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The Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh features sprawling lush greenery, stunning explored vegetation and natural beauty that doesn’t require any introductions. One of the best places to witness that is at the Papikonda National Park. Located in the Alluri Sitarama Raju and Eluru districts of Andhra Pradesh, this is one of the most extensive and expansive national parks in the state, spread across an area of 1,012 sq.km. To witness the unmatched beauty of the Papikonda National Park, you need to have a solid plan that enables you to encounter several rare and endangered species.
Quick Details
Papikonda National Park Address: MG9W+363, Andhra Pradesh
Area: 1,012.86 sq km
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Wildlife spotting, trekking, birdwatching, river rafting
Key Wildlife: Tiger, Indian Gaur, Leopard, Sambar, Spotted Deer, Indian Python
Papikonda National Park Ticket Price: INR 10 for adults and INR 5 for children
Established: in 1978, as a wildlife sanctuary, later upgraded to a national park in 2008
Papikonda National Park Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
How To Reach Papikonda National Park
Photo: Muk khan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Air: You can reach Rajahmundry airport from your starting point and then hire a taxi or even take public transportation to reach the national park.
By Rail: Rajahmundry railway station is the nearest railhead and is connected to pretty much all the nearby major cities in Andhra Pradesh. From the railway station, local transport options like buses and taxis are available to reach the park.
By Road: If you are driving yourself or have a car rental to take you to the national park, you can reach Rajahmundry and then continue your journey to the national park based on the map instructions.
Things To Do At Papikonda National Park
Papikonda National Park is stationed along the banks of the Godavari River, which offers some additional gems to explore:
1. Wildlife Safari
Photo: Bernd Dittrich / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Your trip to any national park has to start with a guided jeep safari. It is a mandate and it enables you to soak in the views of the surroundings, understand the local flora and fauna and even familiarise yourself with the beauty of the place, in real time. At Papikonda National Park, you can arrange for jeep safaris with an experienced guide who will give you a better chance at encountering different kinds of wildlife including leopards, sambar deer, barking deer, etc.
2. Bird Watching
Photo: Ade javanese / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Papikonda National Park has 92 recorded species of birds that you can witness around, especially when you are venturing into the depths of the forest to explore the animals. Some of the popular ones that are often quite easy to spot are common peacocks and Red jungle fowl. So, if you are a bird enthusiast and would love to explore different kinds of native and migratory birds when you have the best chance. The park is also an important site for migratory birds, especially during the winter months.
3. Boat Rides On The Godavari River
Photo: Vizag Explore / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
One of the most unique activities that you can indulge in at the Papikonda National Park is embarking on boat rides across the river. This is part of the boat safari experience, which is not as frequent as the regular safari but an experience worth trying your luck to experience. Boat rides on the river provide a different perspective of the park’s lush landscape and an opportunity to spot wildlife along the riverbanks. You also get a closer look into the vegetation around the river and the dense forests.
4. Camping
Photo: ignartonosbg / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
If you want to extend your stay at the Papikonda National Park, there are camping opportunities available inside. There are dedicated camp houses and forest houses inside the national park, where you’d have to book your stay in advance. There are very limited spots, so plan and prepare for the said experience ahead of time. You might need permits so ensure to have those before visiting.
Places To Visit Near Papikonda National Park
Once you are done exploring the national park, you can spend the remainder of the day exploring the nearby tourist attractions.
1. Papi Hills
Photo: Venkatesh Thalluri / Wikimedia Commons
One of the major attractions around the national park is the PapiKondalu, which is a breathtakingly beautiful range of hills that lie on the banks of the Godavari River. It is a short distance from the national park and is renowned for its stunning landscapes, dense forests and the river winding through them. Papi Hills is a popular spot for boat rides and picnics, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
Distance From Papikonda National Park: 106.6 KM
Timings: 24 hours
2. Perantapalli Village
Photo: Minh Trần / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Once you finish with the Papikonda National Park activities, you can then head to the Perantapalli Village for some peace, tranquillity and respite. It is a small tribal village, a short distance from the national park. The village is renowned for the Ramakrishna Muni Vatika (Ashramam) and Veereswara Swamy Temple, which are popular tourist attractions there. The serene surroundings make this a great spot for you to relax and unwind.
Distance From Papikonda National Park: 82.7 Km
Timings: 24 hours
3. Bhadrachalam
Photo: Adityamadhav83 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Bhadrachalam is a historic temple town located on the banks of the Godavari River, known for its famous Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama. The town is a major pilgrimage site and attracts devotees from across the country. If you are interested in immersing yourself in religious experiences and spirituality, a visit to Bhadrachalam is an absolute must.
Distance From Papikonda National Park: 92.4 Km
Timings: 24 hours
Where To Stay
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There are a few campsites and forest houses inside the Papikonda Wildlife Sanctuary that you can book in advance and stay in. Beyond that, you can consider booking your accommodation in one of the places nearby including Jungle Star Eco Camp, Birds Nest Resorts, The Woods Resort Maredumilli and Bluemoon Eco Resorts.
Where To Eat
Photo: SteveR- / Wikimedia Commons
In the proximity to the national park, you might not find a lot of eateries or restaurants. However, there are a few popular ones around Maredumilli and Rajahmundry including Rajasthan Hotel, Bamboo Restaurant, Maredumilli Home’s Homely Restaurant, and Durga Rao Hotel.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Metro Junction / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- The winter months, between November and February, are usually considered the best time to explore the national park.
- For camping and some other activities inside the national park, you will need permits so get them sorted ahead of time.
- Always keep a safe distance from the wildlife to ensure that you aren’t jeopardising their well-being or yours.
- For a comfortable exploration, wear comfortable clothes and also wear sturdy shoes to get around the national park.
- If you are visiting any of the nearby tribal villages, ensure that you are being respectful of the local customs there.
Numerous activities are waiting to be explored at the Papikonda National Park. The next time you want to experience the duality of nature with the fierceness of the wildlife, this is a spot you must add to your travel plans without fail. Papikonda National Park is a journey into the heart of Andhra Pradesh’s natural and cultural heritage, so book your vacation with TripXL for a first-hand encounter with the same.
Cover Photo: ShashiBellamkonda / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
