Located 60 km north of Chennai, Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary is one of India’s most remarkable natural habitats. Spanning Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, this sanctuary is part of Pulicat Lake, India’s second-largest brackish water lagoon. Known for its spectacular flamingos and migratory birds, Pulicat is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and weekend travelers.
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| Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary |
History & Significance
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Declared a bird sanctuary in 1976.
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Important stopover for migratory birds from Siberia, Central Asia, and beyond.
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Nearby Pulicat town carries Dutch colonial history — cemeteries and churches.
Location & How to Reach
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By Road: ~60 km from Chennai via NH16. Cabs or self-drive recommended.
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By Train: Sullurpeta Station (~10 km). Auto or taxi to sanctuary.
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By Air: Chennai International Airport (~70 km).
Timings & Entry Fee
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Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Entry Fee: ₹20–₹30 per person; camera charges extra
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Recommended Visit Duration: Half-day or full-day for birdwatchers
Flora & Fauna
Flora: Mangroves, salt marshes, and brackish water vegetation.
Birds: Flamingos, pelicans, painted storks, herons, spoonbills, cormorants, migratory ducks.
Aquatic Life: Fish, prawns, and crabs support birds and local fishermen.
Best Time to Visit
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November – March: Peak migratory season; best for birdwatching and photography.
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April – June: Hot; not ideal for long visits.
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July – September: Monsoon; scenic but limited access.
Things to Do
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Birdwatching and photography
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Flamingo Festival (January–February)
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Boat rides with local fishermen
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Explore Pulicat town: Dutch cemeteries & churches
Things to Do in Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary
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Bird Watching: Bring binoculars to spot flamingos, pelicans, and other migratory species.
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Photography: Capture sunrise or sunset over the lagoon with flocks of flamingos in frame.
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Flamingo Festival: An annual event (usually in January–February) that celebrates the arrival of flamingos with cultural programs and eco-awareness activities.
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Boating: Local fishermen offer boat rides, giving visitors a closer look at the bird colonies.
Nearby Attractions
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Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary – Famous for its pelican population, about 20 km away.
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Sriharikota – Home to India’s space center (ISRO), located on an island between Pulicat Lake and the Bay of Bengal.
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Pulicat Beach – Relaxing shoreline
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Dutch Cemetery & Church – Colonial history
Travel Tips
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Carry binoculars and a telephoto lens
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Wear light clothing, sunscreen, and hats
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Bring water and snacks
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Respect sanctuary rules: no littering or disturbing birds
Conclusion
Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary is a nature lover’s paradise, offering unforgettable sightings of flamingos and migratory birds. Perfect for weekend getaways from Chennai, eco-tourism, and photography.
Flamingo Festival in Detail:
The Flamingo Festival at Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary is an annual event that celebrates the arrival of thousands of migratory birds, especially flamingos, to the Pulicat Lake and the nearby Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh.
When it Happens: The festival is typically held in January, which coincides with the peak migratory season for birds in the region.
Main Attraction: The primary highlight is the sight of thousands of Greater Flamingos and other migratory birds like pelicans, storks, and ducks flocking to the lake.
Purpose: The festival aims to promote eco-tourism and raise awareness about the ecological importance of Pulicat Lake, India's second-largest brackish water lagoon, and the Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary, which is a key breeding ground for pelicans in Southeast Asia.
Activities: The multi-day event features a variety of activities for visitors, including:
Bird-watching tours and photography sessions.
Boat rides on Pulicat Lake.
Cultural performances and local crafts.
Exhibitions and educational workshops on biodiversity and conservation.
Locations: The festival is not confined to one single location but takes place across several key sites including the Pulicat Lake area, Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary, and the town of Sullurpet, which serves as a central hub for many of the events.
Travel Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Andhra Pradesh & Tamil Nadu |
| Nearest City | Chennai |
| Distance from Chennai | ~60 km (1.5–2 hours) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Sullurpeta (~10 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Chennai International (~70 km) |
| Timings | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Entry Fee | ₹20–30 per person |
| Best Time to Visit | November – March |
| Things to Do | Birdwatching, Flamingo Festival, Photography, Boat Rides |
| Popular Birds | Flamingos, Pelicans, Storks, Herons, Spoonbills |
FAQ Section
Q1: What is Pulicat Lake famous for?
A1: Pulicat Lake is famous for being India’s second-largest brackish water lagoon and a hub for migratory birds, especially flamingos.
Q2: Where is Pulicat Bird Sanctuary located?
A2: Across Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, about 60 km north of Chennai.
Q3: What is the best time to visit?
A3: November to March, during winter migration.
Q4: What are the timings and entry fee?
A4: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM; ₹20–₹30 per person (camera charges extra).
Q5: How do I reach from Chennai?
A5: By road (~60 km via NH16), train to Sullurpeta (10 km), or Chennai airport (~70 km).
Q6: What animals and birds can be seen?
A6: Flamingos, pelicans, storks, herons, spoonbills, ducks, migratory waders, fish, prawns, crabs.
Q7: When is the Flamingo Festival?
A7: Usually January–February, celebrating the arrival of flamingos with cultural programs and eco-activities.
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