Pulicat Lake Eco-Tourism | Hon’ble Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan’s Vision for Flamingo Habitat

Pulicat as an Eco-Tourism Destination... We Are Making It a Permanent Habitat for Flamingos.

Stretching across the Andhra Pradesh–Tamil Nadu border, the spectacular Pulicat Lake is India’s second-largest brackish water lagoon and home to thousands of migratory birds — especially flamingos that turn the waters pink every winter.

Now, under the vision of Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, Pulicat is being developed into a permanent habitat for flamingos and a model eco-tourism destination, combining conservation with community development.

Pulicat’s Ecological Importance

Spanning over 750 sq km, the Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary supports diverse wildlife — from flamingos and pelicans to herons, painted storks, and fish-eating eagles.
Its mudflats, mangroves, and shallow lagoons make it a perfect feeding and nesting ground for thousands of migratory birds that travel from as far as Siberia.

Hon’ble Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan’s Vision for Pulicat

Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has announced initiatives to develop Pulicat as an eco-tourism hub while ensuring long-term protection of flamingo habitats.
His vision focuses on:

• Strengthening wetland conservation through regulated tourism.

• Supporting local fishermen communities with livelihood opportunities.

• Promoting Andhra Pradesh’s eco-tourism circuit, highlighting Pulicat as a global birding destination.

• Enhancing visitor facilities like nature trails, viewing decks, and eco-lodges without disturbing the ecosystem.

This initiative aims to make Pulicat a year-round refuge for flamingos — not just a seasonal stopover.

Best Time to Visit

• Season: November to February (peak flamingo migration period)

• Climate: Mild and breezy, perfect for birdwatching and photography

• Ideal Timing: Early mornings and sunset hours for sightings and scenic views

How to Reach Pulicat Lake

• Nearest City: Chennai (~60 km)

• Nearest Railway Station: Sullurpeta (Andhra Pradesh)

• Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport

• Access Points: Thonirevu (AP side) & Pazhaverkadu (TN side)

Visitors can enjoy eco-boat rides, guided bird tours, and nature walks organized by local communities and forest departments.

Top Things to Do

 Flamingo Watching – See thousands of flamingos in shimmering pink flocks during the winter season.
 Boat Safaris – Take eco-friendly boat rides through mangroves and shallow channels.
 Sunset Photography – Capture flamingos silhouetted against golden evening light.
 Flamingo Festival (January) – Celebrate nature through folk art, birdwatching tours, and cultural events.
 Island Visits – Explore Irukkam and Venadu islands for untouched coastal charm.

 

Top Photography Spots at Pulicat

 Thonirevu Eco Park – Developed site with new birdwatching towers and flamingo-viewing decks.
 Pazhaverkadu Jetty – Great for sunrise photos and lagoon-wide panoramic shots.
 Irukkam Island – Excellent for drone or telephoto wildlife photography.
 Annamalaicheri Salt Pans – Reflective saline pools perfect for artistic flamingo shots.
 Pulicat Lighthouse Point – Golden-hour lighting and scenic lagoon backdrop.

Photography Tip: Use a 300–600mm lens, maintain silence, and keep a safe distance to avoid startling the birds.

FAQs About Pulicat Lake

Q1. Why is Pulicat Lake famous?
It’s India’s second-largest brackish lagoon and a major wintering ground for flamingos and 100+ bird species.

Q2. Who is leading the conservation and eco-tourism efforts?
Hon’ble Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan of Andhra Pradesh is spearheading efforts to make Pulicat a permanent flamingo habitat and sustainable tourism destination.

Q3. What’s the best time to visit Pulicat?
From December to February, during the peak migratory bird season.

Q4. Are there facilities for visitors?
Yes, eco-park sites, bird towers, local guide services, and boat rides are being developed for visitors.

Q5. What makes Pulicat unique among Indian wetlands?
It combines flamingo conservation, fishing community livelihoods, and eco-tourism — a rare example of balance between people and wildlife.

Conclusion

Under the stewardship of Hon’ble Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan, Pulicat Lake is transforming into one of India’s most inspiring eco-tourism success stories.
By nurturing flamingos, empowering local communities, and promoting sustainable travel, Andhra Pradesh is setting a new standard for eco-friendly development and wildlife conservation.

Pulicat is no longer just a birdwatcher’s paradise — it’s the symbol of coexistence and conservation in action.