Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Among the few wildlife sanctuaries across Andhra Pradesh, Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary is considered one of the diverse ones with a variety of species of wildlife, plant species, reptiles and birds, scattered around the reserve. However, the highlight of this wildlife sanctuary comes from the elusive Jerdon’s courser, a highly endangered bird species, which is only found in this reserve. Beyond bird-watching experiences, you can also pay heed to the variety of vegetation spread across the landscape of the wildlife sanctuary.
Quick Details
Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary Address: Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh 516505
Area: 464.42 km2 (179.31 sq mi)
Nearest city: Kadapa
Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary Timings: 24 hours
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Average Temperature: 15°C to 25°C
Major Attraction: Jerdon’s Courser and chousingha (endangered species)
Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary Ticket Price: No entry fee is required
About
Photo: Roshan Dadhe / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The main USP or highlight of the Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary is that it is home to the ultra-endangered bird species called Jerdon’s Courser. However, what’s quite fascinating is that this sanctuary is exclusively the only place in the world where this bird is seen. Initially, the bird was thought to be extinct for over 100 years. However, later in 1986, the bird was spotted in Reddipalli village of Kadapa district, leading to its protection inside the wildlife sanctuary. It received the legal status as a wildlife sanctuary in 1998.
How To Reach
Photo: Munna Aawara / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: If you are taking a flight, the nearest airport from the wildlife sanctuary would be Tirupati Airport, located 126 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi directly to the sanctuary or take a public bus to Kadapa and then hire a local vehicle up to the sanctuary.
By Train: Coming to the railway’s mode of transportation, Kadapa Railway Station is the nearest one to the sanctuary, located around 60 km away. You can hire a taxi or shared shuttle service to reach the sanctuary from the station.
By Road: If you are driving from any of the nearby cities, the road network is well-developed and you can follow the maps and take relevant routes to reach the wildlife sanctuary.
Things To Do
1. Embark On A Wildlife Safari
Photo: Damian Patkowski / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
One of the most popular activities in Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary, or any wildlife sanctuary for that matter is to embark on a wildlife safari ride. It’s fun, and exhilarating and allows you to have a chance for an up-close encounter with the wildlife in their natural habitat. Inside the sanctuary, you can opt for jeep safari rides, which come with experienced guides who are well aware of the best zones for spotting animals like Jackal, Panter, Sloth Bear, and Chousingha in the sanctuary. Also, the safaris are conducted in open jeeps, which add to the thrilling experience further.
2. Indulge In Bird watching
Photo: Yathin S Krishnappa / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Given that the primary highlight of this wildlife sanctuary is the Jerdon’s Courser bird species, bird watching is undoubtedly one of the most popular activities for you to indulge in. Beyond Jerdon’s Courser, the sanctuary is home to over 200 other bird species, whom you can spot at regular intervals in and around the sanctuary, in their natural habitats. A few of the potential bird species that you might get to witness are the Indian Peafowl, the Malabar Pied Hornbill, and the Crested Serpent Eagle.
3. Visit The Lankamala Shiva Temple
Photo: Sonika Agarwal / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Wildlife Sanctuary is named after the Lankamala Shiva temple that exists in the ecological zone. After you finish exploring the surrounding wildlife, you can take your time to explore the temple that exists there and has been for decades now. You can offer your prayers at the temple and soak in the peace and serenity that exists there.
4. Capture Photographs
Photo: Harshakamanuru / Wikimedia Commons
Inside the wildlife sanctuary, you have the option to put your photography skills to the test. From capturing the wildlife to the snaps of the vegetation that thrives in the area, there are a lot of photography opportunities available. You can take your time capturing the beautiful and endangered Jerdon’s Courser as well if luck is on your side and you end up spotting one or a few inside the sanctuary.
Places To Visit Around Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Belum Caves
Photo: Daniel Romanson / Wikimedia Commons
When in Kadapa district in Andhra Pradesh, visiting Belum Caves is an absolute must. These are the second-largest cave system in India and are predominantly known for the unique formations of stalagmites and stalactites. There are long passages and galleries inside the cave and the constant flow of underground water adds to the mysticism of the place. The deepest point of the cave goes down to a depth of 151 feet at a point called Patalganga.
Distance From Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary: 102 km
Timings: 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM
2. Gandikota
Photo: Eyeofshahvali / Wikimedia Commons
This is a renowned fort that is located on the banks of the Penna River and had a significant role during the reign of multiple dynasties, including Kalyani Chalukyas, Pemmasani Nayakas, and the Golconda Sultanate. This is a sand fort that stands out with its 101 towers. Also, inside the fort, two ancient temples are catering to Madhava and Ranganatha.
Distance From Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary: 70 km
Timings: 24 hours
3. Penchalakona Temple
Photo: Gowtham AGM / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
This temple, located approximately 61 kilometres from the sanctuary, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is set amidst picturesque surroundings. It is an important pilgrimage site and provides a cultural complement to the natural beauty of the sanctuary. The temple is situated in the Nellore district and near the temple, ensure that you visit the Penchalakona Waterfalls too.
Distance From Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary: 61 km
Timings: 24 hours
Where To Stay
Photo: PhotoMIX Company / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Due to the remote location of the Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary, there are no hotels or resorts located right around the sanctuary. You’d have to come to the nearby cities like Kadapa to be able to find good accommodation. Some of the best picks are Ziara Hotel, Manasa Inn, and DRR Residence.
Where To Eat
Photo: Deepal Tamang / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
There are a few local eateries around the wildlife sanctuary where you can nibble on some local Andhra snacks and have some tea or coffee. However, for some real food and to taste the delectable Andhra cuisine, consider heading to the Kadapa district. Some of the popular restaurants around are Sitara Garden family restaurant, Andhra Spice family restaurant, and Food Nation restaurant.
Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem that offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and witness the wonders of biodiversity. Getting to witness the endangered Jerdon’s Courser is likely the highlight of your experience there. However, you can also enrich your vacation by exploring the other flora and fauna in the sanctuary. Plan a trip with TripXL for an unforgettable travel experience.
Cover Photo: Chris Greenhow / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
