Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary is also covered in our Bhadrachalam guide, which is the main page for it: Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary in the Bhadrachalam guide.
The short answer
Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary: what visitors should know first
Go for a full day if you like forest and water. It is a long drive from Khammam, and there is no confirmed safari, so expect a dam, lake and deer park rather than a big-game trip. Confirm access with the forest office.
History and context
The story behind Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary covers about 635.4 square kilometres in Bhadradri Kothagudem district, about 15 km from Kothagudem and about 25 km from Bhadrachalam.
Useful facts
Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary facts at a glance
- Location
- Near Kothagudem; about 95 km from Khammam
- Experience type
- Dam, lake and deer park visit
- Area
- About 635 sq km
- Wildlife
- Deer, sloth bear, four-horned antelope; leopard rare
- Access
- Fees and safari not confirmed; check locally
Why it matters
Why Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary is worth your time
Kinnerasani protects a large block of Eastern Highlands moist deciduous forest in Bhadradri Kothagudem district. Its fauna includes sambar, spotted deer, four-horned antelope and sloth bear, with leopard and gaur rare.
The reservoir with forested islands gives the area an unusual scenic quality in this dry landscape.
It is also one of the few green, water-rich outings accessible from Khammam, which makes it a welcome change from the dry plain around the city. Because the sanctuary shares its district with Bhadrachalam, it is often combined with a pilgrimage there. Treat it as a gentle nature day rather than a wildlife safari, and respect forest department rules on noise, litter and feeding animals.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Kinnerasani reservoir
A large lake with forested islands at the heart of the sanctuary.
- 02
Deer park
A small enclosure near the dam where deer are easy to see.
- 03
Forest
Moist deciduous forest with a range of mammals.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Drive from Khammam towards Kothagudem and Palvancha, a trip of roughly 95 to 100 km depending on the source; plan on two hours each way. Start early.
At the sanctuary, visit the Kinnerasani Dam and its reservoir, with forested islands, and the deer park near the dam. Boating has been offered by the state tourism corporation in the past, but availability varies.
Do not expect a safari; sources say none is currently run. The sanctuary covers about 635 square kilometres of moist deciduous forest, with deer, sloth bear and other species, but sightings in short visits are chancy. Carry food and water, as facilities are limited.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Start early; the drive is long
- Confirm access and boating with the forest office
- Carry food and water
- Do not expect a safari
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Near Kothagudem and Palvancha; about 95–100 km from Khammam
- Time needed
- Full day including the drive
- Best time
- October to February
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Viewpoints at the dam and the deer park are largely level, but the journey is long. Take breaks and carry water.
- Tickets and access
- Entry fees, boating and any safari are not confirmed in published sources; contact the forest office or tourism department before you go.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Viewpoints at the dam and the deer park are largely level, but the journey is long. Take breaks and carry water.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How far is it from Khammam?
Roughly 95 to 100 km depending on the source.
Is there a safari?
Sources indicate none is currently run.
What is the best time?
October to February is generally comfortable.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
