Hyderabad, also known as the ‘Metropolis of Pearls,’ is Telangana’s capital and largest city. It is situated near the Musi River’s banks. This fascinating city, known for its deep-rooted history, monuments, and museums, is a hub for heritage walks. Leaving the details of this alluring city aside, we’re here to present you to the perfect guide to a never-ending list of weekend getaways around Hyderabad.
1. Anantagiri Hills
Anantagiri Hills is located in Telangana’s Vikarabad district. This location is surrounded by lush green trees, providing a stunning view from the hills. It is home to the Anantagiri temple, which sits on a hill. The river Musi, also known as the Muchkunda river, was born here. The Osman Sagar reservoir, also known as Gandipet lake, and Himayathsagar receive water from these hills.
2. Nallamala Hills
The fascinating Nallamala range is part of the Eastern Ghats lowlands, with Bhairani Konda as its highest mountain and Gundla Brahmeswara as the second highest. It’s an exquisite line of hills that meets an open rainforest and offers breathtaking vistas from its peaks. The region is surrounded by two major rivers, the Krishna and the Pennar. One of the most popular weekend attractions in Hyderabad is this beautiful beauty.
3. Srisailam
Srisailam is a lovely temple town in Andhra Pradesh’s Nandyal district. It is known for the magnificence of the ancient Mallikarjuna Jyotirling temple, which was built in the Dravidian style and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is home to the largest tiger reserve in India, the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, which is nestled in the Nallamala forest. It stretches across five districts in the region. The Srisailam Dam, which spans the Krishna River, is a beautiful sight. Hire a jeep to visit the Ista Kameshwari Temple in the middle of the forest if you’re eager for an exciting temple ride.
4. Singur Dam
Singur Dam, also known as Singoor Dam, is a hydroelectric, drinking water, and irrigation dam. It is built on the banks of the Manjira River. Many crocodiles are known to live in these waterways. The Singur Dam is around 96 kilometres from Hyderabad. If you don’t have time for a two-day excursion, you can take a one-day journey with your family and friends to one of the weekend spots around Hyderabad.
5. Kinnerasani Dam
The dam is erected on the Kinnerasani River, which is a tributary of the Godavari. This location is located within the Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary forest, which is home to a diverse range of plants and fauna. Leopards, jackals, blackbucks, and a variety of other lovely animals can be found in this woodland. The lush green islands on the vast lake are complemented by a mountain range in the distance, providing for a truly stunning sight. Hyderabad is 284 kilometres away from the Kinnerasani Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary. You have the option of taking a cab, bus, or personal transportation.
6. Kolleru Lake
Andhra Pradesh is home to the Kolleru Lake and Bird Sanctuary. The area protects wetlands and is known to be home to a variety of waterfowl, fish, and over 200 bird species. It is 343 kilometres from Hyderabad and can be used as a weekend escape. If you only have a weekend to see this place, personal transportation would be the ideal alternative to save time. This is one of the interesting weekend getaways around Hyderabad, with a bird sanctuary set on a gorgeous lake.
7. Pakhal Lake
Pakhal Lake is a man-made lake in the middle of the Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary. The tranquil lake shoreline and lush trees provide an intriguing scene. Near the water, wild animals such as panthers, sloths, and leopards can be seen. It’s also where you’ll see a variety of migrating birds. Hyderabad is about 211 kilometres away. Why not make the most of your weekend by taking a tour of the area? You have the option of taking a cab, bus, or personal transportation.
8. Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary
The Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary is a lovely destination for a family holiday, named after the Pocharam lake, which gets its water from the river Allair. It’s only 120 kilometres away, making it a popular weekend destination within 200 kilometres of Hyderabad. Apart from other species in the forest, it is home to open-billed storks and bar-headed goose.
9. Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary, in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, is an experience not to be missed, with vast grasslands rich in flora and fauna. It is a bird sanctuary because it is home to the endangered Great Indian Buster, a gorgeous long-necked bird, as well as nearly 120 other species. A golden jackal, an Indian wolf, and a blackbuck can all be found in the jungle. It is necessary to obtain permission from the Divisional Forest Office in order to visit the site, as walk-in visits are not permitted.
10. Belum Caves
Have you ever been to a cave with limestone stalactite and stalagmite formations? You must see the Belum caves, which are located in Belum hamlet in the Kurnool district. Because it is India’s second-largest cave system, it is protected under the Monuments of National Importance Act. Many Buddhist monks and Jains are said to have lived in the caverns centuries ago. There are extensive sections as well as freshwater areas. The river Chithravati, which has since vanished from the region, is claimed to have formed it.
11. Ethipothala Waterfall
Ethipothala waterfall, which falls from a height of 70 feet, is a fascinating place to visit in Andhra Pradesh’s Guntur district. It is produced by three streams of the river Chandravanka, a tributary of the Krishna, namely Chandravanka Vagu, Nakkala Vagu, and Tummala Vagu. On top of a tiny mound near the waterfall, there is a well-known shrine dedicated to Lord Dattatreya. It is supposed to be the local Lambadi tribe’s site of worship.
The name is derived from two Telugu words, ‘Ethi’ which means raise and ‘Potha’ which means pour, and refers to water dropping from tremendous heights.
12. Kanakai Waterfall
Kanakai Falls, also known as Kanakadurga Falls, is located in Telangana’s Adilabad district. On the route to the waterfall, there is a magnificent temple dedicated to Goddess Kanaka Durga. To see the locations, one must walk a short distance. If you want to learn more about the path, drive up to Girnur hamlet nearby and ask for guidance from local guides. Water flows along the side of the path, making a soothing splashing sound as you walk up to the main viewpoint. Smaller falls can be found along the road before reaching the main one.
13. Bogatha Waterfall
Summer calls for refreshing water splashes in the great outdoors, and the Bogatha waterfall is the ideal location. It is situated along the Cheekupally creek in the Telangana state. This natural wonder is regarded as the ‘Niagara of Telangana,’ and it is also the state’s second-highest waterfall. Visiting during or after the monsoon will leave you speechless as you enjoy the best of what the area has to offer.
14. Warangal
Warangal, Telangana’s second-largest city, is steeped in history and home to numerous old structures. The Kakatiya Dynasty was responsible for the construction of several forts, temples, lakes, and stone gates. The city is renowned as the state’s cultural capital. Warangal got its name from the word ‘Orugallu,’ which means ‘one stone,’ because the city is said to have been formed out of a single rock.
