Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts with the label Ecotourism

Somashila View Point and Boating

Somasila, located in Kollapur Mandal, Nagarkurnool district, Telangana, is a serene temple town and an eco-tourism destination situated on the banks of the Krishna River. The Somasila reservoir gives it an island-like feel and is perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and pilgrims. Highlights Temples: 15 Shiva temples, including the famous Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple and Someshwar Swamy Temple (replica of the original submerged temple). Pushkara Snanam: Occurs once every 12 years—devotees take a holy dip in Krishna River. Backwaters & Boating: TSTDC pontoon boat services offer a five-hour cruise from Somasila to Srisailam, with lunch onboard and views of hills, forests, and riverine wildlife. Waterfalls: Nearby attractions include Mallela Teertham, Paaladhaara, and Panchadaara waterfalls. Wildlife & Eco-tourism: Route passes through Nallamala Forest, part of Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve. How to Reach From Hyderabad: 172 km (approx. 4–5 hours by ...

Farahabad View point

Farahabad View Point lies deep inside the Amrabad Tiger Reserve, once a hunting retreat of the Nizams of Hyderabad. Today, it serves as a serene eco-tourism hub offering a glimpse into the heart of the Nallamala Forests, overlooking Mallucheruvu Lake. The place is an eco-adventure paradise — ideal for those who enjoy nature walks, jungle safaris, and camping under starry skies surrounded by the calls of the wild. 🏞️ Overview Location: Near Munnanur, Amrabad Mandal, Nagarkurnool District, Telangana Altitude: ~914 meters (3,000 feet) above sea level Meaning: Farahabad literally means “Mount Pleasant” Best For: Eco-tourism, Jungle Safari, Adventure Camping, Bird & Wildlife Watching Distance: Hyderabad → Farahabad View Point: ~156 km (≈4 hours by road) Hyderabad → Munnanur (Reserve Entry Point): ~138 km 🐅 Safari Details Safari Route: 9 km from Farahabad Entrance Gate Timings: ⏰ 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Daily) Safari Duration: ~2 hours Safari Cost: ₹800 (per 2 hours per vehicle) Highlights:...

Akka Mahadevi Caves or Swayambhu Shiva Mandir

The Akka Mahadevi Caves are a series of naturally formed limestone caves on the northern bank of River Krishna, surrounded by lush greenery and the serene backwaters of the Srisailam Dam. Named after Akka Mahadevi, a 12th-century Kannada saint-poet and Veerashaiva philosopher, these caves are believed to be the site of her deep meditation and penance to Lord Shiva, worshipping a naturally formed Swayambhu Shiva Linga in the dark inner sanctum. 📍 Location District: Nagarkurnool, Telangana Within: Nallamala Forest / Amrabad Tiger Reserve Distance: ~18 km from Srisailam (accessible via Srisailam backwaters of the Krishna River) Alternate Name: Swayambhu Shiva Mandir 🕉️ Historical & Spiritual Significance Akka Mahadevi (12th century CE) was a mystic saint of the Veerashaiva Bhakti movement in Karnataka. Her Vachanas (devotional poems) in Kannada are considered milestones in Bhakti literature. The caves house ancient murtis of Kapala Bhairava, Veerabhadra, Mahishasura Mardini, and oth...

Amrabad Tiger Reserve

Nestled in the lush Nallamala Hills of Telangana, the Amrabad Tiger Reserve (ATR) spans 2,760 sq. km and stands as India’s second-largest tiger reserve. A part of the Western Ghats eco-zone, this wilderness is a haven of ancient forests, deep valleys, sacred caves, and rich wildlife. Once part of the old Nagarjunasagar–Srisailam Tiger Reserve, ATR now shelters diverse life forms — from royal Bengal tigers, leopards, and sloth bears to yellow-throated bulbuls and rare orchids. Its terrain is dotted with spectacular viewpoints, mystical caves, and serene waterfalls like Mallela Theertham and Saleshwaram Falls. With eco-tourism facilities at Mannanur, guided safari rides, and community-based jungle stays, visitors can immerse themselves in raw nature while experiencing the living spirit of the Nallamala forest traditions. An ideal blend of adventure, ecology, and heritage, Amrabad Tiger Reserve invites explorers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers to discover the wild soul of Telangana....

Nallamala Hills

A Serene Wilderness Between Rivers Nallamala Hills, spanning Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, is a mesmerizing hill station wrapped in natural beauty. With shimmering waterfalls, deep valleys, and dense forests, the region captivates every visitor’s mind and soul. Situated between the Pennar and Krishna rivers, the hill range boasts two major peaks: Bhairani at 1,100 meters above sea level and Gundla Brahmeswara at 1,048 meters. For tourists traveling by road to Srisailam, the view of the Srisailam Dam, with Krishna River’s waters gushing from its gates, and a glimpse of Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy is incomplete without experiencing the dense Nallamala forest near Farahabad. Nallamala Hills offers a rare blend of wildlife, spiritual experiences, and unspoiled natural beauty, making it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking tranquility away from urban chaos. Discover Nallamala Hills – Nature, Wildlife & Spiritual Trails Overview Nestled between the Pennar and Krishna rivers, N...

Kadalivanam Caves

Kadalivanam Caves are located deep within the Nallamalla Forest (part of the Amrabad Tiger Reserve) in Nagarkurnool District, Telangana. The site is nestled at the foot of Srisaila Hill, on the banks of Pathala Ganga, and is considered a significant spiritual center for followers of Sri Datta Guru. Also referred to as Kadali Vanam or Kardaliwan, this site is renowned as a sacred Tapo Sthanam (meditation place) in the Srisaila region. Its importance is highlighted in classical texts like Skanda Purana, Shiva Bhakta Vijayam, and other Shaiva scriptures. Historically, Sri Nrisimha Saraswati Swamy, regarded as the second incarnation of Guru Dattatreya, concluded his earthly avatara here. Kadalivanam Caves combine natural beauty, historical depth, and spiritual significance. Nestled amidst dense forest and flowing streams, it serves as a peaceful retreat for meditation and devotion while offering insights into prehistoric human life in the Nallamalla region. 🗺️ Trekking Route to Kadalivana...

Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary Gottam Gutta

Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Kalaburagi district of Karnataka in the Kalyana Karnataka region of India is known as the "Ooty of Telangana" located near Zaheerabad, Sangareddy District of Telangana State, India. Name ‘Ooty of Telangana” is a misnomer, as the place is actually in the state of Karnataka in the border of Telangana. This forest is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including medicinal herbs, red sandalwood, and teak trees. Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a sanctuary in 2011and extends over 134.88 Sq.kms. It is the first dry land Wildlife Sanctuary in South India. This is the only area in the Hyderabad Karnataka Region with rich floristic diversity. The forest hosts rich biodiversity. Apart from medicinal herbs and trees, species like Red Sanders and Sandalwood are found abundantly. The Sanctuary has good dry deciduous and Moist deciduous forest in the core with Acacia and Teak plantations on the fringes. Apart from Chandrampa...

Chakaligattu Island

Chakaligattu Island is located in the middle of River Krishna amidst the huge reservoir of Nagarjunasagar having maximum plain area near Rekulavalyam is a small Village/hamlet in Chandampet Mandal and Peddagummadam is a small Village/hamlet in Pedda Adiserla Pally Mandal in Nalgonda District of Telangana State, India. Can reach through Vizagcolony a small Village/hamlet in Chandampet Mandal or in Nalgonda District of Telangana State. To the list of tourist places, an eco-adventure tourism destination could soon be added, if the Telangana State Tourism Development Corporation is all prepared to expand Chakaligattu Island in the middle of River Krishna close to Nagarjunasagar in Nalgonda district. The advantage for Chakaligattu Island is that it’s located amidst the huge reservoir of Nagarjunasagar having maximum plain area. The authorities feel that the island could be connected to both Nagarjuna Konda and the Buddhavanam Project. Besides, world’s largest as well as famous masonary dam...

Gunjala Waterfalls

Gunjala Waterfalls is a seasonal waterfall located near Gunjala village, Bheempur Mandal, Adilabad district, Telangana State, India.  It is on a rainfed Gunjala vagu which joins Penganga river. Certain seasonal waterfalls (July to September) that live for a short time during the monsoon have come alive. Thanks to the torrential rains. For instance, scenic Darloddi waterfall, a series of five waterfalls in Khandal village, another at Lohara in Adilabad Rural mandal, Gunjala waterfall in Tamsi mandal, Peddagundam in Echoda mandal of Adilabad district are attracting nature lovers  It is 21 kms from Adilabad via Ghotkuri to bheempur very first right from bheempur to Gunjala village & the waterfalls is just 3 kms from bheempur. Time to Visit : July to September How to reach Umram railway station is the nearest railway station to Gunjala Waterfalls. It is nearly 9.39 kilometers away from it.

Adilabad Harithavanam - Mavala Ecological Park

Adilabad Harithavanam or Mavala Ecological park is located in Mavala village, Adilabad Mandal, Adilabad district, Telangana State, India is a green initiative of Telangana Forest Department developed as part of Urban Lung Spaces in Telangana. It is providing much needed Environmental Education and Recreation to the people around the area besides protection and conservation of the forests. Situated In Mavala Reserved Forest adjoining Adilabad Town along NH-44 spreading in an area of 1000 Acres.The Forest department will soon propose upgradation of Adilabad Harithavanam - 4,000 acres of forest surrounding it - into a National Park. The move will bring in all the support needed not only to protect the forest and its wildlife but to create a facility for people to get familiar with nature. The patch of forest is located near Mavala village, about six km from Adilabad district headquarters. Already 1,000 acres of this patch abutting the NH-44 have been converted into a conservation zone. At...

Adilabad Khandala Lohara Hill Station

Adilabad Khandala Ghat or Hill Station is located in Khandala Village, Adilabad Rural mandal, Adilabad District of Telangana.  Khandala and Lohara valley is located near Khandala and Lohara villages in Adilabad Rural mandal, Adilabad District of Telangana. Lohara comes under Khandala Gram Panchayat. Once developed, the serene Khandala-Lohara valley with four waterfalls could serve as an ideal getaway. Khandala Ghat, about 20 km from Adilabad, with hills, forests, and valleys has attracted many tourists during the Sankranti festival holidays, including from faraway Hyderabad. The road which leads to Ankoli from Adilabad town goes to Lohara via Vanvat and Pippaldhari. The steep ghat road, locally known as Khandala ghat after the tribal village Khandala, starts at Pippaldhari and gives a glorious view of the spread of the valley below. For nature lovers who find Adilabad’s famous waterfalls a little too crowded, the quiet Khandala-Lohara valley encompassing pristine vegetation could...

Nirmal Turkam and Venganna Cheruvu

Turkam or Turkan and Venganna Cheruvu is located near Dimmadurthi or Dimmadurthy and Naldhurthi or Naldurti tucked away amidst the dense forests in the Mamada Mandal, Nirmal District, Telanagana State, India. Turkam Cheruvu and Venganna Cheruvu in the Dimmadurthy Range, considered hidden gems in Nirmal district, are proposed to be developed into eco-tourism attractions. Turkam Cheruvu is tucked away amidst the dense forests in the district, while Venganna Cheruvu is described as a paradise for bird-watchers with a lot of perches for avifauna. These two are the largest lakes in the region and they are located in close proximity to Nirmal town so developing them as ecotourism spots will boost the income of the locals. Turkam Cheruvu is one of the biggest water bodies in the area spread across 55 hectares. It is a perennial water body as it gets water throughout the year from the Saraswathi Canal. Venganna Cheruvu is spread across 25 hectares and it is home to different species of birds. ...

Telangana Tourism

Tourism in Telangana has very rich potential with its ancient history, art and culture, evidence of human habitation dating back to the Neolithic era.  Telangana’s rich cultural heritage, history and topography have endowed the state with a variety of tourist destinations, from waterfalls and hills to temples and forts. With affordable travel and stay, a unique albeit delicious blend of South-indian and Nizami cuisines, amusement and adventure parks, hospitality, lakes, historical attractions and medical tourism, Telangana has a little something for every visitor. The State also won four National Tourism Awards in the four categories of Best State (Comprehensive Development of Tourism), Best Golf Course (Hyderabad Gold Club), Best Railway Station (Secunderabad Railway Station) and Best Medical Tourism Facility (Apollo Hospitals) in 2022. Heritage Tourism From its ancient archaeological sites to its magnificent monuments, Telangana offers a fascinating journey through time.Telangan...

Khajaguda Hills

Khajaguda Hills located in Khajaguda also known as Khojaguda is a Village in Serlingampally Mandal, Rangareddy district, Telangana State, India. It is part of the old city of Hyderabad. The site is a popular spot for outdoor activities, such as hiking and bouldering. Khajaguda hills is one of the most popular weekend spots near Hyderabad. It is known for its magnificent viewpoint of Golconda and Durgam Cheruvu, peacocks, and naturally formed rocks and boulders that facilitate thrilling activities like rappelling. The hilltop offers a breathtaking view of the city below with its lush green surroundings. It is a perfect place to spend some quality time with your friends or family away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. The area also has several other attractions such as temples and caves that make it an ideal spot for nature lovers. With its pristine beauty and adventure activities, Khajaguda hills has become one of the most sought-after weekend spots in Hyderabad. Hidden away...

Kapuram Fort

Kapuram Fort or Kapuram Khilla is located in Kapuram village, Malhar Rao mandal in Jayashankar Bhupalpally district, Telangana State, India. Situated in the dense forest about 42 km away from the district headquarters, Kapuram Guttalu (hillocks) also known as Kapuram Khilla is calling for the attention of tourism officials. While there are three hillocks with a height ranging between 200 to 250 feet, people can scale only one of them with difficulty, for a jaw-dropping experience. The hillocks resemble landscapes of Utah, Colorado, in the USA. From October to June, people can visit these hillocks. But one should take the help of local residents (Nayakaopodu tribals) during this expedition. The hillocks are not accessible during the monsoon season,” he said, adding that it was not safe to visit the place without the help of the locals as these hillocks are the habitat of some wild animals like sloth bears and others. A stream also flows adjacent to these hillocks. According to archa...

Bhagyanagar Nandanavanam Park

Bhagyanagar Nandanavanam Park is located in Narapally village under Pocharam Municipality in Ghatkesar mandal, Medchal-Malkajgiri District, Telangana State, India. Bhagyanagar Nandanavanam Park comprises of a buffer zone covering an area of about 84.24 hectares and a conservation zone covering an area of about 116 hectares.   The Bhagyanagar Nandanavanam is also a deer park. Walking along the pathway, you will find some Peacocks as the park hosts a small peacock sanctuary. Bhagyanagar Nandanavanam a nature conservation park, has Walking track developed with a length of 4 Kms internal pathways and a Canopy walkway with a length of 200 mts. The park is a visual treat for nature lovers.  Beyond wonderful walkway you can experience Forest trails at Bhagyanagar Nandanavanam park. The park has a metal fencing Canopy Walk way of 200 meters laid with strong iron mesh with railings on both sides above 20 feet from the ground and a watchtower to have a good 360 degree view of the compl...

Narsapur Forest and Park

Narsapur Forest is located near Narsapur village, Medan District, Telangana State, India  home to exquisite flora and fauna, rock formations and ponds, is a perfect spot to unwind. This forest range that is spread over 30 sqkm in Narsapur village is just 45 km from Hyderabad and a perfect spot to unwind with friends. Brimming with a plethora of exquisite and fragrant flora and fauna, natural rock formations and ponds, you can set your adventure soul free here and wander through the remote forest areas. Say hello to birds, different species of butterflies and mischievous monkeys you spot all along the way. The well-defined paths lead to a stream that further takes you to a big secluded lake where you can spend some time strolling, relaxing and conversing. We recommend you return before darkness sets in. The whole path is around 11 km and takes around four to five hours to complete, in case you don’t take long breaks midway. Monsoon is the best season to visit here. Don’t worry that ...

Octopus View Point

Octopus View Point is located close to the Domalapenta Forest Check post in Amarabad Tiger Reserve of Nallamala Forest, Amarabad Mandal, Nagarkurnool district, Telangana State, India. It was open to public by forest department on 13th October 2017 The Amarabad Tiger Reserve has a new tourist attraction. The Octopus Viewpoint became operational  as a part of the plan for the extension of eco-tourism activities at the reserve. The viewpoint is located 5 km before Domalpenta; and offers a view of the Krishna River and the adjoining forests. Mohan Chandra Paragein, field director of the Amarabad Tiger Reserve, said, "This strategic location has been picked after a lot of planning. This point provides a view of the backwaters of the Krishna, which resemble the tentacles of an octopus. We are also developing a watchtower and a forest trail for visitors." Every day around 70 tourists sign up for the safari conducted by the reserve which begins from Farahabad crossroads. Officials s...

Lodhi Mallayya Temple and Waterfall

Loddi Mallana or Loddi Mallayya Temple is a place of pilgrimage inside the Mannanur range. Lodhi Mallana is a cave situated in front of a lake, with a Shivalinga present inside the cave.  Lodhi or Loddi means valley in local laguage and Mallana or Mallaya or Mallaiah are the names of Lord Siva, so its named Lodhi Mallaiah. The area is open to public only 1 day annually during Tholi Ekadashi in the month of July is an awesome place to catch up with a good trekking experience and worship Lord mallanna or shiva Lodhi Mallayya cave is called Telangana amarnath cave. The cave can be reached after a trek through a very beautiful Nallamalla forest.  It is located at about 10kms from Mannanur check post, Srisailam Road, from there (your journey starts from 65 km stone,right side) & 4 km by treking into valley there we can see near by 6 water falls and beautiful locations and shiva lingam of mallaiah swamy This place was referred to as Guptha Mallikarjuna in olden...

Yelleswaragattu Island

Yelleswaragattu Island famously known as mysterious island, located near Kambalapally village, Chandampet Mandal, Nalgonda District of Telangana State in the middle of the backwaters of Nagarjunasagar Dam. This long-forgotten isle is 169 km away from Hyderabad and takes about three hours to reach. Drive to Kambalapally village, Chandampet Mandal, Nalgonda District . From there hike to Nagarajunasagar lake usually take 1 to 2 hours and then boat ride to Yelleswaragattu Island Trek along the fields and forest, as dry as the stretch we have crossed to reach there. Dry bushes holding on to their last green leaves, while many have all lost. We trudge along, till we come to the first sight of the lake. It is love at first sight! The mere sight of the bluer than sky water renews our energies. But, we have come to the edge and have to descend a steep slope of about 200 mts, filled with the similar dry and thorny bushes. Drive to vizag colony boating center in Peddamunigal village, Cha...