Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary Andhra Pradesh | Flamingo Festival, Birdwatching & Travel Guide

Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary – India’s Flamingo Haven on the Andhra–Tamil Nadu Coast

Stretching across the Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu coastline, the Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary is a vast brackish water lagoon and one of India’s most important wetland ecosystems. Covering around 759 square kilometers, it serves as a natural refuge for flamingos, pelicans, herons, and hundreds of migratory birds that arrive every winter from distant lands.

 

As the second-largest brackish water lagoon in India, Pulicat Lake plays a vital ecological role, supporting both avian biodiversity and local fishing communities. Its shimmering blue waters, mangrove islands, and sandy barrier spits make it a spectacular site for birdwatching and photography. 

Highlights

•  Flamingo Festival: Annual event celebrating thousands of migratory flamingos

•  Over 160 species of birds, including pelicans, storks, and sandpipers

•  Mangroves, mudflats, and sand dunes create a thriving bird habitat

•  Located between Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, covering Nellore and Tiruvallur districts

•  Boat rides and watchtowers offer stunning wildlife views 

Flora & Fauna

Flora

The lagoon’s unique mix of marine, brackish, and freshwater habitats sustains rich vegetation such as:

• Avicennia and Rhizophora mangroves

• Salt-tolerant grasses and algae

• Casuarina plantations along the coastal barrier islands

Fauna

Pulicat’s vast wetlands are a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Commonly Sighted Birds:

• Flamingos (both Greater and Lesser species)

• Spot-billed pelicans, painted storks, grey herons, egrets, sandpipers, and gulls

• Migratory species from Siberia, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe

Other Wildlife:

• Marine life: Mudskippers, crabs, prawns, and small fish

• Reptiles: Monitor lizards, turtles, and snakes

 The sanctuary becomes a pink paradise between December and February, when flamingos arrive in large numbers.

Best Time to Visit

Season	Months	Experience
Winter	November – March	Ideal for migratory bird sightings and Flamingo Festival
Monsoon	June – September	Lush surroundings but occasional flooding
Summer	April – June	Hot and humid; fewer birds

How to Reach

• By Air: Nearest airport – Chennai International Airport (90 km)

• By Rail: Sullurpet Railway Station (10 km) – nearest access point

• By Road: Well-connected by road from Chennai (90 km) and Nellore (60 km)

 Local taxis and autos are available from Sullurpet to reach the sanctuary’s main entrance and viewpoints.

Accommodation & Facilities

• Forest Rest House, Sullurpet: Managed by the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department

• Hotels & Lodges: Available at Nellore, Sullurpet, and Tada

• Bird Interpretation Centre: Offers information on bird species and conservation initiatives

 During the Flamingo Festival, temporary eco-camps, food stalls, and guided tours are organized by the state tourism department.

Nearby Attractions

• Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary (20 km): A major breeding ground for Spot-billed Pelicans

• Sriharikota Island (15 km): Home to Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SHAR)

• Ubbalamadugu (Tada) Falls: A scenic trekking and picnic spot within the forests of Sadasivakona

• Sullurpet Town: Gateway to Pulicat and a hub for local crafts and seafood

• Chengalpattu and Tirupati: Ideal day-trip destinations offering religious and cultural experiences

Conservation Significance

Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary is a Ramsar-designated wetland of international importance. It plays a critical role in:

• Migratory bird conservation across the East Asian–Australasian Flyway

• Protection of mangrove and lagoon ecosystems

• Sustainable fishing and eco-tourism development

🦩 The sanctuary’s Flamingo Festival, held every January, celebrates coexistence between wildlife and local livelihoods, promoting eco-awareness and conservation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary famous for?
It is famous for being a flamingo and pelican habitat, attracting thousands of migratory birds annually.

2. When is the Flamingo Festival celebrated?
The Flamingo Festival is usually celebrated in January, organized by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department.

3. What is the total area of Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary?
It covers around 759 sq km, spread across Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

4. How far is Pulicat Lake from Chennai?
Pulicat Lake is approximately 90 km north of Chennai.

5. Are boating facilities available?
Yes, eco-boat rides and guided birdwatching tours are available during the tourist season.

People Also Ask (PAA)

Q: Is Pulicat Lake a Ramsar site?
A: Yes, it is recognized as a Ramsar wetland of international importance.

Q: Which river feeds Pulicat Lake?
A: The Arani, Kalangi, and Swarnamukhi rivers feed into the lagoon.

Q: Which states share Pulicat Lake?
A: Pulicat Lake is shared between Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

Q: What types of birds visit Pulicat Lake?
A: Flamingos, pelicans, herons, storks, gulls, and terns are commonly sighted species.

Conclusion

The Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary is not just a paradise for flamingos — it’s a living example of harmony between nature and humans. With its serene backwaters, colorful migratory birds, and cultural charm, it stands as a vital stopover on India’s bird migration map.