Hyderabad is India’s fourth most populous city. It is an IT hub in the making and it has been attracting more and more job seekers every year. On one hand, the increasing population is making the city prosper economically, on the other hand, the increase in pollution levels is giving a reason to the residents to look for a quick getaway every now and then. Thankfully, Hyderabad and many of its nearby areas are home to some of the most picturesque landscapes. Visiting these places is one of the most effective ways to get nature-therapy, away from the maddening crowd of the city. The cascading waterfalls near Hyderabad are unarguably a treat for sore eyes. Watching water gush down the rocks is extremely rejuvenating for the senses. The greenery around these waterfalls is refreshing and gives the tourists a fresh lease of life.
Check out this list of spectacular waterfalls near Hyderabad that can egg you into planning the long-shelved weekend getaway soon-
· Distance from Hyderabad: 185 km
· Best time to visit: October to February
Mallella Theertham waterfall is in the Nallamala Forest which falls under Telangana’s Nagarkurnool area. Visitors have to walk through the dense forest to reach the waterfall. The source of water is a small rivulet of Krishna river which falls down a small plateau in the jungle, forming the breathtaking waterfall. From here, the water flows through the jungle and joins the Krishna river near Achampet. The interesting fact about the waterfall is that it is located on a porous volcanic rock. It is because of the built this rock that rainwater does not accumulate in one place and keeps running through the mountains during monsoons. The flow of the waterfall is at its peak from October to February. The time between March and June is the driest season to visit this waterfall. During other parts of the year, the heavy rains can make it difficult to drive through the mud pools. As per mythology, several sages performed penances for Lord Shiva in this area. There have been sightings of tigers who, in their thirst, venture out to the waterfalls.
There isn’t much to see around the Mallela Theertham waterfall, it is highly unlikely that someone would visit it as a standalone destination. But the proximity of the waterfall from Srisailam, around 50 kms, it’s like a short daytime excursion from Srisailam. Many people prefer visiting the waterfall on their way to Srisailam. A diversion on the Hyderabad-Srisailam road near Vatavarlapally village leads to the waterfall and is usually the preferred route by the visitors. The waterfall is only 8 km from Vatavarlapally village, but a drive through the muddy road might feel longer.
· Distance from Hyderabad: 193 km
· Best time to visit: July to February
The waterfall is created by the Chandra Vanka river which flows through the rocks, leading to a breathtaking view. Located at a 2-hour drive from Hyderabad, the waterfall is suited for short treks or walks. If admiring the beauty of the waterfall from a distance does not cut it, you can take a closer look by climbing down to the falls. Although the waterfall is not imposing or threatening, many adrenaline junkies climb up to the waterfall to get a closer look at its beauty, like an expedition. The area around the waterfall is surrounded by green landscapes, nature therapy at its finest.
The best time to visit the waterfall is during or after the monsoon season. Between the months of July and February, water can be seen gushing from the fall and the greenery in the area in full bloom.
Since there isn’t much to do around the waterfall, the trip can include a visit to the Nagarjuna Dam and other nearby places. While driving from Hyderabad, once you cross the dam, keep driving on the road towards Macherla. On this road, you should come across a lot of signboards pointing towards the Ethipothala waterfalls. After traveling on the Macherla road for about 6-7 km, you will reach your destination.
· Distance from Hyderabad: 560 km
· Best time to visit: November and February
This waterfall is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a spiritual getaway in the lap of nature. This waterfall is a famous site among pilgrims since it has a Shiva temple built on its banks. The water from the fall fills up a pond which is nestled in a corner of a temple. This view gives this place a unique charm and a spiritual aura. It is a popular belief among devotees that bathing in the holy water of Kapila Theertham waterfall in the afternoon of a full moon day can wash away the sins of a person. During the months of November and February, the waterfall is in its full glory thus, these are the best months to visit the place. There is a plethora of festivals celebrated in the temple and one must visit the Kapila Theertham waterfall during this time to witness spirituality at its best. Some of these festivals are Brahmotsavam, Annabhishekam, Maha Shivarathri and, Vinayaka Chaturthi. The Kapileswara Swamy Brahmotsavam is the largest festival celebrated here and it takes place during the month of February. Another event that you can mark on your calendars is the full moon day in the month of Karthika. Tourists visit all the temples around the area to bathe themselves in the radiating spirituality of the place.
Sri Kapileswara temple remains open throughout the week for devotees. The temple timings are:
· Morning opening hours: From 5:00 am to 12:00 pm
· Closing hours: 12 pm to 04:00 pm
· Evening opening hours: 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm
If you are planning to visit Kapila Theertham waterfall from Hyderabad, you must first take a flight or train to Tirupati. From Tirupati, the waterfall is only 35 km and takes about 1-1.30 hours to reach. From Tirupati Balaji temple, the waterfall is only 2.5 km. Rides are easily available from the bus and train stations. It takes about 25 minutes to reach the waterfall, covering a distance of approximately 21 kms.
· Distance from Hyderabad: 260 km
· Best time to visit: October to November
Nestled in the beautiful views of the Sahyadri Mountain Range, Kuntala falls is a popular weekend getaway for many locals in Hyderabad. Scaling a height of 150 feet, Kuntala is the highest waterfall in the state. Popular legend has it that the waterfall is named after Shakuntala who used take bath under this waterfall and fell in love with Dushyant. Located on the Kadam river, the waterfall is inside a thick forest that is inhabited by the Gonds. In Gondi and Telugu language, Kunta is referred to as a pond and Kuntalu means multiple ponds. The origin of the waterfall is a confluence of several ponds which eventually leads to a river. Although the source of the water is one, the water cascades through two steps which makes it appear to be two different waterfalls flowing adjacent to each other. Someshwara Swami temple is located very close to the waterfall. Devotees come in a large number to offer their prayers at the temple on Mahashivratri. During their visit to the temple, they also go to see the mighty waterfall to admire nature’s beautiful creation.
When visiting the Kuntala falls, tourists usually check out the nearby attractions such as the Pochera waterfalls, the Gayathri falls, and the Kanakai waterfalls. In addition to these, many people also visit the Kawal Wildlife sanctuary which is a Tiger reserve right now. These places near the Kuntala waterfalls are perfect for a family picnic or even for a weekend getaway with friends.
During the monsoon season, the waterfall is saturated with rainwater. To avoid any accidents, authorities advise the tourists to stay away from the pool. If you don’t want to jeopardize your safety, can skip the monsoon season and visit the waterfall between October and November. Also, between the months of January and June, it is best to avoid the area. Due to excess heat during these months, the waters slow down to a trickle.
The waterfall is about 300 km from Hyderabad, making it a perfect destination for a short weekend getaway or a long drive. Public transport is easily available. Buses are regular but, they will drop you at Neredikonda village. From there, you will have to hire a taxi to reach your destination. If you wish to travel by train, you can get off at the Adilabad railway station, which is 58 km from the Kuntala waterfall.
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