8 Short Trips Around Hyderabad For The Post Pandemic Wanderlust

While we are waiting with bated breath for the COVID-19 vaccine, one thing we know for sure is that there is no possible vaccine for the travel bug that has been eating us alive. One thing we know for sure is that while a mere drive along the Hussain Sagar Lake is definitely not gonna put our anxious minds at ease, we also can’t risk a long train or flight journey in these testing times, even when the situation improves. Thus, we did our homework and we present to you a curated list of the 8 best possible road trips around Hyderabad that are not going to take more than 6 hours of travel time! 

1. Ananthagiri Hills

Picture Credits: mohnish_kupli

The most popular choice for a weekend trip that every local vouch for lies in the mesmerizing hills of Ananthagiri. Featuring a unique charm, the roads of the hill station swiftly cut through stretches of lush green forests and run along several small streams to make for a scenic road trip. Visitors have deemed it as one of the most beautiful places for a getaway from Hyderabad for it has oodles to offer - whiffing the fresh air of the forest when camping under the starry sky, while the adrenaline junkies can go on short treks and hikes over these beautiful hills. You can even come across a few archaic monuments like the historic Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple.

Distance From Hyderabad | 80 Km

2. Forts of Nalgonda

Picture Credits: swarupa_rani

The Deverkonda, Bhongir and Rachakonda forts of Nalgonda are treats for sore eyes and delights for all archaeology enthusiasts and history buffs!
Rachakonda Fort is the nearest, almost halfway from Hyderabad to Nalgonda. One would need to hike on foot to reach the abandoned ruins of the fort but the view from there makes all efforts worthwhile! Next up is the Bhongir Fort, which is perched atop a giant egg-shaped monolithic rock in the midst of the town. After scaling the rocky steps, you can enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of the region down below. Lastly, the Deverkonda fort comprises abandoned ruins amidst the hilly terrain that offers a beautiful drive into the chapters of history. Together, these three forts make for a memorable road trip!

Distance From Hyderabad | Around 100 km

3. Bidar

Picture Credits: neeraj_b

Once the capital of the Bhamani kingdom, Bidar has roots embedded in the foundation of Indian Islamic culture in Karnataka. A specimen of Persian architecture, the beautiful Bidar fort, unlike the forts of Nalgonda, is well maintained and is a legit tourist destination visited by many. Bidar is dotted with various Islamic tombs and mausoleums, making it a much sought after place for history fanatics. Another striking spot nearby is the Jharani Narasimha Cave Temple, known for its natural beauty where the devotees have to walk through the tunnel with the stream of water that comes to the waist level!

Distance From Hyderabad | 140 km

4. Warangal and Laknavaram lake

Picture Credits: rock_clickz_

Be it the serene lakes or the archaic fort and temples of the city, all the tourist places in Warangal points to the laid back old-world charm of the region. Warangal Fort is known for its graceful and intricate arches and pillars. The real showstopper of the city is the Thousand Pillar Temple, an architectural wonder and a pilgrimage centre of high significance. Located a little over 60 km from Warangal is the beautiful Laknavaram Lake which is ideal for taking a stroll in, with a mesmeric sunset to accompany you. The highlight of the lake is the suspended bridge, walking over which makes for an experience to remember! 

Distance From Hyderabad | 145 km

5. Nagarjun Sagar Dam

Picture Credits: vijaynadangad

Built across the Krishna river, the majestic Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is a popular tourist destination, owing to its lush green surroundings that offer a beautiful panoramic view akin to that of a hill station. The ruins of  Nagarjunakonda, a culturally significant ancient Buddhist site is located on an island in the midst of a reservoir lake. With due credit to the Telangana government, the ruins are easily accessible through frequent cruises. Boating in the gigantic artificial lake is a wonderful experience and has added a distinct charm to the pristine waters of the dam. The real eye-catcher here is the Ethipothala Waterfall, falling from a cliff of over 70 feet into a pristine blue lagoon!

Distance From Hyderabad | 150 km

6. Mallela Teertham

Picture Credits: picsbyrisheek

Literally, a hidden gem, this mesmerizing waterfall of Mallela Teertham is located amidst dense vegetation and can be accessed after descending into a narrow gorge. The road cuts through the jungle, offering beautiful views and makes for a perfect trip for those interested in adventure tourism and wildlife. A walk through the forest with lush greenery and clean fresh air provides an immensely refreshing experience! P.S. The majestic waterfall is a sight to witness and is just what you need to recover from the lockdown blues!

Distance From Hyderabad | 170 km

7. Srisailam

Picture Credits: jacksondude999

Srisailam is a beautiful hill station located atop the Krishna riverbed. The place is home to Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, one of the 12 sacred jyotirlingas of Hindus. Apart from being a pilgrimage centre due to the abundance of temples, the hills of Srisailam are known for offering stunning views of the backwaters of the Krishna river. The Octopus View-Point being one of the most popular spots to enjoy them. One of the highlights of the town is the Pathala Ganga ropeway, from where you can get a birds-eye view of the Srisailam Dam reservoir. It is believed that the Krishna river around here has medicinal properties. We can just hope that the dip in its water cures all our pandemic traumas!

Distance From Hyderabad | 215 km

8. Chirala Beach

Picture Credits: ravi_k_real

Nothing is more calming than being drowned in the music of the sea while the cool breeze ruffles your hair. Chirala and its surrounding beaches like Suryalanka and Vodarevu are the nearest beaches to Hyderabad and thus, are a popular choice for road trips from the city. Unlike the popular beaches of Vizag, these are much calmer and less crowded, being the ideal choice for a post-pandemic getaway. Vodarevu is a fishing town with pristine golden sand, and the view from the top of the lighthouse is stunning. Suryalanka is famous for its dolphin sightings during the winter months. Sea Breeze Beach Resort is a popular sea-facing resort in Chirala with a private beach, ideal for a relaxing holiday.  Thus, pack your beachwear along with sunscreen, and head to the waters for the perfect post-pandemic trip!

Distance From Hyderabad | 305 km

Although we are anxious to pack our bags and go on a long drive, we must wait for the situation to improve. Let’s just keep our fingers crossed till then and dream about these beautiful places!