🦁 Adilabad Harithavanam: Mavala Ecological Park
Lion Safari | Tiger Safari | Adventure Zone | Urban Forest on NH-44, Adilabad
Where conservation meets recreation. Adilabad Harithavanam is not just a park – it is a model for urban eco‑tourism in Telangana. Spread over 1,000 acres of Mavala Reserved Forest, the park is home to India’s only Lion Safari in the state and a Tiger Safari complex with both normal and white tigers. The lion safari houses 19 lions (10 males, 9 females) in a large, naturalistic enclosure with a 15‑ft chain‑link mesh fence and a protective moat. The tiger safari has 26 normal tigers (15M, 11F) and 7 white tigers (3M, 4F).
Inaugurated as an urban forest park, Harithavanam also features a Kids Play Zone, Party Zone, Nature Education Zone, Conservation Zone, Adventure Zone (sky cycling, zipping, rope course), boating, canopy walk, watchtower, cafeteria, and a jungle shop. On 23 August 2019, the adventure sports section was opened to the public. The government has also proposed expanding the protected area to 4,000 acres and declaring it a National Park – which would boost wildlife conservation and eco‑tourism.
🦁 Lion Safari – Pride of Telangana
Spread over a dedicated area within the 1,000‑acre forest, the lion safari features a 15‑foot tall chain‑link mesh fence and a wide moat to prevent animals from crossing. The safari includes 11 holding rooms with retrieval areas for daytime rest. Lions are rotated through the safari zone on a regular schedule to ensure the best experience for visitors and well‑being for the animals. Currently, there are 19 lions (10 males, 9 females) housed here.
🐅 Tiger Safari – Normal & White Tigers
The tiger safari is divided into three units: Indira Gandhi Tiger Safari (11 holding rooms), Appaiah Tiger Safari (2 animal housing complexes with 10 holding rooms), and White Tiger Safari (2 complexes with 8 holding rooms). All enclosures have open moats and chain‑link fencing. The animals are rotated daily to keep them active.
Tiger population: 26 normal tigers (15 males, 11 females) + 7 white tigers (3 males, 4 females). Visitors can take a guided safari vehicle through the enclosures (separate ticket).
🎯 Special Attractions & Adventure Zone
The adventure sports section – including sky cycling, zipping, and rope course – was inaugurated by Forest Minister A. Indrakaran Reddy on 23 August 2019. These attractions are a major draw for youth, who visit the park in large numbers every day.
⏰ Visitor Information
📍 Address
Adilabad Harithavanam (Mavala Ecological Park)
Mavala Village, Adilabad Mandal,
Adilabad District, Telangana – 504001
Location: Along NH-44, approx. 6 km from Adilabad town.
📞 Contact Numbers
District Forest Officer: 9440-810-098
Forest Divisional Officer: 7337-552-400
Forest Range Officer: 7337-552-401
Email: info@adilabadharithavanam.com
🌐 Official Website
🕐 Timings & Entry Fee
Park Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (all days)
Entry Fee: Approx. ₹50–₹200 (varies by zone; safari tickets separate)
Safari Timings: Morning (9–11 AM) & Afternoon (2–4 PM)
Adventure Zone: Additional charges apply.
Best Season: October – February (pleasant weather).
🕯️ Other Facilities
▪️ Cafeteria & Jungle Shop
▪️ Picnic Zone with seating
▪️ Pay homage to Forest Martyrs at the memorial
▪️ Nature Education Centre with displays
🛣️ How to Reach Adilabad Harithavanam
By Road: The park is located right on NH-44 (Hyderabad–Nagpur highway), about 6 km from Adilabad town. From Hyderabad, take NH44 towards Nirmal and Adilabad (≈300 km, 6 hours). Buses and taxis are readily available from Adilabad bus stand.
By Rail: Adilabad Railway Station is about 6 km from the park. Trains from Secunderabad, Nagpur, and Nizamabad stop here.
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (≈300 km).
🏨 Where to Stay
🏙️ Adilabad Town (6 km)
- Hotel Ravi Teja – mid‑range, comfortable
- Kakaku The Guest House – budget
- Haritha Hotel (TSTDC) – run by Telangana Tourism
- Several budget lodges near the bus stand.
🌿 Forest Department Cottages
Limited eco‑cottages are available inside the park complex – contact the Forest Range Officer (7337-552-401) for booking information.
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
📝 Travel Tips & Responsible Visiting
⚠️ Important: The lion and tiger safaris are subject to animal rotation and may be closed on certain days for animal health checks. Call the park office before visiting. Follow all safety instructions given by safari guides. Never step out of the vehicle inside the safari zone.
🌳 Future Plans – Upgradation to National Park
The Telangana Forest Department has proposed upgrading 4,000 acres of forest surrounding Harithavanam into a National Park. This move will bring central government support for conservation, anti‑poaching measures, and eco‑tourism infrastructure. On 12 November 2019, Minister A. Indrakaran Reddy announced the extension of forest cover up to 5 km from Mavala Park towards Durganagar, KRK Colony to Tantoli road, with people’s participation to restore the glory of vanished forests.
🙏 Conclusion – A Model Urban Forest Park
Adilabad Harithavanam is a shining example of how urban spaces can be transformed into thriving wildlife habitats and recreational zones. From lion and tiger safaris to adventure sports, boating, and nature education, it offers something for every visitor – families, students, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. As the proposed National Park takes shape, this destination will only grow in importance. Plan a day trip from Hyderabad or Nagpur, and experience the wild side of Telangana.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the safari timings?
A: Morning 9–11 AM and Afternoon 2–4 PM. Closed during midday heat.
Q: Is there an entry fee for the park?
A: Yes, a nominal fee of ₹50–₹200 (varies). Safari tickets are separate.
Q: Can we see white tigers?
A: Yes, the White Tiger Safari has 7 white tigers (3 males, 4 females).
Q: Is there accommodation inside the park?
A: Limited eco‑cottages are available – contact the Forest Range Officer at 7337-552-401.
Q: Are food and water available?
A: Yes, there is a cafeteria and jungle shop inside the park.
Q: How far is the park from Hyderabad?
A: Approximately 300 km (≈6 hours drive).
📚 References & More Information
- The Hindu – Mavala Harithavanam now boasts of adventure sports section (Aug 2019)
- The Hans India – Plant saplings to restore the glory of the forest (Nov 2019)
- Official Website – Adilabad Harithavanam
- Telangana Tourism – Adilabad
- Adilabad District – Forest & Eco‑tourism
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