Amrabad Tiger Reserve

Introduction

Amrabad Tiger Reserve, located in the Nallamala Hills of Telangana, is one of India’s largest tiger reserves and one of the most important protected landscapes in the Eastern Ghats. Notified in 2015 following the formation of Telangana, the reserve represents the northern portion of the erstwhile Nagarjunasagar–Srisailam Tiger Reserve. The vast wilderness, rugged hills, plateaus, deep valleys and extensive dry deciduous forests provide an ideal habitat for the Bengal Tiger and numerous other wildlife species. The reserve is also home to the Chenchu tribe, whose traditional association with these forests is an integral part of its conservation story.

Quick Facts

State: Telangana
Districts: Nagarkurnool & Nalgonda
Year Notified: 2015
Total Area: 2,166.37 sq km
Core Area: 1,284.23 sq km
Buffer Area: 882.14 sq km
Forest Type: Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest
Best Time to Visit: October–May

Location

The reserve lies in the Nallamala Hills of southern Telangana. The Krishna River forms an important southern boundary while the landscape remains connected to adjoining forests of Andhra Pradesh. [Insert Map of India showing the location of Amrabad Tiger Reserve here.]

History

The forests formed part of the Hyderabad State before Independence. In 1983 they became part of the Nagarjunasagar–Srisailam Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger. After the creation of Telangana, the northern section was notified as Amrabad Tiger Reserve in 2015. Since then, habitat improvement, anti-poaching measures, scientific monitoring and community participation have strengthened conservation.

Landscape & Habitat

The terrain consists of rocky hills, plateaus, escarpments, seasonal streams and river valleys. Forests are dominated by teak, terminalia, anogeissus, bamboo, mahua, tendu and Boswellia. The reserve experiences hot summers, moderate monsoon rainfall and pleasant winters, creating diverse habitats for mammals, birds, reptiles and insects.

Flora & Fauna

Major mammals include Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Sambar, Chital, Four-horned Antelope, Wild Boar, Jungle Cat and Golden Jackal. Birds include Indian Grey Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Grey Junglefowl, Indian Pitta, Crested Serpent Eagle, Changeable Hawk-Eagle and Peafowl. Reptiles include Mugger Crocodile, Indian Rock Python, Monitor Lizard, Indian Cobra, Common Krait and Rat Snake. Numerous butterflies, amphibians and native plant species contribute to the reserve’s biodiversity.

Other Attractions

Farahabad View Point offers panoramic views of the Nallamala Hills. Mallela Theertham Waterfall is a scenic natural attraction. The Krishna River valley and nearby Srisailam landscape add ecological and cultural significance. The reserve also offers opportunities to understand the traditional lifestyle of the Chenchu community.

Weather

Summer: 25–45°C.
Monsoon: 22–35°C with annual rainfall around 700–900 mm.
Winter: 15–30°C, the most pleasant season.

How to Reach

By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad.
By Rail: Mahbubnagar, Hyderabad and Kurnool stations.
By Road: Well connected from Hyderabad, Nagarkurnool and Srisailam.

Best Time to Visit

October to February is ideal for pleasant weather, while March to May generally offers improved wildlife sightings near water sources.

Accommodation

Forest Department Rest Houses (subject to permission and availability) and Telangana Tourism accommodation in nearby towns. No private hotels or resorts included.

Conservation Highlights

The reserve is a key tiger landscape in southern India. Continuous camera-trap monitoring, habitat management, fire protection, anti-poaching patrols and participation of local communities are central to conservation. The landscape also serves as an important wildlife corridor in the Eastern Ghats.

Visitor Tips

Book safaris in advance where applicable. Wear neutral-coloured clothing, avoid littering, maintain silence, never feed wildlife and follow instructions issued by the Forest Department.

Did You Know?

• Amrabad is among India’s largest tiger reserves.
• It protects one of the largest continuous forest blocks in southern India.
• The Chenchu are among India’s oldest forest-dwelling communities.
• The reserve forms part of the Eastern Ghats biodiversity hotspot.

Last Updated

July 2026