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 serve as a perfect getaway. Located about 25 km from Adilabad district headquarters, it encompasses four little known waterfalls in addition to some vantage points which give a view of the picturesque valley.

Khandala Molal gutta Waterfalls

Kopangidi and Yogidhara waterfall is located near molal gutta village, Adilabad Rural Mandal, Adilaba District, Telangana State, India.

From Molalgutta village you need to walk around 1 km to reach waterfalls. 

The waterfall is different from the regular waterfalls. It is too steep but can be accessed. Rocky terrain, too slippery, be extra cautious, take the help of locals if you want to go down. In case you go down you can view two more waterfalls. 

The way from Khandala village to the waterfall is about 1.9 mis. Not tough path. Once you get down to the flow, to your right is mollala or Khandala waterfalls and to your right is yogi Dhara and two more waterfalls. There are four waterfalls here. There is good flow of water only if the place has had ample rainfall the previous day or previous night. One should be lucky or plan for a visit after rainfall.

Lohara Waterfalls

Lohara Waterfalls is located near Lohara village, Adilabad Rural Mandal, Adilaba District, Telangana State, India.

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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 you will get lost in the woods. You can easily navigate through Google Maps. Start early in the morning. The condition of the road is excellent and you can enjoy the ride through the countryside. There are small steep elevations but are easy to climb. You can start your trek from the Bonthapally temple.

Every path in the forest has something to explore. You’ll find no stalls for food and water around the forest range, so carry enough water bottles and snacks with you. Make sure you wear sturdy shoes.

Narsapur Forest Urban Park 

You can also visit the nearby Narsapur Forest Urban Park to get a stunning view of the whole forest from the watchtower. 

The entry fee is Rs 50. At the entrance, you can see the map of the place.

Distance: 36 km from Kukatpally, 75 kms from Gachibowli

What to remember: Food, drinking water, sturdy shoes

Be careful of: Snakes

Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/KawgHEJEh7gZK69ZA

https://telanganatoday.com/narsapur-forest-a-perfect-spot-to-unwind

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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 say that two buses, each with a seating capacity of ten persons, operate in rotation.

Octopus Viewpoint is located 42 km away from Mannanur, on the Hyderabad-Srisailam Highway. Visitors can make a stop at this point after visiting the popular Farahabad Viewpoint, which is around 25 km away. Visitors must purchase tickets to gain access to the Viewpoint. Small vehicles are charged `20, while buses and large vehicles are charged `50.

Reserve officials believe that this Viewpoint will attract more visitors, and they have accordingly developed benches and parking facilities. They have also put up signboards asking visitors to maintain cleanliness at the Viewpoint and in the adjoining forests.

A hut has been constructed at an elevated spot near the Viewpoint, for visitors to sit and relax. "Visitors need not bring anything with them while visiting this point. We have an operational snack bar at the spot. The Viewpoint is meant for nature-lovers to be able to calm their minds," said Mr Paragein. 

https://www.deccanchronicle.com/lifestyle/travel/141017/telangana-octopus-viewpoint-entices-visitors.html

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Amrabad Tiger Reserve

Amrabad Tiger Reserve is located near Munnanur in Nallamala hills which is part of western ghats, Amarabad Mandal, Nagarkurnool district, Telangana State, India covers an area 2,760 square kms and second largest tiger reserve in the country in terms of core area.

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) Report-2022 revealed that the Amrabad Tiger Reserve (ATR) scored 78.7% and stood 28th among 51 tiger reserves in the country.

FLORA
The floral diversity is moderately rich as the landscape experiences a wide rain fall, altitude and edaphic gradients. The floral wealth has been estimated to be over that, there are 1400 taxa spread over 109 families. The ATR is having about 353 species in 88 families that are found to be medicinal properties. Dense grass occurs in 30% of the area and scattered in an additional 20%. Dominant tree species include Terminalia tomentosa, Hardwickia binata, Madhuca latifolia. Diospyros melanoxylon, Gardenia latifolia, Anogeissus latifolia, Chloroxylon swietenia, Terminalia spp.

FAUNA
The Tiger Reserve supports populations of several faunal species.

MAMMALS
Over 80 species of mammals have been identified in Amrabad Tiger Reserve, Telangana. Large carnivores: Tiger, Leopard, Wild dog, and Indian Wolf, Indian fox, Small carnivores: Jungle cat, Rusty-spotted cat, Small Indian civet, and Indian palm civet, Omnivores: Sloth bear, Honeybadger, Wild boar, Herbivores: Unique species of Antelopes found Chinkara, Nilgai, Blackbuck, four-horned antelope; Antlers found spotted deer, Sambar deer; Primates found Hanuman langur, Bonnet macaque, Rhesus macaque.

BIRDS
Over 303 bird species have been identified in this region. Some important groups include Eagles, Pigeons, Doves, Cuckoos, Woodpeckers, Drongos, Bulbuls, Flower peckers, Grey horn bill, Sunbirds, Swifts, Kingfishers, owls, barbets, kites, minivets, partridges, mynas, thrushes, warblers, egrets. Some endemic bird species that occur here are yellow throated bulbul and winter migratory of blue rock thrush.

REPTILES
Approximately 54 species of reptiles have been identified in this region. Three highly venomous snakes found in this area, family of Viperidae namely Russel’s viper, Saw scaled viper, Spectacled cobra, Common krait, Indian pond terrain, Indian monitor lizard, Indian chameleon, Forest calotes, Skinks, Indian python, Keel backs, Vine snakes, Bronze back snakes, cat snakes, wolf snakes etc.

AMPHIBIANS
Around 20 amphibians have been identified in this area common Indian toad, narrow – mouthed frog, common tree frog, Indian pond frog, Indian burrowing frog, Indian cricket frog etc.

BUTTERFLIES AND MOTHS
Among the insect groups, butterflies and moths come under a large group called Lepidoptera. About 100 species of butterflies and 57 species of moths have been found in this Tiger Reserve. Some common butterflies are danaid egg fly, lemon pansy, plain tiger, common leopard, common blue bottle, crimson rose, chocolate pansy, and common tree brown, crimson tip, Indian skimmer etc. Common moths are Antheraea paphia, Himala spp., Achaea spp., Actias spp., oak hawk-moth etc.

INSECTS
The insect’s diversity is the largest group in animal kingdom. Large variety of butterflies and moths are found here. Numerous species of Grasshoppers, Mantises, Beetles, Flies, Termites, and Spiders, which play an important role in ecosystem sustenance, are present.

Attractions

Farahabad View Point

Octopus View Point

Mallelatheertham Waterfalls

Akka Mahadevi Caves or Swayambhu Shiva Mandir

Kadalivanam Caves

Saleshwaram Jatara and Waterfalls

Lodhi Mallayya Temple and Waterfall

Somashila View Point and Boating

FACILITIES AVAILABLE FOR TOURISTS

1. Vehicle rides in the tourism zone at Farahabad
2. Visit to Interpretation centre at Farahabad
3. Visit to Saleshwaram Water Falls
4. Visit to Mallellathirtham Water Falls
5. Visit CBET (Community Based Eco-Tourism) Mannanur

6. Visit to EEC (Environmental Education Centre) at Mannanur

7. Visit to Prathaparudruni Fort
8. Bird Watching

Where to Stay

• Forest Department arranges trips to Farahabad View point from Mannanur.
• Visitors also prefer to have a jungle stay in this station, which is also made safely by the state government of Telangana. 
• Best camping ground here is the Tiger wilds jungle camp, which arranges camping ground for the visitors.
• 
  Good and comfortable accommodation is available at Forest Rest House at Mannanur and at Farahabad view point hill.
• Tourists can also avail multiple stay options near Nagarjunsagar Dam and Srisailam dam.
• One can also stay at Tiger wild reserve, where camping is available.

Muannnur Jungle Resort

https://amrabadtigerreserve.com/booking-package/

Cottages for tourists keen on a night stay at Mannanur, inside the Amrabad Tiger Reserve in Nagarkurnool district.

Safari ride into the Amrabad Tiger Reserve, which had been a minor sojourn for the pilgrims bound for the Srisailam temple, will be part of the ‘Tiger Stay Package’

Hilltop Mrugavani

https://www.mrugavaniresorts.com/mrugavani_srisailam/index.html#location

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Farahabad View point

Farahabad View Point or hill station is located near Munnanur inside Amrabad Tiger Reserve in Nallamalla Forest, Amrabad mandal, Nagarkurnool district of Telangana State. Altitude of the place is about 914 meters or around 3000 feet above sea level

Farahabad literally translates to 'Mount Pleasant'. The place offers a stay in the wild, trekking and

traditional ride through river. It is an ideal destination for adventure and nature lovers. The Tiger wilds jungle camp located here provides camping facilities. The spot is an eco-paradise, rich in Flora and Fauna, including tiger, neelgai, sambar and spotted deer.

It is an area primarily utilized by the erstwhile Nizams of Hyderabad for hunting and recreation. 

Farhabad view point is about 9 kilometers from Farhabad entrance gate and it is part of Safari route. It is located in the dense Nallamalla Forest. This place also offers a traditional ride through the river which flows among the Nallamalla hills.

Farahabad View Point 1
The forest area, called as Farahabad forest area is about 140 kms from Hyderabad, on the way to Srisailam near Billakarl. This scenic location, called as the Farahabad View Point overseeing Mallucheruvu lake gives you breathtaking experience. The Nizams of Hyderabad protected this place and made it a personal retreat. Although now completely abandoned, this beautiful place can be a never fading memory of nature.

Farahabad View Point 2:
Once a retreat of the Nizams of the Hyderabad, the beautiful forest area of Farahabad is almost a virgin place and is gaining more popularity these days. It is left to the highway en-route to Srisailam from Hyderabad. There is a government operated security post and a safari experience into the jungle to reach this place, the Farahabad View Point.

Farahabad Forest View Point 3:
The beautiful Nallamala forest offers many pictuesque locations to tourists. This unforgettable view is called as the Farahabad View Point and is located 12 kms left to the Hyderabad Srisailam highway. There are steps down this above-sea level rock that gives breathtaking views of the Nallamala Jungle and the Mallucheruvu lake that you can see from there.

Safari timings: 7 AM to 4 PM daily.
Safari Ride Price: Rs. 800 for every two hours

When to visit

This place has a very cool climate all over the year. Best time to visit the place is from august to Feb.Interestingly  one could not see each other during winters, such is the beauty of mist in this place.

Where to Stay

• Forest Department arranges trips to Farahabad View point from Mannanur.
• Visitors also prefer to have a jungle stay in this station, which is also made safely by the state government of Telangana. 
• Best camping ground here is the Tiger wilds jungle camp, which arranges camping ground for the visitors.
• Good and comfortable accommodation is available at Forest Rest House at Mannanur and at Farahabad view point hill.
• Tourists can also avail multiple stay options near Nagarjunsagar Dam and Srisailam dam.
• One can also stay at Tiger wild reserve, where camping is available.

Distance:
– Hyderabad to Farahabad View point is 156 Kms (close to 4 hours drive from Hyderabad)
– Hyderabad to Munnanur in Mahabubnagar District is 138 Kms (its a 3 hour drive from Hyderabad). Munnanur is the starting point for Nagarjunsagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve.

Amrabad is around 160 kms from Hyderabad basically its on the way to a popular Hindu Pilgrims place named Srisailam which is further 80 kms

Nearby Tourist Attraction:
– Srisailam Dam Project
– Sangameshwara Temple
– Pillalamarri Banyan Tree
– Mallelatheertham
– Nagarjunsagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve
– Nagarkurnool ( Near by city )
– Kollapur

https://touritvirtually.com/all-tours/nature-2/farhabad-forest-view-point/

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Kalwa Narsimha Swamy Temple

Kalwa Narasimha Swamy Temple is located in the village named Kalwa, in Koneru, in the district of Nirmal, in the state of Telangana, in South India. which is at a distance of 11 km from Nirmal.

Devotees who embark on a trip to the famous Basar Saraswati Temple, often stop by this temple, which falls on the way, to offer prayers.

The temple is known for its strict manner for following the Hindu temple tradition and culture to a great extent.

The principal deity of this shrine is Lord Narasimha Swamy. It is a medieval period Hindu temple

with good architectural style and pattern. It is the most sought after Hindu temple in this region that is visited by the adherent devotees of this particular region and its surrounding. This particular shrine is largely known for performing various types of special pujas on all the Hindu auspicious days and festive days as per the Vedic rules and regulations in a very strict and religious manner. The specialty of this shrine is that visitors, tourists, devotees and pilgrims are offered Vana Bhojanam or forest meal under the tree in the noon hours. No one remains hungry after reaching this shrine which is located in a hamlet deep inside the forested area of this particular region.

At Kalwa Narsimha Swamy, we can see the deity seated in a yogic posture. To his side, we see Narsimha Swamy's consort Goddess Lakshmi. This is a rare form of the God, as we see that most of the other temples usually house the more furious avatar of Narsimha Swamy. We can also see a Ratham or the holy chariot in the temple premises. The Ratham is decorated with different types of colourful flowers on special occasions and it carries the idols of gods and goddesses. The area around the temple is made tourist friendly.

Kalwa Narasimha Swamy Temple is known for its unique architectural significance and its related patterns and styles. The temple is situated in a small plot in the dense forested area. The premises have a calm atmosphere that is suitable for conducting various types of prayers, pujas, homams, yagna and other religious functions and activities to a large extent. The entrance gateway of this temple is really attractive with a small tower with images of Hindu Gods and Goddess. It is perfectly based on the South Indian Hindu temple architectural style and pattern. The temple isn't visible among the thick vegetation in the surrounding from the main road. In a religious manner as per the Vedic rules and regulations, the sub-temples in this temple complex are arranged in systematic aspects. The flooring and ceiling is really unique. The walls and pillar in this temple has large sized images that depict the glory of Lord Narasimha. The main sanctum is very a small structure when compared to other Hindu temples of this region. It largely resembles like medieval Lord Shiva temple with its actual look and other religious aspects.

https://www.astrolika.com/temples/kalwa-narasimha-swamy-temple.html

https://telanganatourism.gov.in/partials/destinations/divine-destinations/nirmal/kalwa-narsimha-swamy-temple.html

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Saleshwaram jatara and waterfalls

Saleshwaram is located 25 km away from Farahabad gate in Amarabad Tiger Reserve in Nallamala Forest, Amarabad Mandal, Nagarkurnool district, Telangana State, India.

The annual Saleshwaram Jatara in the Nallamala forest area which comes under Amrabad Tiger Reserve is celebrated every year on Chiatra Pournami or the Full Moon Day in April and is open to visitors for only 5 days. 

On every Chaitra pouranmi i.e. the full moon day of March/April believed to attain the super natural powers and the wills of the devotees are fullfiled message spread throughout the State hence devotees come in large numbers chanting “Vastunna Lingamayya” .

“Saleshwaram Jathara” also known popularly as “Dakshina (Telangana) Amarnath Yathra”is being conducted every year for three days in the month of April, for the past 30 years. Nearly 5 lakh people from all over the country visit Saleshwaram during the Jathara every year. 

Saleshwaram waterfalls runs throughout the year from a height of 200ft and the source of water remains unknown. This waterfall reaches a Shivalinga revered as “Lingamayya” by the Chenchu tribes. The presence of a perennial waterfall here resembles a long serpent when splashing on the rocks adds to the beauty of this place. 

Breath-taking views of the layered rock formations, deep valleys with spectacular views only found in the most exotic locations of the world. Saleshwaram is located 16 km away from Farhabad forest checkpost and the temple comes under Appapur Gram Panchayat in Lingal mandal in Nagarkurnool district, Telangana, India.

The ancient Sri Ramalingeshwara Swamy temple of 6th century AD, located deep inside Nallamala forest, is about 1,000 feet deep inside a valley. The scene of the temple in moonlight is a treat to the eyes and a blessing to the soul. The temple lies next to a beautiful waterfall, coming down from a height of over 200 metres. The water flows through the temple and the devotees take a holy dip in it before taking a climb into the Garbhagudi. The linga is located in a cave which resides on a huge rock.

Reaching the temple involves a 16-km journey through the core area of the tiger reserve with another six kilometres of trek through the Nallamala hills.

The drive through the deep forest is sure to remain one of the best memories for visitors since they can see many wild animals like spotted deer, nilgai and wild boar.

The devotees have to walk at least three kilometers to reach the temple located down the valley. It is an arduous walk since there are sharp rocks all along the ground.

The devotees need to walk on narrow gorges of valley to reach down the deep valley where they can see waterfall falling from over 1,000 feet.

The devotes take a holy dip in the water and collect water in the bottles for those who could not make it as it is believed that it contains medicinal value.

Nature’s wonder which has been kept intact for thousands of years has once again started mesmerizing the devotees of Lord Shiva, who is devotedly called ‘Lingamaiah’ in this part of the world. The purest form of the nature located away from the mainstream society’s sight has opened its arms welcoming the devotees.

‘Sarveshwaram teertha kshetra,’ which later came to be known as ‘Saileshwaram’ and ‘Saleshwaram locally,’ which is a primitive religious site, located 30-40 kilo metre deep inside the Nallamala forests inside Amrabad Tiger Reserve where the rare Chenchu Adivasis have been living and serving Lord Shiva for ages.

As per local Chenchu mythology, ages ago, a Chenchu named Ravagadu had gone for hunting along with his wild dogs on the New Year’s Eve. When he couldn’t find water to drink anywhere, his dogs led him to a water body located near a cave, where water drops which looked like pearls were falling through the layers of rock formation. There, Bhole Baba had revealed himself to the Chenchu in bright gold and then vanished. That night, Lord Shiva appeared in his dream and asked him to erect a Shiva Linga and serve him.

The water which flows through layers of rock formed some thousands if not millions of years ago, carries with it all the medicinal values through the roots of nature, making it the purest form of water which has the ability to cure any disease. People have been visiting this nature’s wonder for ages and people believe that their sins can be washed-away here.

According to ‘Parvatha Purana,’ if a sinner enters this water body which is called ‘Shankhu Teertha,’ the water here becomes dirty but when a pure human enters, remains crystal clear. No wonder, while the water which comes from the top is crystal clear, once it touches the ground where devotees take bath, it changes colour due to plastic left over by pilgrims.
According to historic evidence, the Shiva Ling at Sarveshwaram had already become famous by 5th or 6th century. The layered rock formation in front of the sanctum sanctorum itself looks like a mammoth cave.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/devotees-make-a-beeline-to-saleshwaram-jatara/article8515715.ece

https://telanganatoday.com/deep-inside-the-nallamala-forests-saileshwaram-mesmerises-devotees

https://allevents.in/hyderabad/saleshwaram-trek-in-srisailam-forest-opened-only-once-a-year/80001403653972

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Manjeera Dam

Manjeera Dam is located on the Manjeera river at Kalabgur, Sangareddy District, Telangana State, India.

This is an ideal picnic spot. One can spend quality time with family or friends at the Environmental Education Centre here.

Another main attraction of this place is the crocodile-breeding pond, which has been set up for rehabilitation of crocodiles.

The glistening waters of the reservoir and the wildlife around make it an ideal picnic spot in an unspoilt and serene environment.

Manjeera, a major source of drinking water for Hyderabad in a good year with rains, spreads over 10 square miles at its full capacity.

Located at a distance of about 70 kilometers from Hyderabad

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Somashila View Point and Boating

Somasila is a temple town that has recently been developed as an eco-tourism project is located in Kollapur Mandal Nagarkurnool district, Telangana State India. It is on the banks of the Krishna River and Somasila reservoir has an island-like appearance and attracts pilgrims round the year.

It is a perfect place for people who love greenery and water. There are water front cottages to stay at Somasila operated by Telangana Tourism.

The place is also a popular religious destination, thanks to 15 temples dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. The most famous of them all is the Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple. The temple complex is where all these temples are located, and all of these 15 temples house a Shivalinga.

Someshwar Swamy Temple (a replica of ancient temple reconstructed as the original place was submerged in reservoir area) a highly revered shrine in Somasila.

There is one more thing that is very big here in Somasila. It’s the festival of Pushkara Snanam where devotees take a dip in the Krishna River, and is considered very auspicious. Here’s the interesting part – the festival is observed once in 12 years!

Backwaters backed up by Srisailam dam has a unique ecosystem with many species of aquatic life, water birds and animals. 

Boating facilities is available at Somasila in the backwaters of Srisailam Dam.

Tourists can view the scenery around from the open deck while travelling in the boat.

Somasila also has beautiful Haritha cottages, for booking of cottages and boating.

With beautiful surroundings and back waters Somasila is an ideal tourist spot to visit. Somasila is at a distance of 172 kms from Hyderabad.

In order to facilitate amenities for tourists, TSTDC is providing accommodation with good landscaping at the site. There is a restaurant with a 40 seating capacity.

Telangana Tourism department has launched Pontoon Boat services, on Krishna river, from Somasila of Kollapur mandal in Nagarkurnool District to Srisailam.

The boat has been named 'Somasila.' The boat will traverse 110 km in five hours, along the Krishna river.
Tourists can view the scenery around from the open deck while travelling in the boat.

The five-hour boat ride is expected to be a memorable one for nature lovers as the river courses its way through hills and valleys exposing tourists to exotic flora and fauna.

TSTDC to offer a road-river-road circuit which promises combination of a long drive, a pilgrimage, a glimpse of the forest and wildlife and a river cruise with lunch on board.

In weekends, the Tourism Corporation is offering Rs 2,800 per head package to tourists. The fee could include breakfast, lunch, dinner and accommodation. Those who want to travel by launch from Somasila are required to pay an additional Rs 600 per head.

The district offers vast scope for water sports development. It is endowed with waterfalls at Singotam and Yelluru. Other tourist attractions in the district include Sangameswara temple, Somasila temple, ancient temples at Jataprolu and Kadilivanam.

The package includes visit to Mallela Teertham waterfalls and Srisailam dam. Two Harita hotels have been set up – one at Jataprolu and the other at Somasila – at a cost of Rs 99 crore. Arrangements for special boating in Somasila are being made.

The bus takes you from Hyderabad on what holds enough promise to be a memorable journey. After crossing the Forest Department check-post at Mannanur, the first stop is at Farahabad, where a breath-taking viewpoint greets you after a few kilometres stretch of dense Nallamala forest. You whip your camera out and take all the pictures you wish, including ‘selfies’ and ‘vidfies’ with a smartphone.

An hour later it is onwards to ‘Mallela Teertham’, the waterfalls bang in the middle of the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve and then the sight imposing, larger-than-life Srisailam dam and the large water spread too, make visitors shoot more photographs.

After a pass-through that affords a glimpse of ‘Paaladhaara and Panchadaara’, two very thin trickles of waterfall from a height, it is time for a darshan of ‘Sakshi Ganapati’.

As one reaches Srisailam, it is time to check into rooms and quickly freshen up before heading out for a darshan of Lord Mallikarjunaswamy before dinner and getting ready for a night’s sleep. On day two, those interested can have a second darshan at the temple, before going down the ropeway to ‘Paatala Ganga’ to board a boat. The five-hour cruise over the waters of the River Krishna has a visit to Akka Maa Devi temple en route and lunch on board before touching Somasila.

At Somasila, there are a couple of rooms at the Haritha Resort run by the TS Tourism Development Corporation (TSTDC) and take in the serene view of the backwaters, apart from also visiting the Someswara Temple. And then its back to business, to work, on a drive that is bound to be with a few regrets.

All this will be a reality within a fortnight and the road-cum-forest-cum-river-road circuit is bound to attract those in the concrete jungle, says TSTDC Chairman Pervaram Ramulu. He goes on to add this could possibly be a one-of-its-kind combination of a long drive, a pilgrimage, a glimpse of the forest and wildlife and a river cruise with lunch on board.

Development of the Hyderabad-Somasila-Srisailam route. Measures to provide amenities on the Hyderabad-Kollapur route are being looked into. Currently, one trip a week is planned. Daily packages will be implemented depending on the tourist arrivals.

Where to Stay
Riverfront Mrugavani SomasilaOnce at the Riverfront Mrugavani Somasila, the focus of attention is on the ring of low meadowed hills with the river waters kissing them on all edges.


Haritha Hotel, SomasilaThe resort is located on the nook of the land which means the river is completely surrounding the resort. Wake up to great views and piping hot filter coffee! This temple town is around four hours from Hyderabad, and we recommend taking a road trip as you'd pass through scenic vistas.

FOR BOOKINGS CONTACT
Phone No +91-6301857270

Note: The Hotel is leased out to private party. Please contact hotel directly for bookings. Hotel Terms and Conditions apply. Please read terms and conditions of the hotel.

Top attractions in the area
Sangameswara Temple in Middle of the Somasila Water Reservoir
Sri Jogulamba Bala Brahmeswara Swamy Temple (Alampur)
Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple (Singotam)
Madhava Swamy Temple (Kollapur)
Sangameswara Temple in Middle of the Somasila Water Reservoir

Kollapur is at a distance of 9 kms from Somasila is also famous for several temples and can be visited together.
9 km from Kollapur
105 km from Mahabubnagar
186 km from Hyderabad



Sources
http://www.telangananewspaper.com/somasila-boats-from-srisailam-of-mahabubnagar-district/
https://www.telanganastateofficial.com/somasila-srisailam-boat-service/
http://etelangana.org/news/news_details/5801
https://tourism.telangana.gov.in/hotels/SomasilaHotel

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Shamirpet Lake and Deer Park

Shamirpet Lake or Pedda Cheruvu is an artificial lake built during

the Nizam reign in 19th century.

Shamirpet Lake is very fine looking lake and its serene & calm environs makes it a great place to enjoy a lovely time. Near in the vicinity of Shamirpet Lake we have Deer Park too & the combination of both makes it a natural habitat for deer.

Many Telugu movies were also shot here, as well as in the neighbouring Jawahar Deer park, which has many deer, peacocks and birds. The lake is known to be dangerous, as many drowning incidents have been reported here.

One can always find a herd of deer quenching their thirst on the banks of the lake, which is a very fascinating sight. The area around the lake is covered in a large expanse of greenery and one will be able to spot several types of plants and trees here. Special attention has been paid to renovate the area and for this reason, forest cottages have been mounted near the lake for the convenience of tourists. 

One of the major activities held at the lakes is boating, which is a perfect way to explore the natural splendour of the lake. This is an amazing destination for photographers and bird-watchers.

The lake attracts many birds, making it a good birdwatching spot. A resort run by the Government of Telangana is located near the lake. The Outer Ring Road will pass close to the lake. There are many resorts and Private Dhabas around the lake.

In recent times, Shamirpet has become a hotspot in the city with several resorts coming up in the vicinity. The lake itself has become a popular place to spend evenings, bird watching and for the more adventurous, it is a perfect place for rock climbing.

Its beautiful rocky terrain gives us ample opportunity to use our skills to navigate around the boulders while keeping an eye on the lake and surrounding water bodies, sure is a sight for sore eyes. The lush green countryside too helps.

The highway passes along the banks of the lake and there is a very famous temple dedicated to Katta Maisamma, a local Goddess, just beside the road. People throng the temple on weekends and offer animal sacrifice and cook offerings nearby.

There is a path that leads to the lake, you can take your vehicles to the lake bed. Even during heavy monsoons, it has been ages since the lake filled up.

To really experience the lake one has to walk a bit further the trees, the rocks, the lake with the sunset in the horizon is sure to transport you to another world. This lake is not only a blessing for those looking for a quick get away, but also a living tale of why we must protect our lakes.

Jawahar Deer Park :If you want to spot the deer’s at its natural day life then you can get on to observational tower, which shows you entire Shamirpet lake and if you spent few minutes there with calmness you can spot deer’s coming forward from its hiding places or the deer enjoying a water bath in the lake.As the name indicate it’s a deer park so it’s obvious that it a park for deer protection as their population is drastically going down. Its located north from Secunderabad and it was built during the rule of Nizam kings in the 20th century. Jawahar Deer Park is also known as the Shamirpet Deer Park as it’s located in the vicinity of Shamirpet a man made lake constructed 50 years back. Its spread over an area of 80 acres allocated to deer’s and other animals.

Transportation

By Road: The transportation is available by Road, Air and Rail. The best way to reach the place is by road as the site is near the vicinity of Outer Ring Road, making it easily accessible through road.

By Train: Secunderabad Railway station is the nearest railway station to reach Shamirpet Lake.

By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is the nearest airport to Shamirpet Lake.

Timings : 08:00 - 19:00

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/Why-Hyderabadis-are-heading-to-Shamirpet-Lake/articleshow/54765185.cms

https://highwayonlyway.com/2013/07/25/high-on-hyderabad-ratnalayam-shamirpet-lake-picnic-hotspots/

https://crazyholidays.in/tours/details/575/jawahar-deer-park-with-shamirpet-lake

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Ananthagiri Hills (Vikarabad)

Ananthagiri Hills are about 90 kilometers from Hyderabad and 6 kilometers from Vikarabad. It is a forest area in Rangareddy District and the starting point of the Musi River.

The Ananthagiri Hills area is where Osmansagar and Himayathsagar originate and is some 100 km from Hyderabad and hardly 10 km from Vikarabad. Hundreds of families from the twin cities throng the hills on Sundays and holidays.

The lush greenery in the hills is captivating and attracts many visitors, who want to escape from city life. Ananthagiri is also home to a Vishnu temple called the Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple. During the weekends, devotees throng to the temple.

Ananthagiri offers many trekking and camping opportunities. There are two trekking trails in the forests, one that begins from the Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple and another that begins about 0.5 kilometres from the temple, towards Kerelli. Deccan Trails is the camping site in Ananthagiri Hills and offers a wonderful opportunity to spot the wildlife inhabiting the surrounding forests.

Ananthapadmanabha swamy Temple is one of the prime attractions in Ananthagiri hills. it had been build by nizam nawabs, 400 years ago and has big historic importance. Most of the people visit this temple 1st and then proceed to trekking.

Nagasamudram lake or kotipally reservoir is set at a distance of regarding 20km from ananthagiri hills. Lake is big, clear and it offers picturesque views in Monsoon, because it is completely filled with water.

Best time to visit Anantagiri Hills is rainy reason.

How to Reach Ananthagiri Hills

From Hyderabad, there are two ways for reaching ananthagiri hills through vikarabad. One route is Hyderabad – APPA Junction (outer ring road) – Chilkur – Moinabad -Chevella – Manneguda – Vikarabad (approx 60km from APPA junction).

And the other route is JNTU(KPHB) – BHEL – Patancheru – Rudraram – Sadasivpet(turn left) – Mominpet – Kothagadi – Vikarabad (approx 90km). After reaching Vikarabad, proceed towards Ananthagiri road.

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Pillalamarri

Pillalamarri is located about four km from the city and 90 Km away from Hyderabad City.

There is a tomb of a Muslim saint under the tree. The tree presents the appearance of a small hillock with green foliage from a distance but on reaching closer, it looks like a large green umbrella under which about thousand people can easily take shelter.It is 700 year old banyan tree and its branches extend over an area of 3 acres. In Telugu, "Pillalu" means children & "marri" means a banyan tree. 


The banyan tree is so widely spread that one could not see the main trunk of the tree. The Pillalamarri gives an appearance of a small hillock with green foliage from a distance, but as we reach closer it is viewed as a large green umbrella and assumed to be as a shelter for more than about thousand people.

There is also an aquarium, a small zoo and an archaeological museum here. There is a boating facility in the premises of Pillalamarri available only during the rainy season.

Pillalamarri District Archaelogical Musuem consists of numerous historical idols & articles of ancient people, which represents their culture & civilization. Unfortunately beacause of invasions of various rulers many of those are destroyed. But still there is a lot to see.

http://mahabubnagar.nic.in/Tourism.php

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Ramappa Lake

Ramappa Lake is situated near NH 163 in Palampet village of Venkatapur Mandal, Mulugu district, Telangana, India. 

237 k.m. from Hyderabad

70 k.m. from Warangal

1 k.m from Ramappa Temple

Ramappa Lake is a magnificient example of irrigation work of Kakatiya Rulers constructed in 13- Century A.D. during Ganapathi Deva’s time. Its water is spread over an area of more than 82 Sq.Kms with lush greenery all around. The lake is over looked by beautiful hill ranges in the background providing a spectacular view especially at Sunset time. It is an excellent place for van bojanalu (picnic) and one can simply come here and relax under the shade of sprawling trees or walk around appreciating the beauty of nature or have a fascinating boat ride.

There are excellent huts, eight in number and a good restaurant cum dining hall around Ramappa Lake but these are lying unused because of lack of proper maintenance. A tourism Rest House is also there near the Lake, which has three rooms and a dining hall. A CMEY group is operating boating facility to the Tourists in the Lake.

RECENT IMPROVEMENTS

1. Lake bund is renovated near the Guest House and arrangements are made to enjoy lake view
2. Regular Motoboating facilities provided by CMEY group on rental basis
3. Cafetaria facility provided for the tourists
4. Special Buses from Warangal arranged for Temple and Lake visit on Saturday and Sundays

FUTURE PLANS

1. Bush clearance has to be carried out on both sides of the bund to give a facelift to the entire area.
2. Flowering Plants have to be planted and a garden has to be laid out on the bund near the Tourism Rest House.
3. The Temple which is in an dilapidated condition near the Tourism Rest House needs to be renovated. Moreover, the smaller temples on the other side of the bund need to be improved.
4. The Huts and Rest House can be leased out to a private person who shall maintain them and run on profit basis.
5. Dustbins have to be kept to prevent littering at place.
6. Boards have to be provided at every 10 Kms on the road from Warangal to Ramappa Lake for giving directions and attracting the tourists.
7. 1 Km road for horse riding.

Source: http://warangal.nic.in/tourism/ramalake.htm

https://www.google.com/maps/place/Ramappa+Lake,+Telangana/@18.2331778,79.9099151,13z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x3a330dc00c07f8c5:0xfb5ca3190e6af4ca

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