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Introduction
Papikonda National Park in Andhra Pradesh is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Eluru & East Godavari district, Papikonda National Park spans the scenic Papi Hills gorge along the mighty Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Andhra Pradesh |
| Districts | Eluru & East Godavari |
| Year of Notification | 2008 (National Park) |
| Total Area | 1,012.86 sq km |
| Landscape | Moist deciduous Western/Eastern Ghats forest, hill slopes, bamboo thickets, and deep river gorge. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Godavari River carving through the Papi Hills gorge (Papi Kondalu) |
| Nearest Airport | Rajahmundry Airport (RJA) – 65 km / Vijayawada Airport (VGA) – 150 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Rajahmundry Railway Station (RJY) – 60 km / West Godavari (Eluru) – 110 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
Location
The national park lies in the Eluru & East Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh. Drive to Rajahmundry or Posammagandi jetty, then take scenic river cruise boat.
History
Notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1978 and upgraded to a National Park in November 2008 to protect the eastern Eastern Ghats biodiversity belt.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 1,012.86 sq km, the park’s terrain features Moist deciduous Western/Eastern Ghats forest, hill slopes, bamboo thickets, and deep river gorge.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Moist deciduous Western/Eastern Ghats forest, hill slopes, bamboo thickets, and deep river gorge.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Gaur (Indian Bison), Chital, Sambar, Four-horned Antelope (Chousingha), Sloth Bear, Wild Boar, Golden Jackal, and King Cobra.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Records over 200 bird species including Green Avadavat, Yellow-throated Bulbul, Malabar Whistling Thrush, Crested Serpent Eagle, Grey Hornbill, Black Baza, and Alexandrine Parakeet.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Papikonda National Park is sustained by: Godavari River carving through the Papi Hills gorge (Papi Kondalu).
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Papi Kondalu Godavari River Boat Cruise (0 km), Perantapalli Ashram (20 km by boat), Pattiseema Temple (45 km), Polavaram Dam (35 km).
Weather & Climate
Tropical climate (20°C to 40°C) with monsoons.
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Rajahmundry Airport (RJA) – 65 km / Vijayawada Airport (VGA) – 150 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Rajahmundry Railway Station (RJY) – 60 km / West Godavari (Eluru) – 110 km
- Road Connectivity: Drive to Rajahmundry or Posammagandi jetty, then take scenic river cruise boat.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Papikonda National Park is from October to March.
Accommodation
APTDC Haritha Coconut Country Resort at Dindi & Rajahmundry.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Protects vital Eastern Ghats wildlife corridors along the Godavari river basin.
Visitor Tips
Book the full-day APTDC Godavari boat cruise from Rajahmundry to view the park from the river.
Did You Know?
- Named after the Papi Hills (Papi Kondalu) where the Godavari River narrows dramatically into a gorge.
- Home to the rare endangered Yellow-throated Bulbul and Green Avadavat.
- Spans over 1,000 sq km across the Eastern Ghats hill ranges.
Last Updated: August 2026