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Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Coimbatore Campus Life
location
Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 11 January 2026

More About SACON

Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), located in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, is a premier autonomous institution dedicated to avian and natural history research and education. Established in 1990 under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, SACON honours the legacy of Dr. Sálim Ali, India''s renowned ornithologist. It stands as a distinguished centre for conservation science, fostering ecological understanding vital for India''s rich biodiversity and promoting sustainable practices.

SACON offers highly specialized academic programs, affiliated with Bharathiar University, Coimbatore. These include a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Wildlife Biology & Conservation, with an annual intake of 15 students, and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Ornithology & Natural History. These programs are designed for students passionate about environmental science and conservation. Admission to the M.Sc. program is via a rigorous SACON Entrance Test, while Ph.D. candidates often qualify through CSIR/UGC NET JRF or the SACON entrance. The curriculum combines robust theoretical learning with extensive practical field experience, preparing students for impactful careers in wildlife management, ecological research, and conservation.

The centre''s serene 55-acre campus provides an excellent environment for scientific inquiry, equipped with modern laboratories, a comprehensive natural history library, and essential field facilities. A dedicated team of approximately 20 scientists and research staff, who are experts in ornithology, animal behaviour, and conservation biology, actively mentor students and lead significant research projects, contributing to national conservation efforts. SACON''s unique academic setting promotes a collaborative community where students gain invaluable hands-on experience, often participating in critical field-based conservation initiatives. Alumni frequently secure fulfilling roles in governmental conservation agencies, leading NGOs, academic research institutions, and international environmental organizations, thereby playing a crucial part in safeguarding India''s natural heritage.

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Campus Area

55

Total Seat

15

Year Of Established

1990

Courses Offered at SACON

Specializations

Master of Philosophy

Specializations

Ph.D

Nearest Attractions at SACON

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Coimbatore International Airport

48 km

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Gandhipuram Central Bus Stand, Coimbatore

38 km

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KMCH Hospital, Coimbatore

38 km

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Coimbatore Junction

38 km

Campus Facilities at SACON

Academic Spaces

Board Room

Conference Hall / Auditorium

Seminar Room

Accommodation for Parents

Guest House

Basic Services

Power Backup System

Reprographic Services

Water Supply System

Entry/Exit Rules

General Access Control

Food Options

Central Canteen

Hostel Facilities

Boys Hostel

Girls Hostel

IT Facilities

Campus Network & Internet

Computer Lab

Laboratories

Analytical Lab

Bio-acoustics Lab

Entomology Lab

Field Equipment Unit

GIS & Remote Sensing Lab

Herpetology Lab

Library

Central Library

Medical Facilities

Emergency Medical Services (Arul Hospital Tie-up)

First Aid Unit

Safety & Security

General Campus Security

Sports & Fitness

Badminton Court

Indoor Games Area

Volleyball Court

Transport Services

Campus Vehicle Fleet

Parking Facility

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Erlene Lobo

5

Best research facility in India for conducting research on migratory birds and also on Preventing Bird Strikes in Aviation. Feathered and winged friends need not collide with aircrafts to lose their precious lives at flight. Ornithologists can collectively draw a bird map of India and submit it to the civil aviation authorities in India to prevent Bird / Avian Strike Hazards.

Anoob Prakash

5

A campus with in nature for the sole purpose of research.. Was fortunate to take part in a workshop here, one of the best I had attended.. Actually that's a lie, it was the BEST ever... The faculty was so down to earth and willing to help.. Kudos for such a friendly environment.. The canteen is good, provides a mix of north and south in such a way that, it's a delicacy of it's own.. Though the while campus is huge, only few buildings are in place right now, but more are coming up, without destroying the environment in the process of development, which is commendable.. Elephants are quite common in the campus, although I personally did not come in contact with one, I did hear its trumpet sound.. It's advised not to roam around the campus in the dark, after twilight hours.. And they have a nature trail for those interested in enjoying the campus and fulfill your birding cravings.. Note: do not go near the street light after 6.30 pm, it's equipped to sound alarm when some one gets near it, its not very bad, but it sort of get on your nerves.. Alas its for security, so need to adjust with it..

Akshay Shinde

5

Campus with wildlife and superb Staff. Learning experience here is just something one keeps dreaming about.

GOVIND GIRIJA

5

Around one hour journey from Coimbatore Town. But well connected with bus in every 20-30minutes to and fro. Should ask the conductor to drop at 'Salim Ali' and not SACON or Anaikatty. From the bus stop there's an enjoyable walkable distance of about 1 kilometer. The campus is just awesome with plenty of greenery. Early mornings you may find mammal sightings and lots and lots of birds..Any nature enthusiast will love this place. Architecture of the campus will drag you out of the world. The ambiance and the people who works there are so gentle and nice. Canteen facility is provided, need to take coupon early if you are a guest.

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