Anantagiri to get 24-km trekking trail from Rajupaka to Mardaguda
The Forest Department has finalised a 24-km trekking trail from Rajupaka to Mardaguda Eco Park in the Anantagiri agency area as part of efforts to promote eco-tourism and adventure tourism in the region.
The trail will begin at Rajupaka, located about four kilometres from the Anantagiri mandal headquarters, and pass through Galikonda, Bheesupuram and Raktakonda before ending at Mardaguda Eco Park.
Forest Department officials and staff conducted three trial runs to identify a suitable route. Wildlife consultant and mountaineer Arun Kumar also recently inspected the proposed trail and helped finalise the route.
The trail is expected to offer trekkers a mix of forested hills, waterfalls and scenic landscapes. During the survey, the team also visited Dekkappuram waterfall and a hill between Sangamvalasa and Donimori, located at an elevation of about 1,640 feet above sea level.
The department is exploring the possibility of setting up homestays at suitable locations along the route, particularly around Dabbuguda, Gangudi and Barajola. The proposed facilities will provide trekkers with places to rest during the journey.
Officials said the route had been carefully planned to avoid areas with a high concentration of wildlife while covering waterfalls, scenic spots and suitable resting points. Work is now under way to provide basic infrastructure and other facilities for trekkers.
The trail is likely to be opened to visitors after the proposed homestay facilities are established.
The state government has been promoting trekking as part of its eco-tourism initiatives, with the hill ranges along the Anantagiri-Araku Valley border identified as having considerable potential for the activity.
Galikonda in Araku Valley is already a popular destination among trekkers from different parts of the region. The Forest Department is now looking at expanding trekking activities across Anantagiri and Araku Valley mandals.
The proposed trekking programme will also focus on raising awareness of the forest ecosystem and biodiversity in the Agency area. Visitors will be introduced to native tree species such as mango, champak, Indian jujube, and Indian gooseberry, as well as other forest varieties.
Forest officials and guides will also explain the importance of wildlife conservation and forest protection and familiarise visitors with various forest products.
The initiative aims to combine adventure with environmental education while allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the Anantagiri agency region.