Hyderabad is not just about historic monuments, biryani, and IT hubs—it’s also blessed with rich forests, national parks, and wetlands that are home to a wide variety of wildlife. From urban green escapes to tiger reserves in the Eastern Ghats, the city offers incredible opportunities for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
If you are planning a weekend getaway or even a quick morning walk amid nature, here are the 7 best wildlife sanctuaries in Hyderabad and national parks near Hyderabad that you must explore.
1. KBR National Park (Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad)
Highlights:
Located in the heart of Hyderabad, KBR National Park is known as the city’s green lung. Spread across rocky terrain and scrub forests, this urban sanctuary is home to peafowl, small mammals, reptiles, and a rich variety of birds.
Best For: Morning or evening nature walks, birdwatching, and fitness enthusiasts who prefer natural trails.
Tips for Visitors:
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Visit during sunrise or sunset for pleasant weather and active birdlife.
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Carry binoculars if you’re interested in birdwatching.
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No plastic or littering allowed.
2. Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park (Vanasthalipuram)
Highlights:
This is one of the most famous national parks in Hyderabad. Once a hunting ground for the Nizams, today it is a protected area and home to the endangered blackbuck antelope, spotted deer, and porcupines.
Best For: Families, school trips, and wildlife lovers.
Tips for Visitors:
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Afternoons are a great time to spot herds of deer grazing.
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Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry water.
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Combine the visit with a local food stop in Vanasthalipuram.
3. Mrugavani National Park (Chilkur)
Highlights:
Close to the famous Chilkur Balaji Temple, Mrugavani National Park is spread over 3.6 sq km and is a peaceful retreat away from city traffic. The park has watchtowers, nature trails, and an eco-tourism center.
Wildlife to See: Spotted deer, peafowl, monitor lizards, wild boars, and a variety of snakes.
Tips for Visitors:
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Mornings are less crowded and ideal for birdwatching.
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Can be combined with a temple visit and Osman Sagar Lake.
4. Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary (Sangareddy)
Highlights:
Situated on the banks of the Manjeera River, this sanctuary is a paradise for bird lovers. During winter, thousands of migratory birds like pelicans, painted storks, and river terns can be seen here. The wetlands are also home to marsh crocodiles.
Best For: Birdwatching, photography, and short day trips from Hyderabad.
Tips for Visitors:
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Best time to visit is October to March.
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Carry a zoom lens or binoculars for better viewing.
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Check for seasonal boat rides that give closer views of the wetlands.
5. Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary (Medak)
Highlights:
Located near Medak, Pocharam is famous for its mix of forest and lake ecosystems. It is home to spotted deer, wild boar, nilgai, and a variety of waterbirds.
Best For: Weekend trips, family picnics (in designated areas), and combining with a visit to Medak Fort or Medak Cathedral.
Tips for Visitors:
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Visit after the monsoon for lush greenery and waterbird activity.
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Carry your own food and water as facilities are limited.
6. Amrabad Tiger Reserve (Nallamala Hills)
Highlights:
Amrabad Tiger Reserve is one of the largest tiger reserves in India and offers a true wilderness experience just a few hours away from Hyderabad. The dense Nallamala hills and valleys provide habitat for tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, and gaur.
Best For: Adventure seekers, wildlife photographers, and anyone wanting to experience untouched forest landscapes.
Tips for Visitors:
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Best time is November to March for pleasant weather.
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Safari bookings need to be planned in advance.
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Be prepared for basic facilities—focus is on eco-tourism.
7. Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary (Mulugu)
Highlights:
One of the oldest sanctuaries in Telangana, Eturnagaram lies along the Godavari River and covers more than 800 sq km. The sanctuary has diverse wildlife including sloth bears, nilgai, chital, and wild boar.
Best For: Long weekend trips, nature camping, and combining with heritage visits to Warangal and Ramappa Temple.
Tips for Visitors:
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Best season is October to April.
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Carry essential supplies, as facilities inside the sanctuary are limited.
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Avoid peak monsoon as river crossings can be risky.
Quick Comparison – Which Sanctuary to Choose?
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Best within city: KBR National Park, Mahavir Harina Vanasthali, Mrugavani
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Best for birds: Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary, Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary
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Best for big cats and wilderness: Amrabad Tiger Reserve
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Best for long weekend + heritage: Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary
FAQs on Wildlife Sanctuaries In Hyderabad
1. Which is the nearest wildlife sanctuary inside Hyderabad?
KBR National Park, Mahavir Harina Vanasthali, and Mrugavani National Park are located within city limits.
2. Can we see tigers near Hyderabad?
Tigers are found in Amrabad Tiger Reserve, but sightings are rare. Safaris offer a chance to see other wildlife such as deer, gaur, and sloth bears.
3. What is the best time to visit these sanctuaries?
October to March is the best season for comfortable weather and birdwatching. April–May is hotter but increases chances of spotting animals near waterholes.
4. Are these sanctuaries family-friendly?
Yes, KBR, Mrugavani, and Mahavir Harina Vanasthali are family-friendly. For bigger reserves like Amrabad, kids above 8 years enjoy more due to safari rides.
5. Do we need permission or booking?
For city parks, entry is ticket-based and easy. For Amrabad Tiger Reserve, prior safari booking is required.
6. Can we carry food inside?
Some sanctuaries allow food in designated picnic areas like Pocharam, but most have restrictions. Always avoid littering.
7. Are these places safe?
Yes, all are safe for visitors if rules are followed. Avoid venturing off designated paths.
Final Thoughts
From peacocks in KBR National Park to crocodiles in Manjira and the thrill of exploring tiger landscapes in Amrabad, Hyderabad offers something for every wildlife enthusiast. Whether you have just a few hours or an entire weekend, these sanctuaries bring you closer to nature and provide a refreshing break from city life.