One of the few remaining natural wetlands of Chennai, a protected Ramsar site of international importance in the south of the city. A critical biodiversity hotspot and flood buffer, home to hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, and wetland flora.
Best visited during daylight hours; early morning for bird activity
Free
Highlights
- Designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 2022, recognising its global ecological significance
- Declared a Reserve Forest under the Tamil Nadu Forest Department
- Originally spanning around 5,500 hectares, the marsh has shrunk to roughly 700 hectares due to urban encroachment but remains Chennai's largest freshwater wetland
- Home to over 340 recorded species of plants, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and birds
- Regular sightings of spot-billed pelicans, painted storks, glossy ibis, black-winged stilts, and open-billed storks, particularly from November to February
- Critical for groundwater recharge, flood mitigation, and urban microclimate regulation in south Chennai
- A viewing deck along the Velachery to Thoraipakkam road offers accessible birdwatching
Location
Explore Pallikaranai
Discover more about the Pallikaranai neighbourhood, including transport, healthcare, and other attractions.
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