Introduction
Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary, situated in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary is a unique village tank heronry near Guntur city, where deep-water Prosopis juliflora trees and wire mesh perches support thousands of nesting pelicans and storks.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Sanctuary Name | Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary |
| State & District | Andhra Pradesh (Guntur) |
| Year of Notification | 2001 |
| Total Protected Area | 0.02 sq km (5 acres intensive nesting tank area) |
| Rivers & Waterbodies | Uppalapadu freshwater village tanks and Krishna River irrigation feeder canals |
| Nearest Airport | Vijayawada International Airport (VGA) – 45 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Guntur Junction Railway Station (GNT) – 8 km |
| Best Time to Visit | September to February |
Location
Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh. Just 8 km from Guntur city center. Readily accessible by auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local state buses.
History and Year of Notification
The sanctuary was officially notified in 2001 under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Recognized and protected by local villagers and formally declared a protected bird sanctuary by AP Forest Department in 2001.
Landscape, Geography and Habitat
Freshwater village pond with artificial island perches and submerged tree canopy surrounded by agricultural fields.
Flora and Bird Species
Hosts over 12,000 migratory birds annually. Renowned for breeding colonies of Spot-billed Pelican, Painted Stork, Asian Openbill, Glossy Ibis, Black-headed Ibis, Eurasian Spoonbill, Cormorants, Darters, and Egrets.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Bonnet Macaque, Common Palm Civet, Golden Jackal, Common Mongoose, Indian Flapshell Turtle, Checkered Keelback Snake.
Rivers and Water Bodies
The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Uppalapadu freshwater village tanks and Krishna River irrigation feeder canals.
Other Attractions Nearby
Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary include: Amaravati Stupa & Archaeological Museum (35 km), Mangalagiri Panakala Narasimha Temple (25 km), Undavalli Caves (30 km), Kondaveedu Fort (28 km).
Weather and Climate
Tropical inland climate. Hot dry summers (32°C to 44°C), monsoons (July–October), and mild winters (16°C to 26°C).
How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)
- Nearest Airport: Vijayawada International Airport (VGA) – 45 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Guntur Junction Railway Station (GNT) – 8 km
- Road Connectivity: Just 8 km from Guntur city center. Readily accessible by auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local state buses.
Best Time for Birdwatching
The optimal window to explore Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary is between September to February.
Accommodation
AP Tourism Haritha Hotels in Guntur city and Vijayawada.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.
Last Updated: August 2026