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Home to the last tracts of primary mangrove forests of South India, Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh is one of the most renowned and ecologically significant spots to visit and explore. The sanctuary is part of a mangrove wetland that is home to various wildlife and bird species. Spread across an area of 141.8 sq. km, the wildlife sanctuary is one of the most significant ecoregions not just in India but across the world as well. It is home to a variety of reptiles, including different types of pythons, sand boas and kukri snakes as well.
Quick Details
Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary Address: QXC2+CMH, Gullalamoda, Andhra Pradesh 521120
Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary Timings: 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM (Sunday closed)
Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary Ticket price: None
Area: 194.81 km2 (48,140 acres)
Nearest City: Machilipatnam
Established: 1964
About
Alternatively known as the Krishna River Wildlife Sanctuary, the sanctuary was established with the primary intent of preserving the ecosystem and the biodiversity of the Krishna River Basin. This sanctuary is unique due to its riverine and marshy landscapes, which provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife, reptiles and bird species too. The entire sanctuary is spread across two major districts in Andhra Pradesh, Krishna and Guntur and comprises multiple forest reserves, including Sorlagondi Reserve Forest, Yelichetladibba Reserve Forest, Nachugunta Reserve Forest, Molagunta Reserve Forest, Lankivanidibba Reserve Forest, Adavuladeevi Reserve Forest, and Kothapalem Reserve Forest, to name a few.
How To Reach
Photo: IM3847 / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: The nearest city to the wildlife sanctuary is Machilipatnam, which is roughly 75 km away. If you are travelling from nearby cities like Vijayawada or Hyderabad, you can hire a private vehicle for the most comfortable travel experience.
By Air And Rail: Vijayawada Airport is the nearest airport to the sanctuary and Vijayawada Railway Station is the closest major railway station that connects nearby cities and metropolitans to the sanctuary. From these hubs, you can hire a taxi or a shared vehicle to the sanctuary.
Things To Do
1. Bird Watching
Photo: Egle Sidaraviciute / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Undoubtedly, one of the most popular activities that you can immerse yourself in is bird watching, especially during the winter season when migratory birds flock into the sanctuary. The sanctuary hosts a variety of resident and migratory birds, including species such as the painted stork, herons, and egrets, which thrive in the marshy and swampy habitat of the sanctuary. There are a variety of nature trails and watchpoints around the sanctuary where you can relax and wait to spot these birds in their natural habitat.
2. Jungle Safari
Photo: Will Shirley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The best way to familiarise yourself with the local habitat of the Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary is by booking a jeep safari. Due to its remote location and less exploration by the tourists, the safari rides are usually quite affordable. Depending on the season, you might get to witness a few different wildlife across different zones of the sanctuary. Usually, animals like spotted deer, wild boars, and leopards can be spotted around the water sources. You can also explore the rich plant life that thrives around the sanctuary.
3. Take Photographs Of The Landscapes And Wildlife
Photo: Magda Ehlers / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
With how diverse and well-forested this sanctuary is, it isn’t surprising that you can capture some of the most stunning photographs around the area. Capturing the wildlife in real-time as they loiter around in their natural habitat is probably one of the most enriching experiences you will get to experience. Furthermore, you can also take close-up shots of the intertwined mangrove forests and the vegetation that thrives around the area.
Places To Visit Around Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Vijayawada
Photo: IM3847 / Wikimedia Commons
Vijayawada happens to be the nearest major city that is located from the wildlife sanctuary. So, if you are looking to further immerse in the local history and culture of Andhra Pradesh, visiting Vijayawada is a great option. Key attractions include the Kanaka Durga Temple, Prakasam Barrage, and the Undavalli Caves and you can also indulge in an extensive shopping spree and try some amazing local Andhra cuisine dishes.
Distance From Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary: 107 km
2. Mangalagiri
Another nearby town from the wildlife sanctuary that’s considered a must-visit spot is Mangalagiri. The place is renowned for its ancient temples and the rich cultural heritage. Some of the popular temples to explore are Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam and Mangalagiri Reserved Forest. You can also visit Amaravati from this quaint town to explore more of the popular tourist spots.
Distance From Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary: 104 km
3. Guntur
Photo: Gntr / Wikimedia Commons
Known for its spicy chillies, Guntur is another one of the popular cities you can visit from the sanctuary. It is roughly 110 km from the sanctuary and can be reached within 3-4 hours. Guntur is a historic city known for its temples and vibrant markets. While there, ensure to explore spots like Kondaveedu, Suryalanka Beach, and Uppalapadu Nature Conservation.
Distance From Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary: 110 km
Where To Stay
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For comfortable accommodation, you can book your accommodation in nearby cities and towns like Machilipatnam or Vijayawada. Some of the popular spots where you can book your stay include Prakrity Village, Anahita the River Retreat, Grand Vijayawada, Hotel Kosala, and Hyatt Palace Vijayawada.
Where To Eat
Photo: Deepal Tamang / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
There are a few local eateries where you can enjoy some local Andhra cuisine. However, if you are in one of the nearby cities like Vijayawada, there are renowned restaurants like Crossroads Restaurant, Bezawada Dhaba, Rusted Spoon, GAD Restaurant, and Barbeque Nation.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: IM3847 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit the Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter months when the weather is comfortable with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. You can thus plan your visit between November and February. Also, the chances of spotting wildlife and birds during these months are quite high.
Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary in Gullalamoda is one of the most vital sanctuaries that enable you to experience the rich biodiversity of Andhra Pradesh’s riverine ecosystem. With diverse wildlife, bird species, reptiles and mangrove forests, the beauty and significance of this sanctuary is beyond comprehension. Plan a trip with TripXL for a seamless and enriching experience of wildlife in Andhra Pradesh.
Cover Photo: Bibhu Kalyan Acharya / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
