The 5 Ultimate Weekend Getaways from Hyderabad

Muditha Ranaweera
2 days ago
5 min read

A woman sits on a red car at sunset, arms raised in joy during her ultimate weekend getaway from Hyderabad. With hills and greenery around, she travels smarter using the POOLit carpool app

Top Weekend Getaways from Hyderabad for Every Kind of Traveller

Hyderabad is a city alive with startups, long lines for biryani, biryani queues, and ambition. But despite the congested chai stalls, heavy traffic, and pressing deadlines, all Hyderabadis yearn for one thing: a break.

A weekend escape within 300 km of Hyderabad. And to add a cherry on top, POOLit makes it easier as you can save money, have a minimal impact on the environment, and not go crazy. All you need to do is pack your bag, set your OOO message, and hit the road. You might just leave your trip with more than just memories - it could be a future investor, mentor, or co-founder you met during the road trip.

If you're excited to see waterfalls, forests, hill stations, and serene lakes, here are the top weekend trips from Hyderabad you can take in 2025.

1. Ananthagiri Hills – Nearest Hill Station to Hyderabad

An image of Ananthagiri Hills - a bird flies over lush green fields and forests under cloudy skies, with a distant horizon. The mood is tranquil and expansive.

Distance: 80 kilometers.
Best time to visit: from October to March.
Ideal for: nature lovers, couples.
Stay Options: Haritha Resort, eco-stays in the forest.

Ananthagiri Hills, one of the city's closest hill retreats, is suitable for a relaxing day trip or weekend break. With woodland trails, coffee farms, and serene views, this is the type of spot where your mind can relax.

Highlights: coffee estates, Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, and lush trekking paths.

2. Nagarjuna Sagar – Where History Meets Nature

Image of Nagarjuna Sagar - three round wicker boats float near a calm lakeshore under a clear sky, with distant hills visible. Tranquil and serene setting.

Distance: 160 kilometers.
Best time to visit: July to January.
Ideal for: families, history aficionados.
Stay Options: Hotels and government-run accommodations.

Nagarjuna Sagar is more than just the dam; it is worth the journey on its own. It also has Buddhist relics, waterfalls, and boat trips that will take you back to the region's spiritual and natural roots.

Highlights: Ethipothala Falls, Nagarjunakonda Island Museum, and Buddhist remains.

3. Gandikota – The Grand Canyon of India

Image of Gandikota - a person sits on a rocky cliff overlooking a canyon river at sunset. Dramatic clouds and warm orange tones create a serene mood.

Distance: 280 kilometers.
Best time to visit: October to February.
Ideal for: adventurers and photographers.
Stay Options: Haritha Resort, tents, and campsites nearby.

The Pennar River has built a stunning gorge that is both breathtaking and underappreciated. Gandikota, dubbed the Grand Canyon of India, combines cliff views, riverbank camping, and old fort architecture in a single weekend adventure.

Highlights: canyon vistas, Gandikota Fort, kayaking, camping, and other attractions.

4. Kuntala Waterfalls – Telangana’s Tallest Waterfall

Image of Kuntala Waterfalls - a group of people stand near a large, cascading waterfall on rocky terrain under a cloudy blue sky. The scene feels adventurous and awe-inspiring.

Distance: 260 kilometers.
Best time to visit: July to December.
Ideal for: nature lovers and monsoon vacations.
Stay Options: Hotels in Nirmal or Adilabad.

Kuntala Waterfalls come alive during the monsoon season, cascading powerfully across the beautiful green terrain. This natural wonder may be reached via a woodland trek, making it a rewarding excursion for those who appreciate nature's raw beauty.

Highlights: Tall waterfall, Sahyadri forest walks, and tribal culture.

5. Laknavaram Lake – Lakeside Escape

Image of Laknavaram Lake - yellow suspension bridge over calm water, leading to trees and buildings. Bright daytime setting, with reflections in the river.

Distance: 230 kilometers.
Best time to visit: October to February.
Ideal for: couples and lone travelers.
Stay Options: Haritha Lake View Resort.

This hidden gem features tranquil waterways surrounded by forested hills. The famed suspension bridge across the lake is a favorite photo spot, and boating and sunset views enhance the relaxed atmosphere. Check the details and pre-book your visit.

Highlights: Boating, hanging bridge, and serene sunset views.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Weekend Getaway from Hyderabad

With a bit of planning, your trip can be smooth, enjoyable, and even more sustainable. A few tips that are highlighted below cater to making your outing as hassle-free as possible.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Check:

Don’t forget to check the weekend Hyderabad weather update just before leaving. This way, you’ll know what you need to bring when you go trekking or lakeside camping. From October to March 2025, expect pleasant weather at most of the hill stations and nature getaways in Telangana.

Modes of Transport and Driving Conditions:

Your chosen means of transport makes a significant difference during a road trip around Hyderabad.

Carpools With POOLIt: POOLit provides an innovative travel solution and is environmentally friendly. You can find verified professionals driving to your location, share travel expenses with them, reduce carbon emissions, and expand your professional network during the drive. This is an ideal solution to socialize while commuting for your weekend getaway from Hyderabad.

Self-Drive: The roads to popular places such as Ananthagiri Hills (via Vikarabad) and Nagarjuna Sagar are well-maintained. Expect longer drives (around 5-7 hours) for more distant destinations like Gandikota (280 km) or Kuntala Waterfalls (260 km). These routes may be narrower and bumpier nearer to the waterfall, particularly for the waterfall routes. Always check Google Maps for live traffic and road conditions.

Public Transport: State buses provide service to and from Hyderabad to major towns close to these places like Vikarabad for Ananthagiri, Adilabad for Kuntala, and Warangal for Laknavaram. From those towns, you may have to board local buses or taxis. This is an economical means of travel.

3. Budgeting For Your Weekend Trip To Hyderabad:

Your costs will vary significantly based on the specific activities, accommodation, and destinations you select.

Affordable Weekend Getaway: Consider Ananthagiri Hills or Kuntala Waterfalls. These have government resort or eco-stay accommodations, which makes them quite budget-friendly. Expect a cost of ₹2,500 - ₹5,000 per person for a 2-day trip including transport, basic meals, and accommodation.

Mid-Range to Luxury: Expect around ₹5,000 - ₹10,000+ per person for places like Gandikota, particularly with glamping stays, or private resorts by Laknavaram Lake.

4. Important Items to Pack for the Trip:

Hands pack a hat into a suitcase with clothes and a magazine on home decor. Colors: beige, blue, yellow. Items: woven bag, yellow top, getting ready for the weekend getaway from Hyderabad.

Documents and ID: Relevant documents and ID must be kept on cell phones.
Basic Medications: Covers milder injuries, sore muscles, allergies, as well as motion sickness.
Travel charger: Essential for charging electronic devices on the go, especially in remote locations.
Hydration: Drinking water from refillable bottles reduces plastic waste.
Sneakers and light luggage: Lightweight trekking shoes, paired with minimal luggage, facilitate easy hiking and climbing.
Nature lotions: Essential for skincare for outdoor nature trips.

5. Disconnect, Relax, and Explore:

Unplug, relax, and live in the moment. Taking photos and videos can be fun, but capturing memories isn't the same as documenting everything. Focus on the incredible views and embrace the soothing nature around you. This is what these wonderful trips from Hyderabad will offer you.

How POOLit Helps You Make the Most of Your Weekend Getaway

POOLit makes that journey smarter, smoother, and more meaningful. Whether you're going to Ananthagiri or Gandikota, you don't have to worry about pricey rentals, packed buses, or rude, impersonal taxi trips. You can find qualified professionals who are traveling in the same direction as you with POOLit.

POOLit connects you with verified professionals heading in the same direction as you are. You get an affordable, safer ride while making meaningful connections along the way. Your weekend becomes not just an escape, but an opportunity to learn, network, and build new bonds.

Here’s how POOLit adds value to your trip:

Save Time and Money: Reduce travel and fuel expenditures while eliminating the hassle of public transportation.

Eco-Friendly Travel: Carpooling helps promote sustainable tourism and lowers your carbon footprint.

Network on the Go: Ride alongside professionals you wish to get in touch with, such as coworkers, independent contractors, company founders, and more.

Safe and Verified: Your trip is not only effective but also safer because every rider has been verified.

Make Travel Social Again: POOLit makes sure your ride is more than simply a ride, from impromptu chats to potential business partnerships.

Final Thoughts - Your Hyderabad Adventure Awaits.

So, Hyderabad, are you ready to wear florals, turn up the music, and lose yourself in forest trails, canyon views, and waterfall treks?

Whether you're chasing sunsets at Laknavaram or sipping coffee in Ananthagiri, these destinations are just a few hours away. Share this guide with your weekend crew, and let POOLit help you turn your weekend into something truly unforgettable.