Ananthagiri Hills – located 75 km from Hyderabad, just 6 km from Vikarabad, this mini hill range shrouded by thick woods. The Ananthagiri forest is one of the larger forest areas in Ranga Reddy District. The precincts of Vikarabad have always been a place of excitement because of the lush, rich surrounding forests. Green foliage dappled with colorful fauna is what makes the Ananthagiri forest, a lovely place to be. Tourists invariably come to watch these mysterious woods which are supposed to be one of the most beautiful jungles of South India. Trekking and Walks in the forest area are favorite activities of the tourists at Ananthagiri. This startlingly beautiful hill location is an ideal and upcoming summer resort.
Ananthagiri is perched at an altitude where the panoramic vista unfolds stunning viewpoints. The experience of wandering about in the Ananthagiri forests is adventurous as well as thrilling. Some fantastic birds, weird insects and a few old trees is what one can see here. But one is enchanted by the beauty of nature which is pristine, impeccable and unspoiled. Ananthagiri is also called the "Ooty of Telangana".
Located 5 km away from Vikarabad town, in Rangareddy District, Ananthagiri Hills lie beautifully amidst the scenic charm of forest. Its scenic beauty, lush greenery and a calm surrounding is sure to rejuvenate you. These hills are surrounded by the Eastern Ghats, resulting in an incomparable beauty.
There are many things that you can do at Ananthagiri hills, apart from admiring its serene nature. These hills are nothing less than a dream destination for trekkers. Experience the thrill of trekking while basks in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes, all at the same time. There are two common trails for trekking. One begins from the Anantha padmanabha swamy Temple while the other route starts towards Kerelli, 0.5 km from the temple.
If looking for areas to explore then you will find a wide range of places to go around, that are located quite close to these hills. Padmapuram Gardens, Musi River, The Borra Hills and Caves, Coffee Plantation, Katiki or Katki Waterfalls, Tyda Park, Bhavanasi Lake, Dolphin’s Nose, Galikondalu Viewpoint, Nagasamudram Lake are a few of the popular sightseeing places located close to the hills. Ananthagiri Temple is also a place often visited by tourists.
If you wish to stay for a day or two, you have a few good hotels and resorts from where you can choose. Some of the accommodation choices here are Haritha Ananthagiri Valley view Resort maintained by the Telangana Tourism Development Corporation, TSTDC. Telangana Tourism has established Haritha Ananthagiri Valley View Resort here, with luxurious A/c rooms, with catering and service facilities for complete, tourist comfort. The classy accommodation makes it a choice summer getaway from Hyderabad.
Other Places to visit in and around Ananthagiri Hills:
Bugga Rameshwaram is a place which is located 4 km away from vikarabad. It is well know for shivalayam. An underground spring near the temple is believed to be the source of the Musi river. Spirituality and legends apart, the surrounding areas provide some great picnic spots and even some trekking options.
Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple is located 5 km from Vikarabad. The deity in this temple is said to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. According to the legend, Markandeya Maharshi did penance for nearly 1400 years for the darshan of Lord Vishnu. Then Lord Vishnu appeared to him as Anantha Padmanabha Swamy in a cave. Even now pilgrims have a darshan of the lord by going inside a small cave. The temple is usually flooded with pilgrims during the weekends.
The temple is open throughout the day. There is also a forest guest house close to the temple on the way to Vikarabad. This is right on the main road and on a small hillock, giving a panoramic view of the forest. If one is a nature lover and wants to be away from the clutter of the city this is the ideal getaway. The trip can be for a day visit or for a weekend with stay in the forest guest house.
Telangana Tourism has established a sprawling Hill Resort at Ananthagiri with luxurious rooms and all facilities for fabulous weekend holidays or summer vacations in the lap of nature.
How to Reach Vikarabad / Ananthagiri Hill Station
By Air: Nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International airport at Hyderabad, 75 km from Vikarabad.
By Rail: You can easily get regular trains to vikarabad from Hyderabad and also from other cities of the state.
By Road: Vikarabad is well connected by road to Hyderabad. There is a Bus and taxi service to Ananthagiri hills from vikarabad.