Most visitors to Puducherry head straight for the seafront, but a short drive inland is one of the region’s nicest surprises: Ousteri Lake, also called Oussudu Lake. It is a large freshwater lake on the border of Puducherry and Tamil Nadu, and a protected wetland that draws many birds, especially in the cooler months.

What to do

  • Birdwatching: herons, egrets, cormorants, kingfishers and, in season, migratory ducks and waders. Bring binoculars if you have them.
  • Boating: boat rides are usually available from the boat house on the Puducherry side. Check timings and charges on the day.
  • Sunset: the open water and low horizon make late afternoon the most beautiful time to be here.

Best time to visit

November to February is the best season, when the weather is pleasant and migratory birds arrive. Early morning is best for birds; late afternoon is best for a relaxed walk and the sunset. Summer afternoons are very hot, with little shade.

Tips for your visit

  • Carry water, a cap and mosquito repellent, especially around sunset.
  • Keep noise low near the water so you do not scare the birds.
  • Do not leave plastic behind. The lake is a sensitive wetland.
  • Food options at the lake are limited, so plan a meal in Villianur or town.

Combine it with

Ousteri pairs well with Villianur’s Thirukameswarar Temple and an afternoon at Pogo Land with children. For the beach and the French Quarter, see our beach and Auroville day plan.

Where to stay

Meena’s Guest Home is a private room with an attached bathroom in a quiet gated community in Pathukannu, on the Villianur side of Puducherry. It sleeps 2 adults and 1 child, has air conditioning, Wi-Fi and free parking, and is about 3 km from Ousteri Lake and 1 km from Pogo Land. See distances to nearby temples or check free dates and book directly.

Timings, entry rules and charges can change, especially on festival days and holidays. Please check locally before your visit.

Photo: Dinesh Valke, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.