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Kawal Tiger Reserve
Introduction
Kawal Tiger Reserve, located in northern Telangana, was notified as a Tiger Reserve in 2012. It forms a vital link in the Central Indian tiger landscape, connecting the forests of Maharashtra with those of Telangana and supporting the restoration of tiger habitat in the Deccan Plateau.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
| State | Telangana |
| Districts | Mancherial, Nirmal, Adilabad and Kumuram Bheem Asifabad |
| Tiger Reserve Notification | 2012 |
| Total Area | 2,015.44 sq km |
| Core Area | 892.23 sq km |
| Buffer Area | 1,123.21 sq km |
| Landscape | Deccan Plateau, Central Indian Landscape |
| Forest Types | Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests |
| Major Rivers | Godavari, Kadam and Peddavagu |
| Best Time to Visit | October to May |
Location
The reserve extends across the forested districts of northern Telangana near the Maharashtra border.
History
Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary was upgraded as Kawal Tiger Reserve in 2012 under Project Tiger to conserve a strategic corridor for dispersing tigers.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering about 2,015.44 sq km, including 892.23 sq km of core and 1,123.21 sq km of buffer, the reserve contains undulating terrain, teak forests, bamboo brakes, grasslands and riverine habitats.
Flora
Teak, tendu, bamboo, mahua, bija, saja, arjun, jamun, axlewood and native grasses dominate the vegetation.
Fauna
The reserve supports Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, Four-horned Antelope, Wild Boar, Mugger Crocodile and over 300 bird species.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The Godavari River and tributaries including the Kadam and Peddavagu sustain wildlife and riparian habitats.
Other Attractions
Forest drives, birdwatching, nature camps and scenic Deccan forest landscapes are key attractions.
Weather & Climate
Summers are hot, the southwest monsoon brings moderate rainfall and winters are mild and pleasant.
How to Reach
Nearest airport: Hyderabad. Nearest railway stations: Mancherial and Adilabad. The reserve is accessible by road from Hyderabad, Nirmal and Mancherial.
Best Time to Visit
October to May is the preferred period for wildlife viewing.
Accommodation
Forest Department rest houses and Telangana Tourism accommodation are available near authorised tourism zones, subject to advance booking.
Conservation Highlights
Kawal is important for restoring tiger movement between Maharashtra and Telangana through habitat improvement, prey recovery, corridor protection and scientific monitoring.
Visitor Tips
Wear muted colours, avoid littering, maintain silence and follow Forest Department instructions.
Did You Know?
• Kawal became a Tiger Reserve in 2012.
• It is a key corridor linking tiger habitats of Maharashtra and Telangana.
• The reserve lies within the Deccan Plateau landscape.
Last Updated
July 2026