Jannaram Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary

🦏 Into the Heart of the Jungle: Kawal Safari

📍 Overview

Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Jannaram forests of Mancherial district, Telangana, was declared the 42nd tiger reserve of India in 2012. Home to around 20 tigers, it is one of Telangana’s most popular wildlife destinations, offering adventure, tranquility, and wildlife encounters.

🌳 About Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary

The sanctuary covers 893 sq km of dense tropical dry deciduous forest, with an additional 1,120 sq km buffer area. It features teak, bamboo, and other native flora. The best time to visit is from November to February when animals are more active and the weather is pleasant.

🦌 Wildlife and Flora

Kawal hosts Cheetal, Sambar, Barking Deer, Nilgai, Sloth Bear, Indian Bison, Panther, and Tiger. Reptiles include Crocodile, Python, Monitor Lizard, and Cobra. Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris and bird-watching trails organized by forest guides.

🛡️ Conservation & Tiger Reserve Status

Kawal was made a tiger reserve due to its potential for tiger migration from the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra. Conservation efforts by HyTICOS and the forest department continue to protect wildlife and habitat quality.

☀️ Best Time to Visit

• Winter (Nov–Feb): Ideal for wildlife viewing
• Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Adds greenery but may limit safaris
• Summer: Dry and hot

📅 Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Safari

Arrive at Jannaram or Mancherial. Check into forest accommodation. Enjoy an afternoon safari and evening nature walk.

Day 2: Bird Watching & Villages

Start early with bird-watching. Visit nearby villages like Dongapalli and Alinagar to experience rural life. Relax by the forest edge in the evening.

Day 3: Return Journey

Morning stroll through forest trails before returning to Hyderabad or Mancherial.

🏞️ Nearby Attractions

• Jannaram Eco-Tourism Zone: Forest cottages and guided tours
• Kadem Dam: Beautiful water reservoir, 60 km away
• Basar Saraswathi Temple: Famous temple, ~90 km away
• Mancherial Town: Nearest town with hotels and restaurants

🛣️ How to Reach

• By Road: Kawal is 50 km from Mancherial and 250 km from Hyderabad; buses and taxis available
• By Rail: Mancherial is the nearest railway station on the Hyderabad–Delhi line
• By Air: Nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad

📝 Travel Tips

• Book safaris and accommodations in advance
• Carry binoculars and camera for wildlife spotting
• Wear light, neutral-colored clothes during safaris
• Respect wildlife and avoid littering

🏨 Where to Stay

Visitors can stay near the forest in Jannaram or in Mancherial town (~50 km away).

1. Jannaram Forest Cottages (Haritha Forest Cottages)

• Location: Jannaram, about 50 km from Mancherial
• Accommodation: AC & non-AC rooms with attached bathrooms
• Amenities: Clean bedding, on-site dining, guided safari and nature walks
• Experience: Early morning safaris and bird-watching sessions
• Booking: Contact TSTDC at +91-9110583839 or official website

2. Accommodation in Mancherial

• Budget and mid-range hotels, guesthouses
• Good for travelers seeking urban comforts and amenities

❓ FAQ

Q: When was Kawal declared a Tiger Reserve?
A: 2012

Q: What animals can be seen?
A: Tigers, deer, bears, crocodiles, and various bird species

Q: Is there accommodation nearby?
A: Yes, in Jannaram and Mancherial

Q: Best season to visit?
A: Winter (Nov–Feb)