On this day trip from Pondicherry, explore the wide expanse of mangrove forests in the village of Pichavaram. Take a boat ride through the mangroves and discover several of the 200 species of birds that call it home. Next visit a 10th century Hindu temple in the neighbouring town of Chidambaram. The temple is dedicated to God Nataraja, the dancing incarnation of God Shiva.
Highlights : • Boat ride through the Mangrove Forests of Pichavaram • Over 200 species of birds • Visit to the world famous Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram
Price per person for 1-8 travelers
Pickup included
You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and driven to the village of Pichavaram that is situated at a distance of 40 miles from Pondicherry. Upon reaching Pichavaram, you will be taken for a boat ride on the waters of the mangrove forest that join the Bay of Bengal. There are around 20 different varieties of trees in the mangrove forest. The forest is spread over a diverse range of habitats - channels, creeks, gullies, mud flats and sand flats - and is home to over 200 species of birds. Among the birds seen here are Snipes, Cormorants, Egrets, Storks, Herons, Spoonbills and Pelicans. Many varieties of seaweed, fish, prawns, crabs, oysters, turtles, and otters can also to be seen here.
After the tour of the mangrove forest, drive over to the town of Chidambaram, an half an hour’s drive away. Once in Chidambaram, visit the ancient 10th century Nataraja Temple, one of the few temples in India where God Shiva is worshipped in his dancing form called Nataraja. The huge temple complex is spread over 50 acres and has shrines dedicated to a few more Gods as well, among them are Devi, Vishnu, Surya, Ganesha and Nandi. Next enjoy lunch (beverage excluded) at a local restaurant. After lunch you will be driven back to Pondicherry and dropped off at your hotel
You can choose to be picked up from a list of locations, or alternatively, have the choice to make your own way to the meeting points
Please arrive at the pick up point 30 minutes before departure time.
We may pick up travelers from city center hotels / fixed point wiithin city limits. In case pick up is outside central points extra cost shall applicable subject to distance applicable.
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.