Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary (also spelled Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary) is a protected wetland ecosystem located along the Manjira River in Sangareddy district, Telangana, about 50 km from Hyderabad. Established in June 1978, the sanctuary covers about 20 sq. km and follows the Manjira River for approximately 36 km. It was originally established as a crocodile sanctuary to protect the vulnerable mugger crocodile. More than 70 bird species are documented at the sanctuary, while broader bird surveys and wildlife assessments have reported substantially higher numbers of species sightings. The wetland contains nine small islands, including Puttigadda, Bapangadda, Sangamadda and Karnamgadda, which provide nesting and roosting habitat for waterbirds. Visitors can experience boating, birdwatching and the Environmental Education Centre, which includes facilities related to wetland and wildlife awareness. The nearby village of Kalabgur also has a stone temple traditionally said to date to the Kakatiya period.
A wetland conservation landscape. In the 1970s, the mugger crocodile population in the Manjira region had declined severely. Historical accounts report that only a small number of crocodiles remained, and conservation measures led to the establishment of a crocodile sanctuary in June 1978. Later, the area became increasingly important for birdwatching and aquatic bird surveys.
The sanctuary follows the Manjira River for about 36 km and encompasses a reservoir and a group of nine small islands. The islands and their marshy margins provide habitat for resident and migratory waterbirds. The Manjira reservoir is also part of the water-supply system serving Hyderabad and Secunderabad, giving the wetland importance beyond wildlife conservation.
Flora & Fauna Highlights
Flora: The sanctuary contains open-water, marsh and riverine habitats surrounded in places by dry savannah-type vegetation. Plants recorded around the reservoir include Typha, Ipomoea, Acacia, Prosopis and other aquatic and semi-aquatic vegetation. Agricultural land occurs around parts of the reservoir and river.
Fauna: The mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) is the sanctuary's principal conservation species. Other reptiles recorded in the wider sanctuary environment include monitor lizards, freshwater turtles and snakes. Mammals reported from the area include Indian hare, wild boar, mongoose and jackal.
Avifauna: More than 70 bird species are documented in commonly cited sanctuary references. Separate wildlife assessments and bird surveys have reported considerably broader species lists, including migrant species. Notable birds recorded from the wetland include:
Historical sanctuary references report a much smaller number of species as regular breeding birds, rather than claiming that more than 70 species breed within the sanctuary. The islands and marshy fringes nevertheless provide important nesting and roosting habitat for waterbirds.
Environmental Education Centre – Museum, Library & Auditorium
Located at the sanctuary headquarters, the Environmental Education Centre supports environmental awareness and interpretation. Published descriptions of the centre include:
- Museum: Exhibits relating to the biodiversity of the Manjira wetlands, wildlife and crocodile conservation.
- Library: Reference material related to birds, wildlife and environmental studies.
- Auditorium: A space used for films, awareness programmes and educational activities.
Earlier visitor information has also described binoculars and bird-identification books being made available through the centre. Availability of these facilities and programmes may vary, so visitors should confirm current arrangements before travelling.
Kalabgur Temple – Traditional Kakatiya-Period Heritage
On the banks of the Manjira River, in the village of Kalabgur, stands a historic stone temple traditionally said to have been constructed around 800 years ago during the Kakatiya period. The temple is associated with Lord Shiva and is described in published accounts as being constructed entirely of stone, with substantial carved pillars and other medieval architectural elements. Other deities, including Krishna, Ganapathy and Saraswathi, are also associated with the temple complex. The approximately 800-year date should be treated as a traditional/historical attribution rather than a precisely established construction date.
Visitor Information – Timings & Access
Address & Access
Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary
Near Sangareddy, Sangareddy District, Telangana
Nearest town: Sangareddy (about 5 km)
From Hyderabad: Approximately 50 km by road, depending on the starting point and route.
Coordinates: 17.9644°N, 78.0394°E
Contact & Enquiries
Forest Department: Visitor arrangements, boating, entry rules and educational-centre access should be confirmed with the Telangana Forest Department before travel.
Online updates: Telangana Forest Department (forest.telangana.gov.in)
Timings & Visitor Facilities
Visiting Hours: Operating hours can vary according to Forest Department regulations, weather and local conditions. Confirm before visiting.
Entry Fee: Fees, if applicable, should be confirmed locally before travel.
Boating: Boat services have historically been available for birdwatching, subject to operating conditions, water levels and Forest Department arrangements.
Photography: Personal photography may be permitted subject to sanctuary rules. Commercial or professional photography may require additional permission or charges.
Best Season: November – March is traditionally regarded as the best period for migratory birdwatching.
Note: Carry binoculars, maintain silence around birds and follow all Forest Department instructions. Current visitor facilities should be confirmed before travelling.
How to Reach Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary
By Road (from Hyderabad): Take NH-65 towards Sangareddy. The sanctuary is approximately 5 km from Sangareddy town. From Sangareddy, continue toward the Manjira sanctuary and visitor facilities. A private vehicle or taxi is convenient for visitors travelling from Hyderabad.
By Bus: Sangareddy is well connected by road with Hyderabad and other parts of Telangana. From Sangareddy, local transport or a taxi can be used to reach the sanctuary.
By Train: Sangareddy does not have a railway station. Nearby rail options include Shankarpalli and Lingampally, with Secunderabad and Nampally providing additional rail access. Continue from the railway station by road to Sangareddy and the sanctuary.
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad, is the nearest major airport. The Sangareddy district administration gives an approximate distance of 70 km from Sangareddy to the airport, while the sanctuary itself may be somewhat closer depending on the route.
Suggested Half-Day Itinerary (Hyderabad to Manjira)
- 7:00 AM: Depart from Hyderabad.
- 8:30 AM: Arrive in the Sangareddy–Manjira area and check current sanctuary/boating arrangements.
- 8:45 AM – 10:30 AM: If boat services are operating, explore the reservoir and islands for crocodiles and waterbirds. Keep binoculars ready.
- 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Visit the Environmental Education Centre, subject to opening and current visitor arrangements.
- 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: If accessible, visit the historic Kalabgur temple and observe its stone architecture.
- 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch in or around Sangareddy. Carry food and drinking water if facilities are uncertain.
- 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Optionally visit nearby attractions such as Singur Dam or Sangareddy Fort, subject to current access conditions.
- 2:30 PM: Begin the return journey to Hyderabad.
- 4:00 PM: Approximate return to Hyderabad, depending on traffic.
Tip: Early morning is generally preferable for birdwatching because bird activity is often higher and temperatures are more comfortable. Boat operations should be confirmed before making a dedicated trip.
Nearby Attractions
Where to Stay & Eat
Accommodation
- Forest Department Inspection Bungalows: Historical visitor information has listed accommodation at Sangareddy, Singur and Sadasivapet. Availability and booking procedures should be confirmed directly with the Forest Department.
- Sangareddy: The town provides the most convenient base for visitors wanting to stay close to the sanctuary.
- Hyderabad: Many accommodation options are available for visitors planning a day trip.
Food & Tips
- Food facilities immediately around the sanctuary may be limited.
- Carry drinking water and snacks, particularly for early-morning visits.
- For a wider choice of restaurants and supplies, Sangareddy town is the practical option.
Travel Tips & Responsible Birdwatching
Visitor Tips – What You Need to Know:
- Bring binoculars and a field guide – more than 70 bird species are documented, with broader surveys recording additional species.
- Telephoto lens recommended for bird photography while maintaining a safe distance from wildlife.
- Wear subdued colours if possible to reduce disturbance to birds.
- Maintain silence – avoid loud conversations, music and sudden movements near nesting and roosting areas.
- Use designated boating services and follow boat operators' and Forest Department instructions.
- Carry drinking water – visitor facilities may be limited.
- Avoid plastics and litter – carry waste back out of the sanctuary.
- Do not feed or approach wildlife, including crocodiles and nesting birds.
- Confirm current timings, boating and entry arrangements before travelling, as facilities can change according to season and local conditions.
Pro Tip: November–March is traditionally considered the best period for birdwatching because of the presence of migratory waterbirds. Early morning visits generally provide better conditions for observing birds and other wildlife. The Environmental Education Centre and boating facilities are useful components of the visit when they are operating, but their current availability should be confirmed in advance.
Conservation History – The Mugger Crocodile
The conservation history of Manjira is closely associated with the mugger crocodile. Historical accounts state that by the 1970s the species had become severely depleted in the Manjira region, with only a small number of animals remaining. A crocodile sanctuary was established in June 1978, and the site subsequently became involved in crocodile breeding and reintroduction efforts.
Older published descriptions have estimated the sanctuary's crocodile population at approximately 400–600 individuals. Because this figure is not a current 2026 census, it should be treated as a historical/commonly reported estimate rather than a confirmed present-day population count. A 2018 reassessment documented the importance of Manjeera as a crocodile conservation site and traced the species' recovery through earlier breeding and reintroduction programmes.
2026 Ramsar Proposal – Manjira Wetland
Manjira has gained renewed conservation attention in 2026. The Telangana State Board for Wildlife called for proposals to seek recognition of the Manjira Reservoir as a Ramsar Convention wetland site, which would give the wetland international recognition if the proposal is eventually approved. In May 2026, the proposal was reported as being under consideration, with further views and processing required before submission to the Union government.
Important: Manjira is not currently a designated Ramsar site. The Ramsar status remains a proposal and should not be described as an existing designation unless and until official approval is granted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary open on weekends?
A: Visitor access and operating schedules can vary. Confirm the current opening days and timings with the Forest Department before travelling.
Q: Can we see crocodiles?
A: Mugger crocodiles are an important species of the sanctuary and have historically been observed around the reservoir and islands. Sightings are never guaranteed, and visitors should maintain a safe distance.
Q: Is there a guide available for birdwatching?
A: Boat operators and Forest Department personnel may provide local assistance when services are operating. Availability should be confirmed in advance.
Q: Are there restaurants inside the sanctuary?
A: Food facilities may be limited. Carry water and snacks, and use Sangareddy town for a wider choice of food.
Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Personal photography may be permitted subject to sanctuary rules. Professional or commercial photography may require permission or additional charges.
Q: How far is Manjira from Hyderabad airport?
A: The distance depends on the route. The Sangareddy district administration lists Hyderabad airport at approximately 70 km from Sangareddy.
Key Features Summary
- Name: Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary (also spelled Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary)
- Location: Sangareddy District, Telangana
- Established: June 1978
- Area: 20 sq km
- River: Manjira, a major tributary of the Godavari
- River Stretch: Approximately 36 km through the sanctuary
- Distance: About 5 km from Sangareddy and approximately 50 km from Hyderabad
- Key Conservation Species: Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris)
- Crocodile Population: Older sources commonly report approximately 400–600 individuals; a current authoritative census figure was not established for this article
- Bird Species: More than 70 species are documented in commonly cited sanctuary references; broader bird surveys have recorded additional species
- Islands: 9 small islands, including Puttigadda, Bapangadda, Sangamadda and Karnamgadda
- Key Facilities: Environmental Education Centre, museum, library and auditorium
- Cultural Attraction: Historic Kalabgur stone temple traditionally attributed to the Kakatiya period
- Activities: Boating, birdwatching and nature observation, subject to current visitor arrangements
- Visitor Timings: Confirm current operating hours before travelling
- Entry Fee: Confirm current fee structure locally before visiting
- Best Season: November to March for migratory birdwatching
- Ramsar Status: Proposal under consideration; not currently designated
- Ideal For: Birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, families and nature lovers
Why Visit Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary? – A wetland with a long history of mugger crocodile conservation | More than 70 documented bird species, with broader surveys recording additional species | Nine small islands providing habitat for waterbirds | Boating and birdwatching opportunities when services are operating | Environmental Education Centre with museum, library and auditorium | Historic Kalabgur stone temple traditionally associated with the Kakatiya period | Close to Sangareddy and Hyderabad | Renewed conservation attention through the proposal to seek Ramsar wetland recognition.
References & More Information
- Sangareddy District Administration – Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary
- Sangareddy District Administration – About District & Transport
- Key Biodiversity Areas – Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary
- Deccan Chronicle – Wildlife Board Calls for Manjira Reservoir Ramsar Proposal, 2026
- Deccan Chronicle / PTI – Manjeera Ramsar Proposal and Wetland Notification, 2026
- Research Study – Reassessment of Mugger Crocodile Status in Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary
- Wikipedia – Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary
- Telangana Forest Department – Official Website
- Google Maps – Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary