New Lodging Options
The Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary, a sprawling 17,000-acre natural expanse nestled within the city limits of Visakhapatnam, is gearing up to welcome more visitors with the development of new accommodation
options. Following a recent suggestion from Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan during his visit to the Zoo Park and Kambalakonda, the forest department is embarking on a project to construct approximately half a dozen cottages. These facilities are intended to significantly boost tourist numbers and provide a more immersive experience for nature enthusiasts. The sanctuary, which has been under the management of the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department since March 10, 1970, and was previously under the dominion of the Maharajah of Vizianagaram, boasts a diverse ecosystem comprising dry evergreen forests interspersed with scrubland and meadows, all set against a backdrop of hilly terrain and steep slopes. The introduction of night-stay capabilities is expected to capitalize on the growing interest in eco-tourism and offer visitors a chance to experience the sanctuary after dusk.
Eco-Conscious Design
Addressing concerns about environmental impact, the proposed night-stay units at Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary will be designed with sustainability at their core. Forest Department officials have emphasized that the cottages will not be permanent structures; instead, they will be temporary or semi-permanent constructions. This approach is crucial to ensure that the natural integrity of the reserve forest remains undisturbed. Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF), B M Diwan Mydeen, clarified that these eco-friendly structures are a departure from conventional permanent buildings, prioritizing minimal disruption to the ecosystem. The initiative is part of a broader plan to enhance eco-tourism, and the cottages are also envisioned to support wildlife-based training programs, surveillance activities, and other conservation-related operations. The project will require necessary clearances from the relevant competent authorities before construction can commence, ensuring all environmental regulations are met.
Financial Projections
The development of the night-stay facilities at Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary is projected to be a significant revenue generator, bolstering the sanctuary's financial health and conservation efforts. According to official estimates, each of the proposed cottages will incur an investment ranging between Rs 15 lakh and Rs 20 lakh. These proposals are currently being prepared by the forest department for submission to the government for necessary approval. Kambalakonda currently demonstrates a healthy visitor turnout, attracting over 300 individuals daily and exceeding 500 visitors on weekends, contributing approximately Rs 4 lakh per month through entry fees alone. However, a substantial portion of this revenue, around Rs 3 lakh monthly, is allocated towards operational expenses such as staff salaries and general maintenance. The introduction of the night-stay facility is anticipated to not only increase revenue streams but also potentially reduce the reliance on entry fees for covering operational costs, thereby freeing up funds for enhanced conservation and infrastructure development within the sanctuary.
Sanctuary Attractions
Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The sanctuary features three distinct trekking routes, measuring 3 km, 2 km, and a more challenging 7 km, catering to various fitness levels. Enhancing the visitor experience, there are also two designated viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, and three picnic spots ideal for family outings. Beyond its recreational offerings, Kambalakonda is a vital habitat for a variety of endemic species and a significant number of wild animals. Visitors have the opportunity to spot jackals, civets, rabbits, mongoose, spotted deer, sambars, and a diverse array of snake species, providing a rich wildlife viewing experience. The existing facilities like boating and adventure activities, coupled with the upcoming night-stay options, are poised to make Kambalakonda an even more attractive and comprehensive eco-tourism hub.
