90 Km from Thanjavur or Tanjore, Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary is often also referred to as Kodikkarai Wildlife Sanctuary. Stretching across an area of 17.26 sq. km., it is surrounded by ble waters of the sea and mesmerizing beaches. The beautiful locales, tidal swamp forests and dry evergreen forests of mangroves, make the Kodikkarai coastal sanctuary, a delightful and adventurous wilderness destination. The wetland jutting out into the Palk Strait separating India and Sri Lanka, the highlights of the area are the migratory waterfowls such as Flamingos that come to seek refuge here in winters. The flora consists of mostly shrubs; the sanctuary recently faced a problem of survival in the wake of violent monsoon winds, feral cattle, horses and bucks. Presently, lobster is being cultivated here to again attract the birds to the place.

The varied wildlife here consists of Chitals, Wild Boars, Bonnet Macaques, Black Bucks, Flamingos, Teals, Gulls, Terns, Plavers and Stilts along with the Dolphins and Turtles that quite often come very close to the shores. The best season to visit the sanctuary is between November and January, when there are Teals, Curlews, Gulls, Terns, Plovers, Sandpipers, Shanks, Herons and about 3000 Flamingoes all over the tidal mud flats and marshes. In springtime you can see Koels, Mynas, Barbets and a profusion of wild berries. The Forest Department Rest House at Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary has adequate rooms and provide meals too.