Known For : Ethipothala Waterfall Nagarjunasagar Dam Nagarjunasagar Wildlife Sanctuary
Nagarjunasagar is a site of spectacular man-made marvel flanked by equally enchanting panoramic vistas of the lush green surrounding. Lying in the Nalgonda District of Andhra Pradesh, the most popular landmark of the town is world's tallest masonry dam Nagarjunasagar dam built over Krishna River. With the capacity of irrigating around 10 acres of land, this modern architectural grandeur is a sight to behold.
Distance from Hyderabad: 151 km
Best Time: October to March
Endearingly known as the 'Grand Canyon of India', Gandikota is a village in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh. Flanked by River Pennar on the right side, the village is popular for the spectacular gorges formed by the river cutting through Erramala Hills. The narrow valleys with streams running between them and the steep rocky walls to give them company remind one of the renowned Grand Canyon in Arizona.
Distance from Hyderabad: 382 km
Best Time: November to February
Somasila is a temple town in Telangana that has recently been developed as an eco-tourism project. Well-known for its 7th Century Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple, the village is home to 15 Shiva temples. Home to a number of temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Krishna River as well as natural beauty, the village often serves as a weekend getaway destination from Hyderabad.
Best time to Visit : September - March
Distance from Hyderabad: 476 km
Laknavaram is a scenic manmade lake that boasts immense natural beauty in the form of forests and hills. It is located in Govindaraopet mandal in the Mulugu district of Telangana, 80 km away from Warangal. It houses 13 small islands and also has a 160 m long hanging bridge that connects the 3 islands. It is popular for a picnic, boating and stunning sunset views.
Timings : 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Entry Fees : Adults: INR 10, Children: INR 5
Distance from Hyderabad: 210 km
Also known as “Ksheerapuri”, the peaceful town of Chirala is located in Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh. Chirala is exclusively famous for its quiet beaches, splendid panoramic view and extremely hospitable people. Also famous for its handloom industry, Chirala is known as Mini Bombay or Chenna Bombay. It is one of the best beach weekend getaways from Hyderabad.
Distance from Hyderabad: 307 km
Around 50 km away from Warangal city is the beautiful Pakhal Lake which is spread over an area of 30 sq km. Set amidst the lush green forests and hills, the human-made lake forms a highly picturesque location. The lake also borders a wildlife sanctuary located at its shore. The chirping of birds mingled with rejuvenating breeze and tranquillity makes it a favourite spot for picnics and nature enthusiasts.
Timings : 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee : No entry fee
Distance from Hyderabad: 212 km
Known For : Pakhal Lake Thousand Pillar Temple Ramappa Temple
Warangal takes you back to the era of kings and queens with its beautiful historical sites and an impressive natural beauty with Parkhal Lake being worth checking out. Warangal is the seat of Telugu traditions and has a fascinating and captivating culture.
Distance from Hyderabad: 150 km
Best Time: September to Apr
Known For : Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary Kunthala Waterfalls Pochera Waterfalls
Adilabad is a small town in the state of Telangana that is famous for the beautiful Kunatala waterfalls located amidst lush forests. Originally known as Edulapuram, this place is for nature lovers and history buffs. Adilabad is currently Telangana's second-largest district and the town witnesses various customs and traditions that are a fusion of Telugu and Marathi culture. It is a popular destination for a weekend getaway from Hyderabad.
Distance from Hyderabad: 342 km
Best Time: November to March
Also known as Palamuru or Rukmammapeta, Mahabubnagar is a city that boasts of immense historical significance and is situated on the western border of Telangana. It is the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway from Hyderabad especially for those interested in history since it houses a multitude of old forts, sacred sites, tombs and more that make for a wonderful educational experience. There are also several natural wonders that one can visit.
Distance from Hyderabad: 160 km
Located in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, Belum Caves are the largest and longest cave system in India still open for the tourists. It is famous for its unique stalactite and stalagmite formations. A monument of national importance, the Belum Caves has numerous pathways with intricate patterns of water stream on limestone which are bound to leave you awestruck.
Distance from Hyderabad: 328 km
Known For : The Borra Hills and Caves Araku Tribal Museum Musi River
Set amid the Eastern Ghats, Ananthagiri Hills is a beautiful retreat 90km away from Hyderabad city. One of the earliest human habitat areas, Ananthagiri is a hill town of ancient caves, temples, medieval fort palaces that showcases the history of the area.
Distance from Hyderabad: 686 km
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Bidar Fort Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple
A city rich in culture and heritage, Bidar is a historical city in Karnataka. Once considered to be the most flourishing cities in South India, Bidar is packed with great architectural marvels and ancient structures that add on to its charm. Being once the centre of power of many great kingdoms such as Chalukyas, Allauddin Khilji, Muhammad bin Tughluq etc. has enriched the city that showcases the architectural legacy of their rulers.
Distance from Hyderabad: 147 km
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Pathala Ganga Srisailam Tiger Reserve Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple
Srisailam, a hill town in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh is home to the holy Malikarjuna Jyotirlinga and also as one of the eighteen Shakti Peethas of goddess Parvati. Situated on the banks of river Krishna, Srisailam is identified with a wildlife sanctuary and a dam.
Distance from Hyderabad: 213 km
Best Time: October to February
Known For : Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Vithala Temple Lotus Palace
Hampi, the city of ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated in the shadowed depth of hills and valleys in the state of Karnataka, this place is a historical delight for travellers. Surrounded by 500 ancient monuments, beautiful temples, and captivating remains of Vijayanagar Empire, it is a backpacker's delight. Hampi is an open museum with 100+ locations to explore.
Distance from Hyderabad: 371 km
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Khwaja Bande Nawaz Dargah Buddha Vihar Gulbarga Fort
Officially known as Kalaburagi, this city is famous for its historical monuments, temples, tombs and delectable cuisine. The stark architecture and monuments of the area, with Hindu and Muslim influences in equal measure, look stunning and serene. The forts, in particular, are a must-visit. If you’re looking for a healthy dose of cultural beauty, heritage and breathtaking locations, Gulbarga is just the place for you.
Distance from Hyderabad: 230 km
Best Time: October - March
Known For : Yaganti Belum Caves Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary
A place of much historical value with beautiful surrounding areas, Kurnool, is a small town in Andhra Pradesh where much of history left its imprints. The city also is known as The Gateway of Rayalaseema.
Distance from Hyderabad: 212 km
Best Time: December to February
Known For : Nandikonda Mattapalli Panagal (Panagallu)
Nalgonda is a city in Telangana, with deep-rooted rich history and equally intriguing cultural heritage. With its roots going back to Paleolithic Age proved by enough evidence excavated from Yeleswaram, Nalgonda also displays the hints of Neolithic culture with the further unearthing of sling stones and other such objects.
Distance from Hyderabad: 100 km
Best Time: November to February
Known For : Papi Hills Pattiseema Godavari Bridge
Located on the banks of River Godavari in Andhra Pradesh, and officially known Rajamahendravaram, Rajahmundry is the biggest city of the East and the West Godavari District in the state. Touring along river Godavari and relishing the scenic landscapes is the prime attraction at Rajahmundry. It is primarily known to be a pilgrimage spot for Hindus, owing to the presence of several places of worship.
Distance from Hyderabad: 429 km
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Papi kondalu Hills Sri Sitaramachandra Swamy Temple Parnasala
Bhadrachalam can be a refreshing place to visit with a share of instances from the Ramayana, a glorious palace, a vibrant river and mystical terrain and surroundings. One of the major attractions of Bhadrachalam is the Sita Ramachandraswamy temple. One can also visit the Abhaya Anjaneya temple. The majestic River Godavari is found winding with its vast stretch of sand all throughout the town and is considered to be very holy. It can also be the host to a number of water sports that makes the river be a delightful experience.
Distance from Hyderabad: 309 km
Best Time: September to Apr
Known For : Cave Temples Agastya Lake Badami Fort
Located in a valley of rugged red sandstone, surrounding the Agastya Lake, Badami (formerly known as Vatapi) is an archaeological delight owing to its beautifully crafted sandstone cave temples, fortresses and carvings. Located in the Bagalkot district in Karnataka, Badami is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites that constitute Aihole-Badami-Pattadakal and is the finest example of traditional temple architecture in India.
Distance from Hyderabad: 418 km
Best Time: October to Apr
With the majestic Pench river flowing through the greens and a variety of wildlife to be spotted in the rocky terrains, Pench National Park served as an inspiration for the famous novel 'The Jungle Book'. One can enjoy many different experiences along with the wildlife safari on the boat rides, such as catching a glimpse of the tribal life and viewing some famous local dams and temples along the way.
Distance from Hyderabad: 664 km
Best Time: October to June
A wildlife sanctuary spread across an area of 614sq kms in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, Rollapadu offers its visitors a journey into the wild, close to nature, amidst a number of diverse species of flora and fauna. Established in 1988, Rollapadu is especially known for being the home to the endangered species of The Great Indian Bustard and Lesser Florican. The wildlife sanctuary, spread across the huge area is the home to many birds and reptiles.
Distance from Hyderabad: 251 km
There are a few ordinary landscapes in Kurnool. One fascinating stretch is a park with igneous rock formations. Find here a restaurant, small ponds, boating facilities and a cave museum. A less ordinary hiking area and a bit unusual picnic spot, this one, is a must visit area in Kurnool.
Distance from Hyderabad: 241 km
Known For : Chaitanya Jyoti Museum Sathya Sai Ashram Wish Fullfilling Tree
The holy abode of the legendary figure, Sathya Sai Baba, Puttaparthi is a town which takes you back to the days of ashrams and the ways of living in those times with an equal influence of the present. A tiny town in Andhra Pradesh, Puttaparthi has gained global fame as a centre of religious brilliance. It is a town which offers modern approaches of religion, settlements and even urbanization, being a unique village with urban facilities.
Distance from Hyderabad: 439 km
Best Time: September to February
If you are fond of cultural, religious, or historical exploration, and if you happen to have a marked fascination with architecture, then the grand temples of Nelakondapalli are bound to enthrall you. Not only does this site of wonder in the Deccan have recently dug up ancient Buddhist stupas but it also boasts of an association with the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Situated at the crest of the Deccan, at a distance of about 22 km from Khammam, the town of Nelakondapalli can lend you a unique and enriching experience.
Distance from Hyderabad: 192 km
Surrounded by the tributaries of the River Godavari and the magnificent Bay of Bengal itself, Konaseema is the delta-ic region in the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. The area has properties matching those of the resplendent Kerala Backwaters and so it has also come to be called as ‘God’s own Creation’ after ‘God’s own Country’ that is Kerala.
Distance from Hyderabad: 457 km
Best Time: November to February
Known For : Borra Caves Submarine Museum Kailasagiri
Visakhapatnam, also commonly known as Vizag, is one of the oldest port cities in the country. Situated in the heart of Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam is known for its picturesque beaches and serene landscape, as well as a rich cultural past. The port of Visakhapatnam is renowned for being home to the oldest shipyard in all of India.
Distance from Hyderabad: 615 km
Best Time: September to March
Located near the southwestern border between Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, Horsley Hills is a hill station that is the perfect amalgam of the charms of Andhra Pradesh and the beauty of the hills. It is thus often called, the Ooty of Andhra. This natural marvel is situated at an astonishing height of 4312 metres and is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes.
Distance from Hyderabad: 527 km
Known For : Nagarjunakonda Caves/ Museum Dhamma Nagajjuna Kaman Bazaar
A Buddhist town that flaunts age-old tools, Buddhist stupas, statues, monasteries and scriptures; Nagarjunakonda is one of the famous Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India. Located 150km from Hyderabad, near the Nagarjuna Sagar Reservoir, the town is believed to have been existed for almost 1800 years. Excavations have revealed ancient artefacts that are proof of Buddhist civilisation.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Borra Caves Katiki Waterfalls Chaparai Waterfalls
Araku Valley is a comparatively unexplored hill station mostly visited by locals as a weekend getaway and is situated some 120 kilometres away from Vishakhapatnam. If you're a tourist looking for exclusivity and tranquillity, Vistadome train leaves Vishakhapatnam at 6.50 AM, making way through 58 tunnels and passing over 84 bridges making way through the breathtaking landscape to reach Araku in approximately in 5 hours, go, catch that!
Distance from Hyderabad: 654 km
Best Time: September to February
Known For : Someshwara Temple Kotilingeshwara Temple Kolar Gold Fields
Kolar is a city in Karnataka, around 55 km from Bengaluru. Famous for its gold mines and milk-production industry, Kolar has been an important hub of Karnataka since 350 CE. It is currently one of the largest milk producers in the world and the largest in South India. It is a historic town, once known as the sacred Avantika-Kshetra, famous for its religious temples and spots.
Distance from Hyderabad: 573 km
Best Time: October to March
Nestled in the state of Telangana, Mallela Theertham is a hidden gem untouched by industrialization and bountiful in scenic beauty. Falling from a height of about 150 feet, this waterfall is quite a sight to see. The serene and pristine water of the fall will rejuvenate your body and soul.
Distance from Hyderabad: 173 km
Located in the slightly silent and remote region of Chilkur in Hyderabad, Mrugavani National Park is a popular weekend getaway for the locals. Sprawling over 1211 acres, the park houses a whopping 600 species of animals and plants. In addition to birdwatching and jungle safaris, the park also houses a tall tower that lets you take a look at the mesmerising view of the wildland below.
Distance from Hyderabad: 21 km
Situated on the banks of the Godavari river, Koti Lingala is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site in the Jagtial district of Telangana. Nestled in the lap of nature, amidst hills and lush greenery, it is considered one of the 16 great janapadas of the country's ancient heritage. Best known for the Sri Koteswara Siddeshwara Swamy Temple, the religious town also holds significant historical importance.
Distance from Hyderabad: 216 km
Bhavani Island is one of the largest islands on a river and is located over the Krishna river at Vijayawada. The vast expanse of the island proves to be the perfect place for a relaxing weekend. If you are one for adventure sports and water slides, this is an exhilarating place to visit! Bhavani island can be reached by boat from the banks of Krishna river.
Distance from Hyderabad: 275 km
Known For : Raghavendra Swami Temple Panchamukhi Anjaneya Temple
Mantralayam is a holy town situated 74 km from Kurnool district. It is located near the border of Karnataka and on the banks of the river Tungabhadra. Mantralayam is known for Sri Guru Raghavendra Swami, a saint who entered into a samadhi alive in front of his disciples in 17th Century. He was a Madhwa saint who is considered to be a reincarnation of Prahlada (A daitya king who was saved by Lord Vishnu's Narasimha avatar).
Distance from Hyderabad: 269 km
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Papi Kondalu Hills Gandi Pochamma Temple Perantapalli Village
Papikondalu mountain range runs along the River Godavari (Western Godavari) and is located in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh. Papikondalu is a sheer feast to the eyes in terms of its scenic beauty. In accordance with the view resembling the middle partition of a woman's hair, it was initially named as 'Papidi' Kondalu- Paidi in Telugu means the middle partition of a woman's hair. Later, it came to be known as Papikondalu in the local language.
Distance from Hyderabad: 309 km
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Virupaksha Temple, Pattadakal Kashiviswanatha Temple Jain Temple
A treasure trove of Hindu and Jain temples, Pattadakal is part of the Aihole-Badami-Pattadakal complex that got the UNESCO World Heritage title and it is the best representation of Chalukyan Architecture. Resting on the banks of River Malaprabha, it boasts of a rich legacy that dates back to the 4th century.
Distance from Hyderabad: 397 km
Best Time: October to March
Yaganti is a popular tourist site that is famous for its temple of Sri Yagantiswamy, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is the perfect way to get a feel of the Andhra Pradesh tourism. Also known as Uma Maheshwara Temple, the ancient Sri Yagantiswamy temple dates back to the 5th and 6th centuries. The temple houses the idol of Shiva and Parvathi fused together, called Ardhanareeswara.
Distance from Hyderabad: 298 km
Located on the east coast of India, the Borra Caves are situated in the Ananthagiri hills . British geologist William King discovered this million years old cave in 1807 and it has been a tourist favourite ever since. Breathtaking hilly terrain, beautiful landscape, semi-evergreen moist deciduous forests, and wild fauna of the Borra Caves are a visual feast.
Distance from Hyderabad: 693 km
Merely 22km away from the Kakinada Beach, Coringa is a Wildlife Sanctuary as well as an estuary. It is home to as many as 35 species of mangrove plants, 120 species of rare birds and innumerable species of flora. This sanctuary is also famous for being home to the critically endangered white-backed vulture and long-billed vulture.
Distance from Hyderabad: 489 km
Part of one of the premium eco-tourism projects of the country, Maredumilli is a terrain of undulating plains, evergreen forests and rich biodiversity. Located in the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, which is known for its rivers, ravines and lush greeneries, Maredumilli is a paradise for the nature lover, for the adventure seeker and for the offbeat traveller.
Distance from Hyderabad: 425 km
Located on the eastern bank of Godavari, Draksharamam Temple is one of the five most powerful and prominent temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in the country. 40kms away from Rajahmundry, the temple architecture dates back to 11th century. Draksharamam is perfect for a religious pilgrimage, the scenery around the temple is pleasant and the road journey to the temple is nothing short of beautiful.
Distance from Hyderabad: 466 km
Known For : Narsimha Swami Temple Khammam Fort Palair Lake
Khammam city, erstwhile known as Kammamet, is the fourth largest city in the Indian state of Telangana. It is located in the state of Telangana, approximately 200 km from the capital Hyderabad. A historically significant city, Khammam hosted many movements during India's freedom struggle. The Khammam Fort, which had periods of reign by both Hindu and Muslim leaders, is a famous cultural landmark of the city, and a popular tourist destination.
Distance from Hyderabad: 280 km
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Gol Gumbaz Ibrahim Rauza Jamia Masjid
Famous for the Gol Gumbaj and Ibrahim Rauza which is considered to be the Taj Mahal of the Deccan, Bijapur is a tourist destination in Karnataka that takes its visitors back in time through its glorious ancient structures. Among other important attractions, there are various mosques including Jumma Masjid, palaces citadels.
Distance from Hyderabad: 386 km
Best Time: October to March