Located in the Tiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu, Udayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary is a thriving migratory bird habitat built around a freshwater irrigation tank. The sanctuary becomes a vibrant feeding and resting ground for thousands of waterbirds during the northeast monsoon season.
Declared a sanctuary in 2005, it covers over 40 hectares and is part of the larger Vaduvur–Point Calimere bird corridor, making it an essential stopover site for many long-distance migratory species.
It is calm, accessible, and perfect for birdwatchers looking for raw, undisturbed wetlands.
Key Highlights
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Seasonal wetland attracting large flocks of winter migratory birds
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Calm, less crowded, and ideal for photography
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Part of a major bird migration route in Tamil Nadu
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Excellent one-day visit from Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, or Kumbakonam
Best Time to Visit
November to February
This is when the tank fills up after the monsoon, attracting thousands of birds for feeding and roosting.
Bird Species at Udayamarthandapuram
The sanctuary is known for:
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Grey Heron
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Purple Heron
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Indian Pond Heron
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Grey Pelican
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White Ibis & Black-headed Ibis
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Egrets
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Openbill Storks
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Northern Pintail
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Garganey Ducks
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Coots, Moorhens & Other Waterfowl
Nesting activity is often visible on tree clusters surrounding the tank.
Things to Do
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Birdwatching during winter migration
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Photography from elevated bund areas
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Short nature walks around the tank
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Bi-seasonal bird census observations (on special days)
How to Reach
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Nearest Town: Mannargudi (15 km)
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Nearest Railway Station: Mannargudi
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Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli Airport (85 km)
The sanctuary is well connected by road from:
Thanjavur → Mannargudi → Udayamarthandapuram
Nearby Attractions
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Vaduvur Bird Sanctuary (10 km) – another key wetland in the migratory chain
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Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary (65 km) – famous for flamingos & wild horses
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Muthupet Mangrove Forests (40 km)
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Thiruvarur Temple Town (25 km)
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Kodikkarai Beach (70 km)
Conservation Importance
Udayamarthandapuram plays an important role in Tamil Nadu’s wetland conservation network:
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Seasonal tank ensures feeding and roosting space for migratory birds
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Acts as a buffer wetland during drought years
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Supports local biodiversity including fish, amphibians, and wetland vegetation
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Integral to the Vaduvur–Point Calimere flyway, helping birds refuel during migration
Continuous water management and community involvement have helped restore bird populations in recent years.
FAQ – Udayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary
1. What is Udayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary famous for?
It is known for hosting large populations of herons, ibises, pelicans, ducks, and storks during the winter migration season.
2. When do birds arrive at the sanctuary?
Migratory birds arrive mainly between November and February.
3. Is there an entry fee?
There is usually no major entry fee, as it is an open wetland, but seasonal regulations may apply.
4. Is it suitable for photography?
Yes. The open wetlands and bund roads provide excellent viewing and photography.
5. How much time is required to visit?
A typical visit takes 1–2 hours, especially in the morning.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Is Udayamarthandapuram worth visiting?
Yes, especially during winter when thousands of birds gather.
Can we see migratory ducks here?
Yes. Teals, pintails, and garganeys are commonly seen.
Which is better – Vaduvur or Udayamarthandapuram?
Both are part of the same wetland network. Vaduvur is larger, but Udayamarthandapuram offers quieter viewing.
How far is the sanctuary from Tiruvarur?
Around 25 km, easily accessible by road.
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