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Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary lies on the southeastern coast of India in Tamil Nadu; it has vast wetlands, dry evergreen forests, and rich biodiversity, which makes it heaven for birding enthusiasts, as thousands of migratory birds can be sighted here in winter, including rare species such as the blackbuck and the majestic flamingos. The sanctuary also houses animals like spotted deer, wild boars and dolphins along the coastal stretches. The peaceful ambience of the sanctuary adds to the ecological diversity, and that is one of the finest vacation spots for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary Location
Photo: Marcus334 / Wikimedia Commons
Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary address lies on the southern tip of Nagapattinam district, Tamil Nadu, along the Coromandel Coast. The sanctuary covers an area of approximately 21 square kilometres, surrounded by the Bay of Bengal, Palk Strait, and the wetlands of the Great Vedaranyam Swamp. It is situated around 380 km south of Chennai and 180 km from Trichy, making it accessible for weekend trips from major cities. The sanctuary is an important part of the Ramsar wetland site and provides excellent opportunities to explore Tamil Nadu’s coastal ecosystems.
How To Reach Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary
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By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli International Airport (Trichy), about 180 km away. You can take a taxi or use public transport from the airport to reach the sanctuary.
By Road: Point Calimere is well connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from nearby cities like Trichy, Thanjavur (110 km), and Nagapattinam (65 km).
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Nagapattinam Junction, around 65 km from the sanctuary. Regular taxis and buses are available to reach the sanctuary from the station.
Places To Visit Around Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary
Here are some of the best places near the Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary:
1. Kodiakkarai Beach
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Known as Point Calimere, Kodiakkarai Beach is a particularly peaceful stretch of coastline on the Tamil Nadu Indian state’s Coromandel Coast. Famous for its beauty and soothing atmosphere, this place is part of the Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary with numerous rare wildlife, ranging from birds that migrate to flamingos and the Indian Blackbuck. The views on the Bay of Bengal and the mangrove ecosystem are breathtaking and fantastic. Its historical importance features ancient maritime trade and cultural links. A peaceful retreat, Kodiakkarai Beach is ideal for nature lovers and offbeat coastal experience seekers.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: N/A
2. Thanjavur Brihadeeswara Temple
Photo: Aravindreddy.d / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur is fondly referred to as the “Big Temple”. Created in the year 1010 AD by the Chola dynasty, it is India’s largest temple and also a UNESCO World Heritage. One can marvel at the grand Vimana (tower of the temple, which boasts an impressive 66 metres tall) or the massive Nandi, a bull sculpture made of granite. Beautiful frescoes and sculptures on walls unveil stories from Hindu mythology. Undoubtedly, this temple abounds with the artistic and engineering genius of the Chola Empire, plus boasts Tamil cultural heritage.
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
3. Muttupet Mangrove Forest
Photo: Fuu J / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Muttupet Mangrove Forest is one of the ecological havens at the southern tip of the Cauvery River delta, Tamil Nadu. It is one of the biggest mangrove ecosystems in the region on a 12,000-hectare stretch, with rich wildlife, including many migratory birds and marine life. Serene rides through dense mangrove channels are just one of the experiences in the forests. The waters are calm, and the surroundings are lush with greenery making it a perfect haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The mangroves of Muttupet have helped protect the coastline while keeping fishing communities sustainable.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20
4. Nagapattinam Church
Photo: rajaraman sundaram / Wikimedia Commons
Velankanni, Nagapattinam, is home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, the most sacred centre for all Christian pilgrims in India. This place is of great repute for its Gothic architecture, majesty and magical powers. Millions of people, especially on an annual feast, which falls in September, throng the church. Its influence dates back to the 16th century, and it has local and Portuguese origins. It stands for communal harmony and has received all faiths as well. The peaceful atmosphere combined with spiritual significance serves as a major religious and tourist destination in southern India.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
Where To Stay
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Visitors to Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary have several accommodation options, ranging from budget lodges to mid-range hotels and eco-friendly resorts. Popular options include Vedaranyam Forest Guest House, which offers a rustic experience close to nature, and more comfortable hotels like Mangrove Residency and Chola Heritage Hotel in Nagapattinam. For a more immersive experience, eco-resorts near the sanctuary offer comfortable stays amidst natural surroundings.
Where To Eat
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There are limited eateries near Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary. Most visitors prefer dining at local restaurants in Vedaranyam or Nagapattinam. Local eateries offer traditional Tamil dishes like idli, dosa, sambar, and seafood specialities. Hotel Vedaranyam is a popular spot for those seeking local flavours, while restaurants in Nagapattinam offer both vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine, including South Indian meals and seafood delicacies. For those preferring more variety, Nagapattinam also has multi-cuisine restaurants.
Other Things To Consider
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Best Time To Visit:
The best time to visit Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary is between November and March when the weather is pleasant and the migratory birds flock to the wetlands. The temperature during this period ranges between 20°C and 30°C, making it perfect for outdoor exploration. The sanctuary is especially popular during these months due to the abundance of birdlife.
Average Cost Of The Trip:
A trip cost to Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary can be affordable, with budget travellers spending between ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 for a two-day stay, including transportation, food, and basic accommodation. Mid-range options, including hotels and guided tours, can raise the cost to around ₹8,000 to ₹10,000. Foreign travellers should account for slightly higher expenses due to travel costs, entry fees, and accommodation charges at premium hotels. The Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary ticket prices are minimal, however, boating or safari charges apply.
Tips For Travellers:
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: The region can be hot, so breathable, light clothes are ideal.
- Bring Binoculars: Essential for birdwatching and spotting wildlife in the sanctuary.
- Carry Insect Repellent: As it is a wetland area, mosquitoes and insects are common.
- Plan A Full Day: There’s plenty to explore, so allocate sufficient time for both the sanctuary and nearby attractions.
- Stay Hydrated: Ensure you carry water bottles, especially while trekking or exploring remote areas.
Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary offers a rich blend of coastal ecosystems, wildlife, and migratory bird species, making it a prime destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The serene surroundings, combined with the sanctuary’s significant biodiversity, provide a peaceful retreat away from urban life. Book your Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary tour with TripXL today and embark on an unforgettable journey through Tamil Nadu’s unique landscapes and rich wildlife heritage.
Cover Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
