Finding destinations closer home has today become more of a necessity than just a matter of choice. For all those with itchy feet, craving to travel, longing to just get outdoors here is a list of waterfalls near Hyderabad that one can get to easily. These beautiful waterfalls are just a road trip away!
1. Kuntala Waterfalls
Distance from Hyderabad | 270 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | July – December. In monsoon.
Telangana’s highest waterfalls, the Kuntala falls descend from a lofty two hundred feet gushing down a rocky precipice only to flow away gently into the Sahayadris. Add to this, the fact that these waterfalls are easily accessible – it only takes a short hike down into forest. Making the Kuntala waterfalls the state’s most popular tourist places to visit near Hyderabad.
It is said that the Kuntala Waterfalls get their name from the mythological Shakuntala and that it was here that King Dushyant fell in love with her, which led to their Gandharva Wedding – the ancient Hindu equivalent of a live-in relationship.
Take the NH44 straight from Hyderabad to Nirmal via Armoor. Then head right for another 40 kilometres to get to Kuntala falls.
2. Pochera Waterfalls
Distance from Hyderabad | 267 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | July – December. In monsoon.
Though the Pochera Falls are often talked of and visited together with the Kuntala Falls, owing to their proximity to each other, they couldn’t be more different from each other. In fact, you might end up feeling a little underwhelmed! For the waters here only drop a mere 20 meters.
But alls not as tame as it looks. The Pochera falls are one of the deepest of all waterfalls in Telangana and the jagged edges of the Sahayadris jutting from the pool call for even more caution, if you plan to take a plunge. And, the dense forest that surrounds it only adds to this mood.
How to get to Pochera Falls from Hyderabad
Take the NH44 from Hyderabad to Nirmal through Nizamabad. A further 35 kilometres from Nirmal and you are there.
3. Ethipothala Waterfalls
Distance from Hyderabad | 167 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | Jul – Jan. Anytime but summer.
The Ethipothala Falls in Andhra Pradesh have long been the most popular waterfalls near Hyderabad. A few kilometres from the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, the waterfalls are not just a popular tourist spot but also a place of religious importance to the local Lambada tribes people.
The lush greenery, brisk breezes, fully developed tourist facilities together with enough attractions in the area like the Buddhist island of Nagarjuna Konda, warrant a full weekend here.
How to get to Ethipothala Waterfalls from Hyderabad
Take the Nagarjuna Sagar Road straight from Hyderabad to get to Ethipothala falls. Alternatively you can also go via Nalgonda.
Distance from Hyderabad | 175 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | Oct – Feb. In winters, when the roads through the forest are clear.
Nestled in the Nallamalla forest near Srisailam, Mallela Theertham waterfalls is probably the most tranquil of falls on this list. One has to walk through the dense forest canopy and down some steps to reach the waterfall.
The road to Srisailam closes at sunset as it passes through the forest. So plan your trip to the falls early in the day so you are out of the forest before dark. For the Nallamalla forest is renown for its tigers.
How to get to Mallela Theertham Waterfalls from Hyderabad
Take the NH765 from Hyderabad through Vangoor to get to the Mallela Theertham falls.
5. Bogatha Waterfalls
Distance from Hyderabad | 275 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | June – November. Around monsoon.
Counted amongst the best Waterfalls in Telangana, the Bogatha Falls along the River Godavari fall not from a great height. But from all along the crest in several parallel streams making a wide pool at the foot of the waterfalls. And a dip in this natural pool surrounded by water streaming down from all around, with the forested hills forming a distant backdrop can be quite an experience.
One needs to walk through the forest to reach the falls.
How to get to Bogatha Falls from Hyderabad
Take NH163 from Hyderabad and go via Warangal to reach Bogatha Waterfalls.
Distance from Hyderabad | 212 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | October – March. After the rains.
This waterfall tucked away in the forests of Raikal in the Karimnagar district made an appearance on the tourist radar only recently when a few State Government officials got there with the intention of popularising it. This little known waterfall can only be accessed through a trail in the forest and takes a good two and a half hours to reach.
The forest trek along with the tiered waterfall make Raikal one picturesque destination.
How to get to Raikal Falls from Hyderabad
Take the NH44 to go via Nizamabad or go via Siddipet along the Vemulawada Road.
Distance from Hyderabad | 270 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | July – December. In monsoon.
Cascading down a 100 feet, the Gayatri Falls are a powerful yet little known waterfalls in Adilabad. The smooth rock face and the drop height make this is ideal for waterfall rappelling, giving you the perfect weekend getaway if you are looking for some adventure in the outdoors.
To reach the waterfall is a 5 kilometre walk through the secluded forest and it is therefore advisable that you get a guide from the adjoining village of Tarnam to accompany you.
How to get to Gayatri Waterfalls from Hyderabad
Located quite close to the Kuntala & Pochera falls, Gayatri falls can be reached via the NH44, from Hyderabad through Nirmal.
8. Bheemuni Padam Waterfalls
Distance from Hyderabad | 200 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | July – September. In Monsoon.
In Warangal, near the now famous Pakhal Lake is the Bheemuni Paadam Waterfalls. The water descends from a rock that is said to be shaped like Bheema’s foot. The very same Bheema of the Pandavas from the Indian epic Mahabharatha who is said to have possessed the physical strength of a ten thousand elephants.
Though the water gushes down 70 feet, it does so rather peacefully, tempered by the tiered the rock face of the cliff.
How to get to Bheemuni Paadam Waterfalls from Hyderabad
Take NH163 to Warangaland continue on till Gudur to get to the Bheemuni Paadam waterfalls. Alternatively you can also take the NH65 from Hyderabad to reach the falls via Chityal.
Though Nizamabad as we know it today was founded in the 18th century, it is actually an ancient city whose legacy has stood the test of time. From ancient temples right at the heart of the city and even a little way off to rock formations from eons ago and secret lakes, there is much that Nizamabad has to offer as a weekend getaway from Hyderabad.
So, here is a guide that gives you the lowdown on everything that you can do in two days in Nizamabad – places to visit, where to stay & eat.
Hyderabad to Nizamabad Road Trip Route & Itinerary
Hyderabad to Nizamabad Distance | 175 Kilometers Drive Time | 3 Hours
Ali Sagar is more than just an irrigation dam and reservoir. This nearly ninety year old man-made lake which lies nestled in a dense forest is reached via a short hike along a beautiful garden and a path hewn through the fiery red boulders and emerald green forest cover. One can go boating in the lake, all the way to the lush green islands that dot the waterscape. There is also a deer park on the premises which makes Ali Sagar a favourite weekend haunt for families living in the district.
2. Ashok Sagar
Another popular lake here is the Ashok Sagar Lake which is enroute Ali Sagar, while heading away from the Nizamabad city. This too is a beautiful lake with a garden abutting it. But being easily accessible – right alongside the highway – it lacks the charm and sense of adventure that Ali Sagar boasts of.
3. Dichpally Ramalayam
Locally known as Khilla Ramalayam, the Dichpally Ramalayam with its sculptures of black and white basalt are so reminiscent of the famous Khajuraho temples that the moniker, Indur Khajuraho was bestowed on it.
Though the temple itself is a 14th century Kakatiya temple, it is believed that it was here in Nizamabad, on a hill in Dichapally, that Ram stopped – on his way to wage war on the Demon King Ravan, right after meeting Hanuman for the first time – and stayed a fortnight.
The Sri Neela Kanteswara Temple, right at the heart of the city, is yet another beautiful temple in Nizamabad.
Originally built as a Jain temple in the North Indian Nagara style of architecture by the Satavahanas, it was later converted to a Shiva Temple. This colourful temple and the soothing reflection it casts in the water of the neighbouring ancient step-well make for a beautiful sight anytime of the day.
5. Nizamabad Fort & Ranganatha Temple
The Nizamabad Fort isn’t like any other fort in the country, this one has become so much a part of the city today, the inside of a fort is like a neighbourhood in itself!
If not for this unique juxtaposition in itself, the Nizamabad fort is still worth a visit for the stunning Ranganatha Temple inside.
6. Armoor Rock Formations & Cave Temples
Also in Nizamabad but a little away from the city, are the stunning Armoor Rock Formations. These naturally weathered rocks that date back over a million years are so distinctively striking that they are but a natural stopover for those driving on the Nizamabad – Karimnagar Highway.
And, sitting in the caves somewhere in those rocks is the Navanatha Siddheswara Temple also known as Navanthula Siddulagutta – gutta for cave and Navanatha Siddhas for the sages who are believed to still reside in them. Inside these caves are numerous temples that you get to through an entrance that is barely three feet. Once you crouch down and go through it, the cave opens up and skylight filters in into the interconnected passageways, guiding you through the caves.
Complete your trip with lunch at Angeethi in the city of Nizamabad. This vegetarian friendly restaurant is made to look like a traditional village of mud houses on the outside but serves up some yummy food in an air-conditioned, nicely done up inside!
Where to Stay in Nizamabad?
One can stay at the Haritha Indur Inn in Nizamabad. Run by the Telangana State Tourism Department, it is centrally located, clean and pocket friendly.
Masulipatnam or Machilipatnam as it is now known was once the first port of call on the Coromandel coast for European traders vying for a hold on India and it’s trade. This often overlooked-by-travellers town on the East Coast of South India makes for the perfect day trip destination from Vijayawada or even as an interesting detour for those heading to Vijayawada.
Where is Machilipatnam?
Machilipatnam is a coastal town in the Krishna District of Andhra Pradesh.
Machilipatnam History
An ancient port town of the sixteenth century, Machilipatnam’s long rich history isn’t just about the trade. For it even finds mention in many Buddhist texts, for it is believed that the Buddha made his way to Amaravati – only a couple of hours away, via here.
Though this once important port has faded away into insignificance it still boasts of flourishing trade. Only today, it is in the hugely popular Kalamkari fabric and gold plated costume jewellery (or imitation jewellery as it is more commonly known) used in Indian movies and television soaps.
Machilipatnam Places to Visit + Things To Do
1. Machilipatnam Beach / Manginapudi Beach
The Machilipatnam Beach tops of the list of points of interest in Machilipatnam. For this is a beach that is only a short road trip away from Hyderabad, which being in the land locked Telangana, doesn’t otherwise have quick access to the sea. It is also a black sand beach, yet another feature that sets the Machilipatnam – Manginapudi Beach apart. For there no other in the state.
2. Datta Rameshwaram
While Manginapudi in Machilipatnam has long been popular for its beach. It is only in the last few decades that Manginapudi has grown in prominence, owing to be being adopted by Datta Peetham led by Sri Ganapathi Sachidananda Swamy. He christened Manginapudi as Datta Rameshwaram, declaring it be a holy site equivalent to the major pilgrimage centre of Rameshwaram, after building a temple dedicated to Dattatreya Swamy.
Since, then Manginapudi has also attracting tourists who wish to take a dip in the sea, visit the the temple on the coast and the twelve wells that were also built by the Peetham to defend the town from destructive tidal waves.
3. Machilipatnam Port & Harbour
A trip to this port from where the East India Company conducted its trade should prove to be interesting. Instead of a huge fleet of ships that once docked here, you will now find colourful fishing boats crowding the waters. A more welcome sight surely?
Work is set to begin on developing an all weather deep water port here, at this long forgotten harbour.
4. Dutch Fort and Armoury
Though neglected as with everything else here in Machilipatnam, the sprawling Bandar Fort which was built by the Dutch in the 17th century, with its white washed walls and tiled roofs is reminiscent of Reis Magus in Goa. It is surprisingly good looking!
The fort is a living testimony to the maritime trade history of the region. For it has been home to a hospital, a customs office, storehouses and godowns, an armoury and a textile factory even at different times in the last few centuries.
5. Chilakalapudi Panduranga Swamy Temple
The Chilakalapudi Panduranga Swamy Temple built by Sree Narasimham in 1927 is a beautiful symphony of colours and symmetries. So strikingly is the main temple – dedicated to Panduranga Swamy and his wife Goddess Rukmini – painted in alternating hues of bright and vivid colours, that is bound to grab your attention from the moment you set foot on the sprawling temple grounds.
Panduranga Swamy Temple in Chilakalapudi, Machilipatnam
What is even more fascinating about this temple though, is that, there is no Hundi (a donation box that is a common feature of temples) here and anyone who comes to this place of worship need not pay anything for puja performed here. The temple is still maintained privately by the original builder’s grand son, Sree Gangadharam. He is also the head priest of the main temple.
Tiny temples in hidden alcoves dot the entire length of the complex and there is also the remarkable Sahasra Linga Mahamandapam with its many Shiva Lingams.
Chilakalapudi is also famous for being a hub for rolled gold jewellery.
6. Pedana Kalmakari
Pedana is where everybody’s favourite fabric, Kalamkari comes from.
Screen-printing New Age Kalamkari in Pedana, Machilipatnam
Machilipatnam and Sri Kalahasti are the two main centres in the country for production of this artisanal fabric.
But, Machilipatnam, has today moved onto screen printing, to quickly produce Kalamkari designs on both cotton and silk fabric to meet the growing demand – for fabric that has the Kalamkari design but not the price tag that comes with it. Very efficiently putting to use its long history of textile trading – that dates as far back as trading with the Greeks in Muslin – in commercialising this traditional form of art.
Must Try in Machilipatnam
Bandar Laddu
Don’t forget to bring back a box of the sumptuous Bandar Laddu, which gets it name from the place it comes from – Bandar, which is but Persian for Port, and one of the names given to the port town of Machilipatnam.
Explorers Guide | Getting There
One can get to Machilipatnam either via Hyderabad or Vijayawada. Both of which are major cities in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh well connected by air, rail and road.
Looking for short road trips from Hyderabad that can be done in a day? Here is a low down on places to visit near Hyderabad within 100 Kilometres. Indulge in a road trip and an adventure holiday all in one day for here are offbeat trekking destinations and beautiful camping spots just outside of the city that are just perfect for the coming winter weekends.
1. Bhoodan Pochampally
Distance from Hyderabad | 42 Kilometres
Best Time to Visit | July – February. Anytime, but summers tend to be very hot.
Bhoodan Pochampally, a cluster of villages an hours drive from Hyderabad, is where the famous Ikat weave comes from. The jagged triangles of the typical Ikat pattern is probably the most loved and recognisable of Indian textile patterns. So, head to Bhoodan Pochampally not just to shop directly from the cooperative but also for a glimpse into the village life of these Telangana weavers.
Things to Do | Places to Visit in Bhoodan Pochampally
Telangana Tourism’s Rural Tourism Complex
Weaver’s Colony
Pochampally Lake
Tourist Places around Bhoodan Pochampally
Ramoji Film City
Getting There
Take the NH65 from Hyderabad to get to Bhoodan Pochampally. You can also take the Sagar Road.
2. Bhongir Fort
Distance from Hyderabad | 48 Kilometres
Best Time to Visit |October – February. Cooler months of winter.
In Bhuvanagiri (which has now come to be Bhongir) stands a fort, aloof and proud, on a monolithic rock almost the size of a hill. Just getting to this 10th century fort involves scaling this rock, which is a climb of nearly three hours alternating over rough cut steps hewn into the stone and a bit of scampering about. Making Bhongir a hotspot for the adventure seekers of Hyderabad.
Things to Do at Bhongir Fort
Trekking
Rapelling
Tourist Places around Bhongir Fort
Yadagirigutta
Getting There
Take the NH163 Hyderabad towards Nalgonda to get to Bhongir Fort.
3. Wargal
Distance from Hyderabad | 52 Kilometres
Best Time to Visit |All year round.
Of the few temples in India dedicated to the Goddess of Knowledge, Saraswati; two are to be found in Telangana itself. First of these being the ancient Gnana Saraswati Devi Temple in Basara. The second and newer one is in the town of Wargal in Siddipet. There is also a Veda Pathashala (School of Vedic Instruction) that resides here at the Vidya Saraswati Temple. The HIndu religious rite marking the start of a child’s formal education – Aksharabhyasam – drawing people from across the state to this temple.
Things to Do | Places to Visit in Wargal
Wargal Sri Vidya Saraswati Temple
Getting There
Take the Karimnagar-Hyderabad Highway via Shamirpet towards Siddipet, to reach Wargal from Hyderabad.
4. Yadagirigutta
Distance from Hyderabad | 62 Kilometres
Best Time to Visit |October – February.
Yadagirigutta is one of the most popular family weekend getaways from Hyderabad. Ask a Hyderabadi (locals from the city) for road trip ideas and Yadagirigutta would be the first suggestion you will hear. Its popularity comes from the temple on a hillock smack in the middle of this town in Nalgonda district. Built entirely in stone, the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is probably the only temple to have as its presiding deity, three different forms of Narasimha, an incarnation of Vishnu.
Things to Do | Places to Visit in Yadagirigutta
Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple
Pathagutta Temple (Old Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple )
Tourist Places around Yadagirigutta
Surendrapuri Mythological Park
Getting There
Take the NH163 from Hyderabad via Bhongir to reach Yadagirigutta.
Plan your Trip to Yadagirigutta
Bhongir – Yadagirigutta can be done together over a weekend with Yadagirigutta as the base or even Yadagirigutta – Kolanupaka. The Telangana Tourism run Haritha Hotel Yadagirigutta is a good place to stay.
5. Kolanupaka
Distance from Hyderabad | 78 Kilometres
Best Time to Visit |October – February.
Once a significant centre of Jainism, Kolanupaka’s major draw is its endearingly beautiful Jain Temple that is over two thousand years old. The Manastambha of this temple has engraved into it inscriptions from the 1125 AD hinting at its past glory. There is also a Someswara Swamy Temple here from the Kakatiya Era, whose courtyard serves as a museum of ancient stone sculptures.
Travellers Tip | The Kulpakji being a Svetambara Temple, it is advisable to dress in white if you plan to go inside the temple.
Things to Do | Places to Visit in Kolanupaka
Kulpakji Jain Temple
Someswara Swamy Temple & Museum
Tourist Places around Kolanupaka
Yadagirigutta
Getting There
Take the NH163 from Hyderabad and drive further beyond Bhongir and Yadagirigutta to get to Kolanupaka.
6. Ananthagiri Hills
Distance from Hyderabad | 80 Kilometres
Best Time to Visit | July – October. Monsoon for the greens.
Hyderabad’s very own hill station (or as close to it as it gets), Ananthagiri Hills in Vikarabad is a lush green canopy of forests, clear fresh water streams and mist laden mornings. A popular spot for camping, star gazing, forest treks and bird watching, Ananthgiri Hills is the best possible weekend getaway from Hyderabad for nature lovers who love being outdoors.
Things to Do | Places to Visit inAnanthagiri Hills
Forest Trails
Birding
Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple
Tourist Places around Ananthagiri Hills
Nagasamudram Lake (Kotepally Reservoir) for Kayaking
Getting There
Take the ORR from Hyderabad and get on to the Chevella Road towards Vikarabad to get to Ananthagiri Hills.
Plan your Trip to Ananthagiri Hills
Ananthagiri Hills is a good place to even stay overnight and explore it over a weekend. There is a popular camping site run by Deccan Trails here and also the Haritha Valley View Resort run by Telangana Tourism.
7. Medak
Distance from Hyderabad | 80 Kilometres
Best Time to Visit | All year round.
Medak Church
From crowded tourist landmarks to forgotten lakes and heritage discovery, there is more to Medak than meets the eye. While the Medak Church which is this district’s most popular landmark and Asia’s largest diocese is believed to be second only to the Vatican. There is also a fort, a lake and a wildlife sanctuary here with a deer breeding centre that allows visitors to drive through a four kilometre jungle trail to spot the Chital, Barasingha and the Sambar Deer.
Things to Do | Places to Visit in Medak
Medak Fort
Medak Church
Pocharam Dam & Lake
Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary
Tourist Places around Medak
Edupayala Vana Durga Bhavani Temple
Manjeera Dam
Getting There
Take the NH44 from Hyderabad and at Kompally turn left to go via the Narsapur Forest Range – the scenic route – to Medak.
Plan your Trip to Medak
One can do this trip over the weekend and stay the night at Medak Fort just for the experience of it. Telangana Tourism has their Haritha Heritage Hotel here in the fort.
Distance from Hyderabad | 100 Kilometres
Best Time to Visit |July – February. Nalgonda Summers are sweltering.
Along the trek route to Devarakonda Fort
From the mysterious Chaaya Someswara Swamy Temple – that derives its name from the presence of a mysterious shadow, Chaaya – in Panagal to its lesser known Green Onyx twin; Nalgonda abounds in ancient temples, buddhist sites and sprawling forts almost in ruin. Just the place for those looking for offbeat weekend getaways from Hyderabad.
Things to Do | Places to Visit in Nalgonda
Panagal Tank (Udaya Samudram)
Panagal Chaya Someswara Swamy Temple
Pachala Someswara Swamy Temple & Museum
Tourist Places around Nalgonda
Devarakonda Fort
Rachakonda Fort
Phanigiri & Gajulabanda Buddhist Sites
Getting There
Take the NH65 from Hyderabad to Narketpalli and then head right towards Nalgonda. Alternatively one can also take the Sagar Road.
Every destination on this list of weekend getaways from Hyderabad are within 200 Kilometres of the city and can be reached in under 4 hours, making them just the place to head to for the weekend. So get out that bike or car and make the most of your 2 days off from work.
#1 Warangal
Distance from Hyderabad | 145 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | June – February
In the courtyard of Ramappa Temple
Warangal is not just the second biggest city in Telangana today. It is also the state’s most historic, for it was once the capital of the Kakatiyas. Making it weekend getaway from Hyderabad for heritage lovers.
From magnificent medieval temples like the Ramappa Temple to the lyrical Thousand Pillar Temple, this 12th century city is most definitely The Heritage City of Telangana. Also popular here is the Lakanavaram Lake, with its holiday island and the widely recognisable yellow suspension bridge.
Take the NH163 from Hyderabad to reach Warangal via Bhongir.
Where to Stay in Warangal
At the Haritha Kakatiya Hotel, which is probably the best Telangana Tourism run hotel in the State.
#2 Bidar
Distance from Hyderabad | 145 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | All year round
Bidar Fort
If one loves visiting places of historic significance and can’t get enough of architecture, then, Bidar – just across the state border in Karnataka – is one of those weekend getaways from Hyderabad that you just can’t miss.
Though the most prominent landmark here is the Bidar Fort, there are over sixty listed monuments here, in this little town. The other often frequented tourist place here is the Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib Gurudwara. People of all faiths come here, even straight from the Hyderabad airport just to get water from the holy spring that is said to possess healing powers.
From Hyderabad take the ORR and then the NH65 till Zaheerabad From there head right to get to Bidar.
#3 Jetprole, Kollapur & Somasila
Distance from Hyderabad | 175 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | July – February
Jetprole, Kollapur and Somasila are small villages within minutes of each other along the left bank of the River Krishna.
These little hamlets are significant in that, here is where all the ancient temples that were in danger of being submerged – when the Srisailam Dam was being built – were brought to and put back together stone for stone as they were originally.
Somasila is also with popular with nature lovers for the scenic river bed is just ideal for a restful camping experience.
Things to Do & Places to Visit
Madana Gopala Swamy Temple (Jetprole)
Group of Shiva Temples (Jetprole)
Kollapur Palace, Chandra Mahal (Kollapur)
Madhava Swamy Temple (Kollapur)
Riverside Camping (Somasila)
Lalita Someswara Swamy Temple (Somasila)
Getting There
Take the NH765 from Hyderabad straight to Somasila. Or take the NH44 to Pebbair and then go left towards Kollapur.
#4 Khammam
Distance from Hyderabad | 195 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | July – February
From prehistoric rock paintings to historic temples from the era of the Kakatiyas – who built many temples in the region dedicated to Shiva, Khammam is one of the more unusual of weekend getaways from Hyderabad.
The two twelfth century temples in Kusumanchi are just as exquisite in their architecture as other better known Kakatiya temples like the Ramappa Temple and the ones in Ghanpur.
It was also here in Khammam, in Nelakondapalli that numerous Buddhist antiquities and even coins dating as far back as to the Ikshvakus were unearthed. And, the Stupa that still stoically stands here is the testimony to this region’s spiritual significance.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Khammam
Khammam Fort
Nelakondapalli Buddhist Site
Kusumanchi Shiva Temples – Sri Ganapeshwara Alayam & Mukkanteswara Alayam
Getting There
Take the NH65 from Hyderabad to Suryapet and then head left to Khammam.
#5 Karimnagar
Distance from Hyderabad | 165 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | July – September. Monsoon for the dramatic clouds.
Elgandal Fort
Undoubtedly Telangana’s most striking fort, Elgandal Fort makes Karimnagar, the state’s most underrated tourist destination. Little known and too far from Hyderabad, Karimnagar is peppered with quite a few other forts, ancient temple ruins and Buddhist sites. This is the one road trip on the list here that promises a packed weekend!
You can also hear me talking about my road trip to Karimnagar for The Musafir Stories, here.
Take the Hyderabad – Ramagundam Road or the NH163 to reach Karimnagar via Siddipet. Alternatively, you can also take the NH44 from Hyderabad and go right from Kamareddy.
Distance from Hyderabad | 175 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | July – September. For the rain washed landscape.
Armoor
An ancient temple that is a Ramayana place, where Rama is believed to have stopped on his way to Lanka to rescue Sita. Lakes both expansive and small, nestled between hills or sitting serenely behind boulders. Extensive gravity defying rock formations with hidden cave temples inside. All of these and more make Nizamabad truly an explorer’s delight.
It cannot get more offbeat than this if you are looking for one of those quick weekend getaways from Hyderabad.
Distance from Hyderabad | 150 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | July – October. Monsoon is when the flood gates open.
The Nagarjuna Sagar Dam in Nalgonda district holds the record for being India’s tallest masonry dam. Almost fifty years old, this dam which took twelves years to finish, is still considered to be one of the largest dams built in Asia in the recent times.
It is quite a sight to behold when all of its twenty six flood gates are open and the water gushes down in a roar.
Distance from Hyderabad | 105 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | June – February
Pillalamarri (Telugu for banyan tree and its children) isn’t just the name of a famous Banyan Tree but of the village – where it stands – itself. This seven hundred year old Giant Banyan Tree spread over four acres of land just outside the city of Mahbubnagar is so popular with tourists, that it now has a deer park and science museum for the children who come there.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Pillalamarri, Mahbubnagar
Banyan Tree
Science Museum
Deer Park
Gadwal
Mahbubnagar
Getting There
Take the NH44 from Hyderabad, till Jadcherla and from there on head right onto NH167 to get to Pillalamarri, Mahbubnagar.
Distance from Hyderabad | 132 Kilometres Best Time to Visit | June – February
This small village just off the busy Hyderabad – Vijayawada Highway, somewhere near popular highway pit stop – Suryapet, does not boast of an olden Giant Banyan Tree like the other eponymous village mentioned previously.
This Pillalamarri, in Nalgonda District, boasts of two ancient temples from the Kakatiya Era. Some say that the beautifully adorned pillars of these Shiva temples have inspired an entire range of traditional jewellery in South India. Making this lesser known Pillalamari a definite addition to this list of unusual weekend getaways from Hyderabad.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Pillalamarri, Suryapet
Pillalamarri Shiva Temples
Sri Erakeswara Temple
Sri Nameswara Temple
Pillalamarri Lake
Phanigiri Buddhist Site
Getting There
Take the NH65 from Hyderabad and just before Suryapet head left. Use Google Maps to guide you towards Pillala Marri Rural.
In the northeastern corner of Karnataka, closer to Hyderabad than any other city in the state is Bidar. It is a city steeped in Islamic history and if you love visiting places of historic and cultural significance and can’t get enough of architecture, Hyderabad to Bidar is the one road trip that you must take. Even the celebrated Bidri Artwork though known as a Hyderabadi Artform, originally comes from here.
Hyderabad to Bidar Distance | 135 Kilometres
Drive Time | 3 Hours
Trip Duration | FullDay
Hyderabad to Bidar Route Map
Places to Visit in Bidar
Bidar Fort
Inside the expansive Bidar Fort
The most prominent landmark of this city though is the Bidar Fort. It was built by the first sultan of the Bahamani Dynasty, Ala Ud Din Bahaman Shah when he set up his capital in Bidar, this city that dates back to the third century BC. Built on the brink of the Deccan Plateau, the Bidar Fort has been damaged and renovated many a time, but it stands till date as one of the strongest and the better-preserved medieval forts of the country.
Chaubara
Chaubara, Bidar’s most popular landmark, at the heart of town.
Once a watchtower, this cylindrical Chaubara of twenty two meters is now a popular clock tower in the area serving as a landmark from where all the roads lead into different parts of town.
Khwaja Mahmud Gawan Madrasa
The facade of Khwaja Mahmud Gawan Madrasa in the Old City Fort Area
This Madrasa, the Madrasa Mahmud Gawan, that housed everything from lecture halls and a library to housing for professors and students – everything that could be thought of over five centuries ago – and even a mosque was built by Mahmud Gawan. And, so the name, Khwaja Mahmud Gawan Madrasa. He, in 1466, was the Prime Minister and an important figure in the Bidar Sultanate. Despite the ruined façade on the main road, you can still parts of all this still standing, once you go in or even just cross the road.
Bahamani Tombs
Bahamani Tombs in Ashtur
Four kilometres from the Bidar Fort is the final resting place of the Bahamani Sultans, the little known Bahamani Tombs. Some of these are in a state of disrepair today, but even these crumbling mausoleums stand a beautiful testimony to the art of an era gone by. And, no visit to Bidar is complete without a trip to these majestic structures located in Ashtur.
Chaukhandi, Dargah of Hazrat Nemat Ullah Shah Kirmani in Ashtur
En route to Ashtur just before you get to the tombs, on the left is yet another idyllic setting for the ancient, to rest in peace, the Dargah Hazrat Nemat Ullah Shah Kirmani. Known simply as the Chaukhandi, this octagonal structure beautiful in its simplicity and clean lines is set in a lush expanse of green and is the tomb of Hazrat Khalil Ullah, a popular religious preceptor of the Bahamani Period.
Gurudwara Sri Nanak Jhira Saheb
Entrance Gate of Gurudwara Sri Nanak Jhira Saheb
The most frequented tourist destination in Bidar, though, remains the Gurudwara Sri Nanak Jhira Saheb. People of all faiths come here – sometimes even straight from the Hyderabad airport – to get the holy water from spring in the Gurudwara, which is believed to possess powers of healing. The structure itself is a classic example for modern day religious splendour, probably the grandest gurudwara I have visited till date. But, this for me completely shadowed the moment of quiet and tranquility usually experienced in a Gurudwara.
Sri Jharani Narasimha Swamy Cave Temple
The Jharani Narasimha Swamy Cave Temple is yet another popular destination, albeit of a different faith in the largely Islam dominated Bidar. Pilgrims have to wade through waist deep water in an underground cave to reach the inner sanctum of the temple get darshan of Sri Narasimha Swamy. Quite an experience in itself, that.
Hyderabad to Bidar Road Trip
Itinerary + Route
Leave early morning from Hyderabad and you should be in Bidar in less than two and a half hours. Just in time for when the Bidar Fort opens and is relatively less crowded.
Right in the heart of town are the two famous landmarks – Chaubara and Madrasa Mahmud Gawan. Visit these next, after the Bidar Fort.
A few minutes from here onChaubara Road are stores selling Bidriware. One can make a quick stop for souvenirs.
While on the road back to Hyderabad, one can visit the Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib or even takea short detour to the Jharani Narasimha Swamy Cave Temple.
From the ORR, take the NH65 till Zaheerabad and then head right.
Pit Stop
Famous Tea Point near Sangareddy. This little dhaba claims to serve the best tasting Chai in the area, so much so that you will see cars parked all along the highway. So if you are craving some good old Irani Chai, you could make road trip just to and back from here!
Here is a complete list of tourist places to visit near Hyderabad – all within 500 Kms from the city, for the perfect weekend getaway. Find everything you need to plan your road trip – route from Hyderabad, things to do, places to see, where to stay and eat. Everything.
When I had first started this blog and thought of 52 Photowalks in 2015, my biggest challenge was to figure out where to shoot every week. There is plenty to shoot if you are just a photographer looking to hone your technique, but not when you are looking to shoot a story, one that would eventually have to become an interesting tale here on Map In My Pocket.
A place that would be a weekend getaway, a destination in itself. That is how began my quest for places near Hyderabad, for forgotten forts and lost temples.
1. Pakhal Lake | 200 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | October – February. After the rains and when it is cooler. Where? Telangana
Built in the thirteenth century by a Kakatiya king for the farmers in his kingdom, the Pakhal Lake tightly enclosed by forest land which is today the Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary, has to be the most picturesque lake in Telangana. Besides this clear azure lake frequented by beautiful birds there is also the Bheemuni Paadam Waterfall nearby. Making it one of the most sought after weekend getaways from Hyderabad for all nature lovers.
The waterfall is said to descend from a rock shaped like the mythological Bheema’s Foot. Hence the name, Bheemuni Paadam – which is Telugu for Bheema’s Foot.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Pakhal
Birding
Camping
Pakhal Lake
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary
Hyderabad to Pakhal Lake Route
Take the NH163 and head right via Warangal.
2. Basara | 210 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | All year round. Where ? Telangana
A Nirmal Painting of the Basara Gnana Saraswati Devi in Nirmal
Home to one of the few Saraswati temples in the country, Basara is popular as a pilgrimage centre for all those seeking knowledge. Especially families bringing their children – before they start their journey of formal education – for their Aksharaabhyaasam, the Hindu rite of initiation into education. It is believed that the origins of the Gnana Saraswati Devi Temple here can be traced back to Veda Vyas, the author of the Hindu epic Mahabharata, himself.
Best Time to Visit |All year round. Where? Andhra Pradesh
Nestled deep in the Nallamalla Forests of Andhra Pradesh is a temple dedicated to the God and Goddess, Shiva and Parvathi – enshrined as Sri Mallikarjuna and Bhramaramba. Significant not just for Shaivaites but also for the followers of Shakti, the Mother Goddess. For, this is the only temple in the country which is both a Jyotirlinga Kshteram and a Shakti Peetham. Owing to its scenic setting and its religious importance, Srisailam is counted amongst the important tourist destinations of South India. From going on a Safari in the Tiger Reserve to going down a ropeway to the backwaters of the River Krishna from where one can take a boat to reach hillside caves shrouded in medieval mythology. There is much to do here for families.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Srisailam
Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple
Srisailam Dam
Hyderabad to Srisailam Route
Take the NH65 to get to Sagar Road and from there the NH565 to Kesinenipalle. Head right here to take the NH765 through the Nallamalla Forest before dusk for the final leg of the journey.
Best Time to Visit | July – February. Where? Telangana
The temple town of Alampur in the Mahbubnagar district of Telangana is renowned for its Ashtadasa Shakti Peetham, the Jogulamba Temple. But there is more to this sleepy little town that is only a few hours from Hyderabad. It is believed to be the Western gateway to Srisailam, one of the important pilgrimage centers for Shaivites in the country. Probably owing to just the number of Shiva Lingas that there are here in Alampur and of course the many temples dedicated to some of them. The town of Gadwal, from where come the famous handloom sarees that go by the same name is also enroute Hyderabad to Alampur.
Best Time to Visit | All year round. Where? Karnataka
The city of flowers and gardens, well that is what Gulbarga means in Urdu.
It was once part of the Hyderabad State under the Asaf Jahis. Today Gulbarga is in Karnataka and is known as Kalaburagi, which is Kannada for Stone Fort. It does have a huge fort and various other monuments across town which together boast of an incredible amount of Islamic art, from detailed calligraphy to the typical floral and geometric patterns.
What draws me to Gulbarga though is that, intriguingly enough, at its core it is aSufi City. Making this one of the places to visit for a dose of culture when you are longing to break from the monotony of life in Hyderabad.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Gulbarga
Gulbarga Fort
The Haft Gumbaz Tomb
Sharana Basaveshwara Temple
Buddha Vihar
Hyderabad to Gulbarga Route
Take the NH65 till Humnabad in Karnataka and NH50 from there on to Kalaburagi.
6. Kaleshwaram | 260 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | All year round. Where? Andhra Pradesh
The town of Kaleshwaram is synonymous with the Kaleshwaram Temple. And together with Srisailam and Draksharamam, Kaleshwaram is said to give Andhra Pradesh the moniker Trilinga Desam, meaning the Land of Three Lingams.
Whats unique about this temple town is that the presiding deity of this temple isn’t just Shiva but also Yama (the Hindu God of Death), both sharing the same pedestal in the sanctum sanctorum of the main temple. Not just that, they also share a name! Kaleshwara Mukteswara Swamy.
Best Time to Visit | October – February Where? Andhra Pradesh
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Kondapalli
Kondapalli Fort
Shop for Kondapalli Toys
8. Kawal Tiger Reserve | 265 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | October – February. Trip Duration | Weekend Getaway
If the number of poaching cases that are recorded here at the Kawal Tiger Reserve in Telangana are any indication, we know just how many vulnerable species there could be in there. Not taking into consideration the implementation of and adherence to conservation laws, of course.
Nevertheless, the Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary is a good place to go on a wildlife safari and definitely calls for a road trip to Adilabad. Even if it is just for that chance to spot a panther! Surely a worthy enough reason to add Adilabad to this list of unbelievable places to visit near Hyderabad.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Kawal Tiger Reserve
Jungle Safari
Hyderabad to Kawal Tiger Reserve Route
Take the NH44 via Nizamabad. Alternatively one can also take the Hyderabad – Karimnagar Highway.
9. Mantralayam | 265 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit |July – February. Where? Andhra Pradesh
Mantralyam is an important pilgrimage centre for the believers of Sri Raghavendra Swamy, a seventeenth century Hindu saint who is renown for his Dvaita (duality of the soul) interpretation of the Upanishads. He is also popularly believed to be the reincarnation of the mythological Prahlad, a prince who invoked the Narasimha Avatar of Lord Vishnu through his ardent devotion.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Mantralayam
Sri Raghavendra Swamy Math
Hyderabad to Mantrlayam Route
Take NH44 till Mahbubnagar and then go via Raichur by taking the NH167.
10. Amaravathi | 270 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | July – February. Summers in the Guntur and Krishna District are scorching. Where? Andhra Pradesh
Dhyana Buddha of Amaravathi
Amaravathi. The ancient Buddhist Town in Andhra Pradesh’s Guntur District. This hitherto forgotten little town, together with Vijayawada, Guntur and Tenali is going to be the new capital of the fragmented state of Andhra Pradesh – Amaravati. That in itself calls for a road trip to Amaravathi. To see it, now, before it transforms into yet another urban sprawl.
The Place for Immortals, that is what Amaravathi means. And, it does seem to ring true here. For this ancient town was once the capital of the Satavahanas sometime between the first and third centuries! Also, it is equally significant for both Hindus and Buddhists today. While the Buddhist Stupa is from the Ashokan Period, the Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple is one of the five Pancharamam Kshetrams of Lord Shiva.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Amaravathi
Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple (Amararamam)
Maha Chaitya Stupa & Archaeological Museum
Amaravathi Buddha
Hyderabad to Amaravathi Route
Take the NH65 and go right towards Nalgonda. This is the shortest route to Amaravathi via Miryalguda. Alternatively take the NH65 all the way to Vijayawada and then go back right to Amaravathi.
Where to Eat in Amaravathi
Puris at the shack outside Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple.
11. Vijayawada | 275 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit |July – February. Where? Andhra Pradesh
The city of Vijayawada as seen from Gandhi Hill
Vijayawada is the trade capital of Andhra Pradesh. But what really puts this rapidly developing city on the tourist radar is the Kanaka Durga Temple. Legend has it that the Goddess Durga chose to make Indrakila her permanent abode, making this temple atop the Indrakeeladri hill – right in the centre of town – one of the prominent pilgrimage places in the country. It is also believed that it is here on the same hill that Arjuna performed his penance for Lord Shiva.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Vijayawada
Kanaka Durga Temple
Prakasam Barrage
Gandhi Hill
Undavalli Caves
Hyderabad to Vijayawada Route
Take the NH65 straight to Vijayawada.
What to Eat in Vijayawada
Idlis at Babai Hotel.
12. Mangalagiri | 280 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | July – February. Where? Andhra Pradesh
Mangalagiri Sarees
The famous temple town of Mangalagiri is also known for its beautiful handloom textiles that go by the same name as the town. And, the majestic temple of Panakala Narasimha Swamy looking over the town from atop a hill, the other equally beautiful timeless temples here and the colour blocked Mangalgiri sarees, all of it makes for a good enough reason to do a quick road trip to this laid-back town near Vijayawada.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Mangalagiri
Panakala Narasimha Swamy Temple
Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple
Shop for Mangalagiri Sarees
Hyderabad to Mangalagiri Route
Take the NH65 till Vijayawada and then head right.
13. Yaganti | 300 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | July – February. Where? Andhra Pradesh
The Yaganti Uma Maheshwara Swamy Temple was built by Harihara Bukka. Yes, the very same of the brothers duo Hakka Bukka who built Hampi and founded the glorious Vijanagara Empire. Set against a sheer rock cliff, this temple is nothing less than stunning. And, believe it or not but the Nandi ( Lord Shiva’s mount) in hewn into rock is said to be growing year on and year. With even the Archaeological Survey of India having confirmed to the veracity of this!
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Yaganti
Sri Uma Maheshwara Swamy Temple
Sri Ventakeswara Swamy Cave Temple
Agastya Cave
Potluri Veerabrahmendra Swamy Cave
Hyderabad to Yaganti Route
Take the NH44 till Kurnool and then head left to take the NH40 to reach Yaganti via Banaganapalli.
Best Time to Visit | All year round. Where? Maharashtra
Tuljapur is a small town in Maharashtra famous for being home to Tuljapur Bhavani. The very same goddess – an avatar of the Goddess Parvathi – who, as legend has it, appeared in the great warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji’s dream and gifted him a sword to overthrow the Muslim invaders. Which is why the Maratha Empire’s founder’s celebrated sword was called the ‘Bhavani Talwar’. Consequently making the twelfth century Tuljapur Temple a very important place of worship for the Marathas.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Tuljapur
Tulja Bhavani Temple
Kallol Tirth
Hyderabad to Tuljapur Route
Take the NH65 till Naldurg and head right towards Tuljapur.
15. Bhadrachalam | 310 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit |All year round. Where? Andhra Pradesh
Dakshina Ayodhya, Bhadrachalam which was once part of Dandakaranya – the setting for a significant portion of the Hindu epic Ramayana is popularly considered to be the Ayodhya of the South. From being the place where Sita spotted the Golden Deer and was later abducted by Ravana to being home to the only temple in the country where the presiding deity is Vaikuntha Rama, Bhadrachalam is an exceptional temple town not just for the devotees of Rama but for everyone who loves Indian Mythology.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Bhadrachalam
Sri Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple
Parnasala
Hyderabad to Bhadrachalam Route
Take the NH65 to Suryapet or Kodad and from there on head to Bhadrachalam via Kothagudem.
Best Time to Visit | All year round. Where? Andhra Pradesh
Usually temples are built for Shiva, rarely ever for his mount, the bull, Nandi. But here in Mahanandi, a village surrounded by the hills of Nallamalla in Kurnool, there are nine shrines believed to be built by the Nanda Dynasty in the tenth century. All of them dedicated to Nandi, the gate keeper of Kailasa, Lord Shiva’s abode. Giving this village its name, Mahanandi. There is also the Mahanandeswara Swamy Temple here – with Lord Shiva as its presiding deity – which predates even these by a good three hundred years.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Mahanandi
Mahanandeswara Swamy Temple
Group of Nandi Shrines
Hyderabad to Mahanandi Route
Take the Nh44 till Kurnool and then the NH40 via Nandyal to reach Mahanandi.
Best Time to Visit | October – March. Where? Maharashtra
Beside a fort that looks more like an ornate stone temple than just a sturdy old stonghold, here in Solapur is also the Siddheshwar Temple. An important pilgrimage centre for the people of the Lingayat faith, it marks the place where Lord Shiva – as Mallinath from Srisailam – met the Kannada mystic poet and Lingayat Saint, Siddheshwar. Solapur, is also a definite bucket list destination for every birding enthusiast. For, the Great Indian Bustard which was once a common sight in Maharashtra is today an extremely rare bird, an endangered species. And, the wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of this erudite looking brown white bird is only a half hour drive out of the city of Solapur.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Solapur
Solapur Bhuikot Fort
Siddheshwar Temple
Hyderabad to Solapur Route
Take the NH65 via Zaheerabad straight to Solapur.
18. Belum Caves | 325 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | October to February. Where? Andhra Pradesh
The stalactite formations inside Belum Caves, the second largest cave system in the country are incredible. From a natural arch that resembles a lion’s head to one that looks like a cobra with a thousand hoods, they are to be seen to be believed. Even the caves themselves are quiet intriguing, there is one that looks like a meditation hall complete with a bed and pillow and another whose stalactite pillars produce musical notes when struck! And to commemorate the fact these caves were once used by the Buddhist and Jain monks – as evidenced by the relics that were unearthed here, there is also a beautiful golden statue of The Buddha just outside the caves.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Belum
Belum Caves
Buddha Statue
Hyderabad to Belum Caves Route
Take the NH44 till Kurnool and then head left via Yaganti to get to Belum Caves.
Where to Stay at Belum Caves
AP Tourism run Haritha Hotel Belum. Choose your hotel depending on your itinerary and route.
19. Machilipatnam | 340 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit |July – February. Where? Andhra Pradesh
Chilakalapudi Sri Panduranga Swamy Temple
Masulipatnam or Machilipatnam as it is now known was once the first port of call on the Coromandel coast for the European traders vying for a hold on India and it’s trade. This coastal town in the Krishna District of Andhra Pradesh often overlooked by travellers makes for the perfect day trip destination from Vijayawada or even as an interesting detour for those heading to Vijayawada. From beaches to shopping, churches to temples, Machilipatnam has much to offer to those looking to explore the lesser known towns on the eastern coast.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Machilipatnam
Sri Panduranga Swamy Temple, Chilakalapudi
Manginapudi Beach
Machilipatnam Harbour
Hyderabad to Machilipatnam Route
Take the NH65 via Vijayawada.
What to Eat in Machilipatnam
Bandar Laddu
20. Ahobilam | 360 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit |October – May. Avoid the monsoon if you plan to trek. Where? Andhra Pradesh
Accessed variously through forest treks and jeep rides, Ahobilam is an important pilgrimage centre in Kurnool and the only place in the country where all the nine forms of Lord Narasimha are worshipped. It is believed that the entire Nallamalla Forest Range in the Eastern Ghats are a personification of the Serpent King, Adishesha – on who reclines Lord Vishnu. With Ahobilam being the centre while Tirupati and Srisailam form the head and tail ends respectively. For me, Ahobilam packs together a perfect sense of adventure along with a dose of Indian Mythology and religion.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Ahobilam
The Nine Shrines
Jwala Narasimha (Upper Ahobilam)
Ahobilam Narasimha Swamy Temple ( Main Shrine, Upper Ahobilam)
Malola Narasimha (Upper Ahobilam)
Kroda Narasimha (Upper Ahobilam)
Karanja Narasimha (Upper Ahobilam)
Bhargava Narasimha (Lower Ahobliam)
Yogananda Narasimha (Lower Ahobliam)
Kshatravata Narasimha (Lower Ahobliam)
Pavana Narasimha (Upper Ahobilam)
Ugra Sthambam
Prahlada Mettu
Hyderabad to Ahobilam Route
Take the NH44 till Kurnool and head left onto the NH40 to get to Ahobilam. Alternatively, one can also take the Sagar Road and the NH565 via Markapur.
21. Tadipatri | 360 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | All year round. Where? Andhra Pradesh
The twins temples of Tadipatri are striking symphonies in stone to say the very least. These fifteenth century temples are crowded with sculptures and pillars the extent of whose detailing is unbelievable. Built in the Vijayanagara architectural style, reminiscent of Hampi, one of the temples has musical pillars while the other has a stone chariot much like the iconic ones at the Vittala Temple, Hampi. It is also said that a tunnel from the Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple goes directly to Tirupathi.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Tadipatri
Chintala Venkataramana Swamy Temple
Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple
Hyderabad to Tadipatri Route
Take the NH44 to Gooty and head left from here onto the NH67 to get to Tadipatri.
22. Bijapur | 365 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit |July – March. Where? Karnataka
Yet another Sufi Town in Karnataka, Bijapur or Vijayapura (City of Victory) has a mosque, mausoleum or some remnant of striking Islamic architecture every where you look. Of these the Ibrahim Rouza and Gol Gumbaz are the most dramatic, to be etched into memory from the very first glance. Must be something to live in the constant shadow of history!
This erstwhile capital of Adil Shahi Dynasty is one of the five splinter states that was carved out of the Bahamani Kingdom over five hundred years ago.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Bijapur
Ibrahim Rouza
Gol Gumbaz
Jama Masjid
Taj Bawdi
Bara Kamaan
Gagan Mahal
Asar Mahal
Hyderabad to Bijapur Route
Take the NH65 to Humnabad and from there head left on NH50 to Vijayapura.
23. Gandikota | 365 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | October – February. After the monsoons, in cool weather. Where? Andhra Pradesh
The Gandikota Canyon has by now gained an iconic status thanks to its internet fame of being likened to the Grand Canyon. But, this is one destination that is worthy of all the hype that it has received. The naturally cut gorge of pink granite rock bed by the fast flowing River Penna is most definitely a visual spectacle. The Grand Canyon of India does promise an eventful weekend, from camping under the stars by night to going exploring among the medieval remains scattered across town by day, there won’t be a boring moment here.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Gandikota
Gandikota Fort
Gandikota Penna River View
Madhavaraya Swamy Temple
Small Mosque
Hyderabad to Gandikota Route
Take the NH 44 to Kurnool and then head left towards Gandikota via Yaganti.
Best Time to Visit | All year round. Where? Maharashtra
Panduranga, Pandarinatha is an oft heard refrain, but Pandharpur in Maharashtra, where resides the Lord Panduranga rarely makes an appearance on the lists cataloguing the important pilgrimage centres or religious destinations of the country. But it does make its appearance in the Hindu scriptures, both in the Puranas and the Upanishads. And, it is said that the scriptures say – Pandharpur is three times Pushkar, six times Kedarnath, ten times Varanasi and n times Srisailam (all counted amongst the foremost of pilgrimages), when it comes to spiritual fruition!
There are two ancient temples here, in Pandharpur, dedicated to both the Lords Vishnu and Shiva, one each. The better known one is the Shri Vitthal Rukmini Mandir, whose presiding deity is none other than Panduranga or Vitthal – a form of Lord Krishna and an avatar of Lord Vishnu – who gives this temple town its name.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Pandharpur
Shri Vitthal Rukmini Mandir
Shri Pundalik Mandir
Kaikadi Maharaj Math
Hyderabad to Pandharpur Route
Take the NH65 via Solapur to Mohol. Then head left onto the Pandharpur – Tuljapur – Solapur Road.
25. Hampi | 385 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | October – January. Hampi is scorching in the Summer. Where? Karnataka
Ugra Narasimha Swamy
Acres and acres of ancient ruins that look like they are straight out of the epic Mahabharata greet you in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the capital of the largest Hindu Kingdom on earth, Hampi is where the brothers Hakka and Bukka founded the Vijayanagar Empire. Monolithic chariots, sprawling elephant stables, stunning temples, colossal sculptures of gods, all made of stone and spread over an area that can be explored along a two kilometre trail across town are the major attractions of this temple town.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Hampi
Vijaya Vitthala Temple
Krishna Temple
Virupaksha Temple
Hemakuta Hill
Mustard Ganesha
Ugra Narasimha & Badava Linga
Lotus Mahal Complex
Elephant Stables
Mahanavami Dibba
Hazara Rama Temple
Hyderabad to Hampi Route
Take the NH44 to Mahbubnagar and the NH167 from there to Raichur. From here go via Kallur to Hampi.
Where to Stay in Hampi
Jungle Lodges Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort run by Karnataka State Tourism. Or Hampi Boulders for a luxurious stay away from the crowds.
26. Aihole | 390 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | October – January. Coolers days for exploring. Where? Karnataka
If you decide to go temple hopping in Aihole, you just might never get done. There are that many and more ancient temples – dating all the way back to the fourth century through to the twelfth century – in this little village in Karnataka. Aihole, along with Badami and Pattadakal are renown for their temple architecture. While Pattadakal is already a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the other two are yet to receive this status.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Aihole
Aihole Fort
Meguti Hill (Buddhist Cave Temple & Jain Temple)
Ravana Phadi Cave Temple
Durga Temple
Lad Khan Temple
Hucchimalli Temple
Gaudargudi Temple
Konti Gudi Temples
Jyotirlinga Temple Complex
Mallikarjuna Temple Complex
Galaganatha Temple Complex
Hyderabad to Aihole Route
Take the NH44 to Mahbubnagar and the NH167 via Raichur to Aihole.
27. Badami & Pattadakal | 400 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | October – January. Coolers days for exploring. Where? Karnataka
Inside the Pattadakal Group of Monuments
The Badami Cave Temples are like no other. Sitting serenely golden on the banks of the River Agastya, Badami will leave you awe stuck not just because of its incredible architecture. But also because of how the naturally beautiful surroundings create the perfect setting for an incredible aesthetic experience. While the temple complex in Pattadakal still have a few functioning Hindu temples, the entire group of monuments have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Badami
Bhutnatha Temple
Badami Cave Temples
Badami Fort
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Pattadakal
Group of Monuments at Pattadakal
Hyderabad to Badami & Pattadakal Route
Take the NH44 till Kandoor and then the NH167 via Raichur to reach Pattadakal and then Badami after a further twenty five kilometres.
28. Tadoba Tiger Reserve | 420 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | April – May. Though hot, it is tiger spotting season. Where? Maharashtra
Maharashtra’s oldest and largest national park, Tadoba is the first sanctuary that comes to mind if it is a tiger that you want to see for real. Besides going on a safari in this star of Indian national parks, one can also visit the Tadoba Lake and a tribal shrine dedicated to the God Taru – the local god for the adivasis who still live here deep in the forest.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Tadoba Tiger Reserve
Tiger Safari
Tadoba Lake
Tribal Shrine
Hyderabad to Tadoba Tiger Reserve Route
Take the Sirpur-Kaghaznagar Road to get to Tadoba via Chandrapur. Alternatively, one can also take the NH44 till Adilabad and then head right.
29. Maredumilli | 420 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | July – February. Monsoon for the overwhelming green. After for the treks and waterfalls. Where? Andhra Pradesh
You will be lost in all the green. If it is a taste of the rarely explored Eastern Ghats that you seek then a road trip to Maredumilli and Rampachodavaram has to be number one on your travel bucket list. Surely, driving through thickly forested hills with the walls of green crowding out even the sky, a valley, a view point, a waterfall clamouring for your attention at every turn, cannot be an experience that one would want to easily miss?
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Maredumilli
Camping
Trekking
Coffee and Pepper Plantations
Jalatharangini Waterfall
Amrutadhara Waterfall
Manyam View Point
Hyderabad to Maredumilli Route
Take the NH163 till Yadagirigutta and then head right to reach Maredumilli via Bhadrachalam.
Where to Stay in Maredumilli
There are a few eco lodges inside the Maredumilli Reserve Area. The most popular choice being Vana Vihari Eco Centre run by the Forest Department.
30. Nellore | 455 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | October – February. Where? Andhra Pradesh
Sriharikota Road through Pulicat Lake
Also known as Talpagiri Ranganatha Swamy Temple, this seventh century Pallava Temple in Nellore is much like the famous Srirangam Temple. Not just in how it looks, the Gopurams and the colours set against the blue of the sky but also the presiding deity, Ranganatha Swamy. Who is but an incarnation of the Lord Vishnu reclining on the Serpent King Adisesha. Besides the usual humdrum of a smaller city and this beautiful temple, Nellore also has a popular beach to offer as as tourist attraction. The Mypadu beach is known for its uninterrupted stretch of coconut trees along the coastline.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Nellore
Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple
Mypadu Beach
Hyderabad to Nellore Route
Take the NH65 to Nalgonda and from there head right towards Miryalaguda to reach Nellore via Ongole. Alternatively, one can also take the NH44 till Kurnool and then head left towards Nandyal to reach Nellore via Ahobilam.
Best Time to Visit | July – January. Monsoon and after. Where? Andhra Pradesh
This small village in East Godavari is stunning. Little surprise then that Dindi is dotted with river side resorts today. From soaking in the vibe of this laid-back coastal Andhra village to wandering along the River Godavari or heading to the closest beach when the mood hits you, Dindi is as close to perfect as it gets for an idyllic holiday. So look no further if it what you seek is a getaway that promises to rejuvenate you for getting back to the city grind. Or, may be not!
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Dindi
Godavari River Cruise
Hyderabad to Dindi Route
Take the NH65 to Vijayawada and then head left towards Eluru, to reach Dindi via Tanuku.
32. Antarvedi | 480 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | All year round. Where? Andhra Pradesh
Antarvedi has held a place of prominence through the epochs. For the legends say that during Tretayuga, it was Lord Rama, Lakshmana and Hanuman who worshipped the Lord Narasimha here. In Dwaparayuga, it was Arjuna’s turn. And today in Kaliyuga, he is still worshipped and revered, albeit in a temple constructed hundreds of years ago.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Antarvedi
Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple
Antarvedi Beach
Hyderabad to Antarvedi Route
Take the NH65 to Vijayawada and then head left towards Eluru, to reach Antarvedi via Palakollu.
33. Lepakshi | 480 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | October – January. Where? Andhra Pradesh
The adorable smiling monolithic Nandi (a bull who is Lord Shiva’s mount) carved out of granite, is easily one of the most recognisable sculptures in India and synonymous with Lepakshi. The Lepakshi temples are a prodgious testimony to the architectural splendours of the Vijayanagar Empire.This myth-shrouded village in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh is also believed to be a Ramayan place in popular culture. For legend has it that, the mythological bird from Ramayana, Jatayu, fell here in Lepakshi when Ravana sliced his wings. And, it was Lord Rama who said to him “le pakshi” – rise bird; giving this area its name.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Lepakshi
Lepakshi Nandi
Shri Veerabhadra Swamy Temple
Lepakshi Temple
Hyderabad to Lepakshi Route
Take the NH44 via Anantapur.
34. Kakinada | 495 Kms from Hyderabad
Best Time to Visit | October – February. Where? Andhra Pradesh
Often overlooked in favour of its more popular neighbour Rajahmundry, Kakinada is a perfect alternative for a coastal Andhra – Konaseema – holiday. Here too, you will find the steady stream from the River Godavari keeping you company as you drive along the tree lined roads. And, besides the temples of the Pancharaamam circuit, there is also the peaceful Uppada Beach and the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary. Did you know, the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the largest stretch of mangrove forest in the country?
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Kakinada
Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary
Uppada Beach
Samarlakota
Hyderabad to Kakinada Route
Take the NH65 to Vijayawada and head left towards Eluru to reach Kakinada via Rajahmundry.
Best Time to Visit | October – February. Where? Karnataka
From being home to the oldest rock formations in the country to being the tiniest city in the state of Karnataka, Chitradurga is one great off-the-grid road trip destination from Hyderabad. Though not on the tourist radar yet, Chitradurga with its boulder strewn landscape, valley views, deep green ponds of water, ancient temples and a historical fort is well worthy of being included on that bucket list.
Things to Do & Places to Visit in Chitradurga
Chitradurga Fort
Obbavvana Kindi
Ekanatheshwari Temple
Hyderabad to Chitradurga Route
Take the NH44 to Kurnool and then the NH167 via Bellary to Chitradurga.
The temple town of Alampur in the Mahbubnagar district of Telangana is renowned for its Ashtadasa Shakti Peetham, the Jogulamba Temple.
But there is more to this sleepy little town that is only a few hours from Hyderabad. It is believed to be the Western gateway to Srisailam, one of the important pilgrimage centres for Shaivites (Shiva believers) in the country.
Locals say that there are so many Shiva Lingams everywhere, in and around Alampur only waiting to be found that this little town is known as Dakshina Kasi, implying it is South India’s very own Benaras/Varanasi/Kasi, the abode of Lord Shiva and the Hindus’ City of Moksh (salvation).
Navabramha Temple Complex & Jogulamba
Nine for Navabramhas, nine forms of Lord Shiva.
Legend has it that a 6th century saint, Rasa Siddha had created a tantric Siddha Rasarnavam here at the Navabramha temples, built by the then Chalukya king, Pulakesi II. Using which, he could create gold out of mercury just by adding a few herbs. It is after this tool of alchemy – religious mysticism, that the nine deities here are named.
It is in this Navabramha Temple Complex, that the Jogulamba Temple is situated. One of the eighteen major Shakti Peethams, as listed by Adi Shankaracharya.
Here the goddess takes her Roudra Roopam or the form of fury. Which is why there is a moat around the main shrine, to cool the atmosphere and make it easier for us mere mortals to pray to this ‘Mother of Yogis’, they say.
So, both the principal deities of this temple come power packed with legends and beliefs! It is little wonder then that Alampur is a popular destination for a lot of Hindu pilgrims in Telangana.
But what is different here is that, this temple complex stands a stoic witness to a lot of mankind’s history.
For within its original walls, amidst all the temples, sits a dargah (grave/shrine of a religious figure or saint).
Speaking volumes of a time when not just this temple was invaded by intolerant rulers. The Bahamani sultans of the 14th century, in this case.
Sangameswara Temple
Every temple in this town seems to some how signify the importance of the holy confluence of the rivers Krishna and Tungabadhra. To begin with, Alampur itself gets the monicker ‘Navabramha Theertham’ from this. the most prominent one, the Navabramha Temple Complex built on the banks of Tungabadhra in the 7th century, together with the word ‘theertham’ meaning holy water give this town the name . Yet another temple in Alampur hinting at the holy confluence or Sangam is the Sangameswara Temple.
Did you know? The Sangameswara Temple was moved stone for stone from the banks of the river to where it is now, during the construction of the Srisailam Dam in the 1970s.
This temple comes next only in terms of popularity for it is just as beautiful as the first if not even more striking in its stoic solitude. This only leaves us to wonder just how important were these rivers once, spiritually!
Papanasi Group of Temples
Save the best for the last and use Google Maps to take you to the Papanasi Group of Temples next. Tucked away, just around the corner from the main town of Alampur, is this cluster of 24 temples, stunningly elegant in their simple design.
Majority of these shrines are dedicated to Lord Shiva – yet again – housing Lingams in numerous forms.
Explorers Guide
Distance from Hyderabad: 215 kilometres
Trip Duration: Full Day
Route: Alampur is a three hour drive along the Hyderabad-Bangalore Highway. One can either go via the Outer Ring Road or the Airport. To save on time, plan your day trip so that you are not stuck in the city traffic during peak hours. Tourist Info: The Jogulamba Temple in Alampur is open from 7 am to 5:30 pm, and is closed for an hour during the day between 1pm to 2pm. It is advisable, though not mandatory, for women to dress in traditional Indian clothes like a salwar kameez or a saree. Remember: The Jogulamba temple closes early, so make sure to visit here first. It is also customary to take along a saree and bangles as an offering to the Mother Goddess.
Who doesn’t know the Kakatiya Kala Toranam? It is the omnipresent symbol of Telangana Heritage, incorporated even in the emblem of this newly formed state. A massive stone gateway and the proud legacy of Kakatiya art and architecture, one of these today stands in a park in Warangal. With the rest of the ruins from the Kakatiya fort.
Read on to find other such unmissable places to visit in Warangal to add to your trip itinerary.
#1 Thousand Pillar Temple
The most popular tourist place in Warangal is the Thousand Pillar Temple.
It has featured in numerous Telugu movies, most prominently in Varsham, Bahubali star Prabhas’s first major romantic blockbuster. The many songs and scenes from movie shot here in the rain are by far the most stunning take on the Thousand Pillar Temple.
Constructed in 1163 AD by Rudra Deva in the Chalukya style, it has three presiding deities, Vishnu, Shiva and Surya. The most recognisable feature of this temple besides its richly carved pillars is the huge monolithic Nandi of black stone.
The Thousand Pillar Temple – currently closed to public and under restoration
Some areas of the Thousand Pillar Temple are closed off for renovation but there is a fully functional Hindu temple on the grounds in the same architectural style. So don’t just leave it off of your list of places to visit in Warangal. It is still is the place from where you should start your day in the city.
#2 Warangal Fort & Kakatiya Kala Toranam
If you are using Google Maps to navigate within the city, look for Warangal Fort Park and not Warangal Fort. For that will take you to where the original fort once stood and which is now just a crumbling structure of stone, overrun in grass.
& yes what is now referred to as the Warangal Fort is just a park with well laid out pieces of sculptures and entry ways from the fort, including the Kakatiya Kala Toranam.
Ruins of Warangal FortKakatiya Kala Toranam in the Warangal Fort Park
TOURIST INFO
Warangal Fort Park is a ticketed monument. Open from 10am to 7pm, all days of the week. There is also a sound and light show here every evening after sunset.
#3 Kush Mahal
Built within the walls of Warangal Fort, Kush Mahal is Tughlaq era hall. Though the original use for which it was built is not known for sure, we know that when the Tughlaqs conquered Warangal, they razed Kakatiya architecture to ground and built over them to mark their conquest.
So its a stones throw from that which it aimed to obliterate – the gateway and what it stood for.
Though not counted amongst popular tourist places of Warangal, it is a local favourite.
#4 Bhadrakali Temple
Set against a backdrop of water and hills, the Badhrakali temple isn’t just scenic. There is something powerful about the place, for darshan here is an intense experience.
Making it the foremost of places to visit in Warangal for many.
#5 Ramappa Temple & Lake
Ageless in its magnificence, it is as if the Ramappa Temple is a time capsule. This medieval temple from 1213 AD is beautiful beyond words and almost intact.
Definitely one of those tourist places in Warangal that one will regret to miss.
Did You Know? The bricks used to build the Ramappa Temple were so light that they can actually float on water!
It is alsothe only temple in the country to be known by the name of its sculptor. No surprise there for its sculptures are truly exquisite and an image of them will probably stay with you forever.
5 minutes from the temple is the Ramappa Lake.
Peaceful and serene it is neither crowded nor noisy, even on a weekend. The resort on its banks serving piping hot, spicy Andhra food makes Ramappa an ideal location for a quiet overnighter.
#6 Laknavaram Lake
The Lakanavaram Lake is beautiful and its waters soothing no doubt, but its popularity is its curse.
From its yellow suspension bridge to the mini island resort on the lake, it is so popular as a weekend getaway from Hyderabad that it gets nearly impossible to even stay a while if your intention is to wind down and enjoy being outdoors with nature.
Inspite of all that, here is a lake which was formed in the 13th century by closing down three narrow valleys and is actually so well hidden by the surrounding hills that even today you wouldn’t be able to see it till you actually reach the bridge.
So it is worth a quick day trip if you are in the area and want to tick it off your warangal tourist places list!
GETTING THERE:
Hyderabad to Warangal Distance 145 Kms Route Take the NH163 via Outer Ring Road to reach Warangal in two and a half hours.
Warangal to Ramappa Temple Distance70 Kms Warangal to Lakanavaram Lake Distance 70 Kms Ramappa Temple to Laknavaram Lake Distance 29 Kms
In Nizamabad, is a temple. Though not quite as legendary as the Dichpally Ramalayam, but just as historic. Popularly known as Armoor Siddula Gutta, this is the Navanatha Siddheswara Temple and a series of cave temples inside the rock formations of Armoor.
Armoor Rock Formations
As you drive along the highway from Nizamabad to Armoor, you will go past a long stretch of hills that look like they were made by someone who has artistically and quite laboriously piled up boulders to form them. These are the Armoor Rock Formations. Naturally weathered rocks crafted by mother nature for over millions of years. They are so distinctively striking that they are but a natural stopover for anyone driving that way and rightly so.
Sitting in a cave somewhere in those rocks is the Navantha Siddula Gutta, gutta for cave and Navanatha Siddhas for the sages who are believed to still reside in them.
Armoor Siddula Gutta
Fifteen years ago a ghat road was built through the rock formation, leading straight to Siddulagutta. There is also a walkway from the Gol Bungalow for pilgrims wishing to do the climb up to the temple by foot.
Inside these caves is a Shiva Temple, where the Shiva Lingam is said to be swaymbhu or self-manifested. It is said that the lingam here has always been worshipped by devotees, since the Tretayuga. That is the second age of mankind, in Hinduism! We are currently in the fourth.
The entrance to this cave temple is a door that is barely three feet. Once you crouch through it, the cave opens up and skylight filters in. You walk along in the designated route through the caves and you will come across many little temples in interconnected passageways. Even one dedicated to the Goddess Durga.
Just outside the exit point of this narrow cave is a Ramalayam and the temple tank, Jeeva Koneru. Legend has it that during the construction of the temple, when this tank was dug, it failed to well up with water. So, Rampriyadas Maharaj, the person who built the temple took up a tapasaya, that lasted forty-one days. At the end of which Lord Rama himself came to him in a dream and the water in this is believed to have been blessed with curative powers. Making the armoor siddula gutta popular amongst pilgrims undertaking the journey to be healed.
Otherwise quiet and forgotten, the temple tends to get crowded on the festival of Sri Rama Navami. Work is currently underway to build facilities to accommodate these devotees and also other temples around it on the flat ground between the rocks.
Beyond the Cave Temples
Further up the rocks, the summit flattens out into a breezy plateau. The village of Armoor with its houses of redbrick roofs and the setting sun glinting off the black rocks lend the landscape such beauty, that it has actually been the location for many a movie shoot.
Just about perfect for that evening picnic.
Explorers Guide
Distance from Hyderabad: 184 Kilometres
Trip Duration: Day Trip Getting There: Armoor is around 37 kilometres from the town of Nizamabad, along the intersection of NH7 and NH16. Other Places of Interest: Pochampadu Dam (Sri Rama Sagar Project)
30 kilometres from here this dam on the Godavari River is widely accepted to be the lifeline of Northern Telangana. It is quite a sight to behold when its forty-two floodgates are open.
Named after a Khiledar under the reign of Sikandar Jha during 1803 to 1823, Syed Karimuddin, Karimnagar is one district in Telangana, which has ancient places seeped in historic importance to both Hindus and Buddhists alike. The most popular amongst these is Manthani.
Home to the ruins of a Gautameswara Temple, Manthani is a timeless village from an era gone by.
On the banks of the river Godavari, it had once flourished as the seat of Vedic learning. Also referred to as Mantrapurior The Town of Hymns it gets its name from the Sanskrit word Mantra Kutam, meaning House of Mantras.
It is also popularly believed that Manthani is home to a thousand Bramhin families, which is why it is also called the Sahasra Brahamana Gadapa i.e. a Thousand Brahmin’s Threshold. Little surprise then that though the temple in Manthani is in ruins today, overrun with a patchwork of undergrowth that is a brilliant-hued green, the town continues to be culturally significant for Hindus.
Work is underway to put back the beautiful stone temple of Manthani to how it once stood. Meanwhile there is a new, fully functional temple on the premises.
Explorers Guide
Getting There: The distance from Hyderabad to Karimnagar is around 164 kilometres, but if you take the NH44 via Medchal you will reach the town in less than two hours. Manthani is a further 64 kilometres from here. Route: Once on the road by the village, ask around and get to the ‘temple on the banks of Godavari’. It can get a little tricky, because this one is not on Google Maps. Best Time to Visit: In the rains.
Less than three hours from Hyderabad, the district of Karimnagar in Telangana is peppered with numerous lesser-known forts and ancient ruins, making it the ideal day trip destination. Not yet over run with tourists, here you can happily explore at your own pace.
Home to a cluster of Kalyana and Kakatiya temple ruins, Nagunur is one such village in Karimnagar. Once the centre of the Kakatiya Empire, it is today but a tiny village lost in time. With these temples at its heart, it does not take but more than ten minutes to traverse through this entire village!
The most significant among these temples – from the 12th century – is the Trikuta Temple built by the Chalukyas of Kalyani.
Though constructed in the same style as the Manthani temple, it is in much better shape today, with the three shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva showing evidence of continuing worship.
Explorers Guide
Getting There: Nagunur is 260 kilometers from Hyderabad and the drive via NH44 through Outer Ring Road will take around three and a half hours. Best Time to Visit: Monsoons. With the rain clouds as a backdrop, these ancient temples look serenely beautiful.
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Everyone in Hyderabad has heard of the Medak Church and if you grew up in this city it is highly likely that you would have even gone there on a school trip. It is after all the largest diocese in all of Asia and is believed to be second only to the Vatican, even across the globe!
What started off as a project of true Christian compassion in 1914, to mitigate the suffering of people during the three-year famine that had hit Medak then, has brought to this district its most famous landmark. It was the missionary Rev. Charles Walker Posnett’s idea, to create employment rather than run a free kitchen and this massive church built in the Gothic Revival style that took 10 years to complete did achieve this objective.
Notwithstanding the fact that the church gained its most renown for its beautiful stained glass windows – which do leave one spellbound as the sunlight filters through them into the inner sanctum of the cathedral – its most striking feature remains the 175 feet bell tower.
There is more to this sleepy little town though. Telangana’s most celebrated festival, Bathukamma is performed on a large scale here. Recognised as the symbol of the state’s cultural identity, this nine-day festival is celebrated in honour of the Hindu Goddess Gauri. Yet another festival unique to this region is Peerla Panduga. It is but Muharram, only celebrated by both Hindus and Muslims alike across the Sufi Ashurkhanas here.
& with the Tourism Department‘s Heritage Hotel at the Medak Fort one can enjoy the art of slow travel right here, only an hour and half’s drive away.
The Medak Fort is a testimony to the history of this district. Strategically located on a hill, this fort is known to have exploited the natural topography of the area in creating an invincible defence around itself, standing witness to Medak’s significance during the reign of the Kakatiyas.
This summit today offers one gorgeous views of the surrounding city.
The view from the fort is not be missed. For it surely is an intriguing sight to see a city grow and flourish around Trinity Diagonal – a Mosque, a Temple and the Church all perfectly aligned in a diagonal cutting across Medak.
Built around the 12th century, the Medak Fort was once a command outpost for the Kakatiya, Bahamani and Qutb Shahi dynasties and is believed to have set the scene for many a battle for over five centuries.
Not much remains of the fort now, except for its three entrances – Prathama Dwaram (first entrance), Simha Dwaram (lion entrance) and Gaja Dwaram (elephant entrance). These are striking in their architecture and as their names suggest, are adorned with snarling lion heads and majestic elephants. Also standing untouched by time on the main entrance is the Ganda Bherundam,a double-headed eagle with an elephant in its talons. This mythical bird, an ancient symbol of royalty and the great Vijayanagar Empire’s insignia has since been incorporated into the present day Karnataka State’s emblem. One is then left to wonder if it isn’t but a remnant of the symbolic consolidation of the reigning dynasties of the era.
So, while planning your next road trip from Hyderabad don’t just strike Medak off your list, for there is a lot more to this district-town than just its record holding Church.
Explorers Guide
Distance from Hyderabad: 95 Kilometers Trip Duration: Half Day – Weekend Extend your Road Trip: Drive on to Pocharam Route: Take the NH44 via Kompally to get to Medak. Stop By: The road to Medak goes through the Narsapur Forest Range and you will find a horde of monkeys lined up all along the road. So don’t forget to carry some bananas to feed these guys. They are so accustomed to this that the minute you slow your car they will stand up and look into your window to see what snacks you have got them!
One of the oldest and the most renowned temple in Nizamabad is the Ramalayam in Dichpally. This 14th century temple dedicated to the Ram Avtaar of Lord Vishnu is also called the Indhoor Khajuraho and Khilla Ramalayam.
Sitting on a hillock the Dichpally Ramalayam offers one, sweeping views of the quaint little town of Dichpally and is undoubtedly a worthy vantage point to enjoy the early morning breeze.
This also makes it a picturesque location for taking panoramic shots, with an almost submerged ancient mandapam just about visible in a clear lake on one side and little brick houses with red roofs lined along its bank on the other.
While steps up the hillock lead you through an entrance typical of a fort complete with a fortification wall all around the temple grounds, which is probably why the locals now call this temple Khilla Ramalayam.
Considered to be a fine example of the Kakatiya’s architectural splendour, this stone structure of black and white basalt has sculptures on its pillars that are reminiscent of the ones on the famous Khajuraho temples, bestowing on it the moniker of Indhoor Khajuraho, indicative of a time when Nizamabad was Indhoor, named so after a Rashtrakuta King.
These carvings based on Vatsayana’s Kamasutra were so remarkable that even the name of this town traces its origins to it. These stone sculptures were called ‘Gicchu Bommalu’ by the villagers of that time, meaning pictures of Gicchu, the Sanskrit word for romance and beauty. Over time the village of gicchu, Gicchu Palle came to be Dichpally.
In the 13th century when Ala Ud Din Khilji conquered Nizamabad, there began a trend where Hindu temples were not allowed to be built, so did the construction of this temple stop midway and it was only many years later that the idols of Ram, Sita and Hanuman were installed here. The temple as you see it today was only complete in 1949 when steps leading up the hillock and a subway connecting it to another popular temple in Nizamabad were built under the stewardship of Gajavada Chinnaya.
Legend has it that in the Tretayuga, when right after meeting Hanuman for the first time, Lord Ram was on his way to wage war on Ravan, he stopped here on this hill and stayed a fortnight and it is to mark this that a Ramalayam was built here.
Explorers Guide
Distance from Hyderabad: 160 Kilometers Trip Duration: Half Day Route: Take the NH44 from Hyderabad to Nizamabad. Around 15 kilometers before you reach the town of Nizamabad get off the NH7 to reach Dichpally. Getting There: The Ramalayam is the biggest and most popular place in town and the wider roads in town leading here are an evidence to that. Follow the sign posts and soon you will spot the ‘temple on the hillock’.
I was at the Preview Drive of Tata Motors‘ upcoming 4 wheel drive HEXA. Pitched as a ‘lifestyle’ vehicle, the Tata Hexa is surely one hell of a ride. Well try as I might, I fail in finding words that can be as apt but sombre!
Starting off with an exclusive product presentation, everything from the cupcakes to the route we were to take the next day was designed to deliver the perfect #HexaExperience.
& given that Tata Motors has a brilliant car to back that promise of an experience, the journey was super fun!
The Tata Hexa doesn’t just look powerful, it actually is. We reached Ananthgiri Hills, a good 75kms away, in an hour inspite of the photo breaks we took. So that we had more than enough time for the change over to the Automatic variant and hob nob with fellow bloggers over coffee while we waited for our cars to get all squeaky clean again!
& still be back in time for the Offroad Experience, which in truth was nothing less than a real time roller coaster ride. Hand on heart Tata Motors won me over with this one.
What I love about the Tata Hexa
? Off road capabilities like no other.
I can go on and on with this one. The car has been programmed to electronically stabilise itself during tricky manoeuvres on terrains of all kind. The car can also intelligently sense from the pressure applied on the brakes and the throttle release if the driver panics and automatically refills the brake lines electronically to keep vehicle stability while optimising braking distance. For this demonstration, sitting in the car experiencing first handaggressive braking at fast speeds, all that was noticeable to me was the sound of the engine revving and the dust flying! So bye bye nose dives and skids. But, the feature I loved the most was the Hill Descent Control, push a button and leave it to the car to take you downhill. No clutch, brake, accelerator. Period.
? View from the driver’s seat!
Dont blame me if I like looking down on everything else on the road. 19 inch alloy wheels + seat height.
? 10 JBL speakers with a Harman system.
Besides, Kala Chasma on full volume and not one villager stared at us at the railway crossing where we were stuck for a good 25 minutes! & yes, you would rather listen to your favourite music in your car now.
? Dynamic Mode in the Manual.
Adrenaline Pumped, they call the car and I couldn’t phrase it any better. Choose this mode when you want maximum power and acceleration. Yay, Road trip.
? Navi Maps App.
Now you don’t need mobile network or data connectivity to navigate on your next road trip as an explorer.
? Straight line shift in the Automatic.
Shifting gears and modes has never been smoother. Upshift when you crave an adrenaline rush and leave it to the Hexa to downshift for you when needed, all in a quick and smooth one flick.
& What I don’t
..because, I am still me and cannot just like everything.
? The bucket seats in the second row of the Automatic. I prefer the bench seats in the Manual.
? Would love a one touch return to the map, instead of having to ‘navigate’ through all the available apps to get back.
Here is wishing Tata Motors all the success it truly deserves on the Hexa, when it launches later this year.
I had just upgraded my gear during the week – to a Full Frame Camera and a Wide Angle Lens from my first DX format Nikon Kit and my itchy feet just couldn’t wait for the weekend to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and test it.
I love road trips. Not only do they add a sense of adventure to one’s photo making journeys but they also make for that perfect blend of individual and social moments, a time to reflect as well as bond. Be it the feel of the road slipping from underneath the tyres as you listen to music or the feel of the wind in your face as you simply contemplate life to when you are stopping along the highway for some not so healthy but interesting food.
& when I joined hands with CEAT my Sunday only got that much sweeter and a Road Trip to Karimnagar seemed to be answer! A two and half hour drive from Hyderabad, this district in Telangana is peppered with numerous forts and ancient ruins, making it the ideal day trip destination for some exploration and a bit of photography both.
So, here I am, chronicling my road trip adventure for CEAT Tyres in association with BlogAdda.
Stop 1: Molangur Fort
Built atop a massive granite hillock during the reign of Prathapa Rudra of the Kakatiya Dynasty, this once important fort is today nothing but a ruin listed on the archaeological department’s protected sites. The large scale granite quarrying happening in and around this fort is only adding to the structural damage of this site and ruins of the palaces and the megalithic burials are barely discernible.
Stop 2:Elgandal Fort
On the banks of the river Godavari, sitting atop a hill in the 800 year old village of Elgandal is this ancient fort on the verge. Built by Zafar Ud Dowla in 1754 AD, the Teen Minar of the Alamgir Mosque are the most striking feature of this stronghold that has passed through five dynasties over time.
Stop 3: Manthani Ruins
Another timeless village to have flourished on the banks of Godavari in Karimanagar is Manthani. Home to the ruins of the Gautameswara Temple, it also referred to as Mantrapuri i.e The Town of Hymns. Work is underway to put back this beautiful stone temple to how it once stood and meanwhile there is a new, fully functional temple on the premises.
Right at the centre of the village of Nagunur is a cluster of Kalyana and Kakatiya temple ruins. The most significant of which is the Trikuta Temple built by the Chalukyas of Kalyani. Though built in the same style as the Manthani temple, this is in much better shape with the three shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva showing evidence of continuing worship.
Other stops on this trip were the town of Karimnagar and Dhulikatta. But, by the time we reached the Buddhist site, there was a deluge and the 2 km walk along the dirt path through the fields was ruled out. Though it might seem that monsoons played spoilt sport, I have no regrets for if not now there is always the next road trip. :)
& with the setting sun behind us, having covered over 550 Kms on this CEAT adventure, we were already homeward bound just in time for some coffee.
Of the 61 listed Monuments of Bidar, 30 are tombs. Little wonder then that Bidar is known as The City of Whispering Tombs!
135 Kms from Hyderabad, just across the state border in Karnataka is Bidar. If you love visiting places of historic significance and can’t get enough of architecture, this is one road trip that you must make from the city.
The most prominent landmark of this city – which dates back to the third century BC – is the Bidar Fort. It was built by the first sultan of the Bahamani Dynasty, Ala Ud Din Bahaman Shah when he set up his capital and 4Kms from here is the final resting place of the Bahamani Sultans. No visit to Bidar is complete without a trip to these majestic structures located in Ashtur, The Bahamani Tombs. Some of them are in a state of disrepair today, but even these crumbling mausoleums stand a beautiful testament to the art of an era gone by.
En route to Ashtur just before you get to the Tombs, on to the left is yet another idyllic setting to rest for eternity, the expansive and peaceful resting place of Hazrat Khalil Ullah, a popular religious preceptor of the time. Known as the Chaukhandi, this octagonal structure is beautiful in its simplicity and clean lines.
Second in the series, ‘Artisan Villages of Telangana’, comes the village of Nirmal in Adilabad district. A two hour drive from Hyderabad brings you to this town where all the village artists have got together to create a co-operative society, recognise themselves and setup a store to sustain this dying art form.
Practised by the Naqash artists of the 14th century, The Nirmal Art Form is an ancient tradition that has today, translated into making of toys and paintings from the locally available variety of softwood, known as ‘Poniki Chekka’. Though slowly fading out with each passing generation of the artisans losing interest; it originally flourished in the area, as the then rulers were great patrons of this art.
Made from tender wood, put together with a mixture of saw dust in tamarind seed paste (chinta lappam) and finished with a coat of brilliant paint, typical also of the Nirmal Paintings, these handmade toys are very light.
Artists of both these Telangana villages, Nirmal and Cheriyal use the same indigenous raw material to create such varied art. While the Cheriyal Artists use the chinta lappam to sculpt their masks, these artists use it to glue on the limbs and wings to their animal and bird figures and as a base to smoothen and bring shape to the toy.
All the artists are registered with the village cooperative society and work within its framework. Every artist is given a single toy to make, which he makes in number and takes around 20 days to a month to complete and so does not have to adhere to a stringent daily work routine but can pace it out as long as he delivers on schedule.
You can tell a Nirmal Painting from its characteristic streaks of gold, always against a black background. & also, from the human form that is graceful in its expression and is eloquent in its influence of the Mughal Miniaturist Art and the Ajanta and Kangra styles of painting.
A Nirmal Painting of the Basara Gnana Saraswati Devi, the Hindu Goddess of Learning at Basara, an important pilgrimage destination in the district.
Explorers Guide
Getting There: Take the NH44 straight from Kompally. A smooth drive of 210 Kms should get you to Nirmal. Remember: There are quite a few tollgates along the way, so make sure to account for a little extra while budgeting for this road trip.
Places of Interest: Add one or more of these to your itinerary to complete your day trip.
Shamgarh Fort – Right at the entrance to the town, make a quick stop here for a view of the whole town from the ruins.
Pochampadu Dam – Only 3 Kms off the highway, you don’t really need to make extra time for this one. Also known as the Sri Ramasagar Dam, probably owing to the popular Ram Mandir located here, not only is this one of the biggest dams in the area irrigating 5 districts of both Telangana and Andhra but it was also one of spots for the Godavari Pushkaralu last year.
Kuntala & Pochera Falls -Roughly around 50 Kms further ahead of Nirmal, both of these are in the same direction. Kuntala Falls are touted to be the highest waterfalls in Telangana.
Basara Sarawasti Devi Temple – If religious detours are more your style, this is a must visit. Every day, thousands of Children begin their intellectual journey here with the South Indian Hindu ceremony, Aksharaabhasyam. This rite marks the start of a child’s formal education.
I had earlier on my blog, done a story on the Weavers of Andhra Pradesh from the Karipakam – Patur region. Just like that, are other artisan villages in India which are so exclusive and distinctive in their technique that they lend their name to the Handicraft, irrespective of the form they take.
Which is why I have decided to start a series titled ‘Artisan Villages’.
I shall try and visit as many of these places as I can, in the process, learning and documenting traditional art forms prevalent in India from as far back as one can remember.
I begin this series, with one closest home, Cheriyal.
An hour away from Hyderabad is the village of Cheriyal in Telangana. Here is where the famous ‘Cheriyal Scrolls’ come from. These canvas scrolls made from Khadi are hand painted in a style unique to the local motifs and iconography. Characterised by a dominance of the colour red in the background, these brilliantly-hued paintings even received Geographical Indication Status in 2007.
Painted in panels as a narrative, these are like comic strips from the past, depicting scenes and stories from Indian mythology and epics. Distinct in their style they immediately convey the age old Indian traditions and customs in a beautiful and engaging manner. Of which, both, Lords Krishna and Rama are prominent and the most recurring. Originally used by the village bard as a visual aid to go with his stories and ballads, these scrolls have all but phased out with today’s more mainstream ways of storytelling and entertainment.
The traditional Cheriyal Scrolls were sociologically and culturally significant in their time, for their use as a tool for educating the illiterate villagers. From a scroll that once had up to 50 panels, they have now come down to a single panel, as these artists adapt to its modern use as wall art.
Also coming from Cheriyal, are masks and dolls modelled along the same theme of ancient Indian mythology and local folk lore. These masks range from as small as the ones sculpted and painted on coconut shells to as large as the ones moulded in cement.
Now, there are very few artists practising this traditional art form, with Cheriyal being the last village standing that continues to produce these scrolls and masks. Of the three remaining artist families in the village are the husband and wife duo, Vanaja & Ganesh.
They are both government recognised artists, who have had the honour of transferring these Cheriyal Masks as 10 feet wall murals in Nagpur for the President, Mr.Pranab Mukherjee’s visit some time ago. While, Mr.Ganesh has conducted workshops under the South Central Zonal Cultural Centre’s Guru Shishya Parampara Scheme. Their two daughters also chip in during their time off from school, for these village arts are usually a family occupation.
All in all these scrolls when framed, make for gorgeous gifts. So if you are looking at exclusive party favours or corporate gifts with that characteristic touch of Indian-ness, you know where to go!
Not only would you encourage a dying art form but you would also be making a statement. :)
Explorers Guide
Getting There: Ideal for a quick day trip, Cheriyal is 54 Km from Hyderabad and can be reached by road in less than an hour and a half. Take the NH44 to get there. On the Way: Make a pit stop at any of the Dhabas in Kompally to refuel.
Get in Touch: With the artist, Mr. N Ganesh on +91 9000181059.
