- From city centre
- ~35 km · 1 h–1 h 40
- Best months
- Nov–Mar
- Best hours
- Early morning
- Entry
- Confirm at gate
- Habitat
- Lake
- Birds listed
- 7
How to get there
On the East Coast Road (ECR) about 35 km south of central Chennai. The backwater is by the Muttukadu boat house and along the ECR.
Best time to visit
Best: November to March. Time of day: Early morning.
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 Muttukadu Backwaters
A brackish backwater by the sea, with mudflats and mangrove edges. A recent study recorded 124 bird species here, and it is recognised as an important coastal and marine biodiversity area, though sewage and plastic are real problems.
History
A natural backwater of the Buckingham canal system on the Coromandel coast, now a popular boating spot.
Flora
Salt-marsh vegetation and mangroves.
Fauna
Fish, crabs and shore life.
Nearby places
- Kelambakkam backwaters~10 kmCoastal waders nearby.Birding guide →
- Mahabalipuram~30 kmShore Temple and rock carvings.
Tips
- Avoid walking into the water; it is polluted.
- Go early before boat traffic.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Muttukadu Backwaters for birds?
November to March. Early morning.
What is the entry fee for Muttukadu Backwaters?
Birding is possible along the backwater edges; the boat house charges for boating. Confirm current rules. Timings: Daylight; boat house timings differ.
Which birds can I see at Muttukadu Backwaters?
Regularly reported birds include Western reef heron, Little egret, Pied kingfisher, Brahminy kite, Black-winged stilt, Common sandpiper, Little stint. Sightings change with season and water levels.
How do I get to Muttukadu Backwaters?
On the East Coast Road (ECR) about 35 km south of central Chennai. The backwater is by the Muttukadu boat house and along the ECR. It is about 35 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.