Living in or near Hyderabad and craving a break from the city chaos? The good news is that you don’t have to travel far to find peace, panoramic views, and cool mountain air. Several charming hill stations lie within a few hours’ drive from Hyderabad, offering the perfect setting for a fun and refreshing trip with friends.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, scenic beauty, or just some quality time in nature, these 5 hill stations near Hyderabad promise memorable moments.
1. Ananthagiri Hills – A Hidden Gem Just 80 km Away
Distance from Hyderabad: Approx. 80 km
Best for: Short road trips, trekking, and camping
Ananthagiri Hills, located in the Vikarabad district, is one of the closest hill getaways from Hyderabad. Surrounded by thick forests and misty trails, it’s a haven for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers. You can explore the scenic Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, take a peaceful walk through the forest trails, or even camp under the stars with your gang.
Must-Do Activities:
- Trekking through the forest trails
- Visiting Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple
- Enjoying a picnic at Kotepally Reservoir
Why Go With Friends:
It’s budget-friendly, ideal for a one-day trip, and offers plenty of bonding time over bonfires and nature walks.
2. Horsley Hills – Andhra’s Own Ooty
Distance from Hyderabad: Approx. 530 km
Best for: Weekend getaways, scenic views, and nature photography
Situated in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, Horsley Hills is a lesser-known but beautiful hill station surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills. The weather is cool throughout the year, making it a perfect escape during the hot summer months.
Must-Do Activities:
- Visit the Horsley Hills Zoo and Environmental Park
- Adventure activities like rappelling and zorbing
- Sunrise and sunset viewpoints
Why Go With Friends:
The road trip itself is scenic, and the peaceful ambiance is ideal for relaxed conversations, hiking, and photography sessions.
3. Lambasingi – The Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh
Distance from Hyderabad: Approx. 570 km
Best for: Misty mornings, winter chills, and unique weather
Lambasingi is famous for its chilly climate and is the only place in South India where temperatures can drop to near-zero levels during winter. Also known as “Korra Bayalu,” this charming village turns into a misty wonderland in the early hours.
Must-Do Activities:
- Visit Kothapalli Waterfalls
- Explore the coffee and pepper plantations
- Experience foggy landscapes during winter
Why Go With Friends:
You and your friends can enjoy a rare winter experience in South India, sip on hot chai, and explore offbeat nature spots.
4. Nallamala Hills – A Blend of Nature and Spirituality
Distance from Hyderabad: Approx. 250 km
Best for: Trekking, spiritual tourism, and jungle safaris
Nestled within the Eastern Ghats, the Nallamala Hills are known for their rich biodiversity and sacred sites like Srisailam. The dense forests, deep valleys, and serene environment offer a perfect mix of thrill and tranquility.
Must-Do Activities:
- Visit Srisailam Temple and Dam
- Go on a safari in the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve
- Trekking in Nallamala forest region
Why Go With Friends:
Perfect for a spiritual yet adventurous trip—ideal for trekking squads or wildlife lovers looking to connect with nature and culture.
5. Araku Valley – Nature’s Paradise in the Eastern Ghats
Distance from Hyderabad: Approx. 700 km
Best for: Long weekend trips, scenic train rides, and tribal culture
Though a bit farther, Araku Valley is worth every kilometer. Located in the Visakhapatnam district, it’s famous for its lush green landscapes, coffee plantations, tribal heritage, and the stunning Borra Caves.
Must-Do Activities:
- Take the scenic train ride from Vizag to Araku
- Explore Borra Caves and Katiki Waterfalls
- Visit the Tribal Museum and Coffee Plantations
Why Go With Friends:
The journey itself—whether by train or road—is an adventure. With so many spots to explore, it’s the ideal multi-day itinerary with a group of close friends.
Final Thoughts
Hyderabad may be landlocked, but it’s blessed with access to several beautiful hill stations that are perfect for a getaway with friends. Whether you’re in the mood for trekking, chilling in a cozy cottage, or sipping coffee surrounded by misty hills, these destinations have something for every group.
So gather your squad, pack your bags, make a playlist, and set off for a trip filled with laughter, memories, and lots of scenic selfies!