Pulicat is an old town that is located near the city of Chennai in the State of Tamil Nadu. Pulicat is famous for its lake and also the bird sanctuary which is located in the lake. The Pulicat Lake is the second largest brackish water body in the country. Pulicat is located on the Coromandel Coast and is home to many migratory birds that can be seen in the bird sanctuary.
Pulicat area is very old and it was an important part of the colonial period. Many of the colonial influences can be seen in the area. Pulicat was home to an Arab population in the 13th century. Many of the houses and buildings that were built during that time can still be seen today. There are a few families who claim to be descendants of the migratory Arabs.
Portuguese and Dutch influences can still be seen today. Many churches and cemeteries that were built during that time can be seen today. Most of the old buildings are in a dilapidated state due to the lack of maintenance. Archeological Survey of India is responsible for maintain the Old Dutch Fort that is located in Pulicat. Fort Geldria is in a reasonable condition.
Best Season:
October - March
Getting to Pulicat
AIR
The closest international airport is located in Chennai and the best way to reach the place is by hiring a taxi. There are airport taxis and prepaid taxis that are available from the Chennai Airport to Pulicat. It is advisable to hire a taxi to Pulicat as it is required to travel around the place. Taxis from Chennai charge around Rs 1500 for the trip. Most of the hotels in Chennai arrange pick up services as well.
RAIL
The closest railway station is also located in Chennai and there are frequent buses that are available from Chennai. Taxis can be hired from the railway station to Pulicat. They charge between RS 7 per km and Rs 12 per km. it is advisable to hire A/C taxis during the summer months as temperatures are extremely high.
ROAD
Government buses are available from the Chennai Moffusil Bus Terminus to Pulicat. These are cheap and frequent. Tickets usually cost around Rs 50 for the 2 hour trip. Government buses are usually crowded and not very comfortable. Some private operators may also be available.
Chennai - 55 km
Bangalore - 398 km
Hyderabad - 605 km
Attractions
The major attractions of the place are the beach, the Dutch cemetery, Fort, church and particularly the bird sanctuary where a variety of migratory birds reside. Between December and January, the Tourism Board organizes the Flamingo festival when thousands of the bird species align on the swampy regions of the Pulicat Lake. Two neighbouring villages of Vedurupattu and Nelapattu are other attractions here.
Activities
Bird watching is a prominent activity for tourists as they can catch sight of some of the most stunning species of migratory birds here. Several beach activities and water sports are other forms of entertainment in Pulicat.
