walking kilometers on the sea floor due to recession is the hallmark description of Chandipur in this context.
- Bheemunipatnam (Andhra Pradesh) and Nagapattinam (Tamil Nadu): These are coastal towns with beaches, but they do not exhibit the massive horizontal recession of sea water seen at Chandipur.
Key Takeaway:
Chandipur Beach in Odisha is famous for the unique phenomenon where the sea recedes up to 5 kilometers during low tide due to its flat coastal topography.