Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary

About Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary

Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary in Sivagangai District of Tamil Nadu is about 52 km from Madurai and is near to Tirupattur.This sanctuary attracts a number of migratory birds such as white ibis, open billed stork and night heron. Besides, endangered species such as painted stork, gray heron, darter, little cormorant, little egret, intermediate egret, cattle egret, cotton teal, spot bills, pintail and flamingos flock here.

The Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is located at a distance of 51 Km from Madurai on Madurai - Melur-Tiruppathur road, in Sivagangai District. The Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is located at 10 deg 10’ N latitude and 78 deg 20’ E longitude. It is located in Vettangudi patti & Periya Kollukudi Patti village of Tiruppathur taluk, Sivagangai District.

Climate/Weather

Summers:
The sun is at its glory and shines very brightly during the summers. During the summer months, i.e. from May to June, the temperature varies between 27 deg C and 40 deg C. Therefore, the climate is quite hot. May is the hottest month. Cottons are recommended during this time.

Winters:
In winters, which starts from December and lasts till February, the temperature ranges between 20 deg C and 30 deg C. The climate remains pleasant during this time, as the temperature rarely falls below 20 deg C.

Monsoon:
Though the rainfall is very frequent and uniform throughout the year, just like the flow of pilgrims and tourists, the city receives the major share of rainfall between the months of July and October. The average rainfall is 85 cm.

Interesting things to Visit

Fauna:
This area of small drainage basins attracts more than 8,000 winter migratory birds belonging to 217 species, mostly from European and North Asian countries. It is a breeding habitat for Grey herons, Darters, Spoonbills, white ibis, Asian openbill stork and night herons. It has also attracted indigenous, endangered species such as painted stork, grey heron, darter, little cormorant, little egret, intermediate egret, cattle egret, common teal, spotbills, pintail and flamingos

Sree Meenakshi Temple:
It is one of the most prominent among the temples of Madurai. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva who was known here as Sundareshvara and his wife Parvati or Meenakshi. This temple was built by Kulasekara Pandya and the most impressive feature of this temple is the 12 gopurams. It also has soaring towers that stand on the granite bases and have stucco figures of deities, mythical animals and monsters tinted in vibrant colors.

Nearest Visiting places

Thirumalai Nayak Palace:
It is a magnificent palace that was built by King Thirumalai Nayak with valuable assistance of an Italian architect in the year 1636. The palace had two parts known as Swargavilasa and Rangavilasa. You will come across theatre, shrine, apartments, armory, palanquin place, royal bandstand, quarters, pond and garden while taking a stroll inside this imposing palace.

Gandhi Museum:
This is the most distinguished among the tourist attractions in Madurai and is a living memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. This museum houses photos, paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, quotations, and some articles that were used by him.

Mariamman Teppakulam:
It is also among one of the many things to watch in Madurai and is located at a distance of 5 km to the east of Meenakshi temple. There is a tank having an idol of Vinayaka which is located on a platform in the centre. It is also a venue of the temple’s annual Teppakulam float festival which is celebrated with huge zeal and excitement.

Thirupparankunram:
Tirupparankundram is famous for the Pandyan rock-cut shrines that date back to the 8th century that later came to be known as the Nayaka Hindu temple. You will find a wide range of Hindu deities carved on the walls on your visit to this temple. Located on the top a hill, people believe that it is one of six abodes of Lord Subramanya.

Pillarpatti:
Located near Karaikudi which is also in the Sivagangai district there is the famous Karpaka Vinayakar Temple which can be seen here. The presiding deity of the Temple is Karpaga Pillaiyar and from there comes the name of the village Pillaiyar Village.

Kundrakudi:
Situated near Thiruppathur near Sivagangai Tours, Kundrakudi is famous for temples and the temple of Lord Subramanya is located here in this place. For this reason a large number of pilgrims visit Kundrakudi.The Vettangudi bird sanctuary is the natural habitat of winter migratory and residential birds and provides a safe place for roosting, breeding and feeding.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

For accommodation near Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary, nearby towns offer budget lodges, guesthouses, and mid-range hotels. Book ahead during peak season (December-March).

Help Line/Phone Number

Police station:Race Course Road, Chockikulam, Madurai, Madurai, Tamil Nadu,India

Sellur Police station:Madurai, Tamil Nadu,India

Anna Nagar Police Station:Madurai,Tamil Nadu,India

Visaka Poly Clinic:1 Katarapalayam,T.P.K Main Road,, Madurai, Tamil Nadu,India,Ph:0452 2338275

Chirstian Mission Hospital:East Marret Street, Madurai, Tamil Nadu,IndiaPh:0452 2326458

Location info

• **Address:**Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary in Sivagangai,Tamil Nadu,India

• **District:**Sivagangai

• **Nearest City:**Madurai

• Best time to visit: November to February

History of Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary

The sanctuary is encompassing Periya Kollukudi Patti, Chinna Kollukudi Patti and Vettangudi Patti tanks extending to a total area of 38.4 ha. The only bird sanctuary located in the Sivaganga District. was declared as sanctuary in June 1977.

How to reach Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Madurai is Connected by rail via Madras with all the main places in India.

**Nearest Airport:**Madurai with Madras, Calicut and Bombay. Vayudoot Services also connect Madurai with Madras & Pondicherry. East West Airlines also connect Madurai with Bombay.

**Road Transport:**Madurai is connected by good motorable roads to Madras (472 kms), Trichy (142 kms), Rameshwarm (139 kms), Kanyakumari (232 kms), Tirunelveli (151 kms), Kodaikanal (120 kms), Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (136 kms), Palani (122 kms), Thanjavur (223 kms), Bangalore (446 kms), Bombay (1454 kms).

Nearest petrol pump

• **Petrol pump:**Madurai, Tamil Nadu,India

Best time to visit Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary

November to March when migratory birds arrive from Siberia, Europe, and Central Asia. Early morning (6–9 AM) is the best time for bird watching. Late afternoon (3–5 PM) is also good. Avoid midday when birds are less active.

Timings & opening hours

Best visited during daylight hours, typically 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The sanctuary may have restricted access during the breeding season to avoid disturbance. Check forest department guidelines before visiting.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee: INR 10–25 for Indian adults, INR 100–200 for foreign nationals. Camera fee: INR 20–50 (still). Binoculars may be available for rent at the sanctuary office.

Duration needed

2–4 hours for a thorough bird-watching session. Bird photographers and serious birders may spend 4–6 hours covering the sanctuary. Early morning visits are most productive.

Safety tips

Wear sturdy walking shoes — the sanctuary trails may be uneven or muddy. Carry insect repellent, especially near water bodies. Stay on designated paths. Do not disturb nesting birds. Maintain silence for better bird sightings. Carry sufficient water.

Things to carry

Binoculars (essential), camera with telephoto lens, bird identification guide or app, water bottle, hat, insect repellent, sunscreen, snacks, notebook. Wear muted colours.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

By Air: Chennai International Airport (MAA) is the primary international gateway. Regional airports include Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), Madurai International Airport (IXM), and Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ), depending on location.

By Train: Tamil Nadu has an extensive railway network. Major junctions include Chennai Central (MAS), Coimbatore Junction (CBE), Madurai Junction (MDU), Tiruchirappalli Junction (TPJ), and Salem Junction (SA). From the nearest station, local transport is readily available.

By Road: Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) operates an extensive bus network connecting all parts of the state. National highways NH 44, NH 48, and NH 32 provide excellent connectivity. Private buses and taxis are also available from nearby towns and cities.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Tamil Nadu. 4G is reliable in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and along major highways. Coverage may be weaker in remote sections of the Western Ghats, deep forest reserves, and certain rural interior areas. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafes in urban areas.

Food & restaurants nearby

Basic food options are available at forest rest houses, eco-lodges, and small local eateries near Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary. These typically serve South Indian vegetarian meals including rice, sambar, poriyal, and curd. Visitors are advised to carry packed food and sufficient water when visiting the sanctuary.

Things to do at Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary

Spot and identify resident and migratory bird species using binoculars and field guides. Walk along the sanctuary’s trails and watchtowers for panoramic views of the wetlands. Photography of birds in their natural habitat, especially during golden hour.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best season for bird watching at Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary? November to March when migratory birds arrive. December and January offer the highest diversity of species.

What birds can I expect to see? The sanctuary hosts herons, egrets, storks, ibises, pelicans, ducks, and many migratory species. Over 100 species may be recorded during peak season.

Is prior permission required to visit? For most sanctuaries, entry tickets can be purchased at the gate. For photography with professional equipment, prior permission from the forest department may be required.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Tamilnadu
• Category: Bird Sanctuary

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.