Located at the southeastern tip of Nagapattinam district, Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary (Kodikkarai) is one of the most unique protected areas in India. A breathtaking blend of mangrove forests, sandy shores, salt pans, swamps, and dry evergreen forests, this sanctuary is renowned for its migratory flamingos, endangered blackbucks, and the rare feral horses of Kodikkarai.
Part of the larger Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary complex, this coastal wilderness attracts lakhs of birds every winter, transforming the landscape into a vibrant festival of wings.
Why Visit Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary?
✔ Flamingo Capital of Tamil Nadu
During winter, the sanctuary turns pink with thousands of Greater and Lesser Flamingos.
✔ Only habitat with both Blackbuck & Feral Horses
Spotting free-roaming wild horses is one of the sanctuary’s most unique highlights.
✔ A stunning mix of land & sea ecosystems
Enjoy beaches, mangrove creeks, mudflats, and dry forests in a single visit.
✔ A key pit-stop on the Central Asian Flyway
More than 250+ migratory bird species visit the sanctuary annually.
✔ Excellent for birdwatching & wildlife photography
Wide-open wetlands offer close viewing opportunities.
Wildlife of Point Calimere
Mammals
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Blackbuck
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Feral Horses (Kodikkarai breed)
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Spotted Deer
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Golden Jackal
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Jungle Cat
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Indian Hare
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Wild Boar
Birds
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Flamingos (Greater & Lesser)
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Painted Stork
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Eurasian Wigeon
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Garganey
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Bar-tailed Godwit
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Eurasian Curlew
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Grey Plover
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Pelicans
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Terns & Gulls
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Northern Pintail
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Marsh Harrier
Reptiles
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Marsh Crocodile
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Monitor Lizard
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Olive Ridley Turtles (nearby coastal stretches)
Best Time to Visit
November to March – Peak Flamingo Season
Winter months offer the best bird sightings, cool climate, and stunning pink flocks across the salt pans.
How to Reach
By Air:
Nearest airport – Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) Airport – 165 km
By Train:
Nearest railway station – Nagapattinam (55 km)
By Road:
Well connected to:
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Vedaranyam – 10 km
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Nagapattinam – 55 km
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Thanjavur – 130 km
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Trichy – 165 km
Nearby Attractions
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Kodiakkarai Beach – Scenic beach with minimal crowds
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Ramar Padam Viewpoint – A sacred site overlooking forests and sea
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Kodikkarai Lighthouse – Panoramic coastal views
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Vedaranyam Salt Pans – One of India’s largest salt-producing regions
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Velankanni Basilica – Major Christian pilgrimage center
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Nagore Dargah – Renowned Islamic pilgrim site
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Muthupet Mangrove Forest – Perfect for boating & mangrove exploration
Conservation Importance
Point Calimere is ecologically critical because it:
✔ Protects endangered species
Blackbucks, feral horses, and rare waders depend on these habitats.
✔ Supports lakhs of migratory birds
Vital wintering grounds for species from Siberia, Mongolia & Central Asia.
✔ Preserves coastal ecosystems
Dry evergreen forests, salt marshes & mangroves buffer against coastal erosion.
✔ Hosts India’s largest flamingo congregation on the east coast
A spectacular natural phenomenon drawing global birdwatchers.
FAQ – Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary
1. What is Point Calimere famous for?
It is known for its flamingos, blackbucks, feral horses, and stunning coastal wetlands.
2. What is the best time to visit?
November to March for migratory bird activity and pleasant weather.
3. Are safaris available?
Yes, forest department jeeps are available for exploring forest zones and marshlands.
4. Can families visit this sanctuary?
Absolutely—it's safe, scenic, and enjoyable for all age groups.
5. Is photography allowed?
Yes, and the sanctuary is extremely photogenic, especially in winter.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Is Point Calimere worth visiting?
Yes! It’s one of India’s most unique coastal sanctuaries with flamingos, beaches, and rare wildlife.
How far is Point Calimere from Velankanni?
Approximately 65 km, making it a great nature getaway for pilgrims.
Are flamingos always present?
The largest flocks are seen from December to February.
Is Point Calimere good for birdwatching?
It’s one of the best birding hotspots on India’s east coast.
Conclusion
Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary is a rare blend of sea, forest, and salt-marsh ecosystems, offering unforgettable wildlife sightings—especially the magical pink tides of flamingos. Whether you are a photographer, birder, wildlife lover, or traveler seeking a peaceful nature escape, Kodikkarai promises a truly extraordinary experience. A winter visit rewards you with breathtaking landscapes and some of the most striking bird spectacles in India.
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