Ever felt stressed to the extent that you feel like ditching the city noise and the bustle for a place that is brimming with wild animals? Well, it’s time to stop dreaming and witness the reality! Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary in Telangana, India, is your next destination to witness. This giant park stretches to a distance of over 800 sq. km and is bustling with life. So, whether you’re a nature lover or even an adventure seeker, Eturnagaram is just perfect! Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is a place you will never forget.
History Of The Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary
Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary’s story stretches back decades, as it holds a deep connection between the land and its inhabitants. The sanctuary we know today came into existence back in 1952. However, declaring Eturnagaram a sanctuary wasn’t just about protecting the animals and the species; but about acknowledging the importance of protecting the ecosystem.
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Top Reasons To Visit Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary
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Eturnagaram isn’t just a park but a worth-visiting wildlife sanctuary, unlike any other. Here are some compelling reasons why you must add this destination to your travel bucket list:
1. Thrilling Wildlife Encounters
Have you ever seen a majestic tiger or a stealthy leopard in their natural habitat? Eturnagaram is teeming with diverse wildlife and is waiting for you to explore it. There’s an extensive wide range of wildlife creatures, ranging from apex predators to playful sloth bears, and a lot many others.
2. A Serene Landscape Paradise
Just like other destinations equipped with lush greens, Eturnagaram also offers a visual feast, which truly enables you to disconnect from the city’s bustle and unnecessary noise and immerse yourself in the purity of nature.
3. A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Eturnagaram is a bird watcher’s paradise! Rejoice, as this destination is equipped with various avian species. So, do not look beyond and keep your eyes hooked on those vibrant feathers and melodious voices of birds as you explore the sanctuary.
Places To Visit Near Eturnagaram’s Wildlife Sanctuary
Here are some of the best spots in Eturnagaram that will leave you completely awestruck:
1. Dayyum Vagu River
This river is placed right in the middle of the sanctuary which in turn enables you to gaze at the scenic views from a different angle. Prefer to visit this place in Eturnagaram if you’re willing for a relaxing evening escape.
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2. Bogatha Waterfall
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Tired of the summer heatwave in your hometown? Visit Bogatha Waterfall in the rainy season as this place turns super cool during that time. Moreover, it even enables you to take a swim in the cool waterfall, by following some rules that have been there.
3. Raksha Gufa
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Feeling like exploring ancient sites? Explore Raksha Gufa, the caves that have really old fossils from the trees that have been living way back in the past. Do not visit the caves without wearing good quality shoes and also be accompanied by a local when you explore the cave.
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Activities In And Around Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary
Here are some of the activities to perform in and around Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Nature Trails
Various trails await for your presence. So, lace up your shoes and immerse yourself in the lush greens. Also, keep your eyes peeled for eye-gazing wildlife sights along the way. Nature trails are always exciting. So, lace up your hiking shoes and choose from a variety of scenic trails that you would like to explore. Through this, you would be able to witness the rich flora and fauna and even discover the hidden streams and lush greens that Eturnagaram boasts.
2. Wildlife Photography
Are you a photography enthusiast? If yes, Eturnagaram is a place worth to visit for you. This place is even known as the Photographer’s Paradise as here, it’s possible to capture stunning images of the panoramic views, wildlife encounters, and even the vibrant birdlife. However, do not break the park rules and ensure to make a reasonable distance from the animals.
3. Stargazing
Ever felt like escaping through the city lights and enjoying the stunning display of the stars at night? This would even ensure minimal exposure to pollution within the sanctuary and hence create a perfect condition for stargazing. Just imagine how pleasure-giving giving would be to gaze at the constellations while hearing the symphony of the nocturnal creatures.
4. Thrilling Jeep Safaris
A fan of Jeep Safaris? Well, you can enjoy those in Eturnagaram too. Explore the wide expanse of this sanctuary and indulge in the wilderness of wildlife encounters.
5. A Birder’s Paradise
If you’re a bird enthusiast, Eturnagaram is just for you. It is a haven that boasts a diverse range of avian species. So, buckle up, lace up your shoes, and grab your binoculars, as the melodious songs of the bird await your arrival.
A Taste of Telangana: Local Delights Near Eturnagaram
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Although Eturnagaram might have fewer food options within the sanctuary, the nearby villages open doors for a wide variety of delicious culinary experiences. Also, Telangana is known for its bold and unique ingredients. Here are some of the top local delights you would not want to miss:
1. Spicy And Savoury Delights
Telangana is known for flavour explosion as its dishes contain a significant amount of spices that create a delightful heat. Some such dishes include Gongura Pachadi along with a tangy chutney made with hibiscus leaves. Another dish includes Chettinad Chicken which boasts you on a taste bud adventure.
2. Comforting Staples
Alongside the fiery and spicy staples, Telangana offers comforting staples too. Some of them include fluffy roti and flatbreads that can be consumed with lentils or other vegetables.
3. Delicious Street Food
There are a lot of local street vendors that offer flavourful local favourites such as samosas, Osmania biscuits, and much more. Dishes like these are the best way to indulge in local flavours and experience the culinary delights of Telangana.
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Key Wildlife Attractions: A look at Eturnagaram’s fascinating fauna
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Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is not just about exploring the scenic beauty and stunning landscapes, but also about encountering incredible wildlife. Here are some of the key animal encounters you might witness on your visit:
1. Magnificent Big Cats
During your sightseeing, you might encounter the majestic Bengal tiger, who is the apex predator of the sanctuary. Furthermore, you may even spot Elusive leopards which adds a spicy thrill to your viewing experience.
2. Unique Mammals
While you are on the gazing journey at the sanctuary, you may even come across the comical sloth bears that are mainly known for their shaggy black coat and love for honey. Alongside, you may even encounter barking deer, shy pangolins, and some endangered mammals.
3. Reptilian Encounters
Eturnagaram has a diverse ecosystem that is also home to a wide variety of reptiles. So, when you visit Eturnagaram’s fauna, keep your eyes wide open and look out for colourful snakes that include the Indian rate snake, and the common Krait. However, it’s advisable to keep a safe distance from those fascinating reptiles and gaze at them from afar.
How To Reach & Best Time To Visit
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The ideal time to visit and enjoy the fun involved in this destination is during October – May. Why? During these months, the scorching heat subsides, which ensures a pleasurable experience for the tourists. During these months, the pleasurable weather makes the sanctuary gazing more enjoyable.
Reaching Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary needs a bit of planning. Here’s how you can navigate your journey:
- The nearest airports to Eturnagaram are Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) and Warangal Airport (WRG). Also, the nearest railway station is Warangal (WL).
- If you’re planning to travel to the destination by road, then note that Eturnagaram is approximately 250 kilometres away from Hyderabad and approximately 110 kilometres away from Warangal (WL).
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Practical Tips To Keep In Mind
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Eager to explore Eturnagaram? Be assured to be responsible as this is a protected sanctuary. Respect the rules of the park and be within the designated limitations, to avoid any kind of disturbance to the wildlife or their habitats. If you have been visiting the sanctuary for the first time and are not aware of the do’s and don’t, hire a certified guide to unlock the secrets of the sanctuary and maximise your wildlife spotting chances.
Further Read: Places To Visit Near Hyderabad Within 50 Kms
Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary isn’t only a destination to visit but an experience to live. It’s an absolute chance to escape from the monotonous everyday, connect with nature, and immerse in the breathtaking beauty of India’s wilderness. So, are you all set to answer the call of the wild? Book your trip to Hyderabad, pack your bags and begin your adventure journey today!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary
What are the opening and closing timings of the sanctuary?
Eturnagaram typically operates from sunrise to sunset and the designated time depends completely on the season.
Are there any fees associated with entering the sanctuary?
Yes, there’s a bare minimum fee associated with the entry of both the Indian tourists as well as the foreigners.
Should I hire a guide while visiting these wildlife sanctuaries?
Hiring a guide is typically known to be more adequate. As it enhances and ensures that you get to enjoy the sanctuary at its maximum.
What kind of photography is allowed within the sanctuary?
Although photography is allowed within the sanctuary it is recommended to maintain a safe distance from the animals to ensure safety.
Are there any nearby attractions that I can visit along with the sanctuary?
There are various sites that you can visit alongside the sanctuary. They are Warangal Fort, Pakhal Lake, and much more.
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