While at Chidambaram, its a not-to-be-missed location especially if you have good interest in nature or photography- the Pichavaram mangroves. One of the few still existing mangroves of our country, they provided a natural barrier against tsunami that rocked the South India few years back
the boat ride in the back-waters is a wonderful experience. You find a sense of isolation as the boat moves in vast waters and feel yourselves lost when you mov ein through the narrow passages of mangroves where an ocassional crow and regular kingfisher gives you company. The mangroves are homes to innumerable crabs so any crab eating animals can also be spotted if you are lucky- even otherwise boating through the salty back-waters itself is...
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an experience.
Since boats are open boats, prepeare yourself armoured for the direct heat if you are a heat allergic. and keep your camera fully charged if you are a camera addict
The spot if located about 7-8 kms from Chidambaram Town. Buses are available but not very regularly- better to engage a taxi for a relaxed enjoyment