🌿 Sarkepalli Forest: A Hidden Gem in Wankidi Mandal
Dense Teak & Bamboo Forests | Tribal Hamlet of Kolamguda | Tiger Corridor | Kumuram Bheem Asifabad, Telangana
A forest of hidden stories. Sarkepalli Forest, nestled in the undulating hills of Wankidi mandal, is a quiet witness to both nature’s abundance and human tragedy. The forest is dominated by teak (Tectona grandis) and bamboo (Bambusa bambos), forming a dense canopy that shelters a variety of wildlife. Its location in the Kumuram Bheem Asifabad district places it within the broader Kawal Tiger Reserve corridor, making it an important habitat for tigers moving between Maharashtra and Telangana.
Despite its ecological significance, the forest gained notoriety in 2010 following the alleged encounter killing of top Maoist leader Cherukuri Rajkumar (alias Azad) and freelance journalist Hemachandra Pandey. The incident continues to be a subject of legal and political debate. However, beyond this dark chapter, the forest offers a serene escape for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those interested in tribal culture – a hidden gem waiting to be explored responsibly.
🗺️ Location & Geography
Sarkepalli Forest is situated in Wankidi mandal, Kumuram Bheem Asifabad district, Telangana. Its precise coordinates are 19.45026°N, 79.40579°E, with an elevation of approximately 245 metres (804 feet) above sea level. The forest is located near the abandoned locality of Metpalli and the hamlet of Welgi. About 6 km northeast lies the Garlapet State Forest Reserve. The forest’s undulating terrain is dotted with seasonal streams that support its rich biodiversity.
🌳 Flora – Teak and Bamboo Dominant Landscape
The forest represents the Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous type, characterised by a dense overstorey of teak mixed with bamboo. The presence of thick bamboo thickets once made this area famous, and even today, bamboo (Bambusa bambos) forms a crucial part of the understorey, providing habitat for sloth bears and other wildlife.
Dominant tree species include:
- Teak (Tectona grandis) – extensively found across the forest
- Bamboo (Bambusa bambos) – thickets that support wildlife
- Anogeissus latifolia – common associate
- Terminalia arjuna – found along watercourses
- Butea monosperma – flame of the forest
- Mitragyna parviflora, Terminalia crenulata, Boswellia serrata – other important species
The forest also contains red sandalwood, sandalwood, and a variety of medicinal herbs, making it a biodiversity hotspot within the Kawal landscape.
🐅 Fauna – A Crucial Tiger Corridor
Part of the Kawal Tiger Reserve corridor: Sarkepalli Forest lies within the larger tiger landscape that connects the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) with the forests of northern Telangana. In January 2024, forest officials detained suspects from Sarkepalli village for allegedly poisoning tigers – a grim reminder that tigers are indeed present in and around this forest.
Mammals frequently recorded in the area include:
- Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris) – occasional presence, part of the corridor
- Indian Leopard (Panthera pardus) – regularly sighted
- Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus) – common in bamboo thickets
- Indian Bison (Gaur) – large herds in the core area
- Four‑horned Antelope (Chowsingha) – unique to dry deciduous forests
- Striped Hyena – present in the landscape
- Cheetal, Sambar, Barking Deer, Nilgai – primary prey base
- Indian Wolf, Jackal, Wild Boar, Jungle Cat – smaller carnivores
The Garlapet State Forest (6 km northeast) further enhances the habitat connectivity for these species.
👥 Tribal Communities – The Kolam Hamlet of Kolamguda
Kolam – a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG): Deep inside Sarkepalli Forest lies Kolamguda, a tiny forest‑fringe hamlet where 10 families of the Kolam tribe have lived for at least five decades. The Kolams are one of the most marginalised tribal communities in Telangana, recognised as a PVTG. For years, they survived without basic amenities – no road, no electricity, no drinking water.
A remarkable transformation: In 2021, Wankidi police officials – Inspector Damera Sudhakar and Sub‑Inspector Deekonda Ramesh – came across Kolamguda and were moved by the tribals’ hardships. Within just a month, they constructed a gravel road, dug a bore‑well, and ensured electricity connection to the hamlet. The tribal women no longer have to trek over one kilometre to fetch water from a hilly stream, and the village now has lights after decades of darkness. This story stands as a rare example of public service bringing smile to a forgotten community.
⚖️ History – The 2010 Azad Encounter
Sarkepalli Forest came into the national spotlight on the night of 1–2 July 2010, when top Maoist leader Cherukuri Rajkumar (alias Azad) and freelance journalist Hemachandra Pandey were allegedly killed in an encounter by the police. The incident occurred in the forest area of Wankidi mandal. Following petitions from Pandey’s widow and social activist Swami Agnivesh, the Supreme Court directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe the case.
In May 2011, a 15‑member CBI team led by joint director V.V. Lakshmi Narayana visited the encounter site, conducted a mock encounter, and recorded statements of local police officers and villagers. The CBI later submitted a report stating that it was a “genuine encounter”. However, the case remains sensitive, and the forest’s name is still associated with this tragic event. The encounter site is located near Laxmipur village, about 3 km from the forest core.
🏞️ Eco‑tourism Potential – A Hidden Gem Awaiting Development
Recognising the forest’s natural beauty and biodiversity, the Telangana Forest Department has identified Sarkepalli as a potential eco‑tourism destination. The area’s dense forests, rich wildlife, and the unique tribal hamlet of Kolamguda offer immense opportunities for responsible tourism. Proposed activities include:
- Nature trails and guided treks through teak and bamboo forests
- Birdwatching tours – the forest is home to a variety of avifauna
- Cultural visits to Kolamguda to learn about Kolam tribal life (with community consent)
- Jungle camping and night stays (subject to forest permissions)
- Photography expeditions – capture the landscape and wildlife
The forest department’s proposal includes installing signage, developing nature trails, and training locals as guides, all aimed at generating sustainable livelihoods for the Kolam and other tribal communities while conserving the forest.
🛣️ How to Reach Sarkepalli Forest
⚠️ Important Note: Sarkepalli Forest is a remote area with limited public transport. It is advisable to visit only with prior permission from the local forest department or accompanied by a guide. The forest is not a conventional tourist destination; your visit should be for nature education, research, or responsible eco‑tourism.
By Road: From Asifabad town (≈40 km) or Kagaznagar (≈50 km), take the local road towards Wankidi mandal. The forest begins near the village of Sarkepalli. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially during monsoon. From Hyderabad, drive ≈270 km via NH44 to Nirmal, then proceed to Asifabad and Wankidi.
By Rail: Nearest railway stations are Asifabad Road (ASAF) and Sirpur Kaghaznagar (SKZR), both on the Secunderabad–Nagpur line. From there, hire a taxi to Wankidi.
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (≈300 km).
⏰ Visitor Information
📍 Address & Coordinates
Sarkepalli Forest
Wankidi Mandal, Kumuram Bheem Asifabad District,
Telangana – 504299 (nearby pincode)
📍 19.45026°N, 79.40579°E
📞 Forest Department Contact
Wankidi Forest Range Office
Phone: +91-8732-226206 (Asifabad Division)
Prior permission mandatory for entry
🌐 Official Tourism
🕐 Best Time to Visit
Winter (November – February): Pleasant weather (10°C–28°C), wildlife active.
Post‑monsoon (October): Lush greenery, waterholes full.
Summer (March – May): Very hot (40°C+) – not recommended for casual visits.
Monsoon (June – September): Heavy rains, forest tracks impassable – avoid.
💰 Entry Fee & Timings
Entry Fee: No commercial fee, but permission required from forest department (nominal guide charges may apply).
Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (restricted after 6 PM for safety)
Swimming / Camping: Not allowed without special permission.
🏨 Where to Stay
There is no accommodation inside Sarkepalli Forest. Visitors should base themselves in nearby towns:
- Asifabad – budget hotels and lodges (≈40 km).
- Kagaznagar – basic guesthouses and lodges.
- Nirmal – more options, including mid‑range hotels (≈90 km).
- Jannaram Haritha Forest Cottages – for those wanting a forest stay (≈70 km). Contact TSTDC: +91-9110583839.
For an immersive experience, contact the Wankidi Forest Range Office to inquire about possible guided day trips.
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
📝 Travel Tips & Responsible Forest Etiquette
⚠️ Critical safety advisory: Sarkepalli Forest is a remote, dense forest with tiger, leopard, and sloth bear presence. Never enter the forest alone. Always be accompanied by a forest guard or registered guide. Mobile network is extremely patchy (BSNL works weakly in some spots). Inform someone of your planned route and expected return time. The encounter site is not a tourist attraction – avoid visiting it unless on official duty.
🙏 Conclusion – A Forest of Paradoxes
Sarkepalli Forest is a place of striking contrasts – a dense, life‑giving forest that has witnessed tragedy, a home for the Kolam tribe that was forgotten for decades, and a critical tiger corridor that still struggles for recognition. For the traveller who seeks solitude, raw nature, and a chance to understand the intricate relationship between forests, wildlife, and people, this hidden gem offers an unforgettable experience. As Telangana’s eco‑tourism plans take shape, Sarkepalli may one day welcome responsible visitors with open arms. Until then, visit only if you can do so with respect, preparation, and a deep sense of responsibility.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sarkepalli Forest open to tourists?
A: Not formally. The area is remote and not yet developed as a tourist destination. You may visit for nature study or research with prior permission from the Wankidi forest range office.
Q: Can I visit Kolamguda?
A: Yes, but with respect. The hamlet is inhabited by a PVTG. Seek permission from the village head and avoid intruding on their privacy. Do not photograph the residents without explicit consent.
Q: Is it safe to visit alone?
A: No. The forest has wild animals. Always go with a local guide or forest guard.
Q: What is the best way to experience the forest?
A: The best way is through a guided day trip organised by a local eco‑tourism operator or the forest department.
Q: How far is Hyderabad from Sarkepalli?
A: Approximately 270 km via NH44 (≈5‑6 hours drive).
Q: Are there any facilities like restrooms or food stalls?
A: None. Carry your own water, food, and emergency supplies.
📚 References & More Information
- Times of India – CBI team visits Azad encounter site (2011)
- Telangana Today – Wankidi Police takes up development works in tribal hamlet (2021)
- Telangana Today – Tiger deaths: Six villagers detained (2024) – Sarkepalli suspects
- Mapcarta – Sarkepalli location & elevation
- New Indian Express – Nirmal district eco‑tourism proposal
- OneFiveNine – Sarkapalli village information
- Deccan Chronicle – Trees chopped in tiger reserve (Islampur‑Kawal context)
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