🦌 Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary: Safari, Birds & Scenic Reservoir
130 sq km of Wilderness | Leopards, Sloth Bears & Bar-Headed Geese | Medak, Telangana
A royal hunting ground turned conservation success. Once a favourite hunting reserve of the Nizams, Pocharam Forest is now a protected wildlife sanctuary. The Nizam’s hunting lodge, built in 1918, still stands inside – though neglected, it offers panoramic views of the reservoir. The sanctuary is named after Pocharam Lake, a man‑made reservoir that forms the centrepiece of this ecosystem. The lake’s nine small islands are critical breeding grounds for birds, freshwater turtles, and mugger crocodiles. The surrounding dry deciduous forest is home to leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, and four species of deer.
The sanctuary’s 4.5 km trail (walk or jeep) takes you through a mosaic of forest and marshland, ending at a central watchtower overlooking the lake – a prime spot for birdwatching. The Pocharam Dam adds to the scenic beauty, with boating and photography opportunities. For those seeking a quiet wildlife experience away from crowded national parks, Pocharam offers a hidden gem.
🦌 Wildlife & Flora Highlights
Mammals: Leopard, Sloth Bear, Panther, Wild Boar, Chital (Spotted Deer), Sambar, Nilgai (Blue Bull), Chinkara (Indian Gazelle), Hyena, Jackal, Mongoose, Indian Hare.
Avifauna (Over 100 species): Bar‑headed Goose (winter migrant), Painted Stork, Open‑billed Stork, Black‑crowned Night Heron, Little Egret, Great Cormorant, Spoonbill, Oriental White Ibis, Brahminy Duck, Common Teal, Pochard, Coot.
Reptiles & Amphibians: Mugger Crocodile (nesting on islands), Freshwater Turtles, Cobra, Monitor Lizard, Marsh Crocodile.
Fish: Catla, Rohu, Murrel, Ech Paten, Karugu, Chidwa.
Flora: The sanctuary is lush with Babul (Acacia), Prosopis, Ipomoea, Typha, Pistia, Hydrilla, Eichhornia (water hyacinth), and Vallisneria. The reservoir edge supports both emergent and submergent aquatic vegetation.
The nine islands provide safe nesting grounds for waterbirds and crocodiles, away from human disturbance.
🚶♂️ Safari & Activities
The main trail is a 4.5 km loop that can be covered by foot (with a forest guide) or by private jeep. The trail passes through dry deciduous forest, open grasslands, and along the reservoir edge, ending at a central watchtower. From the tower, you have a panoramic view of the lake and its islands – the best spot for birdwatching and spotting basking crocodiles. The Eco‑tourism Centre near the entrance has enclosures for antelopes and deer species, and educational displays. Boating is available on the Pocharam Dam reservoir (seasonal).
⏰ Visitor Information
📍 Address & Access
Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary
Medak District, Telangana – 502245
≈150 km from Hyderabad (≈3.5 hours drive)
Nearest town: Medak (≈30 km)
Coordinates: 18.0151°N, 78.3812°E
📞 Forest Enquiries
Medak Forest Division Office
Phone: +91-8452-222206 (representative)
No online booking; entry at the sanctuary gate
🌐 Official Info
🕐 Timings & Entry Fee
Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (daily)
Entry Fee: Free (nominal vehicle/guide charges may apply)
Safari Fee: Negotiate with local guides or use private vehicle
Camera Fee: ₹100 for still camera
Best Season: October – July (avoid August–September monsoon)
⚠️ Note
No facilities inside – carry water and snacks. Wear neutral colours and sturdy shoes. Do not disturb wildlife.
🛣️ How to Reach Pocharam Sanctuary
By Road (from Hyderabad): Take NH44 towards Nizamabad, then turn towards Medak town. From Medak, follow local roads to Pocharam (≈30 km). Total ≈150 km (3.5 hours). Private vehicle or taxi is recommended. Buses from Hyderabad to Medak are available; from Medak, hire a local jeep or auto to the sanctuary.
By Train: Nearest major railway station is Hyderabad (150 km) or Nizamabad (≈80 km). From there, take a taxi to the sanctuary.
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (≈160 km).
🧭 Suggested 1‑Day Itinerary (Hyderabad → Pocharam)
- 6:00 AM: Depart from Hyderabad.
- 9:30 AM: Arrive at Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary. Pay entry fee, arrange guide if needed.
- 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Safari along the 4.5 km trail. Stop at watchtower for birdwatching and croc spotting.
- 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Visit Pocharam Dam – walk on the dam, take photos, and enjoy the reservoir view.
- 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Picnic lunch (carry your own) near the reservoir or at the designated area.
- 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Explore the Eco‑tourism Centre (deer and antelope enclosures).
- 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Optional visit to the Nizam’s hunting lodge (1918 building) – though neglected, offers a historical glimpse.
- 4:00 PM: Return to Hyderabad.
- 7:30 PM: Arrive back.
Tip: Start early to catch the morning bird activity and avoid midday heat.
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
🏨 Where to Stay & Eat
Accommodation
- No accommodation inside the sanctuary.
- Medak town (≈30 km): Haritha Hotel (TSTDC), budget lodges.
- Nizamabad (≈80 km): More hotel options.
- Hyderabad (150 km): Day trip is feasible.
Food & Tips
- No shops inside the sanctuary – carry your own food and water.
- Meals available in Medak town (≈30 km).
- Picnic by the reservoir – carry a mat and packed lunch.
📝 Travel Tips & Responsible Wildlife Viewing
⭐ Pro tip: The sanctuary is less crowded than other wildlife destinations in Telangana. Weekdays are best for solitude. The watchtower overlooks the islands where you can see painted storks nesting and crocodiles basking (during winter). If you are lucky, you may spot bar‑headed geese – a high‑altitude migrant that visits Pocharam in large numbers during December–January. The Nizam’s hunting lodge, though in disrepair, is worth a quick visit for its historical value.
📜 Historical Note – The Nizam’s Hunting Ground
Pocharam Forest was once a privileged hunting reserve for the Nizams of Hyderabad. A large stone building was constructed in 1918 as a hunting lodge, offering panoramic views of the newly formed reservoir (the Allair River dam was built between 1916–1922). Though the building is now neglected and in partial ruins, it stands as a reminder of the region’s royal past. The sanctuary itself was officially established in 1952, after the Nizam’s rule ended, transforming a hunting ground into a protected haven for wildlife.
🙏 Conclusion – A Hidden Wilderness Awaits
Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary may not have the fame of larger tiger reserves, but its tranquil lake, nine islands, and diverse wildlife make it a rewarding destination for nature lovers. The combination of a scenic safari, birdwatching from a watchtower, and the serene Pocharam Dam is unique. Best visited between October and July, this sanctuary offers a quiet escape from the city. Pack your binoculars, start early, and discover the wild heart of Medak.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pocharam Sanctuary open on all days?
A: Yes, open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Q: Can we see tigers here?
A: Tigers are not reported. Leopards and sloth bears are the top predators.
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: Free entry. Vehicle and guide charges may apply.
Q: Can we stay overnight inside the sanctuary?
A: No accommodation inside. Stay in Medak town.
Q: What is the best season for birdwatching?
A: November–February, when migratory birds like bar‑headed geese visit.
Q: How far is Pocharam from Medak?
A: Approximately 30 km (45 minutes drive).
📚 References & More Information
- Wikipedia – Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary
- Medak District Official – Places of Interest
- Telangana Forest Department
- Trawell – Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary Guide
Comments
Post a Comment