- From city centre
- ~30 km · 1 h–1 h 40
- Best months
- Nov–Feb
- Best hours
- Sunrise to 9 am
- Entry
- Confirm at gate
- Habitat
- Lake
- Birds listed
- 7
How to get there
About 30 km west of central Chennai on the Poonamallee–Sriperumbudur side. The reservoir is visible from the road in places; the bund is used for walking.
Best time to visit
Best: November to February. Time of day: Sunrise to 9 am.
Entry fee & timings
As reported at the review date (2026-11-05). Confirm at the gate: fees and timings change.
Birds you can spot
7 birds listed. Tap a bird to add it to your life list (saved in this browser only).
Regularly reported, not guaranteed. See recent sightings on eBird
About Chembarambakkam Lake
A large reservoir that supplies drinking water to the city. In years of good rain it holds ducks, cormorants and storks, and the bund gives long views over the water.
History
Built as a drinking-water reservoir for Chennai on the Adyar river catchment, and a key source of supply.
Flora
Open water with grassy and scrub banks.
Fauna
Fish and amphibians.
Nearby places
Tips
- Check access rules; some stretches are restricted.
- Water levels change the bird count a lot.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Chembarambakkam Lake for birds?
November to February. Sunrise to 9 am.
What is the entry fee for Chembarambakkam Lake?
A reservoir managed by the water authorities; access to the bund varies, so confirm. Timings: Daylight; confirm locally.
Which birds can I see at Chembarambakkam Lake?
Regularly reported birds include Little cormorant, Painted stork, Spot-billed pelican, Black-winged stilt, Indian spot-billed duck, Garganey, Northern shoveler. Sightings change with season and water levels.
How do I get to Chembarambakkam Lake?
About 30 km west of central Chennai on the Poonamallee–Sriperumbudur side. The reservoir is visible from the road in places; the bund is used for walking. It is about 30 km from central Chennai (1 h–1 h 40 depending on traffic).
More birding spots
Reviewed 2026-11-05. Species lists, fees and timings are as reported and can change; confirm before you go.