Andhra Pradesh, a state known for its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, also boasts several protected areas that harbor a wealth of biodiversity. These national parks offer visitors a glimpse into the natural wonders and wildlife treasures of the region. Let’s embark on a journey to explore the national parks of Andhra Pradesh.
How many National Parks are there in Andhra Pradesh?
Andhra Pradesh is home to three national parks, each offering unique biodiversity and natural beauty. These parks include Papikonda National Park, established in 2008, Rajiv Gandhi (Rameswaram) National Park, established in 2005, and Sri Venkateswara National Park, established in 1989. Together, they contribute to the conservation and preservation of the state’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
List of National Parks in Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh is home to three national parks, each offering unique biodiversity and natural beauty. Here is the list of three national parks of Andhra Pradesh:
National Parks in Andhra Pradesh | ||
S. No. | National Park | Establishment |
1. | Papikonda National Park | 2008 |
2. | Rajiv Gandhi (Rameswaram) National Park | 2005 |
3. | Sri Venkateswara National Park | 1989 |
Papikonda National Park
Establishment: 2008
Area: 1,012 square kilometers
Papikonda National Park, situated in the Papi Hills of Andhra Pradesh near Rajamahendravaram, spans over 1,012.86 square kilometers. This park, nestled within the Alluri Sitharama Raju and Eluru districts, is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species. Notably, Papikonda is designated as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area, though its extent has been limited by the construction of the Polavaram Dam in 2014.
Rajiv Gandhi (Rameswaram) National Park
Establishment: 2005
Rajiv Gandhi National Park, situated in Rameswaram of Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh, spans approximately 2.4 square kilometers. This tropical dry deciduous forest, predominantly on sandy soil along the north bank of the Penna River, boasts diverse flora and fauna. Named after former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, the park features tree species like Dalbergia sissoo and Grewia villosa, while hosting a variety of bird species, invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals.
Sri Venkateswara National Park
Establishment: 1989
Area: 353 square kilometers
Sri Venkateswara National Park, nestled in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, spans 353 square kilometers and is renowned for its stunning waterfalls like Talakona, Gundalakona, and Gunjana. Situated in the Eastern Ghats, encompassing the Seshachalam and Tirumala hills, the park boasts elevations ranging from 150 to 1,130 meters. Characterized by undulating terrain and lush forested valleys, it features a blend of dry and moist deciduous vegetation, primarily fed by the northeast monsoon.