- From city centre
- ~90 km · 2–2 h 30
- Best months
- Nov–Mar
- Best hours
- Early morning
- Entry
- Confirm at gate
- Habitat
- Sanctuary
- Birds listed
- 6
How to get there
About 90 km north of Chennai near Sullurpeta in Andhra Pradesh, close to Pulicat. This is in another state, so carry ID and check forest department rules.
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
6 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 Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary
A small sanctuary with a village tank where spot-billed pelicans and painted storks nest in the trees in the post-monsoon months. It sits close to Pulicat Lake, so the two combine into a long day.
History
Protected as a bird sanctuary by the Andhra Pradesh forest department around a long-used nesting site.
Flora
Tank and nesting trees.
Fauna
Fish and small wetland life.
Nearby places
- Pulicat Lake~25 kmFlamingo lagoon.Birding guide →
- Sriharikota~30 kmISRO launch centre.
Tips
- Confirm opening and the state-border rules before you go.
- Combine with Pulicat for a full day.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary for birds?
November to March. Early morning.
What is the entry fee for Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary?
A small entry fee is normal at Andhra Pradesh sanctuaries; confirm the amount and timings with the forest department. Timings: Daylight; confirm locally.
Which birds can I see at Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary?
Regularly reported birds include Spot-billed pelican, Painted stork, Asian openbill, Little cormorant, Glossy ibis, Eurasian spoonbill. Sightings change with season and water levels.
How do I get to Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary?
About 90 km north of Chennai near Sullurpeta in Andhra Pradesh, close to Pulicat. This is in another state, so carry ID and check forest department rules. It is about 90 km from central Chennai (2–2 h 30 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.