Travel and health India: Nawabi city Hyderabad

40 Most Popular Places to Visit in Hyderabad

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Endearingly called the City of Pearls, the charming Hyderabad still exudes a waft of a regal past. One of nizams and beautiful maidens, rich and enchanting landmarks, shahi food, expensive jewellery, and warm-hearted people. This city bears a distinct divide of the old and the new.

To an ardent traveler, Hyderabad offers a fascinating panorama of the past, with a richly mixed cultural and historical tradition spanning 400 colourful years. A treat for lovers of history, art, architecture with several ornate tombs, palaces, mosques adorning the old city, the new metropolitan is set to charm with its well-designed and immaculately planned tourist spots, delightful shopping destinations and many hill stations near by.

Historical places to visit in Hyderabad:

1) Golconda Fort

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A medieval fort now overlooking the city, Golkonda is one of the historical places to visit in Hyderadabad. Originally built in mud on a 400ft hill, the fort ruins of today have seen the reign of several dynasties. Situated 11km away from the bustling urbanism of Hyderabad, it derives its name from a Telugu word meaning Shepherd’s Hill. Reminiscence of a well-planned Golconda city within the fortress limits is evident even now.

The remains of multiple fortification layers, armories, magazines, mosques, granaries, reservoirs, audience chambers and royal dwellings complement the striking appearance of the fort.

Famous for its acoustics, a unique signalling device that was incorporated in its construction, the structure is known for its palaces, ingenious water supply system and the famous Fateh Rahben, one of the cannons used in the last siege of Golconda by Aurangzeb. The Sound & Light show brings alive the grandeur of one of India’s famous forts.

Timings: 9am – 5:30pm

Entry fee:

INR 5 per person for Indians
INR 100 per person for foreign nationals
INR 130 per person for Light & Sound Show

Photography: Allowed, INR 25 per camera for videography.

[Moreover, one of the best family picnic spots near mumbai to visit with family and friends]

2) Char Minar

Image Source: Caroline - Flickr

The epic signature of the city, Char Minar makes for a wonderful sight. Located in the heart of Hyderabad’s old city, surrounded by Mecca Masjid, built using bricks from Mecca and Laad Bazaar - a boisterous shopping street, this landmark is laced in history.

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Built in 1591 by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, it was constructed to commemorate the founding of Hyderabad and also to ward of a deadly epidemic that was rampant then in the Golconda region. Graced by 4 minarets soaring almost 50ft in height, it has a mosque and 45 prayer spaces.

Timings: 9am – 5:30pm

Entry fee: INR 5 per person for Indians, INR 100 per person for foreign nationals

Photography: Allowed

3) Qutub Shahi Tombs

Image Source: Sudheer G - Flickr

One of the historical places to visit in Hyderabad is the set of absolutely beautiful Qutub Shahi Tombs ensconced against the lovely backdrop of the picturesque Ibrahim Bagh. These represent the final resting ground of rulers of the founding dynasty of Hyderabad.

[Also check out the majestic resorts of Hyderabad]

The most authentic and majestic display of Persian, Hindu, and Pathan architectural designs dedicated to the seven kings who ruled Golconda for nearly 170years, the rulers themselves built these tombs.

Timings: 9:30am – 6:30pm

Entry fee: NA

Photography: Allowed, INR 20 per camera

4) Mecca Masjid, Old Hyderabad

Image Source: Rajesh_India -Flickr

Listed among Hyderabad’s heritage monuments, Mecca Masjid or Makka Masjid as referred by locals holds a distinct position of not just being the oldest mosques in the city, but is also one of India’s biggest. This 400year old monument was constructed using the soil from Mecca. Hence the name.

Image Source: RahulR -Flickr

Adding more to the erstwhile era around the Charminar and old Hyderabad city, the mosque’s imposing structure and splendid architecture is visible in its three-arched façade carved from single granite, minarets, and balconies.

Timings: 4am – 9:30pm

Entry fee: NA

Photography: Allowed

Temples to visit in Hyderabad:

5) Shri Jagannath Temple

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One of the temples to visit in Hyderabad is the Shri Jagannath Temple, a modern day temple built by the local Oriya community over here. This replica of the original in Puri draws devotees with its sanctum sanctorum housing statues of Lord Jagannath, and his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.

The spectacular temple is well constructed with an attractive Shikhara measuring 70ft in height. A true representation of the original, the construction in red sand stone is a visual marvel and is known for its annual Ratha Yatra.

Timings: 6am – 11am, 5pm – pm

Entry fee: NA

Photography: Not allowed, both inside and outside

6) Birla Mandir

Image Source: Rajesh_India - Flickr

Located on the south end of Hussain Sagar Lake, the Birla Mandir is an enchanting modern temple built atop the Kala Pahad, the twin hillock of the Naubat Pahad. With mixed architectural styles from Odhisha and South Indian, the place of worship is embellished with exotic epic scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata that are finely sculpted in marble. The inner shrine of the temple has an 11ft tall replica of Tirupati Venkateswara.

Revel in several marble carvings depicting Indian mythology in the adjoining 'Mukha Mandapam'. The temple also houses consorts of Venkateswara, Padmavati and Andal as well as has a separate shrine dedicated to Buddha.

Timings: 7am – 12pm, 2pm – 9pm

Entry fee: NA

Photography: Not Allowed

7) Sri Rama Chandra Swamy Temple, Ammapali Village

A true treasure tucked away from the hustle of Hyderabad city is this 800yr old Sri Rama Chandra Swamy Temple in Ammapali Village. Loaded with rich history, the place of worship constructed in the 13th century has a deity, which was installed over 1,000yrs ago.

A monument older than the Golconda Fort, the Rama Temple is a temple to visit in Hyderabad. An unlikely Rajasthani styled architecture, a step well in front of the main temple, a seven-layered gopuram all make this unique. But perhaps the absence of Lord Rama’s most faithful bhakt Hanuman from the main sanctum stands out the most. The idols of Rama, Lakshman, and Sita are carved from a single stone. Head to the Parijat Tree here to tie a bundle of wish in a red cloth.

Timings: NA

Entry fee: NA

Photography: Allowed

Places to visit in Hyderabad with family:

8) Ramoji Film City

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Certainly one of the places to visit in Hyderabad with family, Ramoji Film City makes its way to every traveller’s list because of its magical theme around cinema, which is the most common love of every Indian. The only one of its kind in India, this holiday destination offers something special to everyone.

Image Source: ShashiBellamkonda - Flick

The world’s largest integrated film city, spread across 2,000acres ensures that every visitor makes most from the day spent here. Features include well-defined categories of entertainment suited for different ages from Eureka, the performance arena modelled on the lines of royal forts hosting live shows, to getting a tour of a typical film studio, multi-cuisine restaurants, shopping venues, kids’ park, and even a bird park. This destination can be enjoyed over a day trip or one could stay back at this holiday destination.

Timings: 9am – 5:30pm

Entry fee:

INR 800 per person for general guided tour for adults without food
INR 700 per child for general guided tour for children (3-12 years) without food
INR 1,799 per person for Ramoji Star Experience for adults with food
INR 1,499 per child for Ramoji Star Experience for children (3-12 years) with food

Photography: Allowed

9) Nehru Zoological Park

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A 50yr old zoo extending over 380acres, the Nehru Zoological Park is a wonderful blend of ecological programmes, animal habitats, research facilities, and other such attractions. Being a well-equipped zoo, visitors can comfortably spend an entire day here enjoying several facilities such as toy train, kids park, hired bicycle rides, boating, walks around large aquariums with fresh water and marine aqua life on display.

It has India’s first butterfly park and jungle safari. Jurassic Park with live sized models of the extinct species is a major draw for children. Boasting of nearly 1,500 specimens of birds, animals, and reptiles the Nehru Zoological Park also encourages adoption of wild animals by the public.

Timings:

April – June: 8am – 5:30pm,
July – March: 8:30am – 5pm
Closed every Monday

Entry fee: You can check out the official website for the same

Photography: Allowed

10) Salar Jung Museum

Image Source: Mannar K - Flickr

Located in the prime venue of old Hyderabad city, the Salar Jung Museum has illustrious neighbours like the Charminar, Mecca Masjid and State Central Library. One of the must see places to visit in Hyderabad with family, this is among India’s premier museums with 38 galleries spread over three buildings.

Nawab Mir Yousuf Ali Khan, who also lent his name to the museum, acquired a rich repository of artistic achievements of diverse European, Asian and Far Eastern countries of the world; a major chunk of the collection is on display. Check out artifacts mirroring the human evolution from 2nd century BC to early 20th century AD.

Timings: 10am – 5pm & Closed on every Friday and all public holidays

Entry fee:

INR 10 for general public
INR 150 for foreign citizens
Students with identity cards are given 50% concession.
Defence personnel in uniform, organized Kisan parties and children below 12 years are also given 50% concession.
'Children's Week' (14th-20th November) school children up to 12 years of age accompanied by teachers are allowed free of charge.
'Museum Week' (8th-14th January) public is given concession in the entrance ticket.

Photography: INR 20 for still and mobile photography

11) Birla Science Museum

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One of the best-rated science institutions world-over, the Birla Science Museum is amongst the busiest and most attended places in India. It provides wholesome exploration of science and its various arms with a planetarium that uncovers several mysteries of the universe. A unique Participatory Science Museum with Archaeology and Fine Art sections is a huge draw.

The Archaeology and Fine Arts section has rare exhibits that have been collected and excavated. Dinosaurium, a Natural History Gallery and the breath-taking Art Gallery have beautiful murals, traditional artefacts from various Indian states, and live projects in the Science Projects wing are on offer under one roof.

Timings: 10:30am – 8pm, all days of the week

Entry fee:

INR 50 for Museum
INR 50 for Planetarium

Photography: Allowed

12) Hussain Sagar Lake

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One of the largest man-made lakes in India, Hussain Sagar Lake has been adorning the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad since 1562. A tourist destination that cannot be missed as places to visit in Hyderabad with family, the lake is best to spend time around dusk with pleasant air filling the surroundings.

Image Source: Rajesh_India - Flickr

Adding to its charm is the monolithic statue of the Buddha installed in the heart of the lake. Several facilities around the lake periphery such as boating and water sports, and the neighbourhood Lumbini Park, an amusement park are add-on attractions.

Timings: 1pm – 9pm, all days of the week

Entry fee: INR 10 (boating)

Photography: Allowed

13) Snow World

An indoor wonder world of snow and chill, Snow World is among the must experience places to visit in Hyderabad with family. With one of the largest snow areas spread over 17,000sft, the engaging place is built with state-of-the-art technology producing snow as close to the real one as possible.

With temperature freezing up to -5degree Celsius, the created ambience has a thrilling environment with polar bears, penguins, alpine trees, and snow all the way. A complete arena with kids snow play area, snow slide, snow merry-go-round, sculptures, snow basketball, snow mountain, volley ball, dancing, and an ice hotel make Snow World a family destination.

Timings:

All days of the week

11am – 12noon (1st Session)
12:30pm - 1:30pm (2nd Session)
2pm – 3pm (3rd Session)
3:30pm – 4:30pm (4th Session)
5pm – 6pm (5th Session)
6:30pm – 7:30pm (6th Session)
8pm – 9pm (7th Session)

Entry fee:

INR 450 per person adult
INR 250 per person child
INR 300 per person college student (above 10th class)
INR 250 per person school student (up to 10th class)

Photography: Only cameras allowed

14) Biggest Baobab - The Cave of 40 Thieves

Not too far from the Golconda Fort is Hyderabad’s biggest possible tree of Baobab. The centuries old Hatiyaan tree stands right opposite the Mulla Khiyali Mosque in the less frequented vicinity of Naya Quila.

Belonging to the African Baobab family, the tree gets its name from its enormous girth and also the branches that look like elephant trunks. The hollow of this mesmerizing tree can easily accommodate over 20 people. An interesting venue to listen to several legends from locals, Haatiyon ka jhad as it’s popularly known is believed to have been the hideout for Ali Baba’s 40 thieves.

Timings: 9am – 5pm, every day

Entry fee: NA

Photography: Allowed

Places to visit in one day (Within 200 Kms from Hyderabad):

15) Nalgonda

Image Source: Rajib Ghosh - Flickr

As old as the Palaeolithic Age, this ancient city is one of the places to visit in Hyderabad within one day because of its historic existence through the early period of human existence.

Attractions:

Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, a famous dam in South India with 26 gates and a hydroelectric plant. The place also hosts waterfalls called Ethipothala, a 70ft high river cascade created by a combination of three streams and Gowthama Buddha Museum.

Bhuvanangiri Fort, built on an isolated rock by Tribhuvanamalla Vikramaditya VI, it is known for its citadel on the top of the hill as it gives a bird's eye view of the neighbouring area.

Other attractions include the over 2,000 years old Jain Shrine at Kolanupaka village dedicated to the 21 theerthankaras and Yadagiri Gutta, the most devotional place in Nalgonda.

Activities: Sightseeing

Distance: 83km

Best time to visit: February

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, historic, pilgrimage, trekking.

16) Mahabubnagar

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An ancient city with traces in the Old and New Stone Ages, Mahabubnagar is a place for any history lover. Also known as Palamooru and the land of the Chola Dynasty, this is one of the places to visit near Hyderabad within 100 kms.

Attractions:

Popular for its innumerable diamond mines, which is believed to be the source of the famous Kohinoor diamond, Mahabubnagar has pre-historic sites co-existing alongside as well. This place also has a host of historical attractions such as Jama Masjid, Medina Masjid, Mecca Masjid and Umamaheshwaram. A 700yr old Pillalamarri great Banyan Tree adds to its attraction.

Activities: Sightseeing

Distance: 134km

Best time to visit: February and December

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, historic, pilgrimage.

17) Warangal, Telagana

Image Source: Subash BGK - Flickr

Once the capital city of the Kakatiya Dynasty, Warangal has earned the credit of being one of the places to visit near Hyderabad within 100kms because of its beautiful lakes, heritage sites, rich flora and fauna. Known as Oruguallu due to the huge boulder hillock in the region, it offers one too many attractions for tourists.

Attractions:

Some of the major attractions include the Thousand Pillars Temple and the Ramappa Temple dating to the 12th Century, Warangal Fort – one of the architectural wonders of the bygone era, Ghanpur group of temples – a set of 22 temples that are an architectural museum even to this day.

Image Source: Subash BGK - Flickr

The several surrounding lakes such as Ramappa Lake, Pakhal Lake, and Lakhnavaram Lake make Warangal a soothing destination just outside of Hyderabad for a day’s outing. With growing popularity as a tourist destination, some recent attractions include Musical Garden, Rock Garden, Regional Science Centre, Van Vigyan Kendra, and Etunagaram Wild Life Sanctuary.

Activities: Sightseeing and boating

Distance: 144km

Best time to visit: October – March

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking and historic

18) Bidar, Karnataka

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A city located in the neighbouring state of Karnataka, Bidar is easily accessible from Hyderabad while planning a day’s trip. With rich shades in history, art and culture, Bidar has seen many a great dynasties rule over this Deccan region.

Attractions:

Bidar is famous for its historical monuments and sites belonging to different periods of history. With an inter-mix of Hindu, Turkish and Persian artisanship, tourist attractions here have some unique design and decorative patterns in India.

Places to visit include the distinctly well-planned Bidar Fort, one of the most formidable forts in India built on the brink of the Deccan plateau under watchful supervision of engineers using architecture of various countries. You can visit Papnas Temple, an ancient Shiva Temple popular for its natural spring and a small tank dating back to probably the Ramayana era. Other attractions include Basavankalyan, Diwan-I-Am, Gumbaz Darwaza andBaridi Tombs.

Activities: Sightseeing

Distance: 147km

Best time to visit: October – March

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, historic and pilgrimage.

19) Karimnagar

Image Source: Yadagiri Jangam - Flickr

Set up centuries ago, Karimnagar was once the strong foothold of the Kakatiyas and later dominated by the Nizams, which explains the distinct impressions on the culture and food habits of locals even today.

Attractions:

Some of the popular monuments in Karimnagar include Tower Circle and the Kaman Circles. Elgandal Fort built on the banks of Manair River, surrounded by palm groves is historically rich because it was ruled by 5 important Deccan dynasties through its lifetime.

Activities: Sightseeing

Distance: 164km

Best time to visit: November – February

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking and historic.

[Dont miss out the best places in mumbai]

20) Nagarjunasagar

Image Source: Subash BGK - Flickr

A prominent Buddhist spot in Andhra Pradesh, Nagarjunasagar is also the birthplace of one of the earliest river valley civilizations. Enthused by the peaceful environs of this place, Buddhists made this land a great hub of learning, setting up one of the four major Viharas here.

Attractions:

Nagarujnasagar is most known for being the site for one of India’s earliest hydro-electric projects – the Nagarjunasagar Dam. Surrounding the dam is the world’s third largest man-made lakes, Nagarjunasagar. However most popular in this region are the excavations of Buddhist civilization, monasteries, and Anupu – a Buddhist site.

Image Source: Subash BGK - Flickr

The lagoon formed by the Ethipotala river cascade completes the tourist endeavour as one of the places to visit in Hyderabad within one day.

Activities: Sight-seeing

Distance: 165km

Best time to visit: October – March

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, historic, pilgrimage.

Places to visit near Hyderabad in two days (within 200 - 300 Kms):

21) Srisailam

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One of the holiest of Shiva shrines in the world, the kshetram (temple) is located atop a flat hill by name Srisailam. Situated in the dense forests of Nallamalla ranges in Kurnool, the temple makes an appearance even in Sage Vyasa’s quotes in the puranas.

The River Krishna flows to the right of the temple, which is also one of twelve Jyothirlingas in India. Engulfed in several mythological stories, the archanas and abhishekams of this shrine receive the highest revered status among Hindus.

Attractions:

Besides the main sanctum, Srisailam has several places of interests in its vicinity adding to its attraction as places to near Hyderabad in two days. Vrudhamallikarjuna Swamy Temple has a lingam said to be older than the present Mallikarjuna Swamy Lingam. There is no Nandi in front of it.

Image Source: harikrish.h - Flickr

Lingas incarnated by Pandavas are interpreted as five temples are situated besides Arthanaareseswara temple. Tri fruit tree or Triphala Uruksham a sacred wish-fulfilling tree also rests around the temple’s premises.

Activities: Religious visits

Distance: 213km

Best time to visit: October - February

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, historic, pilgrimage.

22) Kurnool

Image Source: Iqbal Mohammed - Flickr

A laid-back town with many ancient monuments, temples, and palaces,Kurnool is a hidden gem. Striking a chord with lovers of history, the place can be enjoyed exploring the ancient architecture and historical monuments. Ruins of a mediaeval fort constructed during the reign of Vijayanagar Empire, the Arabic and Persian inscriptions on them, and access to several tourist locations in the neighbouring areas makes it an ideal vacation spot.

Attractions:

Belum Caves, running a length of 3,229m are naturally formed due to constant flow of underground water. The second longest caves in India, these are popular for their stalactite and stalagmite formations, long passages, fresh water galleries, siphons and spacious chambers.

Image Source: Mahesh Telkar - Flickr

Mantralayam, a town popular for the Samadhi of Saint Raghavendra Teertha bears religious sentiments for Hindus. Located on the banks of River Tungabhadra River, it is a destination for devotees of Lord Vishnu.

Activities: Sightseeing

Distance: 213km

Best time to visit: October - February

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, historic and pilgrimage.

23) Gulbarga

Image Source: Kalyan Neelamraju - Flickr

Gulburga, the fourth biggest city in Karnataka was once a part of Hyderabad during the rule of the Nizams. Situated entirely on the Deccan Plateau, this city has undoubtedly witnessed the formation of Hyderabad. With a rich and glorious historic past dating back to the 6th century, it was also the capital of the Bahmani kingdom.

The River Krishna and River Bhima that flow through the city creating a unique feel, which further enhances Gulbarga’s charm as a major tourist attraction.

Attractions:

Bahmani Fort rebuilt by Allah-ud-din Bahmani of the ruling dynasty is has 15 majestic towers, a huge mosque built in 1367 and covers 38,000sft area. Khwaja Bande Nawaz Dargah tomb of the sacred Sufi saint Khwaja Syed Mohammad Gesu Daraz, is constructed in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture.

Image Source: Amit Rawat - Flickr

The influence of Bahmani, Turkish, and Iranian architecture is evident in its domes, arches and walls. The dargah’s library has a collection of around 10,000 books in different languages including Persian, Urdu and Arabic.

Activities: Sightseeing

Distance: 231km

Best time to visit: October - March

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking and historic.

24) Guntur

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A silent district in Andhra Pradesh, Guntur is perhaps the most under-rated places to visit near Hyderabad in two days. On a quick weekend getaway to Guntur tourists can experience elements of nature such as the sea, waterfalls, and caves, alongside experiencing a slice of history through ruins, and museums.

Attractions:

Suryalanka Beach (50km) overlooking the crystal blue waters of the Bay of Bengal is known for its natural beauty with a wide and spacious stretch of sand. Guthikonda Caves (38km) set amidst thick forest are magnificent natural beauties believed to be homes of prehistoric humans. The charm of these ancient caves also lies in the fact that maharishis and saints meditated in the caves.

Image Source: PraveenaSridhar - Flickr

Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary (5km) is home to around 40 species of migratory birds like the Siberian pelicans and white ibis, Australian painted storks, spotted pelicans and other birds.

Kondaveedu Fort (25km) spread across 30 hillocks, built by prominent rulers of the Reddy Dynasty was considered as impregnable with 24 bastions. The fort offers around 21 stupas, many temples, residential structures, pillared halls, and a beautiful entrance gateway. The hilltop offers mind-blowing panoramic views and is ideal for trekking.

Activities: Visit to the beach, trekking, bird-watching and sightseeing.

Distance: 267km

Best time to visit: October - March

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, historic, beach and trekking.

25) Mantralayam

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Popular among the local communities who are worshippers of the holy Saint Raghavendra Swami, Mantralayam holds a special position among Hindus because of Vrindavana. Easily accessible by road and train, the sacred town resides on the banks of River Tungabhadra and is also referred to as Manchale.

Attractions:

Besides several temples and shrines surrounding Mantralayam, some popular attractions include Panchamukhi Anjaneya Swamy Temple (23km) is located atop rocky terrain. The deity, Lord Hanuman having five heads is believed to be self- created and was worshipped by Sri Raghavendra Swami himself. Navabrindavan (175km) is an island in between two branches of River Tungabhadra, between the districts of Koppal and Bellary.

A popular destination for the ardent followers and disciples of Sri Raghavendra Swami, the location is known for the tombs of the nine prominent Madhawa saints or ‘Jeeva Brindavanas’.

Activities: Religious sightseeing, temple visits

Distance: 275km

Best time to visit: October - March

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, pilgrimage.

Places to visit near Hyderabad in three or more days (within 300 - 600 Kms):

26) Adilabad

Image Source: Rajib Ghosh - Flickr

Adilabad is best described as an ideal getaway from Hyderabad because of its natural surroundings. The place is filled with picturesque, soul captivating landscapes that create an adventurous rendezvous with nature. The place also throws the challenges of nature including various trekking spots.

A few of the major attractions include Kuntala Waterfalls - the highest cascade in Telangana situated amidst the Sahyadri ranges, Kawala Wildlife Sanctuary, which offers the perfect habitat for a variety of flora and fauna, Pochera Waterfalls created by the River Godavari, which is set amidst spectacular landscape of dense thickets, and many such.

Distance from Hyderabad: 303km

27) Belum Caves

Image Source: harikrish.h - Flickr

The second longest cave in India, Belum Caves (3.5km) are in Kurnool district. The major attraction of this natural cave is its interior chambers, which has a lot of stalactites and stalagmites. Of the many chambers, Saptasvarala Guha or Musical chamber is delightful where the limestone formations make metallic sounds.

The deepest point in the cave is called Pathalaganga where a perennial stream is found keeps the temperature inside cool. Slender and tapered passages require crawling to witness the wonderment. Belum Caves are among the must see tourist places near Hyderabad in two or more days.

Distance from Hyderabad: 319km

28) Hampi

Image Source: Vinoth Chandar - Flickr

A world popular tourist destination, Hampi was once a dream city built in stone. Surrounded by rocky boulders and banana plantations, this erstwhile capital of the Vijayanagar Empire in the neighbouring state of Karnataka attracts tourists with its magnificent ruins.

Every rock, every step in this World Heritage Site has a tale to tell. Local sites in Hampi include the famous Virupaksha Temple that rises majestically in the heart of the city, Vithala Temple Complex most known for its Stone Chariot cut from a single block of stone, Hazara Ramaswami Temple, Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables, Queen’s Bath, Narasimha Temple, Sasavekaalu and Kadalakaalu Ganesh Temples.

Distance from Hyderabad: 377km

29) Machilipatnam

Image Source: Jagadeesh SJ - Flickr

An ancient town Machilipatnam has traces of existence dating back to 3rd century. The British curated Machilipatnam as their first trading port on the Bay of Bengal coast. The place offers a mix bag of attractions including several places of worship such as the Pandurangaswamy Temple, Dattashram besides multiple local community churches.

Manginapudi beach is a popular tourist destination located with beachside fishing village. The Manginapudi Beach features a natural bay containing shallow water and a distinct black soil outlines the beach. The beach is famous for the Maghapoornami festival.

Distance from Hyderabad: 384km

30) Pattadakal

Image Source: Amit Rawat - Flickr

Of the places to visit near Hyderabad in three or more days, Pattadakal in Karnataka is famous for its rich architectural heritage. An important town during the Chalukyan rule, Pattadakal is presently known for its showcases like the Virupaksha Temple, built in Dravidian architectural style with 18 pillars that have carvings dedicated to each of the puranas.

Modelled on the beautiful Kashi Kailasanatha Temple, this is the most beautiful sanctum in the region. Mallikarjuna Temple, Sangameshwara Temple, Kashivishweshwaraya Temple and the Jain Temple are the other draws.

Distance from Hyderabad: 398km

31) Rajahmundry

Image Source: Venkataramesh Kommoju - Flickr

Rajahmundry holds the distinction of being the cultural capital of Andhra Pradesh and also claims to be the birthplace of the Telugu language. Located on the widest point of the River Godavari, the history of Rajahmundry dates back to earlier than the 12th century.

Rajahmundry offers a few exciting avenues for tourists like Dindi (80km) is a tranquil and panoramic village oozing charm and splendor with its virgin backwaters, serene palm-fringed canals, lakes, lagoons and rivulets. Backwater cruises along quaint villages offer a picturesque getaway. ISKCON Temple, Markandeya Temple, and Kothilingeshwara Temple easily make into the list of places to visit.

Distance from Hyderabad: 399km

32) Badami

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Situated at the mouth of the beautiful River Krishna, Badami, once the capital of Chalukyas has a decorative bordering of enchanting sandstone hills. Making it to the chart of tourist places near Hyderabad in two or more days, Badami is known for its set of four cave temples carved from soft sandstone.

The temples dedicated to Hindu Gods and Jain saints, represent the secular nature of the past rulers. For the benefit of history loving tourists, the place also has an extensive museum and Badami Fort perched atop a hill is known for its underground chambers and huge granary.

Distance from Hyderabad: 418km

33) Maredumilli and Rampachodavaram

Image Source: ChanduBandi - Flickr

Maredumili, a quaint hill town is one of the best spots for nature lovers. For those interested in experiencing tribal lifestyle in the most authentic of ambience, the hills around Maredumili are inside deep jungles. With picturesque locales formed by rivers and seasonal waterfalls, this is a popular trekking and camping destination.

The Rampochodavaram Falls near a village of the same name close to Rajahmundry is the only coastal falls in Andhra. Drive through dense forest for an exhilarating experience to notice a 50ft high fall cascade formed by River Godavari cascade down the Eastern Ghat ranges.

Distance from Hyderabad: 430km & 451km

34) Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Chandrapur

Image Source: Shaunak Modi - Flickr

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve in Chadrapur is often referred as the Jewel of Vidharba. It is recommended as one of the places to visit near Hyderabad in three or more days for its enviable collection of rich flora and fauna. This includes species such as tigers, panthers, sloth bears, cheetal, sambhar, neel gai and baison.

Located deep in the heartland of a forest reserve, the reserve is an infinite treasure, which derives its name from "Taru" the local deity and the Andhari river that meanders through the forest.

Distance from Hyderabad: 431km

35) Horsley Hills

Image Source: Ram Prasad - Flickr

Horsley Hills a quaint hill town in Chittoor gives relief to city dwellers with its pristine surroundings, panoramic views, crisp mountain air, and perfect green landscape. Popular as Andhra’s Ooty, they are part of the Eastern Ghats with hills that are geological (one of the oldest in the world).

The area is a treasure trove of wildlife and rich flora with some of choicest of species being found here. With a historic representation as well, Horsley Hills gives tourist an experience of walking in the clouds.

Distance from Hyderabad: 528km

36) Visakhapatnam

Image Source: Thejaswi Puthraya - Flickr

Visakhapatnam, a port city in Andhra Pradesh often referred as the Jewel of the East Coast has a beautiful coastal landscape with some of the finest beaches in South India. Nestled between the Eastern Ghats while overlooking the Bay of Bengal, Vizag is a cool tourist destination for it offers beaches, lakes, hills, valleys, caves, and a peaceful way of life. The broad walkway along Ramakrishna Beach is a popular hangout spot. And Rushikonda is the best beach in Andhra.

Distance from Hyderabad: 588km

37) Dandeli

Image Source: Ankur P - Flickr

An ideal destination for any nature lover, Dandeli located in North Karnataka is a place with rich deciduous forests along the Western Ghats. This small yet fairly modern town situated on the River Kali gives an incomparable mix of scenic beauty.

It is renowned for its Tiger Reserve, rare species of birds and innumerable plants and trees. Dandeli’s deep valleys hill ranges are a great terrain for camping, trekking, nature walks, bird watching and jungle safaris. River Kali has one of the best rapids in the world for enthusiasts of white water rafting.

Distance from Hyderabad: 597km

38) Lonavala

Image Source: Nilanjan Sasmal - Flickr

Barely 100km away from megapolis Mumbai, the hill station of Lonavala is a humble destination to take break from hectic schedule. The beautifully landscaped Lonavala and its twin Khandala are famous for the sweet chikki. Around the hill towns are several hot spots such as Karla and Bhaja Caves, Bhushi Dam, Valvan Dam, Kaivalyadhama Yoga Hospital, Duke’s Nose, Ryewood Park and Tiger’s Leap.

Distance from Hyderabad: 623km

39) Goa

Image Source: Ram Joshi - Flickr

Once a Portuguese outpost in India, Goa is a gorgeous piece of coastal India on the Arabian Sea. Known world over as one of the best beach destinations for its swaying palm fringes, clear seawaters, lustrous beach line, and laidback lifestyle with delicious seafood, Goa does invite every tourist with welcoming arms. Moving away from the sea, the place also offers wildlife, trekking trails, and other scenic and adventurous options.

Distance from Hyderabad: 660km

40) Pench National Park

Image Source: Tarique Sani - Flickr

Pench National Park in Madhya Pradesh nestles amidst the Satpuda ranges and is located on the banks of River Pench giving the park its name. A tiger reserve, the Pench National Park and its neighbourhood is the original setting of Rudyard Kipling's most famous work, The Jungle Book. The landscape is dominated by fairly open canopy, mixed forest, and thick shrubs that support a mosaic of vegetation.

Distance from Hyderbad: 662km

By Abhishek Last updated Aug 14,2015