Did you ever dream of floating through a forest that is on water? Pichavaram Mangrove Forest is actually a location where land and water merge to create a beautiful natural scenery. It is located close to Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu, and it is the second-largest mangrove forest in the world.
It is an excellent destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers owing to its numerous canals, green trees, and serene waters. Pichavaram can be an entertaining experience, whether you want to go boating, see the birds or simply have some rest. Having numerous species and being such a mystery, this hidden place close to Pondicherry will offer you a journey to remember on one of the best creations of nature.
The Beauty of Pichavaram Mangrove Forest
The art of nature looks bright in the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest Pondicherry. It is approximately 1,100 hectares and contains more than 4,000 big and small canals and is lined with thick mangrove trees, which make a natural tunnel. When your boat passes by the green water, you hear rustling in the leaves and chirping of birds, and the sound is so soft that it makes you calm down. There are over 200 species of birds found in the forest. During the winter, a great number of migrating birds arrive here. The roots of the mangroves also grow out of the water, which makes the place look mystical.
Highlights of the place:
More than 50 mangrove-covered small islands.
Good photography spot and an eco-tourism spot.
Peaceful boating through small canals.
Best Time to Visit Pichavaram Mangrove Forest
The best time to visit Pondicherry would be between November to February. It is a cool and pleasant day to go boating and sightseeing.
The season of Summer (March to June) is quite hot and sticky. Heavy rainfall in the season of monsoon season (July to October) may halt boating. During the winter seasons, the weather is pleasant and there is a clear viewpoint of the birds to be seen and also for photography.
The best months: November- February.
Avoid: Rainy season (July -September)
Temperature: 20°C to 30°C
Pichavaram Mangrove Forest Region Weather
The weather is tropical with moderate humidity since it is nearly on the coast.
Summer (Mar to Jun): Hot and humid (to 38°C)
Monsoon (Jul -Oct): Light rain, green vegetation.
Winter (Nov -Feb): Cool and pleasant (20- 30°C)
Visiting Pichavaram Mangrove Forest is most suitable during winter because the weather is suitable for boating and watching birds.
How to Reach Pichavaram Mangrove Forest From Chennai
Pichavaram is not too difficult to reach. It has good road, rail and air connections, being approximately 15 km away from Chidambaram, 75 km from Pondicherry.
By Road
Anyone can drive between Pondicherry and Chennai. Buses and taxis periodically visit Chidambaram. There, Pichavaram will be reached with the assistance of local autos or taxis.
By Train
The nearest railway station is the Chidambaram Railway Station, which is only 10 km from the mangrove forest.
By Air
The closest airport is in Pondicherry, which is approximately 70 km. The Chennai International Airport lies at a distance of 210 km and carries more flights.
Pondicherry to Pichavaram mangrove forest distance: It would be about 75 km, which would require 1.5 to 2 hours of road.
The Pichavaram Mangrove Forest Timings and Entry Fee
Get aware of the timings and the Pichavaram Mangrove forest entry fee before you plan your visit.
Check-in Times: 9:00 AM -4:00 PM (Boating stops at about 4:30 PM)
Entry Fee: ₹5 per person
Pichavaram Mangrove Forest Boating Timings and Price: 30 minutes to 2 hours; ₹200- ₹1200 based on the length of stay and the boat (Rents)
Tips: Check out early in the morning or late in the afternoon when there are fewer crowds and the light is best.
Places to Visit Near the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest
Although the central attraction is the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest, there are several good places to visit in Pondicherry and nearby.
1. Chidambaram- Thillai Nataraja Temple
This is a large temple in Chidambaram which is dedicated to lord shiva, in the form of Nataraja. It has large Dravidian construction and a holy ambience that is fascinating to both religious devotees and history admirers.
Distance: 12 km from Pichavaram
2. Pichavaram Backwaters
The Pichavaram Backwaters, which are located near the mangrove forest, make it an open and stress-free boating adventure. Being a big expanse of clear water with green conjoining it is ideal to spend some time away.
Distance: 1 km from the forest
3. Silver Beach, Cuddalore
When you have had your fill of mangrove, go to the silver beach, the longest and purest beach in Tamil Nadu. It is a good place to walk, to ride a horse or to enjoy the sea air. The sunsets are beautiful, and the calm water is good for relaxing families and couples.
Distance: 25 km from Pichavaram
4. Annamalai University
Annamalai University is a highly reputed school, which is the oldest school in India at Chidambaram. The old trees with old buildings fully cover the campus, and the place is quite serene for tourists.
Distance: 15 km from Pichavaram
5. Pondicherry
Complete your journey to Pichavaram by visiting the French-style city of Pondicherry. Its colourful streets, peaceful beaches and its relaxing cafes provide a good combination of peaceful location and charm. You may visit the Aurobindo Ashram, Promenade Beach or visit local boutiques. Pondicherry will also make your nature adventure cultural and filled with good food.
Distance: 75 km from Pichavaram
Things to Do in the Mangrove Forest of Pichavaram
There are various things to do in Pondicherry, but visiting here is one of the special ones. This is where the actual pleasure begins. Pichavaram is full of fun activities that combine fun and the serene nature.
1. Boating in the Mangroves
Its key feature is to go boating through the mangrove tunnels. Whatever you may like, you can either use rowboats or motorboats. Rafts transfer you along little canals, which are like an underground passage to a different dimension.
Tip: Boating runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The rates range between ₹200 and ₹1,200 (depending on the type of boat and length of stay).
2. Birdwatching
Pichavaram will be a favourite of the bird lovers. Over 200 species of birds, such as herons, pelicans, egrets, and cormorants, can be found in the mangroves in the winter season. Carry a pair of glasses and a camera, a moment never passes when nature may not be observed in one of its best calms.
Tip: Go either at sunrise or sunset to see the best sights.
3. Kayaking Adventures
In case you have any adventure to spend, you may go kayaking through the mangrove maze. Cruising through the narrow water routes allows viewing spots that are inaccessible on big boats. It is excellent for people who like travelling alone or adventure seekers.
Tip: The most preferable time is early morning or late afternoon.
4. Photography
Pichavaram is a wonderful place for photographers. The mangroves reflecting in the water, bright birds, light, and shadow make beautiful shots. Regardless of the camera you use, be it a pro one or your phone, everything tells a story of the real, unadulterated beauty.
Tip: It suits best for landscape, wildlife and nature photographers.
5. Picnic by the Backwaters
Once you have been kayaking, have a rest at the backwaters. The mild waves, the trees waving in the breeze, and distant bird songs create an ideal atmosphere of a relaxing picnic with family or friends.
Tip: Disposable items can be put in non-toxic disposable material so that the environment does not get messy.
Travel Tips
Carry a hat, sunglasses, as well as sunscreen.
Reserve your boat ride in advance at weekends or on holidays.
Put on sporty attire and shoes that can be used in boating.
Do not leave out your camera; the scenery is gorgeous.
Conserve the environment, do not litter the forest area.
Conclusion
Pichavaram Mangrove Forest is among the most beautiful natural resources in India. It combines cool waters, green canals, and wild exotic animals into a never-to-forget trip. You would find it magical whether you are going to do boating, watch birds or relax and forget the busy city life.
Get ready, pack your bags, and organise your next flight to this serene heaven. Explore the beauty that nature has to offer and have a memorable time at the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest, where time slows down, and calmness will take over.
