Nagarjunsagar–Srisailam Tiger Reserve | India’s Largest Tiger Sanctuary, Wildlife & Travel

Nagarjunsagar–Srisailam Tiger Reserve – India’s Largest Forest Haven

Spread across the majestic Nallamala Hills of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, the Nagarjunsagar–Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR) is India’s largest tiger reserve, covering over 3,728 sq. km. This vast wilderness, centered around the Krishna River valley, is a paradise for wildlife lovers and a crucial stronghold for the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger.

 

Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1983 under Project Tiger, NSTR combines scenic landscapes, ancient temples, deep gorges, and dense forests — making it a blend of natural grandeur and cultural heritage. 

Highlights

•  India’s largest tiger reserve, spanning five districts

•  Dominated by the Krishna River and the Nagarjunsagar Dam

•  Rich biodiversity with tigers, leopards, bears, deer, and wild dogs

•  Houses the famous Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas

•  Offers jeep safaris, nature trails, and eco-tourism stays

Flora & Fauna

 Flora

The reserve’s landscape is an ecological mosaic of tropical dry deciduous forests, thorny scrub, and riverine vegetation, including:

• Teak (Tectona grandis), Terminalia, Pterocarpus, Boswellia, and Dalbergia latifolia

• Numerous medicinal herbs, shrubs, and grasslands along the Krishna valley

 Fauna

NSTR shelters an impressive diversity of wildlife:

• Mammals: Tiger, leopard, sloth bear, sambar, chital, nilgai, wild boar, and Indian pangolin

• Birds: Grey junglefowl, peafowl, parakeets, eagles, kingfishers, and hornbills

• Reptiles: Star tortoise, rock python, mugger crocodile, and monitor lizard

 Birdwatching along the Krishna backwaters and forest trails is a delight, especially during winter.

Best Time to Visit

Season	Months	Highlights
Winter	November – February	Pleasant weather, best for safaris and temple visits
Summer	March – May	Good visibility for tiger sightings
Monsoon	June – September	Forests lush and vibrant; limited safari access

How to Reach

• By Air: Nearest airport – Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (230 km)

• By Rail: Markapur Road Station (85 km) and Nandyal (130 km)

• By Road: Well-connected by road from Hyderabad, Kurnool, and Guntur; regular buses to Srisailam

 The Hyderabad–Srisailam GHMC Highway offers breathtaking hill views and gorges.

Accommodation & Facilities

• Forest Rest Houses – Managed by the Forest Department at Srisailam, Domalapenta, and Mannanur

• Haritha Tourist Resort (APTDC) – Offers comfortable stay near Srisailam Temple

• Eco-Tourism Camps – Operated by forest department with guided safaris and birding tours

 Advance booking is required for safaris and rest houses through the NSTR Eco-Tourism portal.

Nearby Attractions

• Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple: One of India’s 12 Jyotirlinga shrines, nestled within the reserve

• Nagarjunsagar Dam: One of Asia’s largest masonry dams on the Krishna River

• Mallela Theertham Waterfalls: Scenic cascade hidden amid thick forests

• Akkamahadevi Caves: Accessible by boat from Srisailam Dam, rich in spiritual significance

• Ethipothala Waterfalls: 70-ft waterfall near Nagarjunsagar, perfect for photography

• Srisailam Ropeway: Offers panoramic views of the Krishna valley

Conservation Importance

NSTR serves as a critical habitat for the Central and Southern Indian tiger population, forming a vital wildlife corridor connecting Nallamala and Nagarjuna forests. The reserve also helps protect the Krishna River catchment and supports several tribal communities through eco-development programs.

 It plays a key role in the Project Tiger network, ensuring long-term tiger conservation in the Deccan Plateau.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Where is Nagarjunsagar–Srisailam Tiger Reserve located?
It spans across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, covering parts of Kurnool, Prakasam, Nandyal, Nalgonda, and Mahabubnagar districts.

2. What animals are found here?
Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, deer, wild boars, and several species of birds and reptiles.

3. What is the best time to visit?
Between November and April for pleasant weather and high wildlife activity.

4. Are safaris available?
Yes, jeep safaris and nature trails are organized by the Forest Department at Mannanur and Srisailam.

5. Is permission required?
Yes, entry permits can be obtained at the Mannanur Forest Check Post or online via the Andhra Pradesh Eco-Tourism website.

People Also Ask (PAA)

Q: How large is the reserve?
A: It covers 3,728 sq. km, making it India’s largest Tiger Reserve.

Q: Which river flows through it?
A: The Krishna River, forming deep valleys and scenic reservoirs.

Q: Can temple visits be combined with a wildlife trip?
A: Absolutely – pilgrims often combine Srisailam Temple Darshan with wildlife safaris.

Q: What is unique about the reserve?
A: It integrates ancient pilgrimage sites, dense forests, and tiger habitats in one region.

Conclusion

The Nagarjunsagar–Srisailam Tiger Reserve stands as a living symbol of wild India’s resilience — a land where tigers roam beneath temple bells. From thrilling jeep safaris and serene boat rides to spiritual journeys at Srisailam Temple, this sanctuary offers every traveler a chance to connect deeply with nature and heritage.