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Papikonda wild life sanctuary is located in
three districts - Khammam, East
Godavari and West Godavari. It is 50-km from
Rajahmundry and extends over
591-sq-km. It lies on the left and right banks of the river Godavari and
cuts through the Papikonda hill range of Eastern Ghats.
Varied
and multifarious streams emanating from covers of the hill make the
Papikonda forest vegetation luxuriant. All these constitute to make the
area into a typical ecological, facinal and geomorphological zone.
Flora
The different species of flora found here are Tectona Grandis,
Terminalias, Tomentosa, Lagerstroemia Lanceolata, Latifolia, Albizzia
Amara, Albizzia Lebbeck. Dendrocalamus Strictus Bambusa Arundinacea.
A Natural Animal Home
The habitat is suited for Tigers, Gaurs, Panther and other animals like
Spotted Deer, Four Horned Antelope, Sambar, Hyena, Jackals, Sloth Bear,
Muggers. The presence of Gharials was also reported. A variety of both
resident and migratory birds are found along river Godavari and its
tributaries.
Other Attractions
A hill reserve forest called Rekhapalle in
Khammam district, which is
situated in this sanctuary, is reported to be 'Kishkinda', the ape kingdom
of Ramayana times. Visiting this place leaves an unforgettable impression
on the minds of nature lovers. Other attractions of this place are an
Environmental Education Centre and a Museum.
Rail: Nearest railway station is at
Rajahmundry.
Road: Papikonda sanctuary is 50-km from Rajahmundry and is well
connected by road.
Forest rest house is available at Rajahmundry, Maredumilli, Kannapuram