If you are a lover of animals and enjoy exploring forests and observing wildlife in their natural surroundings, wildlife sanctuaries are the optimal place to be in. Andhra Pradesh, the fifth largest state in India, is home to numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that are worth visiting. However, the only drawback is that each sanctuary is spread out across the state. To make the most out of your experience, we recommend planning an itinerary and taking a long vacation. For those who are interested in learning more about animal reserves and wildlife sanctuaries in Andhra Pradesh, we have compiled a list of options for you.
8 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries In Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh is a naturally rich area with abundant vegetation and wildlife. It is not only the management of these areas but also the efforts of officials in maintaining the sanctuaries that have kept the animals in excellent conditions. The wildlife diversity is extensive, ranging from deer to bears, making Andhra Pradesh a worthwhile destination. Here are some of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in Andhra Pradesh:
- Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary
- Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary
- Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Sanctuary
- Nagarjuna Sagar – Srisailam Sanctuary
- Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary
- Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary And Rayala Elephant Reserve
- Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated approximately 18 km away from the port city of Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh, the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the top wildlife sanctuaries in the state. The sanctuary is renowned for its extensive mangrove vegetation and dry deciduous forest. It is known for its diverse range of bird species as well as small fish and shrimp populations. Over 120 species of birds have been recorded in the sanctuary. Additionally, the sanctuary is home to various wildlife such as the golden jackal, fishing cat, and sea turtle.
Recommended for: Families, friends, couples
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 hours
Location: Coringa, East Godavari Dist, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh 533461
Tip: Ensure that you maintain silence to avoid disturbing the wildlife.
2. Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary
If you are anywhere around Visakhapatnam and have been meaning to witness a wildlife sanctuary, the Kambala Konda wildlife sanctuary is one of the finest choices. It is spread across an area of 70.7 sq.km. It has an expanse of the arid evergreen forest with a wide variety of bushes and meadows around which makes it one of the most renowned wildlife sanctuaries in Andhra Pradesh. Some of the main animals that are observed there include Indian barking deer, leopard, wild pig, jungle cat, sambar deer, spotted deer and much more. There is a wide variety of reptiles and birds as well.
Perfect For: Family, companions, couplesIdeal Trip Duration: 3-4 hoursLocation: Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 531173Tip: Avoid wearing vibrant colored garments for wildlife excursions.
3. Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary
Located approximately 40 km away from Kurnool, the Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in Andhra Pradesh. The place is known for the habitat of the Great Indian Bustard, which is one of the rarest species of birds found. More than animals, people visiting this sanctuary come here to witness the multitude of migratory birds that congregate from all directions.
The sanctuary spans across an area of 6.14 sq.km and was established back in 1988 as a means to control the population of the Indian Bustard. The region is covered in arid grassland, which does possess a very distinct type of vegetation, unlike the other choices. This is also considered as the central location for the majority of the migratory birds. Apart from the birds, some of the animal species observed in the sanctuary include deer, blackbucks, foxes, bonnet macaques, jackals, sloth bears, and even the jungle cats.
Perfect For: Family and companionsIdeal Trip Duration: One dayLocation: Rollapadu, Andhra Pradesh 518405Tip: If you are going for a photography tour, ensure it is planned meticulously.
4. Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Reserve
If you are visiting Tirumala and desire to explore the areas nearby, paying a visit to the Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Reserve is an absolute necessity. This wildlife reserve is situated merely 15 km away from the main city of Tirumala, making it an extremely popular site to visit and discover. It is one of the most extensive wildlife reserves in Andhra Pradesh and extends across an area of 353 sq.km.
The reserve was constructed back in 1989 and is enveloped with thick and luxuriant greenery, making it an incredible sight. The reserve is also inhabited by a diverse range of animal species including tiger, blackbuck, panther, spotted deer, bonnet monkey, bison, fox, jackal, along with a wide variety of migratory birds to mention a few. This place does offer various hiking trails that you can embark on and explore. They have two different entry points for hiking that you can further explore.
Ideal For: Companions and individual excursionsIdeal Trip Duration: Half a day to 3 days (depending on the hiking trail)Location: KT Road, near Nandi Statue Circle, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517505Tip: Ensure that you have a guide throughout the adventurous trip.
5. Nagarjuna Sagar – Srisailam Reserve
tourism.telangana.gov
If you wish to explore something that is situated between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, the Nagarjuna Sagar – Srisailam Reserve is probably one of the finest wildlife reserves in and around Andhra Pradesh. It is located approximately 60 km away from the Nagarjuna Sagar and certainly provides one of the best experiences that you can witness in the region.
This is the biggest tiger reserve in the country and extends across 3568 sq.km. It is nestled between the Nagarjunasagar reservoir and the Srisailam reservoir. Apart from tigers, the reserve also houses numerous other wildlife including panthers, tigers, spotted deer, sambars, nilgai, wolves, and several other animals as well. The jeep safari lasts for 1 hour 30 minutes and can cost around INR 800 per person, but the experience is worth every single penny that you spend.
Perfect For: Family, companions, couplesRecommended Trip Duration: 1 dayLocation: Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh 518101Hint: Avoid wearing potent perfumes and fragrances while visiting the sanctuary.
6. Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary
: forests.ap.gov
Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned as one of the most exceptional eco-regions worldwide, encompassing a vast area filled with serene mangrove forests. This destination is cherished by conservationists as one of the last remaining regions of premium mangrove forests in the southern part of the country. Located in the coastal plain of Krishna delta, this wildlife sanctuary spans across two districts in Andhra Pradesh, namely Krishna and Guntur. From Sorlagondi Reserve Forest to Kothapalem Reserve Forest, from Yelichetladibba Reserve Forest to Molagunta Reserve Forest, various types of forests can be found in this sanctuary, adding to its immense splendor.
Perfect For: Family, companions, couplesRecommended Trip Duration: 2 hoursLocation: Andhra Pradesh 521120Hint: Make sure to bring your cameras and capture the beauty of this estuary.
7. Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary And Rayala Elephant Reserve
: Thomas Schoch for Wikimedia Commons
Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary is not only a sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh but also serves as an elephant reserve, housing a significant population of Asian elephants that migrated to this area from neighboring regions between 1983 and 1986. A considerable number of these species moved from the forests in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka in search of more adaptable homes. As a result, the government established this sanctuary in December 1990. Presently, approximately 72 elephants can be observed residing in these forests. The towering hills and breathtaking meadows of this sanctuary add the perfect touch of grandeur!
Perfect For: Family, companionsRecommended Trip Duration: 3 hoursLocation: Andhra Pradesh, IndiaHint: Do not disturb the elephants that inhabit these forests. It is illegal to harm them in any way.
8. Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary
: minka2507 for Pixabay
Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary, is one of the must-visit reserves in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh. This wildlife sanctuary is spread across the area of 1,194 sq kilometers and covers the districts of Prakasam to Kurnool. There is a vast range of species that can be observed residing in the luxuriant forests of this sanctuary. Some of the common sightings in this sanctuary include tigers, sloth bears, pythons, wild dogs, and many more. This sanctuary is renowned for the tranquil forests of Nallamala that are the final remnants of the tracts found in this region.
Ideal For: Families and couplesIdeal Trip Duration: 2 hoursLocation: Andhra PradeshTip: Avoid littering the wildlife sanctuary.
If you have been pondering about the wildlife reserves in Andhra Pradesh, these are the most popular ones present. Each and every one of them possesses their distinct characteristics that make it a worthwhile visit unlike any other. So, why wait? Plan a journey to Andhra Pradesh and ensure that you have your arrangements sorted out accordingly so you can maximize your experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Wildlife Sanctuaries In Andhra Pradesh
How many wildlife reserves are there in Andhra Pradesh?
There are approximately 13 wildlife reserves and national parks and biosphere reserves situated in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana included. Two out of those are exclusively for tigers and elephants.
Is there a jeep safari available in the wildlife reserves in AP?
Not every wildlife sanctuary will offer jeep safari choices, so ensure that you plan accordingly. Approximately, the available safari choices will last about 1-2 hours and the cost will vary.
Is there a specific time of the year that one should visit the wildlife sanctuary?
While the animals will be present throughout the year, it is the migratory birds that most people visit during the season they come.
What are the general operating hours?
Most sanctuaries are open from 9 in the morning and close around 5-6 in the evening.
Can children be brought along in the sanctuaries in Andhra Pradesh?
Children are allowed inside, as long as you have all the safety precautions sorted out. Always ensure their safety and keep them away from the wild animals.
Are there lodging options inside the sanctuaries?
Not every sanctuary will have accommodation options, but there are a few that do. You just need to research about it.
Is trekking permitted inside the sanctuary?
Some sanctuaries do not allow trekking without permission, so make sure to check before violating any rules.
How many bird sanctuaries are there in Andhra Pradesh?
There are a total of six avian sanctuaries in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh.
Name renowned national parks in Andhra Pradesh.
There are three national parks in Andhra Pradesh namely: 1. Sri Venkateswara National Park 2. Rajiv Gandhi National Park 3. Papikonda National Park
How many tiger reserves are there in Andhra Pradesh?
There is only one tiger reserve in Andhra Pradesh called Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve.
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