In Dec - 2018, The Pulicat Lake adventure began the previous evening, as we set out from Bangalore with excitement, knowing that the lake lies close to Sriharikota. Night folded gently as the highway lights blurred past, and anticipation grew with every mile toward this renowned wetland.
Evening Journey, Morning Discovery
By the time we reached the fringes of Pulicat, a cool breeze announced our arrival near Sriharikota’s coastal stretches. Early morning found us awake and ready, the lake’s waters reflecting the first blush of sunrise. Pulicat’s vast expanse promised a day rich with rewards for every birding enthusiast.
By the time we reached the fringes of Pulicat, a cool breeze announced our arrival near Sriharikota’s coastal stretches. Early morning found us awake and ready, the lake’s waters reflecting the first blush of sunrise. Pulicat’s vast expanse promised a day rich with rewards for every birding enthusiast.
The real magic began as the sun rose over the waters: flocks of Greater Flamingos stood in striking pink formations, creating a living painting across the shallow lagoons. Their graceful movements made for mesmerizing scenes, setting the tone for an unforgettable day.
As we wandered along the banks and through marshy grasses, a wealth of avian life revealed itself. Asian Openbills foraged with their distinctive bills, Glossy Ibises shimmered with iridescent detail, and Painted Storks brought dashes of color to the tranquil landscape. Overhead, Barn Swallows swept in agile arcs, and the sharp gaze of a Shikra kept vigil from a high perch.
With each shutter click, the wetland’s story unfolded — snapshots of flamingos in assembly, openbills crossing the muddy shallows, storks and ibises mingling alongside local fishermen.
A Birding Haven Beside Sriharikota
Pulicat Lake, spread near the boundaries of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, holds its own among India’s wetland jewels. The proximity to Sriharikota adds a sense of quiet wonder, with rockets launching nearby while flamingos gather in peaceful masses. Photographs and memories from this visit continue to remind us of nature’s drama, where wings and water meet in quiet harmony
Pulicat Lake, spread near the boundaries of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, holds its own among India’s wetland jewels. The proximity to Sriharikota adds a sense of quiet wonder, with rockets launching nearby while flamingos gather in peaceful masses. Photographs and memories from this visit continue to remind us of nature’s drama, where wings and water meet in quiet harmony
Asian Openbill
Barn swallow
Glossy Ibis
Greater Flamingo
Painted Stork