Pocharam Wildlife Santuary – The beauty of Nizamabad Tourism
Located at a distance of 15 km from Medak and 115 km from Hyderabad, the erstwhile hunting grounds of the Nizams have today been converted into a well-equipped sanctuary. Known as the Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary, it contributes sufficiently to the adventure quotient in Nizamabad Tourism.
Sprawled over an area of 130 square kilometer, the sanctuary is named after the PocharamLake which it borders. The area is abundant in mixed dry deciduous forest with wholesome patches of scrub and grassy plains. The lush green vegetation therefore makes it a favorite roosting spot for birds. Bar-Headed Goose, Brahminy Bucks, Open Billed Stork, Partridges and Quails are some of the frequent visitors. Bird-Watchers can feast their eyes on these beauties for hours.
In addition to the winged fraternity, the Pocharam Sanctuary is also home to several quadrapeds. It is particularly famous for housing five species of antelopes including the four-horned antelope. It also houses the varied types of the deer family including Sambar, Nilgai, Chinkara and Chital. The sanctuary also houses Leopards, Forest Cats, Wild Dogs, Wolves, Jackals, and Sloth Bear.
The Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary provides a beautiful trekking trail stretching for about 4.5 km which goes through the apparently thick forest growth. It provides for a thrilling experience as tourists get to savor the forest ambience at first hand. The thin branches of the trees intertwine with each other forming a net which makes the jungle look very thick. Finding oneself enmeshed in these nets can be an exciting experience no doubt. Tourists may also find their feet be washed by water flowing from the dam nearby. Consequently, as with all jungle treks, care needs to be taken while enjoying the Pocharam trek.
The Sanctuary still bears the remnants of a watch tower, which was probably used by the Nizam to keep a watch out for the animals while on his hunting expeditions. Though dilapidated and run down it does afford a fantastic view of the surrounding wilderness and the lake. If tourists can brave the rickety wrought iron staircase and reach the top unscathed then the treat awaiting them there is well worth the effort.
There is a small water wall built over the Manjeera River which was built with the intent to construct a dam. However, its small size belies its original intent and makes it act as a rudimentary car wash and water park. People often park their cars and bikes here in order to get them naturally washed. Also tourists are often found to be splashing around in the water during the monsoon months and even after it.
The Pocharam Sanctuary is a wonderful spot for a family picnic or just an adventure trek. The flora and fauna of the place provides a unique break from the monotonous urban existence of tourists. The serene ambience of the place helps to refresh the mind and rejuvenate the body.
Special Attractions:
– The Trekking trail and the small dam nearby are major attractions for tourists.
– The serene ambience of the Pocharam Sanctuary makes it a definite addition in every tourist’s must-see list.
– Abandoned Old Nizam Bungalow inside the Pocharam Sanctuary
Nearby by Tourist Attractions:
– Medak fort
– Medak Church
– Gottam Gutta
– Manjira Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary
Timings: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Distance to Pocharam Sanctuary:
– Distance from Medak is 15.2 Kms
– Distance from Hyderabad is 114 Kms
– Distance from Nizamabad is 120 Kms
– Distance from Warangal is 167 Kms
How to reach:
– As Pocharam Sanctuary is 15 Kms far Medak. Medak can be easily reached from Hyderabad by bus, or Private transport. It is also accessible from any major city through Hyderabad.
– Plenty of buses ply to Medak from all the major cities of Telangana
Where to stay:
– Medak offers several comfortable and affordable accommodations for Tourists. Some of the popular places of stay include Farm Stay and Haritha Hotel Nacharam (040-30488365, 9000282897). The tariffs for hotels in Medak range between Rs.500 to Rs. 3000.
Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station for Medak is Hyderabad.
Contact Numbers:
– Nizamabad District Informatics Officer 08462-224362
– State Tourism Department: 040-23450444