Introduction
Rollapadu Bird Sanctuary, situated in the Nandyal & Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. Rollapadu Bird Sanctuary is Andhra Pradesh’s premier grassland wildlife sanctuary, established specifically for the protection of the Great Indian Bustard and Blackbuck.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Sanctuary Name | Rollapadu Bird Sanctuary |
| State & District | Andhra Pradesh (Nandyal & Kurnool) |
| Year of Notification | 1988 |
| Total Protected Area | 6.14 sq km |
| Rivers & Waterbodies | Alaganur reservoir and Kunderu River basin tributaries |
| Nearest Airport | Kurnool Airport Orvakal (KJB) – 45 km / Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Hyderabad (HYD) – 230 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Kurnool City Railway Station (KRNT) – 45 km / Nandyal Junction (NDL) – 40 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to February |
Location
Rollapadu Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the Nandyal & Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. Located near Nandikotkur on the Kurnool-Atmakur highway.
History and Year of Notification
The sanctuary was officially notified in 1988 under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1988 under the Wildlife Protection Act following grassland ecological surveys in the Deccan Plateau.
Landscape, Geography and Habitat
Open semi-arid grasslands, thorny scrub forest, dry savanna plains, and artificial water troughs.
Flora and Bird Species
Famous dry grassland sanctuary. Key birds include Great Indian Bustard (critically endangered), Lesser Florican, Harriers, Indian Courser, Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse, Black Partridge, Yellow-wattled Lapwing, Eurasian Eagle-Owl, and Indian Vulture.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Blackbuck (largest population in AP), Indian Wolf, Golden Jackal, Bonnet Macaque, Indian Fox, Monitor Lizard, Russell’s Viper, and Saw-scaled Viper.
Rivers and Water Bodies
The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Alaganur reservoir and Kunderu River basin tributaries.
Other Attractions Nearby
Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Rollapadu Bird Sanctuary include: Belum Caves (70 km), Yaganti Temple (60 km), Mahanandi Temple (55 km), Kurnool Konda Reddy Buroju Fort (45 km).
Weather and Climate
Dry tropical climate. Hot summers (32°C to 45°C), low monsoons (June–September), and cool dry winters (14°C to 28°C).
How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)
- Nearest Airport: Kurnool Airport Orvakal (KJB) – 45 km / Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Hyderabad (HYD) – 230 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Kurnool City Railway Station (KRNT) – 45 km / Nandyal Junction (NDL) – 40 km
- Road Connectivity: Located near Nandikotkur on the Kurnool-Atmakur highway.
Best Time for Birdwatching
The optimal window to explore Rollapadu Bird Sanctuary is between October to February.
Accommodation
Forest Department Rest House inside Rollapadu sanctuary, APTDC Haritha Hotel at Kurnool.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.
Last Updated: August 2026