Top 7 Wildlife Sanctuary in Telangana You Must Explore

Telangana may be best known for its rich cultural heritage but its landscapes are equally captivating as this landlocked state is adorned with diverse ecosystems that range from river valleys to dense forests. Telangana is home to species like mammals, reptiles and birds. The Wildlife Sanctuary in Telangana offer a mix of scenic beauty and conservation significance which makes them a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.

Telangana’s sanctuaries promise you the charm of watching migratory birds or soak in the peacefulness of lush greenery. In this informative and detailed guide, let’s explore the most fascinating Wildlife Sanctuary in Telangana, each with its own unique character, seasonal highlights and special attractions for visitors of all ages.

1. Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Wildlife Sanctuary

Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam is a massive protected area that stands out as one of the largest tiger reserves in India. It is famous for its breathtaking landscape which is a dramatic mix of deep valleys, steep cliffs, and plateaus. The sanctuary spreads across multiple districts, making it a significant hub for biodiversity. Visitors here can spot an impressive range of animals including majestic tigers, elusive leopards, spotted deers, blackbucks, chinkaras, and four-horned antelopes.

What makes this sanctuary truly special is its location around the Krishna River. The river cuts through the Nallamala Hills, creating deep gorges that are a sight to behold. This sanctuary is also part of the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, emphasizing its critical role in saving our national animal. Apart from jeep safaris, visitors can enjoy boat rides on the Krishna River. These boat rides offer stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and, if you are lucky, you might see mugger crocodiles basking on the banks or animals coming down to drink water. The best time to visit is during the winter months when the weather is cool and pleasant for exploration.

Also Read: Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries in India for Nature and Wildlife Lovers

2. Mahaveer Harina Vanasthali National Park

Mahaveer Harina Vanasthali National Park is located in Vanasthalipuram, on the outskirts of Hyderabad. Often referred to simply as the Deer Park, it was once the hunting ground of the Nizams of Hyderabad. Today, it stands as a testament to conservation, providing a safe haven for the state animal of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, the Blackbuck. It is home to hundreds of blackbucks, along with porcupines, monitor lizards, eagles, and various other bird species, making it a great spot for quick nature outings without traveling too far from the city.

The park is very well-developed to cater to tourists and educational groups. It features well-maintained walking trails, interpretation centres, and viewing towers that give you a panoramic view of the grassland ecosystem. Families often visit for picnics, while school groups use it as an outdoor classroom to learn about local flora and fauna. Spotting a herd of blackbucks leaping gracefully across the grass is a unique and unforgettable experience to capture in the cameras. The park also plays a crucial role in educating the urban population about the importance of protecting wildlife in our rapidly growing cities.

3. Mrugavani National Park

Mrugavani National Park is located in Hyderabad, specifically near Chilkur, and serves as a vital green lung for the bustling metropolis. Its dry vegetation and rocky terrain are typical of the Deccan Plateau and support a surprising number of animal and bird species. It is a popular place for morning walks and nature trails for locals and tourists as it offers a peaceful environment in the heart of the city. The park covers a relatively small area but is densely packed with nature’s wonders.

It is a famous place to sight spotted deers, Indian hares, civet cats, leopards, porcupines, barn owls, pythons, and parakeets. The park authorities have done an excellent job of making it visitor-friendly. This national park also has a wildlife museum, an auditorium, and a library to learn in detail about the flora and fauna of this state. For those who want a closer look at the animals without disturbing them, there is a safari ride available that takes you inside the core areas of the park. It is a perfect weekend getaway for families looking to introduce their children to nature.

Also Read: 11 Coldest Place in South India You Must Visit in 2025

4. Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary

This wildlife sanctuary is one of the oldest in Telangana and shares its boundaries with the neighbouring states of Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh. It runs along the Godavari River and features tropical dry deciduous forests that are lush and dense. The sanctuary is located in the Mulugu district and is known for its undulating terrain. Visitors can spot tigers, leopards, mouse deers, sloth bears, wild dogs, and flying squirrels in their natural habitat.

Eturnagaram is famous for its Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara, which is a massive tribal festival held nearby. This adds a unique cultural dimension to a wildlife trip here, allowing visitors to experience the traditions of the local Koya tribes. For photographers, the early morning mist over the Godavari River provides a perfect backdrop for capturing the park’s beauty.

You may also find tree fossils and prehistoric caves if you pay good attention during your trip, adding an element of historical mystery to your visit. The Dayyam Vagu, a perennial water source, divides the sanctuary and is a great spot to see animals quenching their thirst.

5. Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary 

Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary, which is also called KWS, was declared a tiger reserve in 2012 and is well known for its rich variety of plants and animals. Located in the Adilabad district, it was traditionally a popular hunting ground but is now a protected zone. Spread within deep forests of the state, it provides perfect opportunities for capturing the wild in its most raw form. The sanctuary serves as a carbon sink and is vital for the region’s climate.

The river Godavari and Kadam flow south of this sanctuary, providing the necessary water sources that support species like tigers, leopards, spotted deers, sambar, nilgai, black-headed orioles, and purple sunbirds.

The diverse ecosystem of this wildlife sanctuary attracts thousands of wildlife photographers from across the globe who come to document the teak forests and bamboo clusters. The sanctuary is also trying to reintroduce species and improve prey density to support the tiger population. Staying in the forest guest houses nearby allows you to experience the sounds of the jungle at night, which is a thrilling experience.

6. Manjeera Crocodile Wildlife Sanctuary

Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary is well known for being home to a significant population of freshwater mugger crocodiles. Located near Sangareddy, this sanctuary is unique because it is centered around a reservoir and river system rather than a forest. The Manjeera reservoir also attracts migratory birds that include pelicans, painted storks, and cranes, making it a haven for both reptile and bird lovers. It is officially recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA).

The sanctuary is spread across nine small islands in the reservoir, creating a distinct habitat that supports distinct aquatic life. It also has an environmental education centre, an auditorium, a museum, and a library for spreading conservational awareness for wildlife. Visitors can enjoy guided boat tours which provide a close yet safe view of the crocodiles basking on the mudbanks and nesting waterbirds feeding their young.

The sight of hundreds of crocodiles sunbathing together is both terrifying and mesmerizing. It is an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially during the winter when migratory birds arrive in large flocks.

7. Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary

Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Mancherial district along the banks of river Pranhita, which is a major tributary of the river Godavari. The sanctuary is renowned for its prehistoric rock formations and fossils, linking it to the age of dinosaurs. The ancient Deccan plateau and its prehistoric rocky terrain blending beautifully with the dry deciduous forests offer you a stunning view of nature here. The landscape changes dramatically with the seasons, turning lush green during the monsoons.

Visitors can spot species such as leopards, forest cats, langurs, rhesus macaques, blackbucks, jackals, four-horned antelopes, star tortoises, and pied cuckoos. The sanctuary is relatively less commercialized, offering a more secluded and authentic wilderness experience. Truly, Pranahita serves as a perfect haven for both wildlife photographers and bird watchers who prefer quiet environments. The presence of the river ensures that the area remains cool and attracts birds throughout the year. It is a place where geology and biology meet to create a fascinating destination.

31 Jungle Tours: Experience Wildlife Sanctuary in Telangana

Exploring the wildlife sanctuaries in Telangana is an adventure of  a lifetime and 31 Jungle Tours is here to make it truly unforgettable for you. We take you beyond the usual tourist routes to reveal the hidden gems of Telangana’s wild side with our deep knowledge of the local areas and passion for nature.

Our carefully designed trips cater to wildlife lovers, photographers and families. Every journey is conducted with a strong commitment to conservation in order to make sure your visit leaves only careful footprints and cherished memories.

Conclusion

The Wildlife Sanctuary in Telangana reveal the state’s natural beauty and biodiversity in all its richness. From the dense teak forests of Kawal to the bird-filled islands of Manjeera, every sanctuary offers you a unique chance to reconnect with the wild and appreciate the value of conservation. These sanctuaries are essential for maintaining the ecological balance and providing a refuge for our precious wildlife.

Start your adventure today with 31 Jungle Tours. Visit us to plan your next adventurous visit and explore the spectacular wildlife sanctuaries in Telangana with unmatched expertise and care for the environment.

FAQs for Wildlife Sanctuary in Telangana