🌿 Hidden Lakes of Nirmal: Turkam & Venganna Eco-Tourism Adventure
Turkam (Turkan) and Venganna Cheruvu are located near Dimmadurthi and Naldhurthi amidst dense forests in Mamada Mandal, Nirmal District, Telangana. These hidden gems are proposed to be developed into eco-tourism attractions, offering serenity, adventure, and nature experiences.
🏞️ Overview
Turkam Cheruvu is one of the largest water bodies in the region, spread across 55 hectares, and is perennial, receiving water year-round from the Saraswathi Canal. Venganna Cheruvu, spanning 25 hectares, is a paradise for bird-watchers, hosting a variety of avifauna.
🌿 Flora & Fauna
- Dry and moist deciduous forests with teak, acacia, medicinal herbs, red sandalwood, and sandalwood trees.
- Wildlife includes Black Buck, Common Fox, Four-horned Antelope, Fruit Bat, Hyena, Indian Wolf, and more.
- Bird species: Black Drongo, Black-winged Kite, Blossom-headed Parakeet, Blue Pigeon, Black-headed Oriole, Grey Partridge, and others.
- Safe haven for wolves, hyenas, and dholes (wild dogs) in the Hyderabad-Karnataka region.
📍 Key Highlights
- Unique forest features for the Nirmal region, similar to some Western Ghats characteristics.
- Potential for eco-tourism activities: bird-watching towers, eco-cottages, kayaking, boating, floating houses, and jungle trails.
- Perfect for trekking, nature walks, and photography in serene, less-frequented forests.
🚶♂️ Suggested Itineraries
1-Day Trip
- Start from Nirmal → Dimmadurthi/Naldhurthi → Turkam Cheruvu → Venganna Cheruvu → Return to Nirmal
- Activities: Bird watching, short hikes, and nature photography.
- Optional: Explore nearby Nirmal Fort and local handicraft markets.
Overnight Stay
- Stay options in Nirmal town: Budget hotels, lodges, and guesthouses.
- Food available in Nirmal town; carry water/snacks for lakes visit.
🗺️ How to Reach
- By Road: From Nirmal town, take local roads to Dimmadurthi/Naldhurthi (~25–30 km). Turkam and Venganna Cheruvu are accessible via forest tracks.
- By Rail: Nirmal is the nearest railway station.
- By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (~200 km), then drive via Nirmal.
📝 Nearby Attractions (from Turkam & Venganna Cheruvu)
- Nirmal Town: ~25–30 km; historic Nirmal Fort, traditional wooden toys, and handicrafts.
- Mahabub Ghat: ~35 km; scenic ghat road with watch towers.
- Kerameri Ghat: ~90 km; panoramic views and forest trails.
- Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary: ~65 km; tiger reserve with jeep safaris (entry via Jannaram).
- Kuntala Waterfalls: ~60 km; highest waterfall in Telangana.
- Pochera Waterfalls: ~40 km; multi-tiered forest waterfall.
- Basar Saraswathi Temple: ~70 km; famous temple on the Godavari river.
🌲 Trekking & Exploration
Short trekking trails around both lakes and forest patches. Ideal for nature walks, bird-watching, and photography. Trails are easy to moderate, suitable for beginners.
📸 Photos
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