Pakhal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary are nestled among the rolling hills and lush greenery of Telangana. They were built by the Kakatiya ruler Ganapatideva. The lake occupies 30 square kilometres, and the wildlife sanctuary, located around the lake’s perimeter, spans 830 square kilometres. Apart from the lake and sanctuary, you will find a variety of sightseeing spots nearby to make the trip memorable. Let’s look at a few great places in and around the Pakhal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary.
Places To Visit In The Pakhal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary
The Pakhal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary is becoming a top choice among tourists from all walks of life for leisurely trips, weekend getaways, and even anniversary celebrations. Here are a few locations nearby the area to explore.
1. Pakhal Lake
Image Credit: Gcnivas for Wikimedia Commons
The lake itself is a well-liked tourist attraction because of its gorgeous surroundings, which include rolling hills and brilliant blue skies. You may spend your time at the lake doing various things, such as taking boat rides, visiting the surrounding nature trails, having a picnic with your family by the lake, and taking pictures of the breathtaking scenery, especially after dusk. The winter months of November through February are the best times to visit because the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for all outdoor activities mentioned above.
How to reach: It is easily accessible from Warangal, which is about 50 km away. You can also take a cab from Narsampet, which is 12 km away.
Timings: Everyday
Entry fee: The fee for adults is ₹20. Children below five years have free entry.
Opening hours: 9 AM to 5 PM
Nearest railway station: Warangal Railway Station
Nearest airport: Warangal Airport
Also Read: The Ganga Lake Itanagar
2. Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary
Image Credit: Kalyan Ineni for Facebook
This stunning home to a wide range of plants and animals is a haven for every wildlife enthusiast. You can see mountain gazelles, tigers, hyenas, leopards, four-horned antelope, chitals, nilgai, and other exotic creatures. It is also possible to see certain reptiles, such as pythons, crocodiles, and cobras. Birds that migrate, such as storks, ibis, and teal, can also be seen. In addition, trees such as jackfruit, bamboo, acacia, Terminalia, and so on are among the vegetation. This location is ideal for nature hikes, animal safaris, bird viewing, and wildlife photography.
How to reach: You can reach here by cab or private car from Warangal (55 km).
Timings: Everyday
Entry fee: ₹20 for adults and ₹5 for children
Opening hours: 6 AM – 7 PM
Nearest railway station: Warangal Railway Station
Nearest airport: Warangal Airport
3. Govindarajalu Gutta Temple
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Revered by pilgrims across the country, the Govindarajula Gutta Temple, located just under 50 km away from the Pakhal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary, is an architectural marvel. This temple is located on top of a hillock that requires you to climb several steps. Dedicated to Lord Rama, this ancient temple was built in the 12th century by Ramanuja. It boasts intricate wall carvings, granite columns, and multiple shrines devoted to various incarnations of Lord Vishnu. You can spend time in prayer and meditation, learn about the historical background of the temple, and gaze at the marvellous architecture.
How to reach: Visitors can hire taxis or use the local bus from Warangal to reach the site.
Timings: Everyday
Entry fee: No Entry Fee
Opening hours: 6 AM to 9 PM
Nearest railway station: Warangal Railway Station
Nearest airport: Warangal Airport
Related Post: Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary
4. Kakatiya Rock Garden
Image Credit: LbNaGaR RyDeRS for Facebook
Another famous tourist attraction located approximately 50 km from the Pakhal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary and only 8 minutes from the Govindarajalu Gutta Temple is the Kakatiya Rock Garden in Hanmakota. This breathtaking garden gets its name from its builders, the rulers of the Kakatiya Dynasty. Its uniqueness lies in the exceptional rock statues of various animals and the flowers and greenery. For an even more memorable experience, you can walk about 300 m to the Kakatiya Musical Garden, which is known for its famous musical rock fountain and fountain show. You can also find restaurants within a walkable distance for a quick bite.
How to reach: You can get here by cab or private car from the city centre (1.5 km)
Timings: Monday – Sunday
Opening hours: 9 AM to 8 PM
Entry fee: ₹10 per person and ₹20 for camera
Nearest railway station: Warangal Railway Station
Nearest airport: Warangal Airport
5. THOUSAND PILLAR TEMPLE
Image Credit: Bharat Kumar Jonnalagadda for Wikimedia Commons
Also known as the Rudreshwara Swamy Temple, this temple is on the tentative list of World Heritage Sites recognised by UNESCO. This temple is a testament to its rich history and architecture and commendable contribution to the sphere of art and culture in India. It is about 50 km away from the Pakhal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary. You can’t leave the place without exploring its central attraction, the richly carved rock-cut pillars, which are a thousand in number. Moreover, this temple is open to tourists throughout the year.
How to reach: The easiest way to reach is by taking a bus from Hanamkonda Bus Station, which is 2 km away.
Timings: Everyday
Opening hours: 6 AM to 8 PM
Nearest railway station: Kazipet Junction
Nearest airport: Hyderabad Airport
Related Post: Hussain Sagar Lake
6. Bhadrakali Temple
Image Credit: KINNERA ARAVIND for Wikimedia Commons
For art and culture enthusiasts, the Bhadrakali temple, built by the Chalukya King Pulakesin the Second, is one of the oldest temples for Goddess Bhadrakali. It is located beside the Bhadrakali lake atop a hill. The stone-carved idol of Goddess Bhadrakali signifies the power of femininity. Even though photography is not allowed inside the shrine, you can still take pictures outside the main temple. The best time to visit is between August and September, as multiple festivals are celebrated, filling the temple up with vibrancy. Boasting a rich history and architecture, this temple is worth a visit, especially if you are planning a trip around Pakhal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary.
How to reach: It is located about 5 km away from Warangal Railway Station and can be reached via taxi or a private rickshaw.
Timings: Everyday
Opening hours: 5:30 AM to 1:00 PM (Morning) and 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM (Evening)
Nearest railway station: Warangal Railway Station
Nearest airport: Hyderabad Airport
You May Also Like To Read: Pushkar Lake
The Pakhal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary offers a blend of adventure, serenity, and relaxation in the lap of nature. The attractions located in the vicinity offer cultural and spiritual upliftment. You can start your day by relishing the natural beauty of the lake and the biodiversity of the wildlife sanctuary. After that, you can find your way forward by exploring the other locations. If you are a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast, an architecture admirer, or just a tourist ready to take it all in, the Pakhal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary is the best option. So, plan a trip to Hyderabad and set out for an unforgettable experience.
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Cover Image Credit: Alosh Bennett for Wikimedia Common
Frequently Asked Questions About Pakhal Lake And Wildlife Sanctuary
When is the best time to visit Pakhal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary, in the summer or winter?
Both attractions are open all year round. However, to make the most of your next trip to Pakhal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary, visiting during the winter months, from November to February, is suggested, as during summer, the lake tends to dry up. The weather is pleasant in winter, with the average temperature being around 15 to 25 degrees Celsius only.
Is one day enough to explore the places in and around the Pakhal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary?
One day is sufficient to visit the places mentioned above as they are located quite close to one another. However, to get the best experience, you should dedicate at least half a day to the lake and sanctuary to enjoy it to the fullest.
Are there any rules for visiting the Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary?
Visitors should follow guidelines provided by sanctuary authorities and take necessary precautions while exploring the wilderness.
Can you enter the water in Pakhal Lake?
Yes, visitors are usually allowed to enter and play in the water. However, utmost precaution is recommended, especially when bringing children near the lake.
Are there accommodation facilities available near Pakhal Lake?
You can find a few places to stay near Pakhal Lake, including lodges and guest houses run by the Telangana Tourism Department. However, visitors prefer to stay in Warangal for proper hotel and resort options.
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