Three days off and zero plans yet? Sounds like the perfect recipe for a spontaneous escape. This Independence Day long weekend, ditch the group chats that never go beyond emojis and excuses. Instead, pack your bag and actually go somewhere. And if you are in Hyderabad, you are surrounded by places practically calling your name. Hill stations with misty mornings, forts with dramatic backstories, waterfalls that roar louder than your alarm clock, and beaches where even your phone might take a nap.
Whether you are travelling with your cousins, your kids, or just your playlist and a packed bag, we have rounded up five destinations that are close, cool, and totally worth the drive. So scroll on, pick your vibe, and let the long weekend begin.
Also Read: Where Indians Are Travelling On The Independence Day Long Weekend: Data Reveals Top Picks
1. Ananthagiri Hills - Mist, Monsoon, And Morning Treks
- Distance from Hyderabad: Approx. 80 km
- How to go: 2-hour drive via Vikarabad Road; also accessible by train to Vikarabad
- Why to go: Lush greenery, beginner-friendly trekking trails, and a peaceful hill station vibe
Nestled in the Vikarabad district, Ananthagiri Hills is one of the closest hill stations to Hyderabad. The area is known for its coffee plantations, dense forests, and the serene Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple.
Trekking trails here are ideal for beginners and offer stunning views. Whether you are up for a morning hike or just want to relax with a picnic, Ananthagiri is a refreshing break. "People come here to breathe," said a local trek guide. "The forest has its own rhythm."
Plan Your Trip:
- Best time: July to September
- Budget: Rs. 1500-Rs. 3000 per person (day trip)
- Must-carry: Trek shoes, raincoat, snacks, camera
Also Read: 10 Hidden Gems Across India for Your Independence Day Long Weekend
Representative Image
2. Bidar - Forts, Tombs, And Forgotten Stories
- Distance from Hyderabad: Approx. 145 km
- How to go: 3.5-hour drive via NH65; regular buses available
- Why to go: Forts, tombs, and a rich blend of Deccan history
Located in Karnataka, Bidar is a treasure trove of medieval architecture and cultural heritage. Once a flourishing city under the Bahmani Sultanate, Bidar is home to stunning monuments like the Bidar Fort, Rangeen Mahal, and Mahmud Gawan Madrasa.
The city also has spiritual significance with sites like Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib. It is ideal for a day trip or an overnight stay if you want to soak in the history.
Plan Your Trip:
- Best time: August to February
- Budget: Rs. 2000-Rs. 4000 per person
- Must-carry: Comfortable walking shoes, water bottle, umbrella
3. Suryalanka Beach - Waves, Walks, And Weekend Calm
- Distance from Hyderabad: Approx. 330 km
- How to go: 6-hour drive via NH65; nearest railway station is Bapatla
- Why to go: Clean beach, peaceful vibe, and perfect for a coastal escape
If you are craving the sea, Suryalanka Beach near Bapatla in Andhra Pradesh is your answer. It is one of the cleanest and most serene beaches near Hyderabad. The coastline is gentle, making it safe for families and ideal for long walks, beach games, or just watching the sunset.
There are resorts and guesthouses nearby, so you can make it a relaxed overnight trip. It is a great alternative to crowded beach destinations. Imagine your toddler giggling as waves lap their feet, while you sip coconut water under a cloudy sky. Sounds perfect, right?
Plan Your Trip:
- Best time: August to November
- Budget: Rs. 3000-Rs. 6000 per person (overnight)
- Must-carry: Beachwear, sunscreen, mosquito repellent
Also Read: Planning Weekend Getaway In A Budget Of INR 15,000? Head To These Places Near Delhi
Photo Credit: Unsplash (Representative Image)
4. Mallela Theertham - A Hidden Waterfall In The Forest
- Distance from Hyderabad: Approx. 185 km
- How to go: 4.5-hour drive via NH765 towards Srisailam
- Why to go: Hidden waterfall, forest setting, and peaceful retreat
Tucked away in the Nallamala Forest, Mallela Theertham is a lesser-known waterfall that offers a tranquil escape. The walk down to the falls is scenic, and the sound of water crashing into the rocks is therapeutic.
It is best visited early in the morning or during monsoon months when the waterfall is in full flow. Carry snacks, water, and wear comfortable shoes as it is a bit of a trek but worth every step.
Plan Your Trip:
- Best time: July to September
- Budget: Rs. 1500-Rs. 2500 per person
- Must-carry: Trek shoes, water bottle, dry snacks
Representative Image
5. Warangal - Temples, Lakes, And Kakatiya Grandeur
- Distance from Hyderabad: Approx. 150 km
- How to go: 3-hour drive via NH163; regular trains and buses available
- Why to go: Kakatiya architecture, forts, and lakes
Warangal beautifully blends history with natural beauty. The Warangal Fort, Thousand Pillar Temple, and Bhadrakali Lake are must-visits. The city was once the capital of the Kakatiya dynasty and still retains its grandeur.
It is a great destination for families, photographers, and anyone interested in ancient architecture. The roads are smooth, and the city has good food options too. And yes, do not miss the local mirchi bajji and gongura chutney at roadside stalls near Bhadrakali Lake.
Plan Your Trip:
- Best time: August to January
- Budget: Rs. 2000-Rs. 4000 per person
- Must-carry: Sunglasses, hat, camera, local snacks
Photo Credit: incredibleindia.gov.in
Also Read: 5 Must-Visit Destinations In India Before You Turn 30
Planning a quick escape from city life? You are in good company - these are the questions everyone near Hyderabad seems to be Googling right now.
Q. What are the best places to visit near Hyderabad for a short trip?
Ananthagiri Hills, Bidar, Warangal, Suryalanka Beach, and Mallela Theertham are ideal for weekend getaways. They offer a mix of nature, history, and relaxation, and all within a few hours' drive.
Q. Can I visit a beach near Hyderabad during the long weekend?
Yes, Suryalanka Beach is the closest and most accessible beach from Hyderabad. It is clean, peaceful, and perfect for a coastal escape.
Q. Is it safe to travel to waterfalls during monsoon?
Yes, but check local advisories and avoid slippery trails. Mallela Theertham is best visited with proper footwear and caution, especially during peak monsoon.
Q. Are there heritage destinations near Hyderabad?
Bidar and Warangal are rich in history and architecture, perfect for cultural exploration and photography.
Q. What is the best hill station near Hyderabad for a weekend trip?
Ananthagiri Hills is the most popular and closest hill station to Hyderabad. It is ideal for trekking, forest walks, and misty monsoon mornings.
Q. Which places to visit near Hyderabad for weekend within 100 km?
If you are planning a short weekend escape within 100 km of Hyderabad, there are several scenic and family-friendly spots worth exploring:
- Shri Kotla Vijaybhaskar Reddy Botanical Garden in Kondapur offers peaceful walking trails and wildlife sightings, perfect for nature lovers.
- Gandipet Landscape Park and Osman Sagar View Point near Gandipet are ideal for lakeside picnics and sunset views.
- For a serene walk and birdwatching, head to Lotus Pond in Film Nagar.
- If you are travelling with kids, Deer Park near Nehru Zoological Park is a quiet spot to spot wildlife.
- For something more offbeat, check out Mushroom Rock and Khajaguda Lake Point in Gachibowli, which are great for photography and short hikes.
- Even Fox Sagar Lake in Jeedimetla offers a peaceful escape from the city buzz.
Q. Which is the beautiful village in Telangana?
Bhoodan Pochampally, located about 50 km from Hyderabad in Telangana's Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district, is a vibrant handloom village celebrated for its iconic Ikat weaving tradition. Often called the "Silk City of India," it is home to thousands of artisans who craft intricate textiles using a unique tie-and-dye technique that has earned global recognition, including a UNESCO heritage listing and a GI tag. Beyond its artistic legacy, Pochampally holds historical significance as the birthplace of Vinoba Bhave's Bhoodan movement. With its serene rural landscapes, weaving workshops, and rich cultural heritage, the village offers a meaningful and immersive escape for craft lovers and curious travellers alike.
Q. How can I go to Ooty from Hyderabad?
The most convenient way is to fly to Coimbatore and take a cab or bus to Ooty (approx. 3 hours). Alternatively, take a train to Mettupalayam and hop on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway for a scenic ride.
Q. How to reach Wayanad from Hyderabad?
Fly to Kozhikode (Calicut) and take a cab or bus to Wayanad (approx. 2.5 hours). You can also drive via NH44 and NH766 - expect a 14 to 15 hours journey.
Q. How do I go from Hyderabad to Pondicherry?
Fly to Chennai and take a cab or bus to Pondicherry (approx. 3 hours). Overnight trains and buses are also available from Hyderabad.
Q. How do I go from Hyderabad to Varkala?
Fly to Trivandrum and take a train or cab to Varkala (approx. 1.5 hours). You can also take a train from Hyderabad to Kollam and continue by road.
Also Read: 7 Hill Stations You Can Escape To From Noida For A Perfect Long Weekend
At A Glance: Quick Travel Tips For The Long Weekend
- Start early to avoid traffic and make the most of your day
- Book stays in advance, especially for beach or hill destinations
- Carry essentials like sunscreen, snacks, and a power bank
- Check weather updates, especially for outdoor spots
- Respect local customs, nature and leave no litter behind
Photo: iStock
Final Thoughts:
This Independence Day, let your weekend be more than just a break. Whether you are chasing waterfalls, walking through history, or simply watching waves crash on a quiet beach, these destinations offer the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. So, where are you heading this weekend? Tag your travel photos with us on Instagram and let your journey inspire others.
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