Nallamala Forests

Nallamala Forests are a vast stretch of the Eastern Ghats spanning Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, accessed via Dornala in Prakasam District, Andhra Pradesh. Part of the Nallamala Hill range and largely within the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, the forests are known for dense deciduous woodland, diverse wildlife, and scenic valleys. The area is notable for its biodiversity, Chenchu tribal habitat, and proximity to Srisailam pilgrimage and eco-tourism routes.

Visitors can expect dense dry deciduous forest, rolling hills and valleys of the Eastern Ghats with viewpoints, forest roads and trails. The area is part of the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve landscape with opportunities to see native flora, birds and wildlife from designated roads and watch points. Access is through forest check posts near Dornala, with limited facilities and a natural, remote environment. Exploration is typically by vehicle safari or guided nature walks where permitted.

The Nallamala Hills have long been inhabited by the Chenchu tribe, one of the ancient forest-dwelling communities of the region, and form a historic forested corridor between the Krishna River valley and the Srisailam plateau. The forests have been part of protected forestry management since the colonial period and later notified as part of the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve in 1978.

The forests are culturally significant as the traditional homeland of the Chenchu tribe and as the natural setting surrounding the Srisailam pilgrimage region. The landscape is associated with local forest-based traditions, seasonal festivals and eco-cultural tourism linked to Srisailam.