Nature is blessed with a lot of abundance on this earth that thrives in specific habitats, contributing for overall biodiversity. Exploring places, which are nature havens is a favorite pastime of many and it opens a completely new arena of excitement, fun and rejuvenation. Hence wildlife destinations are quite popular with visitors. One such pristine destination is Manjeera wildlife sanctuary, located in Sangareddy District of Telangana.It was originally a crocodile sanctuary, home to the vulnerable species of mugger crocodile. There are more than 75 species of birds which are spotted here, making it a holistic wildlife destination.

The sanctuary follows the course of river Manjeera, a tributary of Godavari and abuts the Manjeera reservoir. Hence, the name Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a man-made reservoir that provides water for irrigation and also drinking water for the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad.

The sprawling reservoir has nine small islands like Bapangadda,Puttigadda, Sangamadda, Karnamgadda and others. These islands are known for their extensive marshy fringes, considered as ideal nesting sites for water birds. Moreover, thick cover of trees makes this place a great habitat for several species of animals and birds.

Flora & Fauna

Being a freshwater ecosystem, Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many plant species like Typha, Babool, Prosopis, Ipomoea and Acacia Ipomea, Vallisneria, Eichhornia and Reeds among others.The sanctuary is a typical riverine habitat, with a thriving population of mugger crocodile and fresh water turtles. There are molluscs, prawns, and fishes like catla, eel, rohu, murrel, karugu and chidwa and also reptiles like monitor lizard, cobra etc. Wildlife enthusiasts spot Indian hare, mongoose wild boar, and jackal here.

In 1974, when the mugger crocodile was at the threshold of extinction in the region of Telangana, a crocodile breeding program was initiated. Currently, about 400 to 600 crocodiles inhabit the sanctuary.

Avifauna

There are more than 70 species of birds in this sanctuary. Common teal, cotton pygmy goose, ruddy shelduck are seen here along with hundreds of cranes and barheaded geese. Darter, Eurasian coot, Asian openbill, painted stork, and black-crowned night heron are some of the other species seen here. Bird watchers have spotted little egret, cormorant, spoonbill,pochard, brahminy duck, quail, peacock pintail, kite, partridge etc., in Manjeera wildlife sanctuary.

Other Attractions

• Environmental Education Centre with a museum, library, and auditorium.

• Boating Facilities

• Exhibitsthat depict the biodiversity of the wetlands in detail

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to explore the sanctuary is from November to March.

How To Reach

The sanctuary is located at a distance of nearly 10 km from Sangareddy district headquarters. Sangareddy is well connected by road to Hyderabad, Medak and other urban centers of Telangana. From Hyderabad, it is located nearly 55 km away.

Where to Stay

Tourists can choose good accommodation options in Medak and Sangareddy towns.