Hyderabad is the capital of Telangana. Hyderabad is home to mosques and bazaars. It is the city of pearls and biryani and has the most iconic Charminar. Between the old and new lie the prevalent city areas of Banjara Hills and Jubilee Hills, flanked on the northeast by Secunderabad. Hyderabad and Secunderabad are referred to as the "twin cities," though they are one now. Hyderabad throbs with a remarkable mix of traditions and people.
Distance from Hyderabad: 18 km
Best Season: Oct to May
Konaseema is a deltaic region in the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. Its possessions match those of the Kerala Backwaters, and so it is also called ‘God’s own Creation’. Lined with coconut groves, green paddy fields, fertile land and a cluster of fruit-laden mango trees, the area also has fisherfolk villages, which draw much tourist attention to the place. Aside from the artistic beauty, lush greenery and temples, it has a picturesque landscape.
Distance from Hyderabad: 107 km
Best Season: Oct-Mar
Nalgonda, a city in Telangana, is steeped in a rich history and correspondingly intriguing cultural heritage. The town also has imprints of Neolithic culture, with the discovery of sling stones and other objects. 'Nalla' and 'Konda' mean 'Black Hills'.
Today, Nalgonda presents a colourful blend of diverse cultures and traditions, reflecting the magnificent past of the city that quite a few Hindu and Muslim rulers once ruled. Earlier referred to as Neelagiri, Nalgonda is blessed with the footprints left behind by numerous kingdoms and dynasties.
Distance from Hyderabad: 147 km
Best Season: Oct - Feb
Bidar is a historic city in Karnataka that is rich in culture. Once the most prosperous city in South India, it has excellent architectural marvels and ancient structures that add to its appeal. Being ruled by many kingdoms, such as the Allauddin Khilji, Chalukyas, Tughluq, etc., has augmented the city, showcasing its monarchs' architectural legacy.
In addition to its historical significance, Bidar has a lot of flora and fauna along the rivers Godavari and Krishna. The presence of mosques, temples, and tombs also adores the city's spiritual aspect, making it prevalent among pilgrims.
Distance from Hyderabad: 148 km
Best Season: Sep to Mar
Warangal is the fifth largest city in Hyderabad. It was known as Oruguallu, Omtikonda, or Ekasilanagaram primarily because of a huge hillock that seemed to have been carved out entirely of one stone. With its attractive historical sites, Warangal takes you back to the epoch of kings and queens. Its natural beauty is no less striking, and the Parkhal Lake and wildlife sanctuaries are worth checking out. Warangal also has the NIT, which has made it a well-known student hub today.
Distance from Hyderabad: 164 km
Best Season: Oct-Mar
Nagarjunasagar is a man-made marvel in green surroundings. The town's most prevalent landmark is the world's tallest masonry dam, Nagarjunasagar Dam, built over the Krishna River.
The remnants of such great significance are preserved on Nagarjuna Konda, lying amongst the artificial lake. The town got its name from a Buddhist saint, Acharya Nagarjuna. Nature blesses Nagarjunasagar in full glory. Visit here to connect yourself with nature and numerous aspects of Buddhism.
Distance from Hyderabad: 167 km
Best Season: Oct-Mar
This place has an extraordinary influence on the Persian and Telegu cultures. Be it the attractive Lower Manair Dam, the Mallareddypet waterfalls, or the Nampally Gutta, Karimnagar has various charming venues and activities for its visitors. It is also well-known for its heritage sites, such as the Gandhi Centenary Museum.
Karimnagar is a destination for anybody looking to recall a bygone era. It also offers various sightseeing and other tourist activities that keep visitors engaged. Telugu and Persian influence the city's culture and traditions
Distance from Hyderabad: 213 km
Best Season: Nov to Mar
Srisailam, a hill town in Andhra Pradesh, has Malikarjuna Jyotirlinga and is also one of the 18 Shakti Peethas of goddess Parvati. Located on the Krishna River, Srisailam is also related to a wildlife sanctuary and a dam.
You could seek the blessings of Lord Shiva or the famous Bhramaramba Mallikarjunaswamy Temple, located around 457m from sea level. Near the Srisailam hills, the Nallamala forest ranges with diverse flora and fauna.
Distance from Hyderabad: 213 km
Best Season: Oct to Mar
Kurnool is one of the few examples of India’s rich history. Kurnool has the final remains of the palace of the last Hindu king. There are also ruins of a medieval fort of the Vijayanagar built in the 16th century, boasting ancient Arabic and Persian inscriptions.
Kurnool was the crossing line of the Tungabhadra River, from where caravans passed after greasing their tyres. Furthermore, in Kurnool, you can see the Belum Caves and the ancient Ketavaram rock paintings, among other things.
9. Vijaywada
Distance from Hyderabad: 273 km
Best Season: Jan-December
Vijayawada is Andhra Pradesh’s second-largest city. Covered by canals and hills, Vijayawada has numerous caves and rock-cut temples carved out of these caves.
Among the most prevalent places to visit in Vijayawada are the Victoria Museum, Bhavani Island, Rajiv Gandhi Park, Hazratbal Mosque, Kolleru Lake, etc. various temples and numerous caves. Besides this, the city mainly explores Kondapalli Fort, Undavalli Caves, and Mangalagiri Hill.
Distance from Hyderabad: 377 km
Best time to visit: Oct-Mar
Hampi is one of the most promising tourist destinations in Karnataka. It attracts adventure seekers, architecture fanatics, offbeat tourist lovers and devotees. The UNESCO World Heritage Site and Hampi ruins do not validate the adjective ‘ruined’ at all. Visit the temples or for the hikes, or indulge yourself in the delicious local cuisine. Hampi does justice to all your plans, no matter what you choose.
Distance from Hyderabad: 397 km
Best Season: Oct - Feb
Resting on the banks of the Malaprabha River, it has a legacy of the 4th century. Excavations have revealed that this was initially called Raktapura and was under Chalukyas.
The Hindu temples at Pattadakal blend the architecture of North and South. The Virupaksha Temple, built by the wife of Vikramaditya II, is one of the best examples of South Indian architecture. The dance festival held in January sheds light on Pattadakal's authentic culture and traditions.
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Distance From Hyderabad: 418 km
Best Season: Sept - Feb
Badami is an archaeological delight because of its attractively crafted sandstone cave temples, fortresses and carvings. Situated in the Bagalkot district in Karnataka, Badami is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that constitutes Aihole-Badami-Pattadakal and is the best example of traditional temple architecture. This place has instances of both North and South Indian architecture. Badami Caves has 3 Hindu Temples and 1 Jain Temple. Rock climbing is a prevalent activity for individuals looking for adventure, too.
Distance From Hyderabad: 446 km
Best Season: Sep- Feb
Known for the adobe of the legendary figure Sathya Sai Baba, Puttaparthi takes you back to the days of ashrams, with an equal effect of the present.
It is famous as a centre of religious wisdom. It provides contemporary approaches to religion, settlements, and urbanization, making it an exceptional village with urban facilities. The Sathya Sai Ashram, Space Theatre, and Anjaneya Swamy Temple are some of the places that should not be missed.
Distance From Hyderabad: 456 km
Best Season: Oct-Feb
Nellore is on the banks of the River Penna in Andhra Pradesh. It got its name from "Nelluru," a combo of words "Nel" and "Ooru," where Nel is Paddy and Ooru means Place.
It is the sixth most crowded city in Andhra Pradesh. Even though a large percentage of its population is rural and reliant on agriculture, the town is observing a surge in educational institutions and businesses, helping it attain a newfound stature. The city also has several significant temples attracting many devotees yearly.
Distance From Hyderabad: 468 km
Best Season: Jan-Dec
Draksharamam Temple is one of the prominent temples of Shiva in India. This place is perfect for a religious trip. The scenery is pleasant, and the journey to the temple is mesmerizing. The area is called 'Dakshin Kashi', which signifies its enormous religious importance. The temple, a fort, has many inscriptions and symbols carved on it.
Distance From Hyderabad: 477 km
Best Season: Oct-March
Lonar is famous for its natural heritage, including a crater formed over 50,000 years ago after a meteorite collided with the region's surface. Lonar is a mesmerizingly beautiful place famous for its crater, and the lake was formed by a meteorite that hit the earth around 52,000 years ago.
The area is also enclosed by flora and fauna, making it more beautiful. There is a Gomukh temple where snakes, foxes, mongooses, and deer. Daitya Sudan temple is famous for its architecture, which reminds me of the famous Khajuraho temples.
17. Lepakshi
Distance From Hyderabad: 480 km
Best Season: September to February
Located in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, Lepakshi has several fascinating archaeological sites, beautiful temples, and rich culture. It derives its name from Sanskrit, meaning 'rise o bird’. According to the Ramayana, Jatayu fell in Lepakshi after getting hurt by Ravana.
The famous Lepakshi Temple is known for its stunning architecture and hanging pillars. Apart from temples, Lepakshi's most outstanding feature is the most giant granite massive idol of Nandi Bull.
Distance From Hyderabad: 489 km
Best Season: Oct-March
Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh has the best of both cultures: old-world charm and cosmopolitan culture. It is a well-planned industrial hub where the urban lifestyle is handy with the development. From malls to clubs, the city has everything to keep you entertained. Some temples, churches, and mosques represent the rich cultural heritage. This place also offers several water activities for tourists.
Distance From Hyderabad: 499 km
Best Season: Oct-March
Usually associated with its orange varieties, Nagpur is the winter capital of Maharashtra. Temples, gardens, lakes, and the rich cultural heritage of this place enchant visitors. It is located in central India and has plateaus and flat tablelands with rivers and streams.
Nagpur is also called the 'Orange City' of India because of the juiciest orange varieties. Deekshabhumi, the major hollow Buddhist stupa, Ambazari Lake, Futala Lake, Bohra Masjid, Ramtek Fort Temple, and orange orchards are must-visit in Nagpur.
Distance From Hyderabad: 500 km
Best Season: Oct-March
Bandhavgarh National Park is renowned as a tiger reserve. It has the highest number of Bengal tigers worldwide, and recurrent sightings of tigers make this national park a favourite of wildlife enthusiasts. In 2012, about 44-49 tigers lived in the park. There are over 22 species of mammals and 250 species of avifauna.
This place got its name from the Bandhavgarh fort, located on 800 m-high cliffs. The fort is now in wrecks, but a long trek to it is worth it as it offers views of the environs. Jeep safaris are among the most prevalent actions taken by visitors.
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