Kolleru Lake: The Peerless Paradise of Andhra Pradesh

Nestled between the bustling deltas of the Godavari and Krishna rivers lies a shimmering natural marvel Kolleru Lake. Just 15 kilometers from Eluru, it sprawls across the West Godavari and Krishna districts in Andhra Pradesh, and holds the title of India’s Largest Freshwater Lake. With a unique seasonal expanse ranging from 308 square kilometers in summer to nearly 954 square kilometers during floods, Kolleru has long been revered as a haven for wildlife, a cradle of history, and a lifeline for local communities.

A Sanctuary of Life

Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1999, Kolleru quickly gained global recognition in 2002 as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. The lake pulses with biodiversity: it is a vital stopover for migratory birds flying thousands of kilometers from Northern Asia and Eastern Europe. Between October and March, birdwatchers flock to witness avian guests such as flamingos, avocets, red-crested pochards, and common redshanks. Resident species like the Asian open-billed stork and grey pelican find year-round refuge in its wetlands.

This convergence of birds has earned Kolleru another moniker: “Bird Heaven.” The Atapaka Bird Sanctuary on its banks is one of the best places in India to witness this feathery spectacle.

History Echoes Across the Waters

Beyond its ecological value, Kolleru brims with stories from a rich past. Copper plates discovered within the lake trace the region’s significance to Langula Narasimha Deva, a Gajapati king of Odisha. Under the Suryavamsi Gajapatis, the once-mighty Kalinga Empire extended into large parts of South India.

One of the lake’s most poignant legends involves the Gajapathi fort at Kolleti Kota and a sacrifice made by a general’s daughter, Perantala Kanama, to save the fort from invading Bahmani forces. The strategic channel they dug—now known as Upputeru still carries water from the lake into the Bay of Bengal.

Anchoring the cultural significance of the lake is the revered Sri Peddinti Ammavari Temple, a spiritual landmark visited by thousands of devotees.

A Geographical and Hydrological Gem

Fed by tributaries such as Budameru, Tammileru, and Yerra Kalva, Kolleru lies in a natural depression possibly seismic in origin. It forms a sprawling basin filled by monsoonal and river waters. When the lake floods, it swallows up several small islets or “Lankas,” which are agriculturally fertile but prone to submersion.

Currently, the Ramsar-designated wetland area covers about 90,100 hectares, making it one of the most ecologically significant bodies of water in India.

Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Opportunity

With its blend of scenic beauty, historical relics, and cultural landmarks, Kolleru is steadily being transformed into a thriving tourist destination. Guided by the Wildlife Management Division, the Andhra Pradesh government is developing a tourism circuit connecting Gudivakalanka Resort to Kolletikota and Atapaka Bird Sanctuary. Visitors can explore the Peddintlamma Temple, enjoy boating, or simply bask in the lake’s serenity.

Eco-tourism here isn't just about recreation—it’s a gateway for sustainable development that benefits the local communities who depend on fishing and allied livelihoods.

Crisis Beneath the Surface

Yet, all is not well in paradise. Rampant illegal encroachments and aquaculture expansion threaten Kolleru's delicate balance. Nearly 42% of the lake area has been overtaken by fish ponds, while agriculture claims another 8.5%. Constructed bunds and fish tank walls obstruct natural water flow and alter the ecosystem.

Saltwater intrusion and decreasing rainfall patterns are affecting not just biodiversity, but also drinking water and crop production in the region. To make matters worse, weed infestation and pollution have further degraded the lake’s water quality satellite images as early as 2001 showed alarming reductions in open water surface.

A Call for Restoration

Efforts to revive Kolleru are gaining momentum. As part of its Ramsar designation, scientific assessments and management plans have been initiated to restore The Lake natural hydrology, curb encroachments, and maintain its bird habitats. Balancing development with conservation is the key to securing the lake’s future.

For India and especially Andhra Pradesh Kolleru is not just another lake. It is an ecological gem, a historical sentinel, and a cultural landmark. With mindful stewardship, this “Fisherman’s Paradise and Bird Heaven” can continue to enchant, nourish, and inspire generations to come.