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Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary: A Tranquil Lakeside Haven

Escape to Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary: Discover serene landscapes, diverse birdlife, and tranquil boat rides in this natural Andhra Pradesh haven.

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Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary, near Visakhapatnam, is a serene escape boasting one of India's largest freshwater lakes. Nestled by the Eastern Ghats, it's a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, with diverse avian species and lush landscapes. Enjoy boat rides on traditional boats and soak in the tranquility.

A brief summary to Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary

  • JX2X+85M, Kondakarla, Vadrapalle, Andhra Pradesh, 531033, IN
  • Monday 7 am-6:30 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-6:30 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-6:30 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-6:30 pm
  • Friday 7 am-6:30 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-6:30 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during winter (November to February) for the best birdwatching opportunities as migratory birds flock to the lake.
  • Bargain for boat ride prices with local villagers, as there are no fixed rates.
  • Carry water, snacks, and a camera, as amenities are limited in the rural area.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like Bojjannakonda (Buddhist site) or Annavaram Temple.
  • Be prepared for a rustic experience, as accommodation options near the lake are limited.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Visakhapatnam, travel towards Anakapalle (approximately 40 km). From Anakapalle, you can find buses heading towards Chuchukonda, which is about 10 km away. From Chuchukonda, hire an autorickshaw to reach Kondakarla village, roughly 2 km away. Bus fares from Anakapalle to nearby villages are typically inexpensive, costing around ₹20-₹50. Autorickshaw fares from Chuchukonda to Kondakarla are approximately ₹50-₹100.

  • Taxi/Car

    Hire a taxi or drive from Visakhapatnam towards Anakapalle on NH5. Turn left towards Atchutapuram on Haripalem Road. After about 6 km, you'll find the Kondakarla village road. The lake is approximately 2 km from here. A taxi from Visakhapatnam to Kondakarla will cost approximately ₹1500-₹2500. Parking is generally available near the sanctuary, with hourly rates around ₹20-₹50.

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Discover more about Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary

Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary, also known as Kondakarla Ava, is a captivating destination located approximately 50 km south of Visakhapatnam (Vizag) in Andhra Pradesh. This sanctuary is centered around Kondakarla Ava, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the region, making it a significant ecological and tourist attraction. The sanctuary's landscape is characterized by the serene Kondakarla Lake, flanked by the foothills of the Eastern Ghats on one side and coconut trees along its banks on the other. This picturesque setting provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with nature. The lake itself supports twenty-one villages and is fed by the River Sarada. Kondakarla Ava has a rich history, serving as a favored picnic spot for Vizianagaram kings and British officials before India's independence. Today, it continues to be a popular destination for birdwatching, boating, and simply enjoying the natural beauty. The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of bird species, attracting birdwatchers from across the country. Some of the commonly spotted birds include Grey Herons, Red Whiskered Bulbuls, and Black Drongos. The Pheasant Tailed Jacana is a particularly famous resident of the lake. Visitors can take boat rides on the lake in traditional boats crafted by local villagers using two palm logs tied together with wooden planks. This unique boating experience offers a stable and immersive way to explore the lake and observe its diverse ecosystem. The lake is also home to around twenty-five species of fish. The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation and the Kondakarla Panchayat manage the sanctuary, recognizing it as an eco-tourism destination. The sanctuary comprises a unique and endangered forest type, with wet evergreen forests adding to its ecological significance.

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