Nagarjunsagar is a town in Telangana, India, that is famous for its historical, cultural, and natural attractions. It is home to the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, the world’s largest masonry dam and one of the modern engineering marvels of India. It is also the site of the Nagarjunakonda Island and Museum, where the relics of an ancient Buddhist civilization are preserved.
Nagarjunsagar also offers scenic views of the Krishna River, the Ethipothala Waterfall, and the Nagarjunsagar Wildlife Sanctuary. In this article, we will explore the best things to do, the best time to visit, and the best tips to plan your trip to Nagarjunsagar.
Things to Do in Nagarjunsagar
Nagarjunsagar has something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, culture, wildlife, or adventure. Here are some of the top things to do in Nagarjunsagar:
Visit the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam
The Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is the main attraction of Nagarjunsagar. It is the world’s largest masonry dam and the second-largest water reservoir in India. It was built between 1955 and 1967 to harness the power of the Krishna River and provide irrigation and electricity to the region. The dam is 1.6 km long and 124 m high, and can store up to 11.5 billion cubic meters of water. The dam also has 26 crest gates that can release up to 2.8 million liters of water per second, creating a spectacular sight. You can enjoy the panoramic view of the dam and the lake from the viewpoint or take a boat ride to the other side of the dam.
The dam is open to visitors from 9 am to 5 pm every day, except on national holidays. The entry fee is Rs. 10 per person and the boat ride fee is Rs. 70 per person. The boat ride takes about 45 minutes and operates from 9:30 am to 4 pm. The dam is located about 150 km from Hyderabad and can be reached by road.
Explore the Nagarjunakonda Island and Museum
The Nagarjunakonda Island and Museum is a must-visit for history and culture lovers. The island is named after the famous Buddhist scholar and philosopher Nagarjuna, who lived and taught here in the 2nd century CE. The island was once the center of a flourishing Buddhist civilization that spread across South and Southeast Asia. The island was submerged by the construction of the dam, but the archaeological remains were excavated and relocated to a museum on the island. The museum displays the relics of the ancient Buddhist stupas, monasteries, temples, sculptures, inscriptions, coins, and pottery. You can reach the island by a boat ride from the dam.
The island and museum are open to visitors from 9 am to 5 pm every day, except on Mondays. The entry fee is Rs. 10 per person and the boat ride fee is Rs. 120 per person. The boat ride takes about an hour and operates from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm. The island is located about 4 km from the dam and can be reached by boat.
Enjoy the Ethipothala Waterfall
The Ethipothala Waterfall is a beautiful cascade of water that falls from a height of 21.3 m into a lagoon. The waterfall is formed by the confluence of three streams: Chandravanka, Nakkala, and Tummala. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and rocky formations, creating a picturesque scenery. You can also spot various birds and reptiles near the waterfall. The waterfall is located about 11 km from the dam and can be accessed by road.
The waterfall is open to visitors from 6 am to 6 pm every day. The entry fee is Rs. 10 per person and the parking fee is Rs. 20 per vehicle. The waterfall is best viewed during the monsoon season, when the water flow is high and the rainbow effect is visible.
Visit the Nagarjunsagar Wildlife Sanctuary
The Nagarjunsagar Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. It is one of the largest tiger reserves in India, covering an area of 3,568 sq km. The sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, such as tigers, leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, jackals, wild dogs, deer, antelopes, monkeys, and crocodiles. The sanctuary also hosts a rich diversity of flora, including teak, bamboo, sandalwood, and medicinal plants. You can explore the sanctuary by jeep safaris, nature walks, or watchtowers.
The sanctuary is open to visitors from 6 am to 6 pm every day, except on Tuesdays. The entry fee is Rs. 20 per person and the jeep safari fee is Rs. 300 per person. The jeep safari takes about 2 hours and operates from 7 am to 10 am and from 3 pm to 6 pm. The sanctuary is located about 60 km from the dam and can be reached by road.
Experience the Buddavanam Project
The Buddavanam Project is a unique attraction that showcases the life and teachings of Buddha in a modern and interactive way. It is a thematic park that covers an area of 274 acres and features various structures and exhibits related to Buddhism. Some of the highlights of the park are the Maha Stupa, the Buddha Statue, the Bodhi Tree, the Meditation Hall, the Museum, and the Library. The park also offers various activities and programs, such as meditation, yoga, workshops, seminars, and festivals. The park is located about 4 km from the dam and can be reached by road.
The park is open to visitors from 9 am to 5 pm every day, except on Mondays. The entry fee is Rs. 10 per person and the parking fee is Rs. 20 per vehicle. The park is a great place to learn about the history, philosophy, and culture of Buddhism, as well as to experience peace and tranquility.
Best Time to Visit Nagarjunsagar
The best time to visit Nagarjunsagar is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the water level is high. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C during this period, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season from June to September is also a good time to visit Nagarjunsagar, as the rainfall enhances the beauty of the waterfall and the greenery.
However, the humidity and the mosquitoes can be a problem. The summer season from April to May is the least favorable time to visit Nagarjunsagar, as the temperature can soar up to 45°C and the water level can be low.
Tips to Plan Your Trip to Nagarjunsagar
Here are some tips to help you plan your trip to Nagarjunsagar:
The nearest airport to Nagarjunsagar is Hyderabad, which is about 150 km away. You can take a flight to Hyderabad and then hire a taxi or a bus to Nagarjunsagar.
The nearest railway station to Nagarjunsagar is Macherla, which is about 24 km away. You can take a train to Macherla and then hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to Nagarjunsagar.
Nagarjunsagar has limited accommodation options, so it is advisable to book your stay in advance. You can choose from hotels, resorts, guest houses, or cottages, depending on your budget and preference.
Nagarjunsagar has a few restaurants and eateries that serve local and Indian cuisine. You can also find some street food stalls that offer snacks and beverages. However, it is recommended to carry your own water and food, as the quality and hygiene may not be up to the mark.
Nagarjunsagar has a lot to offer, so it is better to plan your itinerary according to your interests and time. You can spend a day or two exploring the dam, the island, the waterfall, and the sanctuary, or you can extend your stay and visit the nearby places, such as Srisailam, Anupu, and Amaravati.
Nagarjunsagar is a safe and peaceful place, but it is always wise to follow some basic precautions, such as avoiding traveling alone at night, carrying your valuables securely, and respecting the local culture and customs.
Nagarjunsagar is a perfect destination for those who want to experience the history, culture, and nature of India. It is a place where you can witness the glory of the past, the marvel of the present, and the hope of the future.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Nagarjunsagar for an unforgettable trip. And don’t forget to share your experience with us on Tripoto, the world’s largest travel community. Happy traveling!