The season of mangoes is not so far away. However eager we all are to get our hands messy on them, we are dreading how hot this summer is going to get. It is when schools declare holidays, professionals take their annual breaks, you get visitors from abroad, and so many other events take place. Taking a break is a must to give your brain the rest it needs from all the hard work you do and also to keep your health in check. Whether you are a college student or a professional working 5/6 days a week or a family looking to get a break from this scorching heat, these places for a weekend getaway are only a few hours drive away from Hyderabad. You could visit one each or on alternate weekends to quench your thirst for a getaway this summer.
#1 Ananthagiri Hills
Located in Vikarabad, Ananthagiri Hills make a perfect spot for your weekend getaway during the summer. The place a dense forest area with the Ananthagiri temple nearby. For adventure seekers, this place offers a fantastic trail for trekking. You can take in all that nature has to offer to you while on the trail and rejuvenate yourselves. For those who are not so inclined towards trekking, there are various campsites available. You can either go along with a group or organized trips or simply carry your own tent and pitch it there by the lake. The cool breeze and the sky full of stars is sure to refresh all your senses and leave you at peace. Carry your camera for amazing photographs and up your photography skills. Take along all your camping gear and stay there for the night. You could also go for a two-day trip. There are several adventure clubs and trekking clubs that organize the trip, in case you don’t want to go on your own.
#2 Suryalanka Beach
Who wouldn’t love the idea of going to a beach, especially during the summer? Although you would have to go to the neighboring state, Andhra Pradesh for a beach experience, Suryalanka beach that is just a 7 kms drive from Bapatla is totally worth it. Go along with your family or friends for a long weekend trip either by car if you want to experience the journey or you could take another mode of transport to get there. Rent one of the cottages or a beach house along the waters of the Bay of Bengal and get your senses replenished during your stay there. This wide and spacious beach allows for swimming and sunbathing. Wake up to the sunrise and the soft sound of the waves hitting the shore, sip on your morning coffee/tea by the waters, take long walks, and all the beach things.
#3 Lambasingi
Many might not have heard of this place and for those who have heard this place might have heard is as Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh. While the term explains it all, this is a small town in Visakhapatnam and rises 1000 meters above the sea level. If you cannot take the time out or have enough budget to visit Kashmir, then Lambasingi is sure to give you a near experience of that Heaven on Earth. Book a hotel or cottages available in these cool and pleasant hills for your perfect weekend getaway from the noises and busy city life. Take an early morning walk on the streets and feel the fog and clouds passing through. This hill station is sure to give you a “On the clouds” feel. Put away all the electronics of yours, of course not the camera, and take in all you can before you get back to your busy routine life.
#4 Papikondalu
These set of three hills forming a spectacular gorge on River Godavari is located in Andhra Pradesh and is only 410 km away from Hyderabad. The river is spread across and flows between lush green tropical rain forests that have been declared as a National Protected Park. The hills also have an ancient history dating back to the time when Lord Rama and Sita are believed to have visited these hills. For adventure lovers, the place offers amazing trekking trails and camping spots. And for those who would like to relax, can take boat rides on the river, enjoy the waterfalls. The place is also famous for its handicrafts made by the local tribal communities one can explore and bring back some souvenirs with them. The waterfall is a popular tourist attraction in Munivaatam.
#5 Araku Valley
Araku Valley located in Andhra Pradesh is generally called as the Switzerland of the South 910 meters above the sea level. With the picturesque landscapes, rows of coffee plantations, and pure breezy weather, you are sure to enjoy the feeling of getting back in touch with nature. Enjoy a ride in the toy train that will take you around the valley with a guide on board. Other places you can visit near Araku are Borra Caves, waterfalls, and world-famous coffee plantations. The valley is surrounded by dense forests of the Eastern Ghats mountain range. Araku is around 700 kms from Hyderabad.
#6 Maredumilli
If you are a nature lover and even if you are not, head to Maredumilli, only 430 kms away from Hyderabad, in the East Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh, you are sure to fall in love with nature hereafter. The mix of deep forests, steep valleys, steep curves, thrilling road-drives, waterfalls, and everything else is set to rush the adrenaline in you. There is trekking available here, and you can go for it in the dark forest area and Jaltarangini Waterfalls. The climate is moderate, and the local delicacy Bamboo Chicken is a must try. You can also set camps there if you are planning to stay for a few days.
#7 Koil Sagar
The Koil Sagar dam is located in Mahabubnagar district of the Telangana State and is one of the most preferred tourist spots. At a distance of around 140 km from Hyderabad, this place offers nature lovers beautiful spots to camp at, trails to hike and trek, and a sky full of stars during the night you could get lost stargazing in. Swimming at the lake is also amongst the activities that you can do there. Get away from the boring metropolitan life and refresh yourselves in the calm, cool, and pollution-free environment. Gather all your friends and go biking or take your cars, whichever is convenient. Do not forget to stop by and appreciate the reservoir that carries 60 million cubic meters of water.
#8 Nagarjuna Sagar Dam
Located very close to Hyderabad, Nagarjuna Sagar Dam has 26 crest gates, and the lake created by the dam is the third largest human-made lake in the world. The viewpoint just 4 km away from the dam offers a beautiful panoramic view of the dam and the greenery around. If you go further down, about 15 kms from Nagarjuna Sagar, you will reach Ethipothala Falls that fall on a tributary of River Krishna. The falls is at the height of 70 m. you could also visit some of the old Buddhist excavations that are situated here. Nagarjuna Sagar will definitely be one of the best weekend getaways for you which is also very close to Hyderabad.
#9 Horsley Hills
Take your car and drive to Horsley Hills located in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh for a perfect summer getaway. These series of hills offer beautiful silence and peace for those looking for it. Climb on to the highest viewing point and watch the sun go down. The Galibanda cliff offers a spectacular view of nature and experience winds flowing through while taking a walk along the Wind Rock. About 90 km away from Horsley Hills is located the Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary which is an elephant reserve as well. Go there if you have the time and get a chance to see elephants in their habitat. You could also take a boat ride in the river nearby. Visit the Environmental Park and soak in the fresh air.
#10 Warangal
Located just 3 hours away from Hyderabad, Warangal is one of the heritage sites of India and also a great place for a weekend getaway. With its spectacular Thousand Pillar Temple that is the most populous tourist attraction among others. Warangal Fort is another must-visit attraction that has been there from the 13th century. The 30 sq km Pakhal Lake offers amazing views and passes through the borders of Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary. You could visit both the places and enjoy nature as it is. Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is another beautiful place located amidst dense forest. You can spot some rare animals such as sloth bear, tiger, panther, deer, wolf, and more. Take a stroll along the very famous Kakatiya Rock Garden that is located near the Fort temple.
Let us know in the comments which one of these places you liked the best as your weekend getaway.
