Beat the heat: Plan a quick escape to these scenic hills around Hyderabad
Hyderabad: With back-to-back holidays this week, several people in the Telugu states are making the most of their short break. And what better way to escape the scorching heat of summer than by exploring the lush green hills?
If you’re someone who does not mind a long drive, there are a few beautiful hill stations not too far from Hyderabad. You can start early in the morning and return home by night. Let’s take a look!
In today’s fast-paced life, sometimes maintaining a work-life balance can be challenging and these micro-breaks with short trips into the lap of nature come as a much-needed escape.
As schools and offices are closed for the holidays, now is the perfect time to plan a short trip. Instead of spending the short break idly at home, explore the green forests and cool hills in the neighbourhood of Hyderabad.
Nallamala forest: A hidden gem just a few hours away
About 2–3 hours from Hyderabad lies the lush Nallamala forest. This forest is a nature lover’s paradise due to its imposing hills and thick cover. A perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Currently, the forest is getting a huge footfall including devotees and trekkers, due to the Saileshwaram Lingamayya Jatara, an annual pilgrimage that takes place in the valley.
The temple is open to the public only for three days in the entire year, from April 11 to 13. During this time, pilgrims flock to the region, trekking down into the valley while enjoying the sight of a waterfall cascading from the cliffs above.
Visitors are expected to pass through the dense tiger reserve, partly by vehicle and the rest on foot to reach Saileshwaram. Pilgrims must trek around 3 kilometers through rocky terrain, streams, and hills.
Saileshwaram is barely a 60-km drive from the well-known Srisailam temple while it’s a 130-km journey from Hyderabad. It’s a doable trip if you are an adventure-seeker.
The Nallamala hills have a lot to offer beyond the jatara. From boat rides at Nagarjuna Sagar and scenic drives on ghat roads to panoramic views at the Srisailam project and a visit to the Uma Maheshwara temple. Wildlife enthusiasts can check out the forest reserve, while trekkers will enjoy walking through the pristine trails of the Nallamala range.
Ananthagiri hills: A perfect day trip destination
Just a 75 km drive from Hyderabad lies the serene Ananthagiri Hills, perfect choice for a quick trip. The hill station offers pleasant weather, green hills, and dense forests that make for a soothing experience.
Ananthagiri is a great spot for beginners and casual adventurers. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or colleagues, there’s something for everyone. Apart from trekking, visitors can also try rock climbing, boating, or a calming nature walk.
