Less than 300 km drive from Hyderabad: 7 lesser-known destinations for an extended Good Friday weekend, offering off-beat experience

Hectic workdays certainly take a toll on your well-being, leaving you exhausted. Especially in metro cities like Hyderabad, long hours are often compounded by an endless stretch of traffic, over-crowded public transport, noise pollution, and extended commute times. Amid the busy schedule, sometimes you might feel an urge to escape: shutting down your laptop, packing your bags and setting forth on a vacation to refresh your mind and set free your soul. Well, if this sounds relatable, then you must make the most out of the Good Friday weekend on April 3.

Say goodbye to the Hyderabad hustle, stepping out of the bustling city life and spending some time amid nature. From verdant hills to majestic forests and peaceful spots, there’s no dearth of places around the City of Pearls where you can unwind, explore and click Insta-worthy photos. To help you out, here are 5 offbeat destinations, roughly 300 kms from Hyderabad, waiting for you to be discovered.

Belum Caves (320 km)

Experience the magic of the cool and damp Belum Caves, one of the longest cave systems in India. This 3 and a half kilometres of winding passages will take you through dramatic stalactite and stalagmite formations, and naturally sculpted chambers. This underground mode of commute was common in earlier times. You can even witness the dramatic ridges and patterns created on the rugged surfaces by limestone deposits.

Nelakondapalli (210 km)

For history buffs, Nelakondapalli is the place to be, renowned for its ancient Buddhist heritage. The site houses a massive stupa, fascinating relics and excavated ruins, dating back centuries. Stop by the local museum to understand more about the region’s rich cultural and archaeological landscape, while you soak in the beauty of the carefully preserved sculptures and artefacts

Mallaram Forest (150 km)

This hidden green space features dense forests perfect for those seeking solitude. Encircled by rocky hills and vast vegetation, Mallaram Forest is a haven for hikers, both experienced and amateur, filled with short treks and nature walks. The highlight is the serene Mallaram reservoir, where you can witness the tranquil views for a quick digital detox.

Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary (115 km)

Are you an animal lover? If yes, then what’s stopping you from visiting the calm and peaceful Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary? Nestled amid the scenic hill ranges, the forest offers tourists a thrilling trekking route, passing through the emerald-green trees. If you are lucky, you can spot the cheetah and panthers. Other common sightings include nilgai, sloth bear, reptiles and different species of birds.

Ananthagiri Hills (80 km)

This hill spot is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque destinations. You will be instantly greeted with sweeping vistas of lush greenery after reaching the top, accompanied by the melodious chirp of birds. Adventure-seekers can enjoy exploring two trekking trails and are free to camp under the stars at night as well. You can also visit the ancient Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple.

Kuntala Falls (270 km)

Tucked away in the dense forests of Adilabad, Kuntala Falls is the highest waterfall in Telangana and a sight that feels almost cinematic. Cascading from a height of around 200 feet, the water crashes into a rocky pool below, creating a misty spectacle that’s both powerful and calming. A short trek down a flight of steps leads you to the base, where you can soak in the raw beauty of nature. It’s an ideal spot for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone craving a dramatic backdrop without the usual crowds

Bhongir Fort (50 km)

Perched atop a massive monolithic rock, Bhongir Fort looks like something straight out of a legend. Built in the 10th century, the fort rewards visitors with a moderately challenging climb and panoramic views that stretch endlessly across the landscape. The pathway winds through ancient gateways, broken walls, and whispering remnants of history. It’s a perfect quick getaway for those who want a mix of adventure and heritage without venturing too far from Hyderabad.