Kodiakkarai Wildlife Sanctuary
Kodiakkarai Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary, is a unique 21.47 sq. km protected area that marks the junction of the Bay of Bengal and the Palk Strait. Established in 1967 primarily to protect the endangered Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra), the sanctuary is a diverse ecosystem comprising dry evergreen forests, mangroves, and vast salt marshes. It is a Ramsar site of international importance, serving as a critical wintering ground for thousands of migratory birds. The sight of thousands of Greater Flamingos painting the mudflats pink during the months of November to January is one of the most spectacular wildlife experiences in South India. Apart from the Blackbuck, the sanctuary is home to Spotted Deer, Wild Boars, Jackals, and the elusive Small Indian Civet. The flora is equally fascinating, featuring rare species like the Manilkara hexandra and insectivorous plants. The geography of the sanctuary is flat and sandy, with the highest point being the legendary Ramar Patham, which offers a panoramic view of the forest and the sea. The sanctuary also holds historical value with the ruins of a Chola lighthouse and a modern one that guides ships through the narrow straits. For nature lovers, Kodiakkarai offers a serene escape where the silence is only broken by the calls of birds and the rustle of the sea breeze through the tropical dry evergreen forest. It is one of the few places in India where you can see forest, marsh, and sea all in one frame, making it a paradise for photographers and eco-tourists alike. :
General information
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Ideal Duration:
3 to 5 hours :Place Type:
Wildlife Sanctuary / RamsarEntry Fees:
Indians: A nominal fee of 20 INR per person for entry.
Foreigners: Approximately 100 INR for entry.
Vehicle Fee: 50 INR to 100 INR depending on the type of vehicle; camera fees vary from 25 INR (still) to ...Indians: A nominal fee of 20 INR per person for entry.
Foreigners: Approximately 100 INR for entry.
Vehicle Fee: 50 INR to 100 INR depending on the type of vehicle; camera fees vary from 25 INR (still) to 500 INR (video).
:Timing:
Regular Timings: Open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day.
Ideal Visit Time: 6:30 AM (if permitted early) or 3:30 PM for the best bird activity.
Seasonal Best: The most birds are visible between December and ...Regular Timings: Open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day.
Ideal Visit Time: 6:30 AM (if permitted early) or 3:30 PM for the best bird activity.
Seasonal Best: The most birds are visible between December and January.
:Special Events:
World Wetlands Day: Celebrated on February 2, featuring awareness programs about the Ramsar status of the sanctuary.
Wildlife Week: Held in the first week of October, with special educational tours for students and nature enthusiasts.
<...World Wetlands Day: Celebrated on February 2, featuring awareness programs about the Ramsar status of the sanctuary.
Wildlife Week: Held in the first week of October, with special educational tours for students and nature enthusiasts.
:Best Photo Spots:
The Salt Mudflats: For wide-angle shots of thousands of birds with the reflection of the sky in the shallow water.
Ramar Patham Watchtower: The best spot for landscape photography of the entire peninsula.
Fores...The Salt Mudflats: For wide-angle shots of thousands of birds with the reflection of the sky in the shallow water.
Ramar Patham Watchtower: The best spot for landscape photography of the entire peninsula.
Forest Clearings: Ideal for capturing Blackbucks and Spotted Deer in the soft morning light (7:00 AM).
:Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Jeep Safari: Hire a forest department jeep to traverse the muddy tracks and spot Blackbuck and Deer deep in the forest.
Bird Watching at Salt Pans: Spend hours at the mudflats with a spotting scope to see Pelicans, Herons, and Painted Storks.
Visit Ramar Patham: Climb the steps to the shrine to see the footprints of Rama and enjoy the best 360-degree view of the sanctuary.
Walk the Forest Trails: Take a guided nature walk to learn about the unique dry evergreen flora and the medicinal plants used by locals.
Visit the Ancient Chola Ruins: Walk through the forest to find the remains of the 11th-century lighthouse and imagine ancient naval life.
Visit the New Lighthouse: Climb the stairs of the mod...
Information
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Why Famous:
Sub Place Why Famous:
Flamingo Congregations: Famous for the massive arrival of Flamingos from as far as Siberia and Iran during the winter season.
Blackbuck Population: It is one of the best places in Tamil ...Sub Place Why Famous:
Flamingo Congregations: Famous for the massive arrival of Flamingos from as far as Siberia and Iran during the winter season.
Blackbuck Population: It is one of the best places in Tamil Nadu to see the Blackbuck antelope in their natural coastal habitat.
Tidal Geography: Famous for being the "nose" of the Tamil Nadu coast, where the coastline turns sharply westwards into the Palk Strait.
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Architecture:
Natural Landscape: Unlike man-made structures, the "architecture" here is ecological, featuring Dry Evergreen Forest typical of the East Deccan region.
Watchtowers: Several forest watchtowers are strategically placed, built with sturdy iron...Natural Landscape: Unlike man-made structures, the "architecture" here is ecological, featuring Dry Evergreen Forest typical of the East Deccan region.
Watchtowers: Several forest watchtowers are strategically placed, built with sturdy iron and concrete to provide views over the salt pans.
Dimensions: The core area is about 7 sq. km, while the total protected wetland area including the swamp extends over 300 sq. km.
Ramar Patham Shrine: A small, elevated stone shrine with a vaulted roof housing the footprints of Lord Rama, built in traditional Tamil style.
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How To Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli (TRZ), about 165 KMS away.
By Train: Reach Nagapattinam Junction and then take a bus or taxi to Vedaranyam and Kodikkarai.
By Road: Regular state buses ply between... -
Near Tourist Places:
10 Near Tourist Places: 1. Chola Light House (0. 5 KM), 2. Ramar Patham (1. 5 KM), 3. Kodikkarai Beach (1 KM), 4. Vedaranyeswarar Temple (12 KM), 5. Salt Pans (5 KM), 6. Kuzhagar Temple (2 KM), 7. Velankanni (50 KM), 8. Nagore (65 KM), 9. Tharangambadi (85 KM), 10. Sikkal (60 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Watch out for monkeys near the entrance; keep your car windows rolled up.
Packing: Binoculars are a must! Wear dull-colored cotton clothing to blend into the environment and avoid scaring the animals.
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