Pichavaram is a mangrove forest on the coast about 15 km east of Chidambaram. It lies between two estuaries, the Vellar to the north and the Coleroon (Kollidam) to the south, where river water and sea water meet in the Killai backwater. The result is a labyrinth of small islands covered in mangroves, cut by narrow channels and wider lagoons that you explore by boat.
It is one of the finest mangrove areas on India’s east coast and a complete change from the temple towns around it. The wetland is protected as a Ramsar site, a wetland of international importance, covering about 1,479 hectares.
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What you see on a boat trip
Trips start at the Tamil Nadu Tourism (TTDC) boat house at Pichavaram. Boats first cross an open lagoon, then turn into the channels, where the mangroves close in overhead and the tangled stilt roots rise out of the water on both sides. In the narrowest passages the boatman has to push off the roots with his oar, and the only sounds are birds and the splash of the water.
The main mangrove species are of the Avicennia and Rhizophora groups, trees adapted to salty, tidal mud. Their roots trap sediment and shelter fish, prawns, crabs and molluscs, which is why local fishing families depend on the area.
Birds and wildlife
About 177 bird species have been recorded at Pichavaram. You are likely to see egrets, herons, cormorants and kingfishers, and in the migratory season from about November to January, there may be storks, spoonbills and pelicans too. Early morning is best for birdwatching. Bring binoculars if you have them. See our bird watching page for more places near Pondicherry.
Rowing boat or motor boat?
- Rowing boat: the better choice. Only rowing boats can enter the narrow channels under the mangrove canopy, and they are quiet, so you see more birds.
- Motor boat: faster and covers the wider lagoons, but cannot go into the narrow channels under the canopy.
- Duration: an hour in a rowing boat gives a good first experience; longer trips go deeper into the forest.
Timings and charges
At the time of writing, the TTDC boat house runs from about 9 AM to 4 PM or 5 PM. There is no entry fee; you hire a boat by the hour. Reported charges are roughly ₹450–500 for a four-seater rowing boat for an hour and about ₹650–700 for a six-seater, with motor boats costing more. Rates change, so check at the counter or on the TTDC website before you go.
Best time to visit
November to February offers cool weather and the most birds. Mornings are calmer and better for photography. During heavy north-east monsoon rain (roughly October to December), boating may be suspended. Summer afternoons are hot on the open lagoon, so carry a hat and water.
Practical tips
- Life jackets: wear the one provided, even in calm water.
- Sun protection: the open stretches have no shade.
- Keep it clean: do not throw plastic or food into the water, and keep your voice down in the channels.
- Weekends: queues for boats get long on weekends and holidays; weekday mornings are quieter.
- Food: facilities at the boat house are basic, so eat in Chidambaram.
Visiting from Pondicherry
Pichavaram is roughly 80 km from Pondicherry by road, via Chidambaram. The natural plan is a day trip that combines a morning boat ride with the Thillai Nataraja Temple, timing the temple visit around its midday closure. We can arrange this by car with driver, or add Pichavaram to our Great Chola Temples tour. More ideas on our wildlife and nature and backwaters and lakes pages.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Pichavaram from Chidambaram?
About 15 km, roughly 30 minutes by car.
What are the Pichavaram boating timings?
At the time of writing, the TTDC boat house operates from about 9 AM to 4 PM or 5 PM. Check before you go.
Which is better at Pichavaram, rowing boat or motor boat?
A rowing boat. Only rowing boats can enter the narrow channels under the mangroves, and they are quieter for seeing birds.
What is the best time to visit Pichavaram?
November to February, in the morning, for cool weather and migratory birds. Boating may stop during heavy monsoon rain.
