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Octopus View Point


Octopus View Point is one of the most scenic and recently developed eco-tourism attractions within the Amrabad Tiger Reserve in the Nallamala Forest Range. Officially opened to the public on 13th October 2017, this viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Krishna River backwaters — whose shape resembles the tentacles of an octopus — and the surrounding lush green forest canopy.

Situated close to Domalapenta Forest Checkpost, this site exemplifies the Telangana Forest Department’s ongoing efforts to promote eco-tourism and nature conservation simultaneously.

📍 Location

Region: Amrabad Mandal, Nagarkurnool District, Telangana
Distance:
5 km before Domalapenta Checkpost
25 km from Farahabad View Point
42 km from Mannanur (Amrabad Tiger Reserve Entry Point)
140 km from Hyderabad via Srisailam Highway
Accessibility: Located on the Hyderabad–Srisailam Highway (NH 765)

🌿 Highlights

Breathtaking View: The Krishna River backwaters spread out in a shape resembling an octopus, giving the site its unique name.
Eco-friendly Development: Benches, a shaded hut, and a snack bar have been built to enhance the visitor experience without disturbing the natural environment.
Wildlife & Flora: Visitors can enjoy sightings of native birds, butterflies, and occasional deer in the surrounding forest zone.
Adventure & Serenity: Ideal for nature photography, forest exploration, and calm relaxation away from city bustle.

🦓 Safari and Activities

Amrabad Tiger Reserve Safari:
Starts at Farahabad Crossroads (near Mannanur).
Operated daily with two safari buses, each accommodating 10 persons.
Approximately 70 visitors per day explore the forest and viewpoints like Farahabad and Octopus Point.
Safari includes guided interpretation of wildlife, forest trails, and local ecology.
Forest Trail & Watchtower:
Under development, offering an immersive view of the surrounding valleys and Krishna backwaters.

💰 Entry Fees

Small Vehicles: ₹20
Buses / Large Vehicles: ₹50
Additional Costs: Safari or eco-tour tickets as applicable (available at Mannanur / Farahabad checkpoints).
The safari timings are from 6:30 am to 10:30 am and from 2:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The ticket prices are Rs. 1000 for a jeep safari and Rs. 300 for a bus safari per person.

🍴 Facilities

Snack Bar and Refreshment Point
Benches and Sitting Area
Rest Hut on an Elevated Spot
Parking Zone
Signboards promoting Clean & Green Tourism

🧭 Suggested Itinerary

1-Day Nature Excursion

Morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM)
Depart from Hyderabad early morning via NH 765.
Breakfast halt at Kalwakurthy / Achampet.
Proceed to Mannanur Forest Checkpost for entry permissions.

Mid-Morning (9:30 AM – 11:30 AM)
Begin Amrabad Tiger Reserve Safari from Farahabad Crossroads.
Visit Farahabad View Point for panoramic forest views.

Noon (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM)
Continue safari toward Octopus View Point (about 25 km away).
Enjoy scenic view of Krishna backwaters.
Relax in the hut and have light snacks at the snack bar.

Afternoon (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
Optional short forest trail near the viewpoint (subject to permissions).
Return journey via Domalapenta and Mannanur.

Evening (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
Drive back to Hyderabad or stay overnight at Haritha Eco-Tourism Cottages, Mannanur or Somasila Eco-Tourism Camp.

🏕️ Nearby Attractions

Farahabad View Point (25 km) – high-altitude scenic point.
Saleshwaram Temple (seasonal, inside forest) – accessible during Chaitra Pournami.
Akka Mahadevi Caves – accessible via boat ride near Srisailam backwaters.
Somasila Eco-Tourism Camp – riverside cottages and boating.
Amrabad Tiger Reserve Interpretation Centre – Mannanur.

⚠️ Visitor Guidelines

Entry into the forest and viewpoints only during official visiting hours.
Avoid littering; follow all eco-tourism and forest department regulations.
Smoking, loud music, and alcohol strictly prohibited.
Carry water, caps, and light snacks, but dispose of waste responsibly.
Respect wildlife — maintain silence and do not disturb animals.

📷 Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: October to February (pleasant weather & clear visibility).
Ideal Duration: 1 Day
Recommended Gear: Binoculars, camera, trekking shoes, sunscreen, and water bottle.
Mobile Connectivity: Limited beyond Mannanur.

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