Papikonda Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over three districts which include West Godavari and East Godavari districts in Andhra Pradesh and Khammam district of Telangana. The sanctuary, nestled on right and left banks of Godavari River, passes through Papikonda range of Eastern Ghats. It was established in 1978 and has a popular mythological link. It is believed that this forest was the kingdom of apes in the epic of Ramayana.

Flora
Forest type: Dry deciduous Teak forest
Trees: Teak, bamboo, Cassias, mukwa, Siris, Krishna Siris, Latifolia, Terminalia, teak, Tomentosa, etc.

Wildlife
Tigers, Spotted Deer, Panther Four Horned Antelope Hyena, Sambar, Jackals, Gaurs, Sloth Bear, Gharials, Muggers, Python, Cobra, etc.
The sanctuary is also home to different species of migratory and resident birds.

Getting there
The nearest bus terminal, airport and railway terminus are located at Rajahmundry, which is about 50km away. From the railway station and airport the tourists can easily get buses, local jeeps or private cars to reach Papikonda Wildlife Sanctuary.

Tourist Information
Forest rest house at Rajamundry is the nearest staying option within the sanctuary. Other accommodation facilities are available at Kannapuram and Maredumilli.
Boating, trekking, bird spotting and safari rides are popular tourist pastimes here. Some tour operators offer boat ride on the Godavari River from Rajahmundry upstream with packed meal. The museum and an environmental education on Papikonda sanctuary are worth visiting. Keep safe distance from the wild animals.

Additional Information
Location: Papikonda Wildlife Sanctuary, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, India
Area: about 591 sq km
Best time to visit: October to May
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