Point Calimere sanctuary is situated in the Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu. It was in 1967 that Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary was created and in 1988, the sanctuary was enlarged and renamed as Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary, with a total area of 377 kmē. The sanctuary has been designated as a Ramsar Site in November 2002.

Flora and Fauna in Point Calimere Sanctuary
The vegetation of the Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary is quite diverse, ranging from dry evergreen forests, mangrove vegetation, salt marsh to grasslands. Infact Vedaranyam forests are one of the last remaining examples of the dry evergreen forests that were once typical of this ecologically region. It is bestowed with populations of varied wild life such as Chittal, Wild Boar, Bonnet macaque, Black Buck, and flying fox.

Avian Population in Point Calimere Sanctuary
It's a perfect destination for bird lovers as new set of birds arrive here regularly with every changing season. The mangrove zone in Point Calimere supports thousands of flamingos, and hundreds of other endangered birds like grey pelican, Asian dowitcher, spoonbill sandpiper and several other waterbirds.

When to Visit Point Calimere Sanctuary
If you are avid bird watchers then the period from November to February is the right time to make a visit here; Between November and January, the marshy areas are covered with Teals, Curlews, Gulls, Terns, Plovers, Sandpipers, Shanks, Herons and thousands of Flamingoes. Wild animals can be spotted here throughout the year.

How to Reach Point Calimere Sanctuary
By Air: Tiruchirapalli (225 km), is the nearest Airport which connects tourists to Nagapattinam district where Point Calimere sanctuary is located.
By Rail: Thiruthuraipoondi (42 km), is the nearest railway station.
By Road: Point Calimere Sanctuary is well connected through roads.

General Information
You can enjoy boating here, as boats are available for hire. What really enhance the adventure factor are sudden encounters with Dolphins and Turtles, near the shores.