Vedanthangal Water Birds Sanctuary is dreams come true for birdwatchers and ornithologists alike. The bird reserve is one of a kind in the country and owes its nomenclature to a nearby village having the same name. Set in a stunning backdrop it houses several species of resident as well as migratory birds.

Strategically sited, a mere 75 km from the urban metropolis of Chennai, Vedanthangal Water Birds Sanctuary provides the much needed freshness to a raucous concrete jungle. The lush landscape quivering in the dancing breeze in the brass sky where a handful of dark specks wheeled round and round and narrated their own tale is a sight to behold.

Vedanthangal Water Birds Sanctuary is accessible by rail, road and air through the Chinglepet Railway Station, National Highway 45 and Chennai Airport. The state's Forest Department provides adequate and comfortable accommodation at the Forest Department Rest House or Hotel Tamil Nadu of the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation.

The sanctuary's prized possession are its variegated species of aquatic birds whose cacophony sounds tuneful to the ear that has grown accustomed to the chaotic noise of a bustling city life. Cormorants, Darters, Herons, Egrets, Open billed Stork, Spoonbill and White Ibis, Little Grebe, Indian Moorhen, Black Winged Stilts, a few migratory ducks and occasionally Grey Pelicans are some of the rare species of birds that are the pride of the place.

The local citizens have gone great lengths to preserve the sanctuary and its tranquil settings. Tourists generally arrive at the Vedanthangal Water Birds Sanctuary mainly during the Chennai's congenial winter ranging from the months of November- February.

Vedanthangal Water Birds Sanctuary is a coveted haunt of bird lovers who sit in the wilderness and watch the colorful and disciplined birds go about their daily lives as the hours while away.

Last Updated on 1/17/2011

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