The Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the town of Palamaner in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. It covers an area of approximately 358 square kilometers and is named after the famous Indian sage Kaundinya. The sanctuary was established in 1990 with the aim of protecting the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
The sanctuary is situated at the foothills of the Eastern Ghats and is surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. The vegetation in the sanctuary includes dry deciduous forests, scrub jungles, and grasslands. The diverse terrain of the sanctuary provides a suitable habitat for a variety of wildlife.
The Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary is open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day of the week.
There is a nominal entry fee for visitors to the sanctuary. The fees vary for different categories of visitors, as mentioned below.
The sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Some of the commonly found species include Indian bison, spotted deer, sambar deer, sloth bear, and various species of birds and reptiles. The sanctuary is also known for its rich vegetation, including teak, bamboo, sandalwood, and several species of medicinal plants.
Visitors to the Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary can indulge in activities such as nature walks, bird watching, and wildlife photography. The sanctuary also offers guided tours and jeep safaris for visitors to explore the area and spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
Jeep safaris are available for visitors who wish to explore the sanctuary and observe wildlife up close. The charges for jeep safaris vary according to the duration of the safari and the number of participants.
Children below the age of 5 are allowed free entry to the sanctuary. For children aged between 5 and 12 years, the entry fee is discounted. The entry fee for adults is priced slightly higher, and there are separate rates for male and female visitors. Senior citizens are also entitled to a discounted entry fee.
The sanctuary provides facilities for senior citizens, including seating areas, restrooms, and easy access to various points of interest within the sanctuary. Special arrangements can be made for elderly visitors upon request.
The best time to visit the Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter months, from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent. Visitors are advised to avoid visiting during the summer months due to the hot weather.
There are several attractions near the Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary that visitors can explore, including temples, historical sites, and scenic viewpoints. Some popular nearby places include the Bhakta Kannappa Temple, Palamaner Fort, and Kailasakona Waterfalls.
The sanctuary provides ample parking space for visitors who wish to bring their own vehicles. Visitors are advised to park their vehicles in designated areas to ensure the safety of their vehicles and to avoid any inconvenience to other visitors.
Visitors to the Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of wildlife and the preservation of the natural habitat. Some of the guidelines include not feeding the animals, not littering, and not disturbing the wildlife in any way.
The Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible by road from major cities such as Bangalore and Chennai. The nearest airport is located in Bangalore, and the nearest railway station is in Chittoor. Visitors can hire private cabs or use public transportation to reach the sanctuary from these locations.
For more information about the sanctuary, including accommodation options, guided tours, and special events, visitors can contact the sanctuary office or visit the official website for updates and announcements.