Location

Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu. 20 km north of Pondicherry on East Coast Road (ECR).

History and Year of Notification

The sanctuary was officially notified in 2021 under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Notified as Tamil Nadu’s 16th Wildlife Sanctuary in December 2021 under the Wildlife Protection Act.

Landscape, Geography and Habitat

Brackish lake, coastal mudflats, salt marshes, and reed beds.

Flora and Bird Species

Hosts up to 40,000 shorebirds. Key species include Greater Flamingo, Spot-billed Pelican, Black-tailed Godwit, Eurasian Avocet, Little Stint, Tern, Gull, and Osprey.

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, Mudskipper Fish, Blue Crab, Sea Turtle, and Monitor Lizard.

Rivers and Water Bodies

The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Kazhuveli Brackish Water Wetland Lake connected to Coromandel Coast Bay of Bengal.

Other Attractions Nearby

Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary include: Auroville International Township (10 km), Pondicherry White Town (20 km), Gingee Fort (55 km).

Weather and Climate

Coastal maritime climate (20°C to 38°C).

How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)

• Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA) – 120 km / Puducherry Airport – 20 km
• Nearest Railway Station: Puducherry Railway Station (PDY) – 20 km / Tindivanam (25 km)
• Road Connectivity: 20 km north of Pondicherry on East Coast Road (ECR).

Best Time for Birdwatching

The optimal window to explore Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary is between October to March.

Accommodation

Hotels in Pondicherry.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.