Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve: India’s Hidden Jungle Gem

About

The Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR) is one of India’s largest and most significant tiger reserves in India, located in the Nallamala hill ranges of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Locations covered:
- Andhra Pradesh: Prakasam, Kurnool, Guntur
- Telangana: Nalgonda, Mahabubnagar
Area: ~3,728 sq km (largest tiger reserve in India).
Established: 1983 as a wildlife sanctuary, declared a tiger reserve in 1984.
Key Wildlife: Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian gaurs, sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boars, and over 150 bird species.
Rivers: Krishna River is the major water source, with tributaries like Dindi, Peddavagu, and others.
Reservoirs: Includes the Nagarjunasagar Dam and Srisailam Dam, key for irrigation and power generation.

Safari Zones in NSTR

The reserve has multiple entry points and safari zones. The main ones are:

A. Srisailam (Mallapur) Zone (Andhra Pradesh)

Entry Point: Near Srisailam Dam.
Safari Types:
- Jeep Safari (Best for tiger sightings)
- Boat Safari (Along Krishna River for aquatic birds & crocodiles)
Best Time: Early morning (6 AM – 9 AM) or evening (3 PM – 6 PM).

B. Farahabad Zone (Telangana Side)

Entry Point: Farahabad, near Achampet.
Safari Type: Jeep Safari (Dense forest area, good for predators).
Highlights: Chenchu tribal huts, scenic viewpoints.

C. Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary (Near NSTR, AP)

Specialty: Great Indian Bustard habitat (rare bird sightings).

Safari Booking Details

How to Book?

Online: https://nstr.co.in/booking/
Offline: At the respective forest office near entry gates.

Safari Timings & Cost

Safari Type	Approx. Cost (Per Person)	Duration
Jeep Safari (AP Side)	₹800-₹1,500 (for entire jeep)	2-3 hours
Jeep Safari (Telangana Side)	₹600-₹1,200 (for entire jeep)	2-3 hours
Boat Safari	₹300-₹500 per person	1-2 hours

Note: Prices may vary; foreign nationals may have higher fees.

Accommodation

Inside the Reserve

AP Tourism Jungle Lodges (Srisailam) – Premium stay with guided tours.
Farahabad Guest House (Telangana side) – Budget-friendly forest rest house.

FAQ

How to Reach Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve?
By Air:
- Nearest Airport (AP Side): Vijayawada Airport (~190 km from Srisailam).
- Nearest Airport (Telangana Side): Hyderabad Airport (~220 km from Farahabad).
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station (AP Side): Markapur Road (~85 km from Srisailam).
- Nearest Railway Station (Telangana Side): Mahabubnagar (~120 km from Farahabad).
By Road:
- Well-connected via NH44 and state highways.
- From Hyderabad: ~4-5 hours drive to Farahabad.
- From Vijayawada: ~5-6 hours drive to Srisailam.
What Wildlife Can Be Spotted?
- Big Cats: Tigers, leopards
- Herbivores: Indian gaur, sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boar
- Birds: Crested serpent eagle, peafowl, grey junglefowl
- Reptiles: Marsh crocodiles, Indian rock python
- Rare Species: Sloth bear, pangolin, hyena
What Is the Best Time to Visit?
- October – March: Ideal (pleasant weather, good sightings).
- April – June: Very hot but better for predator sightings near waterholes.
- July – September: Monsoon (some zones may close; lush greenery but fewer sightings).
Are There Any Restrictions?
- No plastic (strictly enforced).
- No smoking or loud noises.
- Stay inside the safari vehicle at all times.
- Drones prohibited without permission.
What Should I Carry for the Safari?
✔ Valid ID proof (for permit verification).
✔ Neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors).
✔ Binoculars & camera (with zoom lens).
✔ Water bottle.
✔ Light snacks (no littering allowed).
Are Guides Provided?

Yes, trained forest guides accompany every safari jeep. They help track animals and share insights about flora & fauna.

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Nearby Places to Visit

Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple – One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, a highly revered Shiva temple.
Nagarjunasagar Dam – One of India’s largest dams.
Ethipothala Falls – Scenic waterfall.
Undavalli Caves – Ancient rock-cut caves.