Hyderabad, Telangana's capital and largest city, ranks as India's sixth most populous metropolitan region, home to more than 9.7 million people. It is also a significant industrial hub, mainly in the IT and pharmaceutical sectors, and is often referred to as the "Pharma Hub of India." This has made Hyderabad an attraction for the youth of the country. And while living in Hyderabad, or in fact in any city, it is crucial to know about the city itself and its nearby weekend getaways, where you can go, enjoy, and find respite during your off weekends. Though Hyderabad itself has many attractions, including Charminar, Golconda Fort, Birla Mandir, Buddha Statue, Falaknuma Palace, and many more, which you may already be aware of, the following article helps you explore various weekend getaway destinations near Hyderabad within 100 km.
The Ananthagiri Hills are situated within the Eastern Ghats. It is a breathtaking respite location within Andhra Pradesh, which can be found around 90 km away from Hyderabad city. The hills are considered to be among the earliest areas of human habitat. The destination is known as a hill town for numerous ancient caves, temples, and medieval fort palaces, where the forts exhibit the area's past stories. Moreover, these hills are like an abode of god for trekkers as they offer one of the best trekking trails within the country, where you can easily locate the stunningly picturesque and gleaming town that percolates the charm that is mixed with the odour of coffee and the enchantment of exotic flora. Thus, the destination is filled with romanticism, which makes it right for honeymooners.
The present-day Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary was once used by the then Nizam as a hunting site, but was only established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1952. The sanctuary got its name from Pocharam Lake, which was formed after the Pocharam Dam was built on the Allair River between 1916 and 1922—the adjoining hills and the lake help to add scenic beauty to the sanctuary. In addition to that, the sanctuary offers a vast trekking trail that extends over 4.5 km and passes through the thick forest growth. While trekking, you can get the overall experience of thrill, adventure, excitement, and fun. This wildlife sanctuary helps you provide the best gateway, peace, tranquillity, and a respite from a busy life schedule.
Medaka Fort is a grand structure built on a hill in the 12th century during the reign of the Kakatiya dynasty. At that time, it served as the district's headquarters. The Qutub Shahi rulers utilised the fort as the primary stronghold for the Kakatiyas. This fort holds great importance in terms of both architecture and history within the region. Moreover, Qutub Shahis also built a mosque on the fort's premises in the 17th century. The third gate of the fort features the "Ganda Bherunda," which was constructed by the ruler Srikrishna Devaraya and serves as the symbol of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is situated approximately 100 kilometres from Hyderabad. It can be reached for a perfect weekend getaway and helps you understand the Kakatiya's testimony and the glory during its golden reign.
Yadagiri Guttu is one of the most popular Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is located at Nalgonda, around 60 km from Hyderabad. Many Hindus have frequently laid their feet in the temple and have believed it to be Lord Narasimha's paradise. Devotees revere Yadagirigutta, commonly called the Laksmi Narasimha Temple, attracting between 5,000 and 8,000 pilgrims daily. Lord Narasimha, recognised as 'Vaidya Narasimha' or the healer, is believed to remedy any chronic or long-standing ailments for those who visit the temple. The entire temple complex spans 14 acres and is constructed from stone. Along with its religious importance, the temple’s elevated position provides breathtaking vistas and enjoyable retreats.
Medak Cathedral, situated in Telangana, was built by Charles Walker Fasnet, a British Wesleyan Methodist. It was consecrated on December 25, 1924. In Medak town, you can find the largest diocese in Asia and the second-largest in the world, following the Vatican. Medak Cathedral serves as the episcopal seat for the Church of South India, which includes Wesleyan Methodist, Congregational, and Anglican missionary groups. The church complex is an architectural wonder that spans over 300 acres. The cathedral measures 100 feet (30 meters) in width and 200 feet (61 meters) in length, is designed in the Gothic Revival style, and can host approximately 5,000 people at once. This stunning cathedral exemplifies outstanding craftsmanship and draws over three million visitors annually from various parts of the country.
Kulpakji, also known as Kolanupaka Jain Mandir, is a Jain temple located in the Kolanupaka village in Telangana's Yadadri district and has become an important pilgrimage centre for Svetambara Jains of South India. The Chalukyas supported and contributed to the construction of the temple. The temple is named so because there used to be a lot of lakes and huts in the area, and the Kulanu means the same. The temple contains three idols of Jain tirthankars: Lord Mahaveer, Lord Neminath, and Lord Rishabha. The temple is believed to be over two thousand years old and has maintained its present form for over eight hundred years. Moreover, Kulpakji has been counted among the eminent centres of Jainism since early times. The legends state that the original idol of Lord Rishabha, the first tirthankar of Jainism, played a role in establishing Kolanupaka as its dwelling place.
Chilkur Balaji Temple, also known as Chilkoor Balaji Temple, is celebrated as the oldest temple in Telangana and is thought to have been constructed around 500 years ago during the era of Madanna and Akkanna, who were the uncles of Bhakta Ramadas. It is situated in the picturesque village of Chilkur, around 30 kilometres from Hyderabad. Commonly referred to as the VISA Temple, it is beautifully positioned on the shores of the Osman Sagar Lake, close to Vikarabad Road. It is believed that offering prayers to the main deity, Lord Balaji Venkateswara, along with Sridevi and Bhoodev, can help fulfil your desire to obtain a USA Visa. The temple features the Viswa Balaji or Viswa God. This belief originates from an episode where several students whose Visa applications were denied came to pray here, only to find that their applications were approved later.
The Sri Vidya Saraswathi Shani Temple is situated on a hill in the Wargal, Siddipet, Telangana village. It is the state's second most renowned Saraswati temple, following the one in Basara. This temple is dedicated to the goddess Saraswati and is among the few state temples devoted to them. The foundation of Goddess Sri Vidya Saraswati Devi and Lord Shani's statue was laid by Sri Vidya Nrusinha Bharrati Swamy in 1992. However, it is presently maintained by Kanchi Mutt. The main idol of Goddess Saraswati Devi is perceived by her worshippers in all her splendour, embellished with numerous jewels and garlands, and dressed in a saree. The temple enthusiastically celebrates Vasantha Panchami, Navaratri Mahaotsavams, and Shani Tryodasi festivals. Moola Nakshatram is considered the most favourable day to worship Saraswati Devi. On this day, specific rituals are conducted at the temple.
The Rachakonda Fort, situated in the Telangana area, stands as an impressive emblem of the authority of the Vemula dynasty. This stunning example of medieval Hindu art and culture continues to draw many visitors despite being ruined. One of the fort's notable features is its adherence to the principles of Vasthu Shastra, which significantly influences much of Hindu architecture. This fort is unique because it is built entirely without mortar in a cyclopean masonry style. The fort is also embellished with beams and lintels featuring captivating rock-cut walls. Every part of this fort offers a wealth of material for those passionate about history.
Bhuvanagiri Fort, also known as Bhongir Fort, was constructed in the 12th century during the reign of a Chalukya ruler, Tribhuvanamalla Vikramaditiya. Situated around 500 metres above sea level, the fort nestled beautifully on the hilltop of Telangana. This fort is famous due to its unique geometric architectural structure, which is constructed in an oval shape and maintains two entry points for visitors. It was even fortified with tubes, making access to the fort difficult for the aliens. Moreover, the fort also features an underground chamber, trap doors, a secret weapon's place, and stables. Some deep wells and two ponds can also be located inside the fort's premises. You can reach this stunning fort via the staircase or through the trek, whose pathway is a bit steep, making your trek an adventurous trip.
Answer: Warangal in Andhra Pradesh, Ananthagiri Hills in Andhra Pradesh, and Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary in Nizamabad are incredible places to visit near Hyderabad.
Answer: Vodarevu Beach in Andhra Pradesh is the nearest beach to Hyderabad, which is around 305 km away from the city.
Answer: Yes, Yelleswaragattu Island is a hidden island near Hyderabad, situated in the middle of the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam's backwater.
Answer: Ananthagiri Hills maintains many attractions, including Musi River, Nagasamudram Lake, Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, and many more.
Answer: Hyderabad has many great places for a one-night out, including Hussain Sagar Lake, Golconda Fort, Birla Mandir, Lumbini Park, and many more.