Largest tiger reserve in India; all you need to know

Did you know that Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR), located across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, is India’s largest tiger reserve by area? Covering approximately 3,728 sq km, NSTR spans five districts: Nalgonda, Mahbubnagar, and Khammam in Telangana, and Guntur and Prakasam in Andhra Pradesh. Its strategic location makes it accessible from Hyderabad (approximately 180 km) and other nearby cities, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts visiting the region.


Established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1978, NSTR was officially recognized under Project Tiger in 1983 and later renamed the Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary in 1992. This reserve has played a pivotal role in India’s tiger conservation efforts, which began with Project Tiger in 1973 to protect the endangered Bengal tiger.

Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, a biodiversity hotspot

NSTR is a biodiversity hotspot, supporting a wide array of flora and fauna. Beyond its estimated 76 tigers, the reserve is home to leopards, sloth bears, Indian pangolins, wolves, and prey species like chinkara, blackbuck, spotted deer, and wild boar. The region also hosts over 150 bird species, and diverse reptiles and amphibians. Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve supports around 76 tigers, making it a critical habitat for the Bengal tiger. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection, prey population monitoring, and mitigating human-wildlife conflict.

Best time to visit Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve

The optimal time to visit NSTR is from October to June, when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are more likely, particularly near water bodies during summer (March–June). Monsoons (July–September) bring lush greenery but may limit access due to heavy rainfall. Winter months (October–March) offer a comfortable climate for safaris and exploring the reserve’s scenic beauty.

What to expect in Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve

NSTR offers a range of activities, including jeep safaris, birdwatching, and nature trails, providing immersive experiences for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The ancient Srisailam temple within the reserve adds a cultural dimension, attracting pilgrims and tourists. To avoid crowds, weekdays are recommended, and visitors must adhere to guidelines to minimize environmental impact.

How to reach Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve

NSTR is accessible from Hyderabad (180 km) and other nearby cities like Guntur and Kurnool, with good road connectivity. The nearest railway stations are in Markapur and Kurnool, and Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is the closest major airport. Visitors can reach the reserve via private vehicles or public transport, with guided tours available from nearby towns.