Telangana, a state in South-Eastern India, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, offers more than just its popular destinations. For travellers seeking offbeat experiences, it presents a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be explored. From ancient temples nestled in serene landscapes to remote wildlife sanctuaries teeming with biodiversity, Telangana’s lesser-known treasures promise a unique journey. This article delves into some of the state's undiscovered wonders, perfect for those looking to venture beyond the usual tourist trails.
In their heyday, sometime between 1175 and 1324 CE, the formidable Kakatiyas ruled Warangal and its environs. Today, must-visits at Hanamakonda (8 km outside town) include the ASI-maintained Thousand Pillars Temple, featuring an exquisite Nandi, and the shrines to Siddheswara and Padmakshi, known for their magnificent granite sculpting—especially a quadrangular pillar in the latter. Closer to the village of Palampet, 70 kilometers from Warangal, lies the Ramappa Temple and lake. Rarely is a site so significant as breathtakingly quiet and lovely as it is here. Back in the city, the 30-feet-high keerti toranas (gateways of glory) still stand tall at the fort.
The stunning granite ridges, hillocks, and boulder-strewn formations of the Deccan Plateau have faced thoughtless destruction over decades of reckless development. In response, the award-winning Hyderabad-based Society to Save Rocks was registered in 1996 to protect these silent sentinels, with members ranging from bureaucrats to homemakers. Join them on their popular Rock Walks to discover overlooked treasures like the white quartz cliffs at Shamshabad, Baatasingaram near Ramoji Film City, and Fakhruddingutta near Khajaguda. They work to persuade developers, lawmakers, lay citizens, and visitors alike that these rocks are gems too. Visit their website for more information.
They meet at least one Sunday a month, either in and around Hyderabad (when the weather is too hot) or farther away during spring and winter. Join members of the 35-year-old society as they make their way to the Qutab Shahi tombs with special permission, or head out on a three-day camp to Talakona and its lovely waterfall, located 60 kilometres from the temple town of Tirupati in the Sri Venkateswara Sanctuary, which has recently made headlines for the smuggling of red sanders. For more information, visit their website or Facebook group, or call +91-9849229552 or +91-9949038532.
It's a long drive from Hyderabad (270 km), with Mancherial (50 km) being the nearest town. Permits will be needed after you arrive, and there are no tourist facilities worth mentioning. Additionally, arranging a stay in the forest guest house at Jannaram isn't easily done. However, none of this should deter you from exploring the 893 square kilometres of pristine dry deciduous forests that make up the Kawal Tiger Reserve in the northern Adilabad district.
Kawal, awarded tiger reserve status in 2012, has been the focus of sustained conservation efforts in recent years. It is home to the richest teak forests in the state and boasts a rare combination of species, including four types of antelopes, the Indian gaur, wild dogs, sloth bears, ratels, hyenas, and wolves.
Had your fill of Hyderabadi biryani, mirchi ka salan, haleem, and khubani ka meetha? Well, you still have to sample the delicious luqmi (savoury minced meat morsels), chaakna (a calorie-defying stew of goat tripe and liver), tamatar ka qat (tomato curry with eggs), pasinde (slow-cooked tender veal), egg murtabak (layered chapatis filled with a mixture of eggs and meat), and dalcha (mutton and lentil stew simmered in tamarind).
Finish off with sublime sweets such as moz ka meetha (mashed bananas cooked in sugar syrup and garnished with mixed nuts and cream) and gil-e-Firdaus (shredded lauki soaked and cooked with sago and milk to creamy perfection).
It's hard to pick from the many hotels that make Hyderabad a great place to stay, but here are five worth considering. The Taj Falaknuma Palace Hotel (from INR 52,000) is an opulent labor of love, offering a taste of royal heritage and stunning views. For those seeking an activity-filled resort suited for a weekend break, the Palm Exotica Boutique Resort & Spa (from INR 10,000) is an excellent choice, featuring a variety of amenities and recreational options. Lastly, the Golkonda Resort and Spa (from INR 6,500) presents a timeless picture of old-world grace, combining luxury with tranquility. These hotels provide unique experiences that reflect the charm and hospitality of Hyderabad.
Conservation architect Madhu Vottery, author of A Guide to the Heritage of Hyderabad, which features 275 sites along with detailed maps and drawings, oversees four splendid walks conducted by trained guides in collaboration with Telangana Tourism and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Three of these walks begin and end within the Old City, covering routes from Charminar to Chowmahalla, Badeshahi Ashurkhana, and Purani Haveli. The fourth walk starts at Afzalgunj and meanders into the Old City along the riverfront.
These walks are available on Sundays, public holidays, or on demand, starting with the 7:30 AM bell at the Charminar, which remains open with special permission. Each walk spans approximately 1.5 km and lasts about 90 minutes, exploring 10 to 12 monuments without any U-turns. The cost is Rs 100 per person. For more information or to book a walk, you can contact 91-9849728841.
Hyderabad's twin city, Secunderabad, is separated from the capital by the Hussain Sagar Lake but has been fully assimilated into Telangana for all practical purposes. Founded as one of the largest British cantonments in 1806, Secunderabad boasts a distinct colonial legacy and cosmopolitan vibe that sets it apart from Hyderabad's princely heritage, despite being named after Sikandar Jah, the third Nizam of the Asaf Jahi dynasty.
While in Secunderabad, visitors can explore the historic All Saints Church and the fort in Trimulgherry. The bustling MG Road (formerly James Street) and Rashtrapati Road (previously known as King's Way) offer plenty of shopping and dining options. Additionally, a visit to the serene Ananda Buddha Vihar in East Maredpally provides a tranquil escape from the urban bustle.