Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary

48 Kms from the temple town of Kanchipuram is Vedanthangal, the oldest bird Sanctuary in India. It is spread across a vast area of about 30 hectares which is basically a tank with numerous small islands that are covered with green scrub and thorny vegetation. Come winter and it is a paradise for birdwatchers. The entire region is dotted with thousands of birds most of which are migratory and some resident species. Painted storks, Egrets, Pond herons, Grey herons, Cormorants, Darters, Spoon Bills, Pelicans, Ibis, Terns, Moorhens, Pintails and many more are found in large numbers spread across the water body.



At the periphery of the sanctuary there is a well laid semi circular path with cobblestones for visitors to walk around the sanctuary. As one nears the sanctuary a loud whirr welcomes visitors into a haven of these avian creatures. Watching these winged visitors of all sizes, shapes and a variety of colours is sheer delight. While some are flying all over, some display their plumage, some dive in and out of water emerging victorious with a fish in their beak, and some are busy building their nests. A few nestle all along the undergrowth and the bushes beside the water, a few can be seen feeding the young ones and few others gently drifting across. On a single tree it is common to find more than three varieties of birds nesting happily.



The birds’ conversations seem never ending for their chatter never ceases. Some leap from tree to tree communicating something very important and some are perched on tall branches relishing their prized catch. Fishes of different sizes, small snakes, and a variety of other aquatic fauna seem to be the meal enjoyed by them. Here and there one can find some winged visitors in solitude. They are roosting on tall branches or gently gliding along the surface of the water. A watchtower stands tall along the walking path from where the view of the sanctuary is breathtaking. It provides a panoramic view of the entire region of numerous islands that are dotted with the feathered angels. The sun plays havoc with a riot of colors as it sets and the ripples in the water reflect the colours leaving one spellbound. The myriad bird calls of the evening are mesmerizing too.



A pair of good binoculars, a field guide to identify birds will be very helpful. The village communities around Vedanthangal have played a great role in conserving this place. ‘Vedanthangal’ in Tamil language means ‘place of the hunter’ and there is a legend that this was the most preferred hunting ground of the landlords hundreds of years ago.



Vedanthangal is about 80 kms from Chennai and is a must see place of the region! The best time is from October –February. There is a forest rest house at Vedanthangal that will need prior booking. The drive to the sanctuary through rural Tamil Nadu is enjoyable. The green paddy fields, the rustic charm of the villages, the local food of the small town hotels can be a great experience. Kanchipuram and Chennai are the nearest options for accommodation.