Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary Andhra Pradesh | Mangrove Forests, Birds & Eco-Tourism Guide

Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary – Andhra Pradesh’s Coastal Mangrove Marvel

Located along the banks of the mighty Krishna River delta, the Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary is one of India’s rare coastal ecosystems that combines mangrove forests, estuaries, and wetlands. Spread over 194.8 square kilometers across Krishna and Guntur districts, this sanctuary plays a crucial role in conserving coastal biodiversity and protecting endangered species like the smooth-coated otter, fishing cat, and olive ridley turtle.

Declared in 1998, it is among the largest mangrove sanctuaries on the eastern coast of India — a haven for birdwatchers, researchers, and eco-tourists. 

Highlights

•  Mangrove paradise with over 35 mangrove and associate species

•  Home to over 140 species of birds, including pelicans, herons, and flamingos

•  Nesting ground for olive ridley sea turtles

•  Sightings of otters, fishing cats, and jackals in wetland areas

•  Important habitat for migratory and coastal wildlife in the Bay of Bengal region

Flora & Fauna

Flora

The sanctuary’s rich mangrove vegetation forms a natural barrier between the sea and land. Major plant species include:

• Avicennia marina, Rhizophora mucronata, Sonneratia apetala, and Excoecaria agallocha

• Coastal shrubs, reeds, and grasses supporting mudflat and estuarine life

Fauna

Krishna Sanctuary shelters a fascinating range of fauna adapted to its aquatic and semi-aquatic environment:

• Mammals: Fishing cat, jackal, Indian fox, smooth-coated otter

• Birds: Painted stork, spot-billed pelican, flamingo, black-headed ibis, white-bellied sea eagle

• Reptiles: Monitor lizard, king cobra, olive ridley turtle, estuarine crocodile

 Turtle nesting occurs between November and March along the coastal stretch near Sorlagondi and Nachugunta.

Best Time to Visit

Season	Months	Experience
Winter	November – February	Best for birdwatching and turtle sightings
Monsoon	June – September	Lush mangroves, scenic estuaries
Summer	March – May	Hot, fewer birds but good for photography

How to Reach

• By Air: Nearest airport – Vijayawada International Airport (85 km)

• By Rail: Machilipatnam Railway Station (45 km)

• By Road: Accessible via Koduru, Nagayalanka, and Machilipatnam, connected by state highways

 Forest Department and local operators arrange boat safaris through mangrove channels.

Accommodation & Eco-Tourism

• Forest Rest House, Sorlagondi: Managed by Andhra Pradesh Forest Department

• Eco-Cottages at Nachugunta: Ideal for birdwatchers and researchers

• Hotels & Resorts: Available in Machilipatnam and Avanigadda

 Visitors can join mangrove interpretation walks and community-led eco-tours organized by the Forest Department.

Nearby Attractions

• Machilipatnam Beach (45 km): Historic port town known for Kalamkari art and sea views

• Diviseema Delta: Rich in estuarine biodiversity and local fishing culture

• Hamsaladeevi Beach: The sacred confluence of the Krishna River and Bay of Bengal

• Avanigadda: Known for scenic countryside and birdwatching trails

• Manginapudi Beach: Serene coastal getaway with unique black sand

Conservation Importance

Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary is not only vital for coastal and mangrove conservation but also serves as a natural buffer against cyclones and tidal surges. It supports:

• Mangrove afforestation programs to restore degraded patches

• Turtle conservation initiatives in coordination with local fishermen

• Community-based ecotourism to promote sustainable livelihoods

 The sanctuary is part of the Central Asian Flyway, making it an essential stopover for migratory birds every winter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Where is Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary located?
It lies in the Krishna and Guntur districts of Andhra Pradesh, near the Krishna River delta and the Bay of Bengal.

2. What is Krishna Sanctuary famous for?
It’s known for its mangrove forests, turtle nesting sites, and migratory birds.

3. When is the best time to visit?
Between November and February, when bird migration peaks and the weather is pleasant.

4. Can tourists go boating inside the sanctuary?
Yes, boat safaris are available through designated mangrove creeks and backwaters.

5. Are there accommodation options nearby?
Yes, Forest Rest Houses and eco-cottages are available at Sorlagondi and Nachugunta. 

People Also Ask (PAA)

Q: When was Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary established?
A: It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1998.

Q: What is the total area of Krishna Sanctuary?
A: The sanctuary covers approximately 194.8 sq km.

Q: Are crocodiles found in Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary?
A: Yes, estuarine crocodiles are occasionally sighted near tidal creeks.

Q: Which river flows through the sanctuary?
A: The Krishna River forms the lifeline of the sanctuary’s ecosystem.

Conclusion

The Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary is a living mosaic of mangroves, wetlands, and coastal biodiversity — a place where land and sea coexist in perfect harmony. It’s a must-visit for birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and conservation enthusiasts exploring Andhra Pradesh’s hidden natural gems.