Hyderabad's surroundings are packed with history and nature, yet many residents never explore beyond the city. Here are six easy weekend escapes.
1. Ananthagiri Hills
Distance: about 80 km (about 2 hours) · Best for: a quick nature break
Forested hills near Vikarabad with viewpoints, coffee plantations, a temple and gentle treks. It is especially green during and after the monsoon.
2. Warangal
Distance: about 150 km (about 3 hours) · Best for: history and architecture
The old Kakatiya capital, with the Warangal Fort's famous stone gateways, the Thousand Pillar Temple and, a short drive away, the Ramappa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Add Laknavaram Lake and its hanging bridge for a full weekend.
3. Bidar
Distance: about 145 km (about 3 hours) · Best for: history lovers, photographers
A Bahmani-era city in Karnataka with an impressive fort, the Mahmud Gawan Madrasa, royal tombs and the craft of Bidriware metalwork.
4. Nagarjuna Sagar
Distance: about 165 km (about 3.5 hours) · Best for: families, engineering fans
One of the world's largest masonry dams, especially spectacular when the gates are open after heavy rain. Take a boat to Nagarjunakonda island to see Buddhist ruins and a museum.
5. Srisailam
Distance: about 215 km (about 5 hours) · Best for: pilgrims, forest drives
A major pilgrimage centre with the Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga temple, set amid the Nallamala forests and the Krishna river gorge. The forest road through the tiger reserve is usually closed to traffic at night, so plan to arrive before evening.
6. Pochampally
Distance: about 50 km (about 1.5 hours) · Best for: shopping, culture
A handloom village famous for its ikat weaving. Watch weavers at work and buy sarees and fabrics directly. It works well as a half-day trip.
Quick comparison
| Getaway | Approx. distance | Ideal trip | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ananthagiri Hills | 80 km | 1 day | Forests and views |
| Warangal | 150 km | 1 to 2 days | Kakatiya heritage |
| Bidar | 145 km | 1 to 2 days | Forts and tombs |
| Nagarjuna Sagar | 165 km | 1 to 2 days | Dam and Buddhist sites |
| Srisailam | 215 km | 2 days | Temple and forest |
| Pochampally | 50 km | Half day | Handloom village |
Tips
- October to February offers the most comfortable weather.
- Check dam water release news before visiting Nagarjuna Sagar for the best views.
- Carry water and snacks for forest routes where shops are scarce.
- Many heritage sites close by sunset, so start early.
Weekend Getaways: the full series
- Part 1: From Chennai
- Part 2: From Bengaluru
- Part 3: From Hyderabad (you are here)
- Part 4: From Mumbai and Pune
- Part 5: From Delhi
- Part 6: From Kolkata
- Part 7: From Kochi
- Part 8: From Coimbatore and Madurai
- Part 9: From Ahmedabad
- Part 10: How to Plan a Budget Weekend Trip
Travel times, distances and prices are approximate and can change with season, traffic and local rules. Check weather, road conditions, entry permits and timings before you travel.
