Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park
Have you heard of “the jungle amidst the concrete jungle”? There is a reason Kasu Brahmananda reddy National Park is referred so. The park provides an oasis of clear sir, green environment and the experience of being in the lap of nature away from the hustle of city life to the residents of Hyderabad city. A visit to the city is incomplete if you do not include the National Park in your tourist itinerary. Read on to find out more about the park.
Location
Situated in the Jubilee hills of Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park extends to an area of about 390 acres. It is named after the former chief minister of the state Kasu Brahmananda Reddy.
History
The Palace complex of Nizams of Hyderabad namely Chiran Palace is located in the park. The State government, with the approval of the Central Government, declared the area as a National Park in the year 1998.
Flora and Fauna
The rich vegetation in the park consists of tropical dry deciduous forests. Also, the park does a remarkable job of preserving the native flora of the city. Common trees found in the park include Teak, Neem, Palas, Neem, Ficus and sandalwood.
The major attraction of the park is unarguably its peacocks. There are over 300 of these colorful birds that win the heart of its visitors. Other than them there are about 130 species of birds, 30 species of butterflies and 30 species of butterflies. Animals that are commonly found in the park include jungle cat, pangolin, wild boar, mongoose, porcupine and small Indian civet.
Climate
During the summer months (March-May), the temperature varies between 25°C and 35°C. In spite of the extremely hot and humid climate of the city, the park environment remains cool and is thus a real respite for its residents. The temperature during the winter months (November – February) fluctuates between 22°C and 14°C. Monsoon months (June-September) bring moderate rainfall and heavy winds.
When to visit
The National Park remains open in all seasons. So, you can make your travel plans throughout the year. But the monsoon seasons add a unique charm to the place as its greenery appears more fresh and beautiful. The park timings are between 6.00 am – 8.00 am and 4.00 pm – 6.00 pm. It is open on all days including Sundays.
How to reach
By air: The closest airport is at Begumpet. The railway station at Secunderabad is within 5 km radius of the airport.
By rail: Railway stations at Secunderabd and Hyderabad are nearby. It is a mere 40-45 minute drive from either of these stations till the park.
By bus: The nearest APSRTC bus terminal is at Goliguda(16 kms). If you travel from Secunderabad, look out for bus nos. 10H, 47L, 47V. These are available every 10 minutes. If you begin your journey from MGBS Bus stop (11.5 km), board buses with nos. 222, 127K, 225D, 47 L. Here too, the buses are too frequent that you will hardly have to wait for 10 minutes.
Where to stay
Is there a need to say anything regarding the accommodation facilities the ultra-modern Hyderabad city offers to its visitors? Some of the most popular hotels nearby are Ebony Boutique Hotel (Banjara hills), Mapple Inn Hyderabad (Jubilee Hills) and Taj Krishna Hotel (Banjara hills).
Contact
Divisional Forest Officer (Wildlife Management), Hyderabad. Phone: – 040-23607663 or
Forest Range Officer, KBR.National Park, Phone:- 040-23555463
