Tholkappia poonga tickets: If you’re looking for a peaceful escape filled with lush greenery and biodiversity, Tholkappia Poonga in Chennai is the perfect destination. Officially known as the Adyar Eco Park, this green haven attracts nature lovers, students, and families who wish to explore Chennai’s natural ecosystem. Here’s everything you need to know about Tholkappia Poonga tickets, timings, and booking details.
About Tholkappia Poonga
Tholkappia Poonga is an ecological park situated in Adyar, Chennai. It spans over 58 acres of restored wetlands and forests. The park was established to conserve the Adyar estuary ecosystem and promote environmental education among visitors. Managed by the Department of Environment, it serves as a vital lung space for the city and showcases the beauty of nature through guided tours and educational programs.
Tholkappia Poonga (Adyar Eco-Park) Ticket & Visitor Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 6/103, Dr. D. G. S. Dinakaran Salai, Raja Annamalaipuram, Chennai – 600028 |
| Managed by | Chennai Rivers Restoration Trust (CRRT) |
| Contact Number | +91 44 2461 4523 |
| Official Website for Booking | www.crrt.tn.gov.in |
| Total Area | 58 acres (Adyar Estuary Zone) |
| Attractions | Elevated Skywalk, Viewing Deck, Butterfly Garden, Birdwatching Zone, Educational Trails |
| Best For | Nature walks, eco-tours, school trips, birdwatching |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair-friendly, limited parking available |
| Nearest Metro Station | Greenways Road Metro Station |
Ticket Prices for Tholkappia Poonga
| Category | Ticket Type | Price (₹) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walkers (General Public) | Single Visit | ₹20 | 1 Time |
| Monthly Pass | ₹500 | 1 Month | |
| Quarterly Pass | ₹1,500 | 3 Months | |
| Half-Yearly Pass | ₹2,500 | 6 Months | |
| Yearly Pass | ₹5,000 | 12 Months | |
| Students & Teachers (Eco Tour) | Single Visit | ₹10 | 1 Time |
| Guided Tours (General Public) | Single Visit | ₹20 | 1 Time |
Timings
| Category | Days | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Walk | All days | 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM |
| Evening Walk | All days | 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Guided Tours | Monday to Sunday (Excl. Thursday & Public Holidays) | 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM |
| Reporting Time (Guided Tours) | – | 2:30 PM sharp |
Booking Rules & Guidelines
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Booking | Only through official website; walk-ins not allowed |
| Visitors Limit | 100 people per slot |
| ID Requirement | Must carry valid ID or e-pass for entry |
| Refund Policy | No refunds once payment is made |
| Age Restriction (Walkers) | Below 18 years not allowed during walking hours |
| Parking | Limited space near the main entrance |
| Late Entry | Late arrivals after 2:30 PM for guided tours not allowed |
How to Book Tholkappia Poonga Tickets Online
Currently, Tholkappia Poonga does not offer online ticket booking through official websites. Entry can be arranged by contacting the park office in advance or through school/institutional group registrations.
Booking Options:
- Contact the Tholkappia Poonga Office, Adyar, Chennai.
- Submit a group request or visitor form.
- Wait for confirmation from the park authorities.
For individuals, entry is granted only on selected days through guided batches.
Top Attractions Inside Tholkappia Poonga
Tholkappia Poonga offers several attractions for visitors interested in ecology, botany, and environmental conservation.
1. Nature Trails and Walkways
Explore eco-friendly pathways surrounded by native trees, wetland vegetation, and mangrove habitats.
2. Birdwatching Zones
Spot resident and migratory birds such as herons, kingfishers, and egrets. It’s a paradise for bird photographers and nature enthusiasts.
3. Butterfly Garden
The park hosts several butterfly species attracted by flowering plants and nectar gardens.
4. Medicinal Plant Garden
Learn about indigenous herbal and medicinal plants used in traditional Tamil medicine.
5. Eco-Education Center
Educational exhibits and workshops help visitors understand wetland conservation, biodiversity, and climate impact.
Events and Programs at Tholkappia Poonga
The park regularly conducts environmental programs and educational events to promote ecological awareness among students and the public.
- Environmental Awareness Workshops – for schools and colleges.
- Nature Walks & Birdwatching Tours – conducted by trained ecologists.
- World Wetlands Day & Earth Day Events – celebrated with interactive sessions and eco-activities.
- Photography Contests & Eco-Camps – for young explorers and nature photographers.
These events are usually announced by the Department of Environment, Tamil Nadu, and bookings can be made through official channels.
Future Developments and Plans
Tholkappia Poonga is part of Chennai’s broader Adyar Creek Restoration Project, and several eco-friendly initiatives are planned for the future, including:
- Expansion of the eco-education programs for schools.
- Introduction of online booking for individuals and families.
- Creation of digital learning kiosks to provide information on flora, fauna, and conservation.
- Enhanced visitor amenities such as seating areas, water stations, and guided eco-tours in English and Tamil.
These efforts aim to transform Tholkappia Poonga into one of India’s top urban ecological parks.
Location and How to Reach
Address:
Tholkappia Poonga, Greenways Road, Adyar, Chennai – 600028, Tamil Nadu, India.
How to Reach:
- By Metro: Nearest metro station – Greenways Road Metro Station.
- By Bus: Adyar Bus Depot is the closest stop.
- By Car: Easily accessible via Greenways Road with limited parking available nearby.
Visitor Guidelines
- Entry is only allowed with prior booking.
- Plastic items and food are not permitted inside.
- Photography is allowed in designated areas only.
- Maintain silence to avoid disturbing the flora and fauna.
- Wear comfortable shoes and carry water bottles.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tholkappia Poonga is between November and February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for nature walks. Avoid visiting during the monsoon months as entry may be restricted due to wet pathways.
Nearby Attractions
If you’re planning a day out, you can also explore nearby attractions such as:
- Adyar Theosophical Society
- Elliot’s Beach (Besant Nagar)
- Broken Bridge
- Anna University Campus
Do’s and Don’ts Inside Tholkappia Poonga
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Maintain silence and stay on walking trails | Do not litter or throw objects into water |
| Carry your ID card or e-pass | Do not pluck leaves or flowers |
| Follow instructions of Poonga staff | No smoking or alcohol inside |
| Respect wildlife and park property | Pets not allowed |
| Keep mobile phones on silent mode | Don’t play music or use loudspeakers |
FAQs
1. What is the entry fee for Tholkappia Poonga?
The entry fee for Tholkappia Poonga is usually around ₹20 per person for adults and ₹10 for children. However, prices may vary depending on the type of visit (educational or group).
2. How can I book Tholkappia Poonga tickets online?
Currently, Tholkappia Poonga tickets are available at the entrance gate. Some local tourism websites may also provide advance booking options in the future.
3. What are the opening hours of Tholkappia Poonga?
Tholkappia Poonga is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, usually from Tuesday to Saturday. The park remains closed on Sundays and Mondays.
4. Where is Tholkappia Poonga located in Chennai?
Tholkappia Poonga is located in Adyar, near Greenways Road, Chennai. It’s easily accessible by bus, metro, or taxi from any part of the city.
5. Are cameras allowed inside Tholkappia Poonga?
Photography is usually restricted to preserve the natural habitat. Visitors should check with the authorities at the entrance for camera permissions.
6. Is Tholkappia Poonga suitable for kids and families?
Yes, it’s a great place for kids, families, and nature lovers. The park offers an educational and eco-friendly environment ideal for school trips and family outings.
7. Can I visit Tholkappia Poonga without a guide?
Most visits are conducted with guides to help visitors understand the ecosystem and biodiversity. Solo entry without a guide is generally not allowed.
8. Are there any special events held at Tholkappia Poonga?
Occasionally, Tholkappia Poonga hosts environmental awareness programs, botanical tours, and educational workshops related to ecology and conservation.
9. What are the main attractions inside Tholkappia Poonga?
The park features over 160 plant species, birdwatching spots, eco-restoration zones, and scenic walking trails, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.
10. When is the best time to visit Tholkappia Poonga?
The best time to visit is between November and February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the lush greenery.
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