One Day Excursion to Ponneri

  1. 9:00AM: Dutch Fort
    Located 10 minutes (4.5 km) from Ponneri Station

    Dutch Fort is an ancient fort, built in the 17th century by the Dutch trading companies in India. The fort has now become a popular tourist destination due to its historical importance and architectural charm. Visitors can learn about the history of the fort from the informative signboards located inside.

  2. 10:30AM: Pulicat Lake and Bird Sanctuary
    Located 30 minutes (18 km) from Dutch Fort

    Pulicat Lake is the second-largest brackish lake in India. It is home to a diverse range of aquatic animals and is a birdwatcher's delight. Visitors can take a boat ride to explore the sanctuary or rent a bicycle to explore the surroundings. It is a great place to spend time with family and friends.

  3. 12:30PM: Lunch at Casuarina Bay Restaurant
    Located 20 minutes (11 km) from Pulicat Lake

    Casuarina Bay Restaurant is a popular seafood restaurant located on the East Coast Road. It is famous for its seafood dishes and picturesque location. Visitors can enjoy the panoramic view of the Bay of Bengal while relishing the sumptuous seafood cuisine.

  4. 2:30PM: Arignar Anna Zoological Park
    Located 50 minutes (30 km) from Casuarina Bay Restaurant

    Arignar Anna Zoological Park is one of the largest zoological parks in India. It has over 170 species of animals, including white tigers, elephants, and chimpanzees. Visitors can take a battery-operated vehicle to tour the park or opt for a guided walking tour. It's a must-visit place for animal lovers.

  5. 5:30PM: Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
    Located 1 hour 30 minutes (75 km) from Arignar Anna Zoological Park

    Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is another well-known bird sanctuary near Chennai. It has over 40,000 migratory birds, including pelicans, storks, and herons, visiting the sanctuary during the winter season. Visitors can take a guided boat ride to watch these birds in their natural habitat.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Dutch Fort (1 hour, Free)
  • Pulicat Lake and Bird Sanctuary (2 hours, INR 300 per person for boat ride)
  • Casuarina Bay Restaurant (1 hour 30 minutes, INR 800 for two persons)
  • Arignar Anna Zoological Park (3 hours, INR 80 per person for battery-operated vehicle)
  • Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary (2 hours, INR 75 per person for boat ride)
  • Total Estimated Costs (per person): INR 555

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit the famous Lighthouse Beach or Shri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham located nearby. However, if you have less time, you can skip the Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary and spend more time at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park. Make sure to carry enough water and wear comfortable shoes and clothes as you will be doing a lot of walking.

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