Tholkappia Poonga, also known as Adyar Eco Park or Adyar Poonga, is a premier ecological restoration project located in the Adyar estuary of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Developed by the Government of Tamil Nadu, this eco-park is a living example of wetland conservation, biodiversity revival, and sustainable urban planning.
Adyar Eco Park
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Park Name | Tholkappia Poonga |
| Also Known As | Adyar Eco Park / Adyar Poonga |
| Location | Adyar Estuary, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Established By | Government of Tamil Nadu |
| Opened To Public | 22 January 2011 |
| Named After | Tholkappiar (Renowned Tamil Scholar) |
| Total Area | Over 350 acres |
| Water Coverage | Approximately 65% |
| Ecosystem Type | Tropical dense evergreen forest & wetland ecosystem |
| Major Vegetation | Trees, shrubs, lianas, epiphytes, herbs, tuberous species |
| Number of Plant Species | 160+ indigenous woody species |
| Bird Species Recorded | 120+ species (as of recent surveys) |
| Other Fauna | Fish, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, dragonflies, mammals |
| Primary Purpose | Wetland restoration, environmental education, research |
| Visitor Access | Limited & controlled |
| Public Visiting Hours | 6:30–8:30 am, 4:30–6:00 pm |
| Guided Tour Timings | 2:30–4:30 pm (Except Sundays & public holidays) |
| Student Visit Timings | 9:30 am–12:30 pm (Except Sundays & public holidays) |
| Entry Type | Paid entry |
| Conservation Zone | About 25% (No public access) |
Visit Tholkappia Poonga
Visit Tholkappia Poonga (Adyar Eco Park) in Chennai – a restored wetland reserve with rich biodiversity, guided tours, educational programs, and eco-friendly visitor access. Explore nature responsibly.
Spread across more than 350 acres, the park represents the restored freshwater and brackish ecosystems of the Coromandel Coast. Nearly 65% of the park area is covered by water, creating an ideal habitat for a rich variety of flora and fauna. The park features tropical dense evergreen forests with over 160 indigenous woody plant species, including trees, shrubs, lianas, epiphytes, herbs, and tuberous plants.
Opened to the public on 22 January 2011 by former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, the park is named after the ancient Tamil scholar Tholkappiar. It functions primarily as a centre for environmental education, ecological research, and wetland conservation, with controlled public access to protect its fragile ecosystem.
Visitors can explore the park through guided tours, educational programs for students, and limited walking hours. The park is also an important bird migration corridor, hosting over 120 bird species, along with reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, dragonflies, fish, and small mammals. Popular sightings include pelicans, shikras, cattle egrets, mynas, jungle crows, and various species of egrets.
Park Timing
| Visitor Type / Activity | Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General Public – Morning Visit | 6:30 AM – 8:30 AM | Limited access to protect fragile ecosystem |
| Student Visits | 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Excluding Sundays & Public Holidays |
| Guided Tours | 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM | Excluding Sundays & Public Holidays |
| General Public – Evening Visit | 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM | Limited access to protect fragile ecosystem |
| Closed | Tuesdays | Maintenance & conservation activities |
Walkers Timing
| Activity / Visit Type | Timing |
|---|---|
| Walking – Morning | 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM |
| Walking – Evening | 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Guided Tour – General Public | 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM |
With thoughtfully designed wooden bridges, nature trails, interpretation signages, and eco-friendly infrastructure, Tholkappia Poonga offers a peaceful and educational nature experience in the heart of Chennai.
Attractions
| No. | Attraction | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Restored Wetlands | Revived marshland ecosystem with native plants and water bodies |
| 2 | Birdwatching Zones | Habitat for resident & migratory birds like herons, egrets, storks |
| 3 | Nature Trails | Elevated walking paths and boardwalks through greenery |
| 4 | Viewing Tower / Decks | Panoramic views of the park and Adyar estuary |
| 5 | Skywalk | Elevated connector offering scenic views across wetlands |
| 6 | Interpretation Boards | Educational panels explaining flora, fauna & ecology |
| 7 | Butterfly & Wildlife Areas | Zones with native plants attracting butterflies & insects |
| 8 | Children’s Play Area | Eco-friendly play and learning space for kids |
| 9 | Open-Air Theatre | Venue for environmental programs & community events |
| 10 | Guided Nature Walks | Expert-led tours for birding and ecological learning |
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