Ali Sagar Deer Park

The famous Ali Sagar Deer Park is located in the Nizamabad district of Telangana. 

The landscape of the park has several hillocks and verdant gardens with flowers blooming in every colour. This is a perfect place for deers to take refuge offering them a haven.

Ali Sagar in simple words is a very colorful and beautiful garden developed to attract picnickers from Nizamabad. If you wish to go on a short and rejuvenating trip, Ali Sagar is a right place. It offers a refreshing environment. 

The Ali Sagarreservoir dates back to 1931, which was constructed by the Nizams who ruled the region then. The area is spread amid natural hillocks and lovely colourful flower gardens. The soothing lake and its awe inspiring surroundings are rich in scenic beauty and an eternal bliss to your eyes. 

The Ali Sagar Deer park is situated near the reservoir. The park was established in 1985, and hosts many species of deer. This park serves a good picnic spot especially for kids.

To add to its breathtaking beauty is the enormous forest spread along with a beautiful summer house, well nurtured gardens, a secluded island and a hilltop guest house, what else can you ask for? This is more than a royal treat. 

The place consists of big tank which, is the main source for water in Nizamabad. The tank was constructed by Raghunath Das who had also constructed the popular Nizamabad Fort. The fort was originally developed on a temple of Lord Ram. It houses a huge variety of flowers, has a Deer Park, a Tree House in the Garden spread across 33 acres. It attracts people with fountains. 

Inside the Ali Sagar lake is an island. The authorities have introduced boating facility in the tank recently. During holidays, the park is visited by around 1000 to 2000 people. The deer park also facilities trekking and some water sports.

Ali Sagar Deer park is located at a distance of nearly 13 km from Nizamabad town and is well accessible by road.

https://www.telanganatourism.gov.in/partials/destinations/wildlife/nizamabad/ali-sagar-deer-park.html

https://medium.com/@travelportal/alisagar-deer-park-nizamabad-telangana-6c9d6ba716af

Read More

Saleshwaram jatara and waterfalls

Saleshwaram is located 25 km away from Farahabad gate in Amarabad Tiger Reserve in Nallamala Forest, Amarabad Mandal, Nagarkurnool district, Telangana State, India.

The annual Saleshwaram Jatara in the Nallamala forest area which comes under Amrabad Tiger Reserve is celebrated every year on Chiatra Pournami or the Full Moon Day in April and is open to visitors for only 5 days. 

On every Chaitra pouranmi i.e. the full moon day of March/April believed to attain the super natural powers and the wills of the devotees are fullfiled message spread throughout the State hence devotees come in large numbers chanting “Vastunna Lingamayya” .

“Saleshwaram Jathara” also known popularly as “Dakshina (Telangana) Amarnath Yathra”is being conducted every year for three days in the month of April, for the past 30 years. Nearly 5 lakh people from all over the country visit Saleshwaram during the Jathara every year. 

Saleshwaram waterfalls runs throughout the year from a height of 200ft and the source of water remains unknown. This waterfall reaches a Shivalinga revered as “Lingamayya” by the Chenchu tribes. The presence of a perennial waterfall here resembles a long serpent when splashing on the rocks adds to the beauty of this place. 

Breath-taking views of the layered rock formations, deep valleys with spectacular views only found in the most exotic locations of the world. Saleshwaram is located 16 km away from Farhabad forest checkpost and the temple comes under Appapur Gram Panchayat in Lingal mandal in Nagarkurnool district, Telangana, India.

The ancient Sri Ramalingeshwara Swamy temple of 6th century AD, located deep inside Nallamala forest, is about 1,000 feet deep inside a valley. The scene of the temple in moonlight is a treat to the eyes and a blessing to the soul. The temple lies next to a beautiful waterfall, coming down from a height of over 200 metres. The water flows through the temple and the devotees take a holy dip in it before taking a climb into the Garbhagudi. The linga is located in a cave which resides on a huge rock.

Reaching the temple involves a 16-km journey through the core area of the tiger reserve with another six kilometres of trek through the Nallamala hills.

The drive through the deep forest is sure to remain one of the best memories for visitors since they can see many wild animals like spotted deer, nilgai and wild boar.

The devotees have to walk at least three kilometers to reach the temple located down the valley. It is an arduous walk since there are sharp rocks all along the ground.

The devotees need to walk on narrow gorges of valley to reach down the deep valley where they can see waterfall falling from over 1,000 feet.

The devotes take a holy dip in the water and collect water in the bottles for those who could not make it as it is believed that it contains medicinal value.

Nature’s wonder which has been kept intact for thousands of years has once again started mesmerizing the devotees of Lord Shiva, who is devotedly called ‘Lingamaiah’ in this part of the world. The purest form of the nature located away from the mainstream society’s sight has opened its arms welcoming the devotees.

‘Sarveshwaram teertha kshetra,’ which later came to be known as ‘Saileshwaram’ and ‘Saleshwaram locally,’ which is a primitive religious site, located 30-40 kilo metre deep inside the Nallamala forests inside Amrabad Tiger Reserve where the rare Chenchu Adivasis have been living and serving Lord Shiva for ages.

As per local Chenchu mythology, ages ago, a Chenchu named Ravagadu had gone for hunting along with his wild dogs on the New Year’s Eve. When he couldn’t find water to drink anywhere, his dogs led him to a water body located near a cave, where water drops which looked like pearls were falling through the layers of rock formation. There, Bhole Baba had revealed himself to the Chenchu in bright gold and then vanished. That night, Lord Shiva appeared in his dream and asked him to erect a Shiva Linga and serve him.

The water which flows through layers of rock formed some thousands if not millions of years ago, carries with it all the medicinal values through the roots of nature, making it the purest form of water which has the ability to cure any disease. People have been visiting this nature’s wonder for ages and people believe that their sins can be washed-away here.

According to ‘Parvatha Purana,’ if a sinner enters this water body which is called ‘Shankhu Teertha,’ the water here becomes dirty but when a pure human enters, remains crystal clear. No wonder, while the water which comes from the top is crystal clear, once it touches the ground where devotees take bath, it changes colour due to plastic left over by pilgrims.
According to historic evidence, the Shiva Ling at Sarveshwaram had already become famous by 5th or 6th century. The layered rock formation in front of the sanctum sanctorum itself looks like a mammoth cave.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/devotees-make-a-beeline-to-saleshwaram-jatara/article8515715.ece

https://telanganatoday.com/deep-inside-the-nallamala-forests-saileshwaram-mesmerises-devotees

https://allevents.in/hyderabad/saleshwaram-trek-in-srisailam-forest-opened-only-once-a-year/80001403653972

Read More

Koyyur Jain Caves Nayanagulllu

The monolithic caves of Jain pantheon near Koyyur Village, Malharrao Mandal in the Jayashankar Bhupalpally district are set to hog the limelight with theForest Department making efforts to incorporate the structure into its ongoing eco-tourism programme.

Situated on a hillock among scenic surroundings on the banks of river Manair, the caves stand out as an example of Indian rock-cut architecture.

Hewn in solid sandstone precipice the caves testify the prevalence of Jainism in these parts during ancient times. Though the caves were found long ago, they remained uncared for. With an intention to draw public attention to these caves, Bhupalpally Forest Department officials are planning to lay pathways to ensure better connectivity to the caves called locally as ‘Nayanagulllu’.

At a distance of two km there is a Nagulamma Temple which is frequented by devotees on weekends and on auspicious occasions. It is proposed to lay a pathway from the temple and from Mainar bridge near Adavi Somanapally to the caves.

The works will be started during winter season, Suman added. “We wish to organise trekking trips to the caves so that those interested in history can visit and appreciate their historic significance.

The Jain caves will be included in the itinerary of recently released a calendar of events of eco-tourism” District Forest Officer T Ravi Kiran informed.

He hoped that the in the days to come, the caves would emerge as an important tourist destination. According to a local school teacher and history enthusiast Ch Srinivas, Jainism was prevalent in erstwhile Andhra Pradesh during the times of 12th Tirthankara Vasupujya as mentioned in the 12th century classic Dharmamrita.

There are six chambers at the caves. A verandah, an antharala (ante-chamber) and garbhalaya (sanctum sanctorum) are part of the cave structure.

There is a colourful mural painting on the ceiling of a cave, probably a depiction of Jataka tale. A carved image on the frontal portion of the cave is said to be of a Thirtankara.

In side sanctum sanctorum there is a Siva Lingam and damaged figurine of a female deity, believed to be Mahisasura Mardini, Srinivas explained.

Above the entrance of the main cave, there an epigraphy hewn in the rock.“The archeological authorities and historians must try to decipher the inscriptions to comprehend to which period the caves belong and who carved out these caves” Srinivas noted.

http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Warangal-Tab/2017-09-29/Koyyur-may-turn-a-major-eco-tourism-hub-in-Telangana/330043

Read More

Devuni Gutta Temple

Devuni Gutta temple is located 2.5 km away from Kothur village, near Jangalapalli of Mulugu mandal in Mulugu district.

It is only when one chats up with the villagers of Kothur that the temple is mentioned. The journey to reach this temple is as interesting as the temple itself.

The temple is on a densely forested hill locally called ‘Devuni Gutta’. One has to walk from the village through a forest. About halfway up, the path becomes a water path — a stream or a rivulet that one can walk through. The watery path runs for a kilometre at least. Even as you enjoy the walk, you also get to see beautiful waterfalls at several places.

Upon reaching the top of the hill, one comes upon this absolutely stunning temple with carvings on all four walls sitting snug within a lush green environ. It looks like it is made of bricks but up close one can see that the blocks are a mixture of sand and stone. Lime mortar was used for plastering. The carvings were made on these square and rectangle shaped blocks. Sages, Buddhist monks, dancers, even some animals can be identified though on the sculpted stone, but a lot of has eroded over time. The sanctum sanctorum also has several such carvings. Historians estimate the age of the temple to be more than 2000 years.

Locals say there used to be a Shiv Linga inside the temple but it was stolen by treasure hunters about 50 years ago. Close to the temple is a pond. “The water in this pond seeps underground and flows down as a stream. This water is useful for us to irrigate our crops. What is not used flows into the Laknavaram Lake. Other-wise, if there’s no rain for 15 days, the pond dries up,” said a villager, Veeram-aneni Ravinder Rao.

If the district administration takes the required steps, this place could be another tourist spot for trekkers and adventurers, feel local tourists. But yes, a little more research would lead to more interesting details about the temple that would also enhance its touristy charm.

Dr Corinna Wessels-Mevissen, a senior art historian from Germany, who saw pictures of the temple, termed it as extremely interesting and said that it could turn out to be a discovery like no other.

"The style that may date to the late Gupta/post-Gupta periods is unknown to me. It may be linked to the early Odishan style of temple art or that of Rajim and Sirpur in Chhattisgarh. The presence of Amaravati-style spoils is of course interesting," she said.

Local historian Sriramoju Haragopal said the work on the temple suggests it could belong to the sixth or seventh century.
 

Source

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/310817/hidden-treasures-of-kothur-await-attention.html

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/040917/telangana-ancient-mulugu-temple-soon-to-become-tourist-attraction.html

Read More

Vikarabad Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple

Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in the beautiful hilly region of the Ananthagiri hills in Vikarabad district in Telangana dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu.

According to Hindu Mythology, Skanda Purana, it is believed that this Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy temple was constructed by the rishi Markandeya in the dwapara yuga on Ananthagiri hills. 

The rishi Markandeya came here for yoga sadhana every day because the splendid and pleasant atmosphere of Ananthagiri hills attracted him. After his Yoga and meditation, Rishi Markandeya used to go to Kasi to take a holy bath in the river Ganges through a cave. During the dwadasi season, Markandeya couldn't make it to Kasi in the early hours of the day. He was very upset with this and after seeing the rishi's concerns, Lord Vishnu himself appeared in Markandeya's dreams and arranged water from the river Ganges for the rishi's bath. Markandeya was blessed to take a permanent place in the world as a river by lord Krishna who disguised himself as Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy. 

This river which is now popularly known as the river Moosi flows through Hyderabad. Markandeya initially took dharshanam of Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy and converted a charka into Swamy. It is said that for the past four hundred years the Nizam Nawabs visited Ananthagiri hills for its peaceful atmosphere and would rest there.

The main temple of Lord Padmanabha Swamy was built by the Hyderabad Nawab as Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy appeared in his dreams and asked him to build a temple for him. This temple is situated in the village of Ananthagiri at a distance of seventy-five kilometers from Hyderabad and five kilometers from Vikarabad. There are regular private transport operators and frequent buses between Vikarabad and Ananthagiri hills.

Located nearly 85 km away from Hyderabad, Ananthagiri hills is well accessible by road transport.

Source

http://www.telanganatourism.gov.in/partials/destinations/divine-destinations/rangareddy/ananthagiri-hills-anantha-padmanabha-swamy-temple.html

Read More

Mrugavani National Park

The Mrugavani National Park, located at Chilkuru in Moinabad, Rangareddy district is at a distance of about 25 kms from Hyderabad. The National Park is spread over 3.5 sq kms of pure, untamed land. The Indian government announced it a wildlife sanctuary in the year 1994 and since then, the park has been home to some 600 species of plants and animals.

The present day world has created its orbit around technology and modernism. The modern way of living has extensive demands and more and more of our Earth’s space and resources is what is at stake for. One can observe that national parks have eventually become the last sights of refuge for most indigenous species of animals as well as plants around the globe. Even governments of several countries have now become conscious of the importance of preserving these last species in wildlife sanctuaries.

The Mrugavani National Park in the state capital is an example of a beautiful national park turned major tourist attraction. What is most exciting is that in a land layered with exotic and immense natural resources like in India, it sure is a great achievement. The Mrugavani National Park, located at Chilkuru in Moinabad, is at a distance of about 25 kms from Hyderabad. The National Park is spread over 3.5 sq kms of pure, untamed land. The Indian government announced it a wildlife sanctuary in the year 1994 and since then, the park has been home to some 600 species of plants and animals. Like in the case of most national parks, even the Mrugavani national park has had least human intervention and interaction in order to make sure that all the precious creatures remain undisturbed in their cozy natural habitat.

We can see that the park has a topography made up of several rocky exposures that are characteristic of Deccan formation. The fauna of the wildlife sanctuary is as varied as they come. Foxes, black-naped hares, Wild boars, as well as Indian vipers are the most striking species for the curious traveler.

Mrugavani National park is accessible by road and located at a distance of nearly 20 km from Hyderabad enroute Chilkur, close to Nehru Outer Ring Road.

All days of the week : 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Read More

Puligundala tank, Kallur

Puligundala tank is located in Kallur Mandal, Bhadradri Kothagudem district, Telangana, India.

The scenic spot encircled by thick woods in Kallur mandal to be developed into an eco-tourism centre

The eco-tourism potential of the scenic spot at Puligundala tank, encircled by thick woods in Kallur mandal, has caught the attention of the Tourism Department.

Nestled in the lap of nature amid lush green surroundings and flanked by hillocks, the picturesque spot located at about 70 km from the district headquarters town of Khammam, has the potential of becoming an ideal weekend getaway.

Scenic splendor

The enchanting waterfall on the nearby hill range add to the scenic splendour of the site.

An old Siva temple at Brahmalakunta, a village surrounded by several tribal habitations, nearby the Puligundala tank, draws devotees in hordes during the Kartika Masam.

A team of officials headed by Director of Department of Tourism Sunitha Bhagwat visited the spot on Monday.

Impressed by the promising potential of the site to become an ideal destination for nature lovers, the team mulled the idea of developing the site into an eco-tourism centre.

Located quite away from the hustle and bustle of the city life, the picturesque spot at Puligundala offers tremendous scope for organising trekking, bird watching and other tourism promotion activities, said Suman Chakravarthy, District Tourism Officer, Khammam. If developed, the spot would become a favourite eco-tourism destination. It would in turn give a major impetus to tourism promotion and help augment income generation activities for the benefit of local tribal youths.

The Tourism Department is mulling a proposal to promote the community-based eco-tourism project at the site, he said, adding that the proposal will be forwarded to the Forest and other concerned departments soon.

Source

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/Puligundala-catches-attention-of-Tourism-Dept./article17285628.ece

Read More

Gandhari Fort, Temple & Jatara

Gandhari Fort / Gandhari Khilla (Gandhari Kota) is a hill fort located near Bokkalagutta, in Mandamarri Mandal in Mancherial district, Telangana, India.

The Gandhari Fort is believed to have been built by tribal kings who ruled over this region, by taking assistance from Kakatiya rulers, some 1,000 years ago. It houses the ancient temple of Maisamma. Similarly, it contains idols of Kala Bhairava Swamy, Lord Siva, Lord Ganesh and Hanuman, idols carved out of rocks.

Archaeological work suggests that construction of the fort was begun early as the Rastrakuta era (prior to 1200 A.D.) and continued until 16th century.

Read More

Devarakonda Fort

Devarakonda Fort is located in Devarakonda town in Nalgonda District of Telangana State, India.

Devarakonda which is as Mandal Headquarters, is a tiny village situated in Nalgonda district. The Devarakonda village is home to one of the most astonishing forts found in Telangana. The village attracts many tourists from over the world. There was a time when the fort stood high in place flaunting the glory of the village, but now due to negligence, the fort is in ruins.

Read More

Rachakonda Fort

Rachakonda Fort is a 14th-century fort located in Rachakonda, Narayanapoor Mandal, Nalgonda District, Telangana State, India.
Rachakonda Fort was the capital to the Rachakonda region was first ruled by Kakatiyas and then it was taken by Padma Nayaka dynasty, from them it is concurred Muslim Bahmani Sultanate in1433 AD. Qutub Shahi and Nizams also ruled this kingdom.

The architecture Rachakonda Fort is of medieval Hindu fort architecture. It is a structure made of large stones which are of irregular size and indefinite shape. The fort is constructed without using any Mortar. At the entrance, there are gates that are made of stone pillars and horizontal beams. The exterior walls of the building are built with stones and the interiors are layered with mud. The structure of Rachakonda Fort was strategically developed as a defensive bastion with strong fortifications. It was one of the most prominent structures during the pre-firearms era.

Read More

Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary

Mangeera or Manjira wildlife sanctuary is located on the Manjeera river at Kalabgur,  Sangareddy District, Telangana State, India.

The charming part about this sanctuary is that one can take an adventurous boat ride for Bird watching in the Manjira Wildlife & Bird Sanctuary.

 

Originally a crocodile sanctuary, today more than 70 species of birds are spotted here and is home for the vulnerable species mugger crocodile. 

This man-made reservoir provides drinking water to Hyderabad and Secunderabad.

Read More

Kinnerasani Dam

Kinnerasani Dam is located in Bhadradri Kothagudem District of Telangana marked by dense forests and is surrounded by magnificent hills.

Kinnerasani River is an important tributary of the river Godavari. The scenic beauty created by the landscape along the Kinnerasani River is a panoramic one abutted by lush green landscape.

The river flows its course through the Dandakaranya forest and the reservoir forms a 635 Sq. Kms. area teeming with wild life, also called Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary. 

The dam is located at a distance of 24 kms from Kothagudem and 12 Kms from Palvancha, the site of Kothagudem Thermal Power Station.

Read More

Papikondalu (Papi Hills)

Papikondalu (Papi Hills) takes travellers through a canopy of greens covered by tropical and deciduous rain forests

Silence whispers through the Eastern Ghats of Papikondalu (Papi Hills) as the boat wobbles along the riverbed. An oasis of enchanting beauty and tranquillity, Papikondalu takes travellers through a canopy of greens covered by tropical and deciduous rain forests. Here, one can forget all their worries and just sink in the peaceful arms of nature.

Running through Bhadradri Kothagudem, East Godavari and West Godavari districts, Papikondalu can be reached via the river way through Bhadrachalam and Rajahmundry.

Boats dock every day on the banks of the Godavari to ferry tourists to the Papi Hills.

Navigating through the meandering river trails, through which the Godavari penetrates to find its way to the east after several twists and turns, one can spot colonies of migratory birds perched on the banks of the river.

For tourists and birders, the best time to visit the place is between November and March. Here, it is the locals who double up as guides providing excellent information about the place, its significance and the flora and fauna. 

The locals and tribal communities have a way of life – simple, sorted and a rhythmic pattern. When there, do taste their local cuisine like bamboo chicken or a special fish curry with a flavour unique to the local communities living there.

During the monsoons, high water levels submerge half of the Papi Hills which makes it inaccessible for tourists.

A photographer’s delight, the place today faces the threat of submersion once the irrigation project Polavaram is implemented. Locals and tour operators fear that once the dam is ready, Papikondalu may be reduced to a beautiful memory.

For stay options, you can explore the tented accommodations which the locals give on hire to tourists. Tents are available on the flat bed of sand as well as on the elevated hilly side overlooking the river. While the stay arrangements are basic, the beauty of the place surrounded by Eastern Ghats and the pristine tribal life are sure to caress away the fatigue of the busy urban life.

Bhadrachalam To Papikondalu Resorts 2 days Tour Package
ADULT 2200
CHILD 1600 (5-10 YEARS)

with out Transport
ADULT 2000
CHILD 1400 (5-10 YEARS)

Fresh Up Extra 100/-

Reporting Place : Telangana Tourism Time: 8:00 AM, Near Sitarama Temple, Opp: Kalyana Mandapam Bhadrachalam.

Visiting Places : Pochavaram, Papihills, Perantapalli, Kolluru, Bhadrachalam.

Packages facilities : Breakfast, Veg lunch, Evening snacks and night veg or non veg dinner, Accommodation in Bamboo huts.Next day break fast, veg or non veg lunch and evening snaks.

Tour Schedule:
1st Day:
Telangana Tourism Time: 8:00 AM, Near Sitarama Temple, Opp: Kalyana Mandapam Bhadrachalam. 8:30 a.m starting journey by road, vehicles upto boating unit, pochavaram (70-0km-1.30 hour) from bhadrachalam. Check into boat then journey on river Godavari (60k.m-5 hours) view on boat "Papikondalu", perantalapalli. Reaches Papi Hills, after enjoy the scenic beauty it will reach Perantapalli tribal village to visit Rama krishna muni vatam and swayambu Visweswara swamy temple then reach Bamboo huts. Check out boat, tourists will be allotted for Night stay in Bamboo huts.

2nd Day:
Journey on boat to start Bamboo Huts,Pochavaram,Koida (30 k.m about 2 hours).
Check out boat then road journey by vehicle to Bhadrachalam (70 k.m-2hours) and will be dropped at Bhadrachalam temple.

IF YOU WANT RAJAHMUNDRY DROPING WE WILL ARRANGE. EX 100/-
6.30 PM Reaches Pattiseema revu / Polavaram revu / Purushothapatnam revu.
7.00 PM to 8 PM By road journey to Rajahmundry and dropping to Railway Station.


Bhadrachalam To Papikondalu 1 day Tour Package

ADULT 650
CHILD 450 (5-10 YEARS)

with out Transport
ADULT 500
CHILD 300 (5-10 YEARS)

Reporting Place : Telangana Tourism Time: 7.30 AM, Near Sitarama Temple, Opp: Kalyana Mandapam Bhadrachalam.

Visiting Places : Pochavaram, Papikondalu, Perantapalli, Kolluru, Bhadrachalam.

Packages facilities : Breakfast, Veg Lunch, Evening snacks in boat.

Tour Schedule :
Telangana Tourism Time: 8.00 AM, Near Sitarama Temple, Opp: Kalyana MandapamBhadrachalam. 8-30 a.m starting journey by road. Vehicles up to boating unit, pochavaram (70-0km-1.30 hour) from bhadrachalam.Check into boat then journey on river Godavari (60k.m-5 hours) view on boat“Papikondalu” via perantalapall reaches Papikondalu, after enjoying the scenic beauty boat will reach Perantapalli tribal village to visit Rama krishna muni vatam and swayambu Visweswara swamy temple, then check out boat then road journey by vehicle to Bhadrachalam (70 k.m-2hours) and will be dropped at Bhadrachalam temple.

Merger of 7 mandals with AP hits tourism plan in Telangana

Tourist destinations such as Sriramagiri, Kolluru and Perantalapalli merged with AP.

The euphoria generated by the ambitious plan to develop a mega tourism circuit in the entire stretch of Papikondalu, the hill range widely acclaimed as Papi Hills, seems to have petered down following the "merger" of the V R Puram mandal along with six other mandals of the district with residuary Andhra Pradesh.

The famous tourist destinations such as Sriramagiri, Kolluru and Perantalapalli along the course of the Godavari, which constitute the tourist spots of the Papikondalu river cruise package, have been merged with the successor State of AP.Uncertainty rules

The Integrated Tribal Development Agency, Bhadrachalam, in collaboration with the Tourism Department had devised an action plan to create tourist infrastructure facilities at these popular tourism hubs, nearly two years ago.

The plan envisaged active involvement of local Adivasis in the tourism promotion activities to augment their income. Some of the basic infrastructure facilities have already been created at Pochavaram, Kolluru and a few other places as part of the mega plan.


The virtual splitting of the Bhadrachalam division consequent to the transfer of the four mandals – V R Puram, Kunavaram and Chintur besides Bhadrachalam mandal (barring Bhadrachalam revenue village) to the successor State of AP has cast a shadow on other tourism promotion initiatives.Theme park plan also hit

Another major initiative of the Department of Tourism to build a Ramayana theme park and a tribal haat in Bhadrachalam to promote temple tourism is also hanging in the balance due to the precarious situation prevailing in the division.

The previous government had earmarked 11 acres of land and allocated Rs 2 crore for the project in the temple town. Various other development plans aimed at constructing cottages and creating parking slots and other facilities for the benefit of the pilgrims in view of the next Godavari Pushkaralu slated for 2015 have also been held up in the temple town.


Sources
http://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/oasis-of-enchanting-beauty/article6838106.ece
http://telanganatourism.co.in/bhadrachalam-papikondalu-1day-tour-package.html
http://www.punnamitourism.com
http://www.konaseematourism.org.in/bhadrachalam-to-kolluru-bamboo-huts-tour-package.html
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/merger-of-7-mandals-with-ap-hits-tourism-plan/article6089782.ece

Read More

Nallamala Hills

Nallamala Hills located in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh is one of the most soothing hill stations,wrapped in an amazing beauty, shimmering gushing water, deep valleys and thick forests enchants the visitor’s mind and soul.

Pennar and Krishna are two big rivers in this region and Nallamala hills are located between these two rivers. The two big peaks of this hill range are Bhairani at 1100 meters distance from the sea level and Gundla Brahmeswara at 1048 meters level.

For most tourists taking the road to Srisailam, the view of the imposing dam with river Krishna’s waters gushing out of its gates and a darshan of Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy is not enough without a glimpse of dense Nallamala forest in Farahabad.

Read More

Umamaheshwaram Temple

Umamaheswaram also known as Maheshwaram is a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, located near Rangapur Village, Achampet Mandal, Nagarkurnool District, Telangana India on very tall hills of Nallamala forests showcases a unique Shivalinga with dual color white on one side and red on the other.

The presiding deities in Umamaheshwaram are Mallikarjuna (Shiva) and Bhramaramba (Devi).

Umamaheshwaram Temple is also known as Kubera Sthanam. There are other Temples here of Lord Ganesha, Lord Veerabhadra Swamy, Lord Janardhana Swamy and also that of Lord Nagaraju.

Umamaheswaram, a temple perched in the cliffs of Nallamala, a northern gateway to Srisailam overlooking the vast Deccan plateau. It is a halt and entry to Nallamala on ancient pilgrim trail to Lord Mallikarjuna, deep in the hills.  Sri Giri or Sri Parvati known as Sri Sailam (Sri’s Mountain) which is mentioned in Markandeya Purana (LVII.15), Kumara Purana (30.45-8) and Agni Purina (109). The Padma Purana notes that on the summit of this auspicious and beautiful mountain resides god Mallikarjuna, who is identified as one of the twelve Jyotirlinga's of India, the holy center of Shaivism.

To reach the temple, one has to ride on very steep and dangerous curves of 5 mile length from the bottom of the hill.  Hill ranges shields the temple and 500 metres of stretch to Papa Nasanam. Through the day hardly any sunlight falls on this stretch, thus maintaining the temperature below normal year round. 

Umamaheswaram is popular for its mysterious papanasanam, a small stream that flows beneath the mountain rocks (from the vast maze of roots join flows in rock strata and form springs that emerge at cliffs). The speciality of Papanasanam is that, the stream flows into a small pit and at any given time, you can scoop out a mug of water and the moment you take some water out, it refills itself within seconds ! The belief is, sprinkling this water over you will wash away your sins and also some traditional folk collect it for their medicinal practice.

Traditions as well as epigraphical sources inform us that the inaccessible shrine of Srisailam is approachable through four places on the plains, generally called the gateways of Srisailam on its four-cordinal directions. They are Tripurantakam in the Prakasam district, in the East, Siddhavatam in the Cuddapah district, in the South, Alampuram in the Jogulamba Gadwal district, in the west and Umamahesvaram in the Nagarkurnool district, in the North. 

Umamaheshwaram Sacred grove 

Sacred Groves are small groves that are specific places which are protected and conserved by the local communities as being the sacred residences of local deities and sites for religious and cultural rituals.
The grove is around Shiva temple situated in the middle of the hill surrounded by forests. Near the temple water percolates through the rocks throughout the year and harbours many non flowering plants. It has the richest flora in Nagarkurnool District. About 400 plants were recorded during floristic studies of which about 150 are perennial. Bryophytes like Riccella, Notothallus, Moss, Marchantia, and Pteridophytes, viz Salaginella species, Pteridium spp, Adiantum incisum, Actiniopteris, Petris etc were observed. 

Human interference has started with tea stalls etc too close to the temple adding to pollution. It is an important grove requiring better protection.

Gateways to Srisailam

The concept of the gateways of Srisailam is traceable from 8th -9th centuries AD. All these places, particularly the four main places developed as centers of pilgrimage.

1. TRIPURANTAKAM: The presiding deity here is called Tripurantakadeva, with Goddess Tripurasundaridevi. This place is also called Kumaragiri. Before the construction of Guntur-Guntakal Railway, pilgrims from coastal Andhra used to pass through this place in their journey to Srisailam.If they go by foot they need not go to Dornala. They can directly go from Erragondapalm, Telugurayacheruvu and reach Chukkalaparvatam, climbing which they can reach Srisailam. Now the bus goes through Dornala. Tripurantakama is historically an important place. There are more than a hundred inscriptions incised on the walls and loose stone slabs in the temple compound. Most of these records belong to the medieval period from eleventh to sixteenth century that is from the period of the western Chalukyas to the Kakatiya period. Several local chiefs like the Velanati Chodas, Kota chiefs, and the Kakatiya rulers and their subordinates endowed the temple of Tripurantakadeva with numerous gifts. The Kayastha chiefs were the great worshippers of this God. Ambadeva of that family having revolted against the Kakatiya Queen Rudramadevi, proclaimed independence in A.D. 1289, to which effect he set up a lengthy record in Sanskrit at this temple. The ground plan of the main temple at Tripurantakam is in star shape with a spacious interior garbhagriha and mandapa. It is datable to the early part of the Western Chalukyas. Pasupata Saivism seems to be the main religion that prevailed here for a long period. The Aradhya Saivas came into prominence from fourteenth century.

2. SIDDHHAVATAM: It is a taluk town in the Cuddapah District. The presiding deity here is Jyoti Siddhavatesvara. Jyothi is another holy place very near to this and its god is called Jyothisvara or jyothinath. These two places are on the bank of Pinakini or Penna River. Pilgrims from South visit this place and proceed to Srisailam. We do not find many inscriptions in this temple.

Pushpagiri is also on the bank of the river Pinakini. It is about 12km. from Cuddapah, its district headquarters. The presiding deity here is Vaidyanathasvami. Indranathasvami and Chennakesava are also popularly worshipped here. The antiquity of the place seems to be early as the Ikshvaku period. An inscription at Nagarjunakonda refers to Pushpagiri, where certain Bodhisri is said to have built here a stone pavilion, i.e. silamandapa. The earliest extant epigraphical record at Pushpagiri is datable to the time of the Rashtrakuta king Krishna II (A.D. 878-914) or III (A.D. 939-967). Therein, it is clearly stated that the place is the southern gateway of Srisailam. Inscriptions of other dynasties like the Western Chalukyas, the Kakatiyas, the later Vaidumbas and the Vijayanagara are noticeable here. The main temple here is a double shrine structure for the deities Chennakesava and Umamaheshvara.

3. ALAMPURAM: On the left bank of Tungabhadra in the Jogulmba Gadwal district is the Western gateway of Srisailam. It is also called Halampura in early inscriptions. God Blalabrahmesvara is the presiding deity here. The Goddess Jogulamba, the main female deity here, is considered to be one of the eighteen Sakthis and hence the place is a Saktipitha like Srisailam. There are nine early temples dedicated to nine Brahmesvaras, namely Bala-Brahma, the main deity, Arka-Brahma, Visva-Brahma, Padma-Brahma, Garuda-Brahma, Kumara-Brahma, Vira-Brahma, Svarga-Brahma and Taraka-Brahma. All these temples are early Chalukya structures with uniform curvilinear vimanas, except the sixth one, which is in Dravidian style. The temples are very important study of early temple architecture in the middle Deccan. There are more than fifty inscriptions in these temples, the earliest being that of Chalukya Vikramaditya I (A.D. 657 - 678) and the latest being those of Krishnadevaraya. Of all the four gateways of Srisailam, Alampuram is the richest in ancient structures and epigraphical records. The main school of Saivism that flourished here is kalamukha and later Pasupata. The influence of Siddha cult at Amalapura in the early period is much said in the local tradition.

4. UMAMAHESHVARAM: The Fourth gateway is Umamaheshvaram about 6 km from Achampeta in Nagarkurnool District. It is situated on the edge of a hill forming the vast plateau, generally called Sri Parvata. God Umamaeshara is the presiding deity. Pilgrims from Telangana region in the former days had generally to pass through this temple. The present bus route does not touch this place; it goes two miles away from the temple. According to the inscriptions preserved in the temple the history of the place starts from the Kakatiya period and its references at other places are traceable to the later Chalukya period, from Trailokyamalla Somesvarai I (A.D. 1042 - 68). The Recherla king Madanayaka (1421 AD - 1430 AD) constructed for the benefit of pilgrims a paved footpath with steps from this place up to Jatararevu covering nearly 50 km up to river Krishna. After crossing river at this ferry point known as Jatararevu they have to climb up the Chukkala-parvatam and walk about 4 km to reach Srisailam.

It is in the picturesque Nallamala forest range around 150 kilometers away from Hyderabad on the Hyderabad-Srisailam highway. A festival is held here annually during February and March to celebrate Maha Shivaratri, the Great Night of Shiva.

In the nearby village of Rangapur, one can visit the famous Darga of Niranjanshalvali, where every year on January 17th night, one can stay witness to colossal processions. Lakhs of people partcipate in the procession, making it a colourful affair.

Fifty km from the temple, en route Srisailam, one can see the Mallela Thirtham which houses lord Shiva. The waterfall here is a huge attraction. In order to reach here, one needs to take a diversion from Ottvarla Palli.

Eighty km from here, one can visit Maddimadugu, one more celebrated temple of Lord Anjaneya which experiences thousands of devotees every Saturday and Sunday.

Near the Umamaheshwaram temple, one can have a tour of the world's largest Amarabad Tiger Sanctuary in Mannanur, the Nallamalla forest along the Krishna River. The river cuts through a picturesque gorge of the Nallamala Hills with deep valleys on both sides. The sanctuary, with a wide area of more than 3000 sq. km.

If one wishes to stay back and enjoy even more the surroundings and mysticism of the Umamaheshwaram temple, one has the option for luxurious accommodation in the nearby town of Achampet. If one opts for budget accommodation, the temple has a guesthouse for themselves, next to the temple. One can stay there for a nominal payment of rupees fifty.

Timings : 7:00 AM - 8:30 PM

Contact : +91-1800-425-46464 

 

Sources
https://tourism.telangana.gov.in/divine-destinations/UmaMaheshwaraSwamy

http://hindutourism.com/11-2-11/srisailam-gateways
Hinduism in Middle India: Narasimha, The Lord of the Middle - Page 92
Lavanya Vemsani 

Read More

Somashila View Point and Boating

Somasila is a temple town that has recently been developed as an eco-tourism project is located in Kollapur Mandal Nagarkurnool district, Telangana State India. It is on the banks of the Krishna River and Somasila reservoir has an island-like appearance and attracts pilgrims round the year.

It is a perfect place for people who love greenery and water. There are water front cottages to stay at Somasila operated by Telangana Tourism.

The place is also a popular religious destination, thanks to 15 temples dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. The most famous of them all is the Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple. The temple complex is where all these temples are located, and all of these 15 temples house a Shivalinga.

Someshwar Swamy Temple (a replica of ancient temple reconstructed as the original place was submerged in reservoir area) a highly revered shrine in Somasila.

There is one more thing that is very big here in Somasila. It’s the festival of Pushkara Snanam where devotees take a dip in the Krishna River, and is considered very auspicious. Here’s the interesting part – the festival is observed once in 12 years!

Backwaters backed up by Srisailam dam has a unique ecosystem with many species of aquatic life, water birds and animals. 

Boating facilities is available at Somasila in the backwaters of Srisailam Dam.

Tourists can view the scenery around from the open deck while travelling in the boat.

Somasila also has beautiful Haritha cottages, for booking of cottages and boating.

With beautiful surroundings and back waters Somasila is an ideal tourist spot to visit. Somasila is at a distance of 172 kms from Hyderabad.

In order to facilitate amenities for tourists, TSTDC is providing accommodation with good landscaping at the site. There is a restaurant with a 40 seating capacity.

Telangana Tourism department has launched Pontoon Boat services, on Krishna river, from Somasila of Kollapur mandal in Nagarkurnool District to Srisailam.

The boat has been named 'Somasila.' The boat will traverse 110 km in five hours, along the Krishna river.
Tourists can view the scenery around from the open deck while travelling in the boat.

The five-hour boat ride is expected to be a memorable one for nature lovers as the river courses its way through hills and valleys exposing tourists to exotic flora and fauna.

TSTDC to offer a road-river-road circuit which promises combination of a long drive, a pilgrimage, a glimpse of the forest and wildlife and a river cruise with lunch on board.

In weekends, the Tourism Corporation is offering Rs 2,800 per head package to tourists. The fee could include breakfast, lunch, dinner and accommodation. Those who want to travel by launch from Somasila are required to pay an additional Rs 600 per head.

The district offers vast scope for water sports development. It is endowed with waterfalls at Singotam and Yelluru. Other tourist attractions in the district include Sangameswara temple, Somasila temple, ancient temples at Jataprolu and Kadilivanam.

The package includes visit to Mallela Teertham waterfalls and Srisailam dam. Two Harita hotels have been set up – one at Jataprolu and the other at Somasila – at a cost of Rs 99 crore. Arrangements for special boating in Somasila are being made.

The bus takes you from Hyderabad on what holds enough promise to be a memorable journey. After crossing the Forest Department check-post at Mannanur, the first stop is at Farahabad, where a breath-taking viewpoint greets you after a few kilometres stretch of dense Nallamala forest. You whip your camera out and take all the pictures you wish, including ‘selfies’ and ‘vidfies’ with a smartphone.

An hour later it is onwards to ‘Mallela Teertham’, the waterfalls bang in the middle of the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve and then the sight imposing, larger-than-life Srisailam dam and the large water spread too, make visitors shoot more photographs.

After a pass-through that affords a glimpse of ‘Paaladhaara and Panchadaara’, two very thin trickles of waterfall from a height, it is time for a darshan of ‘Sakshi Ganapati’.

As one reaches Srisailam, it is time to check into rooms and quickly freshen up before heading out for a darshan of Lord Mallikarjunaswamy before dinner and getting ready for a night’s sleep. On day two, those interested can have a second darshan at the temple, before going down the ropeway to ‘Paatala Ganga’ to board a boat. The five-hour cruise over the waters of the River Krishna has a visit to Akka Maa Devi temple en route and lunch on board before touching Somasila.

At Somasila, there are a couple of rooms at the Haritha Resort run by the TS Tourism Development Corporation (TSTDC) and take in the serene view of the backwaters, apart from also visiting the Someswara Temple. And then its back to business, to work, on a drive that is bound to be with a few regrets.

All this will be a reality within a fortnight and the road-cum-forest-cum-river-road circuit is bound to attract those in the concrete jungle, says TSTDC Chairman Pervaram Ramulu. He goes on to add this could possibly be a one-of-its-kind combination of a long drive, a pilgrimage, a glimpse of the forest and wildlife and a river cruise with lunch on board.

Development of the Hyderabad-Somasila-Srisailam route. Measures to provide amenities on the Hyderabad-Kollapur route are being looked into. Currently, one trip a week is planned. Daily packages will be implemented depending on the tourist arrivals.

Where to Stay
Riverfront Mrugavani SomasilaOnce at the Riverfront Mrugavani Somasila, the focus of attention is on the ring of low meadowed hills with the river waters kissing them on all edges.


Haritha Hotel, SomasilaThe resort is located on the nook of the land which means the river is completely surrounding the resort. Wake up to great views and piping hot filter coffee! This temple town is around four hours from Hyderabad, and we recommend taking a road trip as you'd pass through scenic vistas.

FOR BOOKINGS CONTACT
Phone No +91-6301857270

Note: The Hotel is leased out to private party. Please contact hotel directly for bookings. Hotel Terms and Conditions apply. Please read terms and conditions of the hotel.

Top attractions in the area
Sangameswara Temple in Middle of the Somasila Water Reservoir
Sri Jogulamba Bala Brahmeswara Swamy Temple (Alampur)
Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple (Singotam)
Madhava Swamy Temple (Kollapur)
Sangameswara Temple in Middle of the Somasila Water Reservoir

Kollapur is at a distance of 9 kms from Somasila is also famous for several temples and can be visited together.
9 km from Kollapur
105 km from Mahabubnagar
186 km from Hyderabad



Sources
http://www.telangananewspaper.com/somasila-boats-from-srisailam-of-mahabubnagar-district/
https://www.telanganastateofficial.com/somasila-srisailam-boat-service/
http://etelangana.org/news/news_details/5801
https://tourism.telangana.gov.in/hotels/SomasilaHotel

Read More

Kanakai Waterfalls

The Kanakai waterfall is located near a small village called Girnoor of the Bazarhatnoor Mandal, Adilabad District in Telangana State.

The falls is also called as Kanakadurga waterfalls. The place has a place in the ancient history as well. People from nearby villages come to this place to offer their prayers to Goddess Kanaka Durga, in the temple.

The drive to the temple resembles a way paved to reach paradise. The location brings you in direct contact with luscious grasslands and fields. 

Read More

Kerameri Cave Temples

Located in idyllic settings in Komaram Bheem Asifabad district, they attract devout Adivasis in

droves. The large and scenic reservoir of the Kumram Bheem project also offers a perfect getaway for the visitors.

Komaram Bheem Asifabad is set to unravel the mystique of tribal culture and their ethnicity as the religious season for Adivasis has just begun. It is time for the different sects and sub sects of the aboriginal population in this district to worship respective clan deities and other gods and large groups can be seen journeying in bullock carts and on foot to temples located inside the forests and over the hills.

For those who consider the culture of the aboriginal people as something of a mystery, the three equally mysterious cave temples of Adilabad have much to offer by way of revelations. Visitors can actually see and feel that the religious practices of the Adivasis which seem to be superstitious on the surface are actually connected with understanding nature itself.

The three cave temples are Jangubai temple , Bhuyari Pochamma temple and Siddheshwara temple.

Jangubai temple located in the hilly wilderness of Shankarloddi in Kerameri mandal.

The Jangubai temple is by far the most famous among the Adivasis, the Gonds and Pardhans, who visit it as part of a pilgrimage in the Pushya masam coinciding with December-January.

The devout among Gonds observe Jangubai deeksha in the Pushya month and visit the cave temple in large number towards the end of the deeksha. A host of ethnic religious rituals and rites can be seen at the scenic location, which also boasts of a water body at the foot of the hillock.

Bhuyari Pochamma temple located on a hillock on the banks of the Kumram Bheem project reservoir near Manikguda in Asifabad mandal

At the Bhuyari Pochamma temple, the Kolams take part in rituals associated with thanksgiving to the gods. Though many of the Adivasis visit the temple every Sunday, the deity is especially worshipped at the beginning of monsoon and on Dasara.

The large and scenic reservoir of the Kumram Bheem project also offers a perfect getaway for the visitors. The friendly fishermen will offer a ride in the cool water of the reservoir on their surprisingly stable rafts made of thermocol or even a piece of their roasted fish.

Siddheshwara temple located on Penchikalpetgutta hillock in Bejjur mandal.

Reaching the Siddheshwara temple also involves braving the difficulties posed by difficult and roadless terrain as the other two.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/cave-temples-of-adilabad/article6708910.ece

Read More

Pochera Waterfalls

Pochera Waterfalls located near Pochera Village, Boath Mandal, Adilabad District in Telangana State, India. 

It is a natural waterfall with picturesque and beautiful scenery. It is a very big, wide and deep waterfall.

This beautiful waterfall is the deepest of all the waterfalls in Telangana. This is also a caution to people who wish to take a dip in it. The location is very secluded and surrounded by picturesque locations and scenic environment. The waterfall has great width and height to make it the deepest in Telangana. The fall is 20 meter high and flows down with a great force, and the falls are categorized as plunge waterfalls. 

The holy river Godavari flows through the Sahyadri mountain range and on their way, the river breaks into small streams. Some of these streams escape from their path and meet at a point and become the source for the Pochera falls which falls from a 20 meters high point. 

The bed is much deeper and has the capacity to hold a very huge quantity of water. We can hear water roaring at a high pitch, exhibiting the power of nature. This place may scare you during night with only the moon lighting it up. 

The waterfall which is extremely beautiful and very scary at the same time is one of its kinds in the entire state and is rarely found in the country.

The bed of the waterfall is made of hard Granite. This hard material holds the strong falls with elasticity and gravity. The lush green forest around the waterfall makes it a natural habitat for reptiles, bird species, and many insects. This falls serves as a good adventurous location. 

The greenery around the location is very appealing and is untouched by the urbanization. Adding spiritual touch to the beautiful location is the Narsimha swamy temple located near the waterfall.

Pochera Waterfalls is located at a distance of nearly 37 km from Nirmal town, 47 km from Adilabad town and 7 km from Boath and accessible by road.

Hundreds of tourists from various parts of the State visiting the Pochera Waterfalls in Boath mandal which is known for its breathtaking natural surroundings are a scared lot these days because of illegal crusher blasts for granite stone in its adjoining area, barely ten km away.

The explosions are resulting in loss of greenery and beautiful sights nearby. Rocks are crashing into the waterfalls. The surrounding area is becoming increasingly dusty.

• Digging for granite has resulted in waterfalls becoming dry
• Explosions resulting in loss of beautiful sights nearby

NoC issued for setting up a stone crusher-cum-hot-mix plant just 200 metres away. An upcoming stone crusher cum hot mix plant located just 200 metres away from the pristine Pochera waterfall in Boath mandal threatens to engulf the nature's wonder as well as the wild fauna existing in its vicinity.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/pochera-waterfall-under-threat/article8278378.ece

http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Telangana/2016-02-22/Crushing-poses-threat-to-Pochera-waterfalls/208873

http://www.indiamike.com/india-images/pictures/pochera-waterfalls

http://www.telanganatourism.gov.in/partials/destinations/nature-discovery/adilabad/pochera-waterfalls.html

Read More

Jannaram Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary

Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary in the Jannaram forests of Mancherial district in Telangana has been declared as the 42nd tiger reserve in the country in 2012.

According to the department sources, the Kawal wildlife sanctuary has about 20 tigers as per an unofficial count. "By notifying it as a tiger reserve, we expect an increase in the number of tigers," a forest department official said.

Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the important wildlife sanctuaries in Telangana. The Kawal sanctuary houses various animals and several varieties of flora and fauna are seen here. If you want to get a glimpse of wild animals in their natural habitat, then, the Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary is a must see place. 

This Wildlife Sanctuary gives you a picturesque view of retreat. Every corner of this sanctuary is filled with adventure and thrill. Thousands of tourists visit this secluded animal kingdom to experience the thrills amidst wild beasts of the region. This sanctuary is located in the Mancherial district which is 50 kilometers from Mancherial and 250 kilometers from Hyderabad. The wildlife sanctuary is a dry and dense forest with teak, bamboo and many other varieties of trees. During summer, the Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary witnesses hot and dry climate. But the monsoon season that commences from June and continues till September adds life to the forest and makes it bliss. Winter is the perfect season to visit the sanctuary. 

The sanctuary houses several species animals including Cheetal, Sambar, Barking Deer, Nilgai, Sloth Bear, Indian Bison, Panther and Tiger. Tourists can also find reptiles like Crocodile, Python, Monitor Lizard, Star Tortoise and Cobra, in this wildlife sanctuary. This tourist spot also provides jeep safaris, and bird watching trips to spot several rare animals in their habitat.
“The tiger has finally arrived at Kawal,” stated a jubilant Jannaram Divisional Forest Officer, G. Ravinder, after he saw pug marks of the big cat near Dongapalli and Kawal villages within a span of a week earlier this month. “It will be safe here,” he observed, alluding to the safety of a highly improved habitat that Kawal Tiger Reserve (KTR) has become since its inception in 2012.

Kawal was declared a tiger reserve without the presence of even a single wild cat only because it had the potential of regaining its past glory. It’s spread in an area of 893 sq km of dense tropical dry deciduous forest to which about 1,120 sq km of buffer area was added subsequently.

It was assumed, which now seems to have been done rightly, that given proper conservation of the place there is a huge possibility of tigers migrating from Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) in Chandrapur adjoining Sirpur (T) forest in Adilabad district to their once glorious habitat of Kawal. “This tiger would have come from the TATR and travelled across Malini, Asifabad, Tiryani, Sirpur (U) before coming down the hilly range into KTR,” says KTR research associate Jogu Yellam.

As the tiger is an animal which is continuously on the move, it needs a completely safe habitat to become native, says Imran Siddqui of the Hyderabad Tiger Conservation Society (HyTICOS), an NGO working towards tiger conservation in KTR. The government needs to look hard into this aspect as making the habitat safer involves voluntary relocation of villages to cut down human interference inside the forests.

The danger posed by anthropogenic disturbance to the survival of the big cat has been stressed upon in many scientific studies conducted at different Tiger Reserves across the country.

For example, the study ‘Glucocorticoid stress responses of reintroduced tigers in relation to anthropogenic disturbance in Sariska Tiger Reserve in India’ by Subhadeep Bhattarjee and other published in the Public Library of Science in June this year and ‘Studies to determine presence or absence of Indian tiger in Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary’ by P. Anuradha Reddy and others of CCMB, Hyderabad, published in the European Journal of Wildlife Research in November 2010, make a vivid mention of the phenomenon.

The villagers of Dongapalli, Alinagar, Malial, Maisampet and Rampur located in the core area of KTR want to be relocated, yet the government is dithering the issue. The villagers are ready to accept the generous relocation package on offer.

Meanwhile, the troubling part is the decrease in the population of prey animals. Though the latest animal census figures have not been released yet, the population of ungulates and wild pigs decreased in 2014 to 4,300 and 2,500 from 6,000 each in 2013.









http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/the-tiger-finally-reaches-kawal-sanctuary/article7661220.ece




http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/kawal-wildlife-sanctuary-declared-as-tiger-reserve/1/184064.html




http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/Tigers-make-a-return-to-Kawal/articleshow/49876344.cms

Read More