Bird Sanctuary

Atapaka Bird Sanctuary – The Pelican Paradise of Andhra Pradesh.

Location

• Situated on the eastern side of Kolleru Lake, near Kaikaluru town in Andhra Pradesh.

• Around 65 km from Vijayawada and 35 km from Eluru, making it easily accessible for day trips. 

Visit Atapaka Bird Sanctuary

• Declared a Bird Sanctuary in 1999 to protect the unique wetland ecosystem of Kolleru Lake.

• Globally recognized as one of the largest habitats for Spot-Billed Pelicans.

• Part of the Ramsar Convention Wetland Site, which makes it an eco-tourism hotspot. 

  

  Kolleru Bird Sanctuary

Birdlife at Atapaka

• Home to 70+ resident bird species and 90+ migratory species.

• Key attractions include:

  • Spot-Billed Pelicans – the star species of Atapaka.

  • Painted Storks

  • Open-Billed Storks

  • Red-Crested Pochards

  • Black-Winged Stilts

  • Glossy Ibises

  • Teals, Herons, Egrets, and Cormorants.

During peak migration season (Nov–Mar), thousands of pelicans and storks can be seen nesting and feeding. 

Kolleru Bird Sanctuary-spotted birds

Things to Do

1. Bird Watching:

   • Early mornings and late evenings are best.

   • Viewing towers and eco-tourism points are available for visitors.

     

     KolleruLake_Birdwatching

     
     

2. Boat Rides on Kolleru Lake:

   • Explore wetlands and get closer views of bird colonies.

     

     kollerulake-Boating

3. Photography:

   • A paradise for wildlife photographers, especially during migration months.

4. Nature Walks:

   • Walk around the lake edge and experience rural Andhra life. 

Timings & Entry Fee

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily)

• Entry Fee: Usually Free, but boating and eco-tourism services may charge a small fee. 

Best Time to Visit

• November – March (peak migratory season).

• Avoid peak summer (April – June), as water levels are low and bird activity is minimal.

 Atapaka Bird Sanctuary is truly a hidden gem for bird lovers, offering a rare chance to see pelicans and storks in thousands, set against the tranquil backdrop of Kolleru Lake.