Telangana360

Vontimamidi Lodhi, also called Ontimamidi Lodhi, is a stunning waterfall located in Mangavaigudem village, Venkatapuram Mandal, Mulugu district, Telangana. Hidden within dense forests, this waterfall has recently become popular among adventure and nature enthusiasts due to its pristine beauty and secluded location. Vontimamidi / Ontimamidi Waterfall – hidden gem of Mulugu forests About the Waterfall The waterfall is nestled deep in forest terrain and is accessible only via forest trails. Visitors need to trek carefully through slippery boulders, knee-deep slush, and natural streams. The local tribal guides are highly recommended as they are familiar with the safest and most scenic paths leading to the waterfall. The secluded setting provides a peaceful environment, perfect for photography, nature walks, and bird watching. Distance & Location Located in Mangavaigudem village, Venkatapuram Mandal Accessible from Venkatapuram and nearby villages via local forest trails Part...

Devuni Gutta temple, Kothur (Photo: Deccan Chronicle) Location: Devuni Gutta temple is located about 2.5 km from Kothur village, near Jangalapalli of Mulugu mandal in Mulugu district, Telangana. This hidden hill temple is known only to locals and lies deep inside a dense forest. The trail to reach it is as fascinating as the monument itself. About the Temple The temple stands on a hill locally called Devuni Gutta . One has to trek through a forest path that turns into a small stream halfway, creating a unique water trail for nearly a kilometer. The journey reveals small waterfalls and lush greenery along the way. Atop the hill sits a beautiful structure adorned with carvings on all four sides. The temple appears brick-built but is actually composed of sand–stone blocks plastered with lime mortar. Carvings depict sages, monks, dancers, and animals — though many have eroded over time. Historians estimate the temple to be over 2,000 years old . Locals recall th...

Travel Guide Location: Veerabhadravaram Village, Venkatapuram Mandal, Mulugu District, Telangana, India Muthyam Dhara Waterfalls, also known as Mutyala Jalapatham, is a breathtaking cascade set amid dense forests along the Kadam River, a tributary of the Godavari. The falls feature a milky white gush producing a soothing, roaring sound, creating a serene and refreshing atmosphere. Nature lovers and adventure seekers will enjoy the drizzling water shower that adds to the magic of the location. Trekking & Access Approx. 10 km walk from Veerabhadravaram Village . Base village: Veerabhadravaram , 5 km past Venkatapuram. Local guides are available for hire. Limited parking space at the trail start. Moderate trekking through lush forests and stream crossings. Bathing in the waterfall is believed to be therapeutic due to medicinal herbs. Nearby Waterfalls Gaddalasari Waterfalls (Jin Thogu) – Second highest in Telangana (~700 ft) Kothikuntla Alapaka Crescent Waterfalls ...

🗻 Kerameri Ghats Travel Guide The Utnoor-Asifabad route, 6 km long Kerameri ghat road near Kerameri mandal, of which the Kerameri ghats are a part, is one of the oldest in the district passing through its tribal heartland. The Kerameri hills, as seen from the popular Kerameri ghat road, offer a breathtaking view as the landscape changes colours layer by layer. The view starts with the dark green of the agriculture fields and turns into bright yellow of the drying leaves as the vision progresses upwards. The mountain range with a dominant blue at the top completes the picture casting a spell on the beholder. Descending the ghat road brings one closer to the clusters of trees which are changing colours. Same is the case with the thick Sarkepalli forest in Wankidi mandal and the Malini forest in Sirpur (T) mandal where the jungles beckon with differently vibrant colours. A drive to Malini from Sirpur (T) mandal headquarter village will be an experience in itself in November. ...

🌿 Explore Chincholi Wildlife & Hidden Gems Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Kalaburagi district of Karnataka, near Zaheerabad in Telangana, is often called the "Ooty of Telangana" (a misnomer, as it lies in Karnataka). Declared a sanctuary in 2011, it spans 134.88 sq.km, making it the first dry land wildlife sanctuary in South India. The sanctuary hosts diverse flora including medicinal herbs, red sandalwood, teak trees, and fauna like Black Buck, Four-horned Antelope, Hyena, Indian Wolf, and over 35 bird species. ✨ Highlights of Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary Safe haven for Wolves and Hyenas Documented presence of dholes (wild dogs) in the Kalyana-Karnataka region Features similar to Western Ghats in Hyderabad-Karnataka region Spread over five forest blocks: Chincholi, Sangapura, Bhonsapur, Magdumpur, Shadipur Rich flora: dry & moist deciduous forests, teak & acacia plantations, medicinal herbs, red sanders, and sandalwood trees 🌄 G...

🦁 Into the Wild: Exploring Pocharam Sanctuary 📍 Location Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Medak and Nizamabad districts of Telangana, India. It is named after the nearby Pocharam Lake . The sanctuary lies approximately 150 km north of Hyderabad. The nearest town is Medak, from where visitors can access the sanctuary by private transport, bus, or jeep. GPS coordinates: 18.0151° N, 78.3812° E . 🌳 Overview Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1952 by the Nizam of Hyderabad, spans 130 sq.kms. The sanctuary protects diverse wildlife including leopards, sloth bears, panthers, deer, and numerous bird species. Named after Pocharam Lake, it is a haven for wildlife and migratory birds. 🦌 Main Wildlife Attractions Bar-Headed Goose Brahminy Bucks Open Billed Stork Leopard Sloth Bear Sambar Panther, Wild Boar, Chital, Nilgai, Chinkara, Hyena, Jackal Fish: Catla, Rahu, Murrel, Ech Paten, Karugu, Chidwa Crocodiles, freshwater turtles, cob...

🦏 Into the Heart of the Jungle: Kawal Safari 📍 Overview Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Jannaram forests of Mancherial district, Telangana, was declared the 42nd tiger reserve of India in 2012. Home to around 20 tigers, it is one of Telangana’s most popular wildlife destinations, offering adventure, tranquility, and wildlife encounters. 🌳 About Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary The sanctuary covers 893 sq km of dense tropical dry deciduous forest, with an additional 1,120 sq km buffer area. It features teak, bamboo, and other native flora. The best time to visit is from November to February when animals are more active and the weather is pleasant. 🦌 Wildlife and Flora Kawal hosts Cheetal, Sambar, Barking Deer, Nilgai, Sloth Bear, Indian Bison, Panther, and Tiger. Reptiles include Crocodile, Python, Monitor Lizard, and Cobra. Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris and bird-watching trails organized by forest guides. 🛡️ Conservation & Tiger Reserve Status Kawal was made a...

🏍️ Ride & Explore: Mahabub and Kerameri Ghats Adventure The Mahabub and Kerameri ghats near Nirmal in Adilabad district are a paradise for bikers and nature lovers. The winding roads, scenic viewpoints, and watch towers offer stunning views of the Sahayadri hill range. Ideal for short road trips, photography, and weekend getaways. ✨ Highlights Picturesque bends with panoramic forest and valley views Watch towers on Mahabub and Kerameri ghats for scenic photography Perfect for bikers, nature enthusiasts, and heritage explorers Access to Kawal Tiger Reserve via Jannaram and Jainoor roads 🛣️ How to Reach From Hyderabad, take NH44 to Nirmal (~200 km). Mahabub Ghat is 14 km from Nirmal, and Kerameri Ghat lies near Kerameri mandal HQ. The drive passes through serene forests, hilly terrain, and sharp curves with green valleys. 📅 Suggested Itineraries 1-Day Trip (Biker’s Circuit) Start early from Hyderabad → Nirmal via NH44 Ride through Mahabub Ghat and...

Octopus View Point is one of the most scenic and recently developed eco-tourism attractions within the Amrabad Tiger Reserve in the Nallamala Forest Range. Officially opened to the public on 13th October 2017, this viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Krishna River backwaters — whose shape resembles the tentacles of an octopus — and the surrounding lush green forest canopy. Situated close to Domalapenta Forest Checkpost , this site exemplifies the Telangana Forest Department’s ongoing efforts to promote eco-tourism and nature conservation simultaneously. 📍 Location Region: Amrabad Mandal, Nagarkurnool District, Telangana Distance: 5 km before Domalapenta Checkpost 25 km from Farahabad View Point 42 km from Mannanur (Amrabad Tiger Reserve Entry Point) 140 km from Hyderabad via Srisailam Highway Accessibility: Located on the Hyderabad–Srisailam Highway (NH 765) Where to Stay :  https://amrabadtigerreserve.com/domalapenta-akkamaha-devi-stay-package/ 🌿 Highlights Breathtaking View...

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 ...

Saleshwaram (Sarveshwaram Teertha Kshetra) is a mystical blend of spirituality, geology, and wilderness — a place where faith meets adventure. The chants of “Vastunna Lingamayya” echo through the valleys as thousands undertake this sacred trek seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings amid pristine nature. Hidden in the heart of Nallamala Hills, Saleshwaram is one of the most sacred and ancient forest shrines of Lord Shiva, known locally as Lingamayya. Accessible only during the annual Saleshwaram Jatara (April, Chaitra Pournami), it is considered the “Dakshina Amarnath Yatra” — a southern counterpart of Amarnath for devotees of Lord Shiva. The temple is set beside a spectacular perennial waterfall cascading from a height of over 200 feet, whose source remains a mystery. The water flows directly through the sanctum before merging into the valley stream. 📍 Location District: Nagarkurnool, Telangana Mandal: Amrabad / Lingal Nearest Gate: Farahabad Gate (Amrabad Tiger Reserve) Distance: ~25–30 km f...

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:...

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...

The Wild Heart of Telangana Nestled in the verdant Nallamala Hills of Telangana, the Amrabad Tiger Reserve (ATR) spans nearly 2,611 sq. km, making it India’s second-largest tiger reserve by core area and the sixth-largest overall among the 51 tiger reserves in the country. Part of the Western Ghats eco-zone, this pristine wilderness shelters a mosaic of ancient forests, rugged valleys, sacred caves, and cascading waterfalls — a living sanctuary of biodiversity. Formerly a part of the Nagarjunasagar–Srisailam Tiger Reserve, ATR was declared a sanctuary in 1983 and officially recognized as Amrabad Tiger Reserve after the bifurcation of Telangana in 2014. It spans the forest divisions of Amrabad and Achampet (Nagarkurnool district) and Nagarjunsagar (Nalgonda district). The reserve’s hilly terrain, deep gorges, and perennial streams form the catchment area of the Krishna River, feeding major reservoirs like Srisailam and Nagarjunasagar Dams. Its biological richness includes Royal Bengal t...

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...

Phaladhara Panchadhara is a serene and spiritually significant site located approximately 4 km from the Srisailam Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh. Nestled in a narrow valley, this spot is accessible via a flight of 160 steps and is renowned for its natural beauty and tranquil ambiance. Phaladhara Panchadhara offers a blend of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and historical importance, making it a must-visit destination for travelers and devotees alike. 🌊 Spiritual Significance The name "Phaladhara" translates to "stream from the forehead," and "Panchadhara" means "five streams," both referring to sacred streams associated with Lord Shiva. According to legend, these streams represent the five aspects of Lord Shiva and are believed to flow uninterrupted throughout the year. The Skanda Purana mentions the flow as "Bhogavathi," which eventually joins the Krishna River. Tradition holds that the revered philosopher and the...

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...

Devarakonda Fort is located in Devarakonda town in the Nalgonda district of Telangana, India. Devarakonda, serving as a Mandal headquarters, is a small village that is home to one of the most astonishing forts in the region. Once a towering symbol of the village’s glory, the fort now lies in ruins due to neglect, yet it continues to attract tourists from across the world. Historically, Devarakonda Fort served as a prominent defensive structure for the Recherla Nayaks dynasty, who ruled parts of Telangana after the fall of the Kakatiya dynasty. For history enthusiasts, a visit to Devarakonda Fort is like stepping into a living historical narrative, where every corner of the fort tells tales of bravery, struggles, and the triumphs of its rulers. Inside the fort premises stand the Rama and Shiva temples, constructed by Maada Naidu, adding a sense of spirituality and serenity to the historic site. Visitors are also treated to the picturesque view of a small pond within the fort area. Arc...