Pichavaram Backwaters is a vast mangrove ecosystem and inland waterway complex located near Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu, India. Renowned for its dense mangrove forests and interconnected canals, it is among the largest mangrove areas in the country and a popular spot for eco-tourism and biodiversity research.

Key facts

• Location: Near Chidambaram, Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu, India

• Area: About 1,100 hectares of mangroves

• Connected rivers: Vellar and Coleroon estuaries

• Notable for: Boat rides through mangrove tunnels and birdlife

• Nearest city: Chidambaram (approx. 15 km away)