Hyderabad, the capital city of Telangana, is a fascinating blend of rich history, modern amenities, and mouth-watering cuisine. While the city itself offers plenty of attractions, there are several amazing destinations located just a short distance away. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, cultural heritage, or adventurous activities, these 7 great places to visit near Hyderabad have something for everyone. Let’s explore them in detail.

Great Places to Visit Near Hyderabad

Hyderabad is not just an amazing city; it’s also surrounded by beautiful places perfect for a quick getaway. Just a short drive away, you can visit a huge film studio with fun rides and movie sets. There’s also a historic fort known for its impressive architecture and great views. For a family day out, a nearby zoo offers a chance to see lots of animals. A peaceful temple where many go to pray for their visas is another serene spot.

A lovely lake is perfect for picnics and nature walks, while nearby hills with coffee plantations and scenic views are ideal for nature lovers. A historic town with a grand fort old monuments, and a massive dam perfect for a day trip, are also worth visiting. All these places offer unique experiences and are close enough to Hyderabad for a convenient escape.

Ramoji Film City

Known as the world’s largest integrated film studio complex, Ramoji Film City is a movie lover’s paradise. It’s located about 25 kilometers from Hyderabad. This massive filming location is spread across 2,000 acres and features mind-boggling replicas of iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Taj Mahal, and even the airport from Steven Spielberg’s “Terminal.”

How to Reach: Take the Outer Ring Road towards Hayathnagar and follow the signs. It’s about a 45-minute drive from central Hyderabad.

Nearby Places: The Kotipalli Reservoir and Mrugavani National Park are located close by.

What to Do: Explore the various themed zones, watch live stunt shows, take a tour of the film sets, and enjoy shopping and dining at the on-site facilities.

Opening Times: Open daily from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. Entry fees range from ₹795 to ₹1,595 for adults.

Golconda Fort

This imposing fort, perched atop a granite hill, is one of Hyderabad’s most iconic landmarks. It dates back to the 13th century and was once the capital of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. The fort’s massive walls, intricate engineering, beautiful palaces, and stunning acoustic system showcase the brilliant architecture of the bygone era.

How to Reach: Situated about 11 km west of Hyderabad city center, it’s easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transport.

Nearby Places: The famous Qutb Shahi Tombs and the Banjara Hills neighborhood are located nearby.

What to Do: Explore the various sections of the fort, including the Fateh Darwaza, Ramadas Mosque, Clapping Portico, and Light and Sound show.

Opening Times: Open daily from 9 am to 5:30 pm. The entry fee is ₹15 for Indians and ₹300 for foreigners.

Nagarjuna Sagar

This picturesque location, about 150 km from Hyderabad, is centered around the massive Nagarjuna Sagar Dam and its beautiful reservoir. It’s a popular weekend getaway spot. The serene surroundings, lush greenery, and tranquil waters make it a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s also a great paradise for the adventure lovers.

How to Reach: You can reach Nagarjuna Sagar by taking the NH-765 or by taking a train to Nagarjuna Sagar railway station.

Nearby Places: The ancient Buddhist sites of Nagarjunakonda and Amaravati are located nearby.

What to Do: Enjoy boating, water sports, trekking, rock climbing, and camping. Visit the nearby archaeological sites and the Ethipothala Waterfalls.

Opening Times: The area is accessible throughout the day, but some activities may have specific timings.

Bidar

This historic city, located about 150 km from Hyderabad across the border in Karnataka, is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. Bidar boasts a wealth of well-preserved monuments, including the magnificent Bidar Fort, ornate Madrasa, and the unique Bahmani tombs, showcasing a fusion of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.

How to Reach: You can drive down to Bidar via the NH-65 or take a train to Bidar railway station.

Nearby Places: The ancient Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib Gurudwara and the Papanashi Shiva Temple are located nearby.

What to Do: Explore the various historical sites, witness the traditional Bidri handicraft art, and relish the local Bidar cuisine.

Opening Times: Most monuments are open from 6 am to 6 pm, with varying entry fees.

Ananthagiri Hills

These picturesque hills, about 60 km from Hyderabad, offer a refreshing escape into nature and are a popular trekking destination. The lush green hills, tranquil environment, and scenic viewpoints make for an ideal day trip or weekend getaway from the city.

How to Reach: Take the NH-65 towards Vikarabad, and then follow the signs to Ananthagiri Hills.

Nearby Places: The Dharmasagar Lake and the Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple are located nearby.

What to Do: Embark on a thrilling trek to the hilltop, enjoy picnicking and camping, and explore the nearby temple and lake.

Opening Times: The hills are open throughout the day, but it’s best to start the trek early in the morning.

Shilparamam

This unique cultural village, located within Hyderabad city limits, offers a fascinating glimpse into the diverse arts, crafts, and traditions of India. Shilparamam is a vibrant and colorful destination that showcases the rich heritage and artistic talents of various Indian states through exhibitions, performances, and workshops.

How to Reach: It’s located in Gachibowli, about 20 km from the city center, and is easily accessible by road.

Nearby Places: The Hitex Exhibition Center and the Gachibowli Stadium are located nearby.

What to Do: Explore the different state pavilions, watch live performances, attend workshops, and shop for authentic handicrafts and souvenirs.

Opening Times: Open daily from 11 am to 8 pm. The entry fee is ₹50 for adults and ₹25 for children.

Gandikota

This hidden gem, located about 300 km from Hyderabad in Andhra Pradesh, is a stunning canyon village with captivating natural beauty and historic significance. Gandikota’s unique geological formations, including the iconic Gorge Canyon and the Madhavaraya Temple, perched atop a hill, offer a visually stunning and awe-inspiring experience.

How to Reach: You can drive down to Gandikota via the NH-44, or take a train to Jammalamadugu railway station and then hire a cab.

Nearby Places: The Belum Caves, considered the second-largest cave system in India, are located nearby.

What to Do: Explore the Gorge Canyon, hike to the Madhavaraya Temple, witness the breathtaking sunsets, and visit the nearby Belum Caves.

Opening Times: The area is accessible throughout the day, but it’s best to visit during the morning or evening hours for better lighting conditions.

These 7 great places to visit near Hyderabad offer a diverse range of experiences, from natural wonders and historic sites to cultural immersion and adventure activities. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, these destinations provide the perfect escape from the city and create lasting memories.

FAQs: 

Q1. What is the best time to visit places near Hyderabad? 

Ans. The best time to visit places around Hyderabad is during the winter months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and cool.

Q2. What are the top places to visit near Hyderabad? 

Ans. Some of the best places to visit near Hyderabad include Ramoji Film City, Golconda Fort, Nagarjuna Sagar, Bidar, Ananthagiri Hills, Shilparamam, and Gandikota.

Q3. What adventure activities can one do near Hyderabad? 

Ans. Adventure activities near Hyderabad include trekking at Ananthagiri Hills, rock climbing and camping at Nagarjuna Sagar, and exploring the Belum Caves near Gandikota.

Q4. What is the approximate cost for a trip near Hyderabad? 

Ans. A 3-day trip to places around Hyderabad for one person can cost approximately ₹5,000 to ₹10,000, including travel, accommodation, food, and entry fees.

Q5. How can one spend 3 days visiting places near Hyderabad? 

Ans. Day 1: Visit Ramoji Film City and Golconda Fort. Day 2: Explore Nagarjuna Sagar and Ananthagiri Hills. Day 3: Take a day trip to Bidar or Gandikota.

Also Read:

7 Captivating Places to Visit in Hyderabad

 References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_tourist_attractions_in_Hyderabad

https://www.incredibleindia.org/content/incredible-india-v2/en.html

https://tourism.telangana.gov.in/home

Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for general purposes only. Please verify details before visiting, as conditions may change. We are not responsible for any inaccuracies.