All you need to know about AnanthaGiri Hills
LOVE LONG DRIVES?
LOVE BREEZY WEATHER?
LOVE LUSH GREEN VALLEY?
For a quick escape from Hyderabad’s bustle, Ananthagiri Hills in Vikarabad is an absolute gem.
The drive is refreshingly smooth; starting from Gachibowli, we zipped across the ORR and onto the Chevella stretch, where the roads are wonderfully maintained. The route is dotted with local eateries perfect for a quick breakfast stop, though we opted to carry our own picnic box to keep the momentum going. It’s a seamless journey that trades concrete for canopy in no time—a perfect reminder that nature’s quietude is much closer to the city than we often realize.
Entering Vikarabad, the world suddenly shifts into a corridor of towering greens and rhythmic silence. The rain turned the forest into a lush, vibrant spectacle, making the “limitless” Ananthagiri hills feel truly ethereal. From the viewpoint, clouds draped over the valley like a translucent veil, shrouding the horizon in a surreal, misty embrace that felt almost otherworldly.
Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy devasthanam is on the way to the Musi river origin viewpoint. The temple is a beautiful example of architecture, the temple entrance is flanked by two massive statues of Garuda and Hanuman. Official TSTDC website states the legend as “According to Skanda Purana, it is believed the temple is installed by the Rishi Markandeya in Dwapara Yuga. Attracted by the peaceful atmosphere of Ananthagiri hills, Markandeya Rishi came here for yoga sadhana. Every day Markandeya used to go to Kasi from Ananthagiri to take a holy bath in the Ganges through a cave due to his yoga sadhana. On one day he was not able to go to Kasi as Dwadasi enter the early hours of the morning. Lord gave Darshana in a dream and arranged the Ganges to flow to perform a holy bath for Rishi.”
The main temple sanctum sanctorum is led by a cave-like entrance. it is very peaceful. There is no entry fee to the temple, only parking fees at gate must be paid.
The Musi River origin point is even more beautiful. There is designated parking – 40₹ for parking and 20₹ per person for the preservation of the area. The entire valley is visible and on good days, Kotpally reservoir is also visible from this viewpoint. Most people come here to trek to the watchtower through the jungle. Trek is fairly easy but demands good stamina for close to 5-6 round trip to the watchtower.
The trek begins at the rustic Shiva-Parvati temple, where the patient Nandi bull stands guard. After a quick blessing, the path opens into an enticing, rain-washed valley—the air sweet with a breeze that promises discovery. You’ll soon encounter the gentle waterfall marking the Musi river’s origin. Beyond this, the jungle deepens into a dense, emerald quiet, broken only by peacock calls and the cricket’s hum. Pro-tip: Carry water and insect repellent to keep the adventure comfortable.
More on exciting day trips from Hyderabad
Kotpally reservoir can be added to the itinerary if time permits. Alternatively, if you are opting to stay in Ananthagiri hills,you must visit this place. It is around another 30 km drive from the Musi rover origin viewpoint and takes 54 mins average time to reach. The reservoir offers kayaking facilities for adventurous souls.
Stay options : Haritha Ananthagiri hotel is is located in the forest area. The rooms are well maintained from what’s expected from government-driven accommodation; otherwise, the service is pretty bland. Basic amenities like towel, drinking water, room service, and geyser (only central-controlled hot water facility) were not available. However, the location is one of the best! We were lucky to witness clouds floating from the balcony – right into the back courtyard. Other alternate stay options can be found in Vikarabad town.
It is heartening to see these viewpoints so well-maintained for travelers. Being just a 50 km drive from Hyderabad, it’s the perfect destination for a spontaneous morning cruise right after a rainy night. If you’re looking to break the monotony of city life, Ananthagiri Hills is your answer!
How to reach :
By Road : ORR > Chilkur > Chevella > Vikarabad>Tandur
By Rail : Nearest Railway station is Vikarabad junction, you can hire cab to reach hotel.
By Air : Nearest Airport is Hyderabad International Airport. You can hire out-station cab or Zoom car to drive over to the dam.
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