Regardless of if someone lives in a place with many tourist attractions, the charm fades away after a while, and people then start yearning for a getaway to an unknown place. Same is the case with those living in Hyderabad, for whom Charminar, Qutb Shahi Tombs and Hussain Sagar would be nothing new. The less-crowded places near Hyderabad we will tell you about in this blog are perfect for a post-lockdown vacation. With few people around, you can adhere to the social-distancing norms, while still having a good time. Keep reading:
1. Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary
If you like animals in their natural surroundings, then pack your bags and drive straight to Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary. Set around the eponymous lake, this protected territory is home to five species of deer. Apart from these ungulates, you might also be able to see Indian wolves, golden jackals, sloth bears, dholes, leopards, nilgai, freshwater turtles, crocodiles, spoonbills and storks. The best spot to see these animals is the lake itself, as the creatures come here regularly to drink.
- Distance from Hyderabad: 110 km
- Driving Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Things to Do: Birdwatching, photography, wildlife safaris, nature walks
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Timings: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
- Entry Fee: ₹300
2. Pakhal Lake
One of the prettiest lakes near Hyderabad, Pakhal Lake is a paradise for nature lovers. Not only is the lake beautiful on its own, with the blue water reflecting the green hills of the Eastern Ghats all around, but it is also a watering hole for various species of animals. It is located within Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to nilgai, sambars, leopards, sloth bears, chitals, chowsinghas, wild boars, chinkaras and blackbucks.
- Distance from Hyderabad: 200 km
- Driving Time: 5 hours
- Things to Do: Birdwatching, wildlife tours, nature walks
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
3. Laknavaram Lake
Locally called Laknavaram Cheruvu, Laknavaram Lake is a great place to take a reinvigorating holiday. Located amidst the Eastern Ghats, it is a perfect picnic spot near Hyderabad, owing to its green surroundings, calmness and lots of open spaces. There are three suspension bridges across the lake that connect the shore to the several individual islands within. During winters, the area around the lake attracts migratory birds, so get your cameras.
- Distance from Hyderabad: 210 km
- Driving Time: 5 hours
- Things to Do: Relaxing, nature walks, birdwatching
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
Here is our blog on the must-visit – Lakes in Hyderabad
4. Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary
Another among the numerous lesser-known places near Hyderabad, Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is a delight for wildlife enthusiasts. It was created to protect the iconic great Indian bustard, whose numbers have drastically dwindled in recent years. Apart from this bird, you can also see jackals, foxes, flamingos, cranes and geese here.
- Distance from Hyderabad: 255 km
- Driving Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
- Things to Do: Wildlife safari, nature walks, birdwatching, photography
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Timings: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm
5. Kuntala Waterfalls
Another among the less-crowded places near Hyderabad, Kuntala Waterfalls is an ideal spot for a refreshing picnic. The waterfall, located in the Eastern Ghats, drops from a height of around 185 feet. As per legends, the natural wonder is named after the wife of the mythical king Dushyant, Shakuntala. You could sit on the big boulders all around and enjoy a picnic or go for a little dip in the water.
- Distance from Hyderabad: 270 km
- Driving Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Things to Do: Relaxing, hiking, picnic, frolicking under waterfall
- Best Time to Visit: July to February
Here is our blog on the must-visit waterfalls near Hyderabad
This short list proves there are not many less-crowded places near Hyderabad, as whichever were, have been commercialised. So, we recommend you visit these places as soon as possible, lest they too be swarmed by people.
This post was last modified on 28-Dec-2023