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Beyond the history and the cultural heritage of a place, another factor that adds significantly to a place’s importance is the rich biodiversity. If you are in the Kadapa district in Andhra Pradesh, Rajiv Gandhi National Park is undoubtedly the best spot to experience that. The place got recognition as a national park in 2005 and has been home to a wide range of endangered species and is spread across an area of 2.4 sq.km. While visiting here gear up to explore the rich biodiversity from up close.
Quick Details
Rajiv Gandhi National Park Address: Rameswaram, Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh
Area: 2,400 hectares
Nearest City: Kadapa
Established: 2005
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Rajiv Gandhi National Park Ticket Price: ₹ 25 for Indian citizens
Rajiv Gandhi National Park Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Famous For: Endangered species, tropical dry deciduous forest
How To Reach Rajiv Gandhi National Park
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By Air: The nearest domestic airport is Tirupati Airport. From there, you can book a taxi to take you to Rameswaram in Kadapa to explore the national park.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to the national park is the Kadapa Railway Station. There are regular trains run from nearby cities like Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. From the station, you’d have to book a private vehicle to reach the national park.
By Road: The park is accessible by road from Kadapa, which is connected to major cities by bus and taxi services.
Things To Do At Rajiv Gandhi National Park
Rajiv Gandhi National Park is filled with experiences and opportunities, making the exploration process more fun:
1. Wildlife Safari
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Without any doubt, the most important activity to indulge in while you are at the Rajiv Gandhi National Park is the wildlife safari experience. With luck and proper planning by the guides, you might get to witness sloth bears, spotted deer and other wild animals in their natural habitat. Beyond that, take your time to explore the vegetation around. You might get to witness several bird species too, including peacocks, parakeets and little egrets.
2. Bird Watching
Photo: Molnár Tamás Photography / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
If you are interested in learning more about the native and migratory bird species that are located in the national park, you can take your time to truly immerse yourself in an extensive bird-watching experience. Some of the notable species include the Indian Pitta, Peacocks, and parakeets. During the winter months, around October to February, the population of the migratory birds increases extensively, further adding to the charm of the experience.
3. Trekking
Photo: Krivec Ales / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The diverse ecosystem of the national park is another way you can indulge in extensive trekking experience around. It gives you the comfort and the upper hand to explore the stunning steep ascends and the rocky terrains around. However, since most of the trails around are unmarked, you’d need to have a local guide with you to explore the hidden viewpoints and the significant spots around the national park.
Places To Visit Around Rajiv Gandhi National Park
Make the most out of your travel experience exploring these surrounding spots:
1. Gandikota Fort
Photo: Obulreddytavva / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most historical forts in Andhra Pradesh, Gandikota Fort is a must-visit once you are done exploring the national park. It is located on the banks of the Penna River and houses a lot of ruins, remnants and temples inside. There is a mosque inside the fort too. The fort was initially constructed during the reign of the Chalukyas but was eventually succeeded by the Golconda Sultanate.
Distance From Rajiv Gandhi National Park: 38.5 Km
Timings: 24 hours
2. Belum Caves
Photo: Hkotra / Wikimedia Commons
Once you are done with the Rajiv Gandhi Andhra Pradesh National Park activities, head to another adventurous site in the Kadapa district, which is Belum Caves. This 3.5 km long cave is the second largest cave in India. Yet only 1.5 km of the caves are open to the public and the rest is sealed off to preserve the authenticity of the place. Inside the cave, you will find narrow passages, and a cool ambience.
Distance From Rajiv Gandhi National Park: 71.5 Km
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹65 for adults and ₹45 for children
3. Ahobilam Temple
Photo: Bharat Kumar Jonnalagadda @ Malkum / Wikimedia Commons
Another significant religious site that deserves to be visited and explored after your exploration of the national park is the Ahobilam Temple. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site where devotees come from across the country to offer their prayers to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. There are two distinct divisions of the temple – Lower Ahobilam and Upper Ahobilam. Beyond the main inner sanctum, there are various other smaller shrines scattered throughout the expanse.
Distance From Rajiv Gandhi National Park: 68.7 Km
Timings: 6:30 AM to 1 PM and 3 PM to 8 PM
Where To Stay
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To spend a few days exploring the national park and the surrounding sightseeing spots, it is better if you book your accommodation in one of the many hotels located in Kadapa City, which is around 55 km from the national park. There are budget-friendly hotels and expensive three- and five-star accommodations available too. Some of the popular spots you can book for your stay include Manasa Inn, Ziara Hotel, White House Inn and Hotel Grand Inn.
Where To Eat
Photo: Prakrutim / Wikimedia Commons
Kadapa has a variety of delectable dishes for you to try. Some of the popular restaurants you can consider visiting are our Firdouse Pure VEG, NON VEG & Arabian Mandi Restaurant, Mayura Gardenia, Sitara Garden Family Restaurant, and Andhra Spice Family Restaurant Kadapa City.
Other Factors To Consider
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Tips For Travellers
- The best period to visit is during the winter months when the average temperatures are comfortable for safari and nature walks.
- If you are planning to stay, book your accommodation in the main city of Kadapa in advance.
- There are guided tours available around the national park which is the best way to explore the area.
- Always maintain a safe distance from the wildlife and avoid feeding them.
- While taking Rajiv Gandhi National Park photos are allowed, you want to avoid using flash photography.
Rajiv Gandhi National Park is a treasure in Andhra Pradesh, providing you with a glimpse into the beauty of the rich biodiversity that exists in the state and the country in general. Despite how little talked about and visited this national park is, ensure that you add it to your itinerary the next time you visit Kadapa. Book your vacation packages with TripXL for the ultimate comfort and best deals.
Cover Photo: Raju Venkatesha Murthy / Wikimedia Commons
