- From city centre
- ~25 km · 55–100 min
- Best months
- Nov–Feb
- Best hours
- Dawn to 9 am
- Entry
- By permission
- Habitat
- Forest & scrub
- Birds listed
- 7
How to get there
Off the Medavakkam–Mambakkam road in south Chennai, between Medavakkam and Selaiyur. The forest edge is reached from Nanmangalam village; a forest guard usually controls the gate.
Best time to visit
Best: November to February. Time of day: Dawn 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 Nanmangalam Reserve Forest
A dry evergreen scrub forest with rocky ground and small ponds, locally valued as a green refuge. It suits birders who want forest species without leaving the city limits.
History
A reserve forest that survives in south Chennai despite growth around it, with citizen groups helping to protect and restore it.
Flora
Dry evergreen scrub, with native trees planted by local groups.
Fauna
Mongoose, hare, civet and reptiles.
Nearby places
Tips
- Contact a local birding group for access.
- Keep to the paths and take your litter out.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Nanmangalam Reserve Forest for birds?
November to February. Dawn to 9 am.
What is the entry fee for Nanmangalam Reserve Forest?
A protected forest: forest guards may refuse entry without permission, so get it first or join a club walk. Timings: Daylight; by arrangement.
Which birds can I see at Nanmangalam Reserve Forest?
Regularly reported birds include Blue-faced malkoha, Yellow-wattled lapwing, Greater coucal, Common iora, Spotted owlet, Brahminy kite, Asian paradise flycatcher. Sightings change with season and water levels.
How do I get to Nanmangalam Reserve Forest?
Off the Medavakkam–Mambakkam road in south Chennai, between Medavakkam and Selaiyur. The forest edge is reached from Nanmangalam village; a forest guard usually controls the gate. It is about 25 km from central Chennai (55–100 min 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.