Chandana Vanam @ Gowdelly

Caption:

From barren waste dumping land to a thriving paradise—uncover the hidden story of Chandana Vanam's incredible transformation!

Description:

Spanning 508.16 hectares of lush greenery, Chandana Vanam stands as a shining testament to ecological restoration and human perseverance. Once barren this lifeless waste dump yard, has been transformed by the Telangana Forest Development Corporation Limited (TGFDCL) into a vibrant sanctuary. It is home to diverse plantations, including the prized sandalwood, alongside eucalyptus and subabul, cultivated as part of an innovative revenue-generation initiative.

A highlight of Chandana Vanam is its enchanting 2.2 km walking trail. Draped in dense, leafy canopies, the trail offers visitors a serene escape from urban chaos. Here, sunlight dances through the foliage, creating dappled patterns on the ground and imbuing the atmosphere with a tranquil, almost otherworldly charm. Enhancing the experience is a towering three-story watchtower, which offers sweeping, panoramic views of the breathtaking landscape below.

Beyond its scenic allure, Chandana Vanam is a haven for wildlife. Protected spaces, interspersed with native fruiting trees, scrub jungle, and rugged Deccan rocky outcrops, create an ideal habitat for a variety of creatures. Visitors often encounter majestic peafowl, hear the resonant calls of francolins, and spot migratory birds gracing the landscape during their seasonal journeys. Monitor lizards and black-naped hares also make frequent appearances, particularly in the quiet hours of dusk, enriching this flourishing ecosystem with their presence.

The remarkable transformation of Chandana Vanam owes much to a collaborative effort with the SankalpTaru Foundation, which spearheaded an ambitious afforestation initiative from 2019 to 2021. Over 8,300 trees, including 2,300 in block plantations and 6,000 under the Yadadri model, were planted, turning desolation into a verdant bamboo habitat. This success story has become a beacon of conservation and rewilding efforts.

Today, Chandana Vanam is more than just a forest—it’s a destination. Cool breezes, shaded pathways, and panoramic vistas invite visitors to reconnect with the wilderness while celebrating nature’s incredible resilience. For those seeking tranquility, adventure, or inspiration, Chandana Vanam offers a harmonious blend of all three, reminding us of the profound beauty in nature’s revival.