1. Anantagiri Hills

A short distance from Hyderabad, the Anantagiri Hills are the perfect weekend getaway from the city. Sprawling with coffee plantations, Anantagiri Hills bring the best of the Eastern Ghats experience. Trekkers will revel in the trails that are waiting to be explored here – and the moderate height means even first-time trekkers will find it a very enjoyable experience. Best times to visit here are in February.

2. Nagarjuna Sagar

Though not exactly a hill station, its proximity to Hyderabad and the fact that there are three hills overlooking the waters gushing through the 12 gates of the Nagarjuna Sagar makes it a worthy qualifier for this list. Add to that the cool breezes of the environs and the boating trips to be made here and you’ll have a perfect destination to visit and beat the Hyderabad heat.

3. Srisailam

A religious getaway from Hyderabad amidst cool mountain climes, Srisailam is a place to visit temples in a more adventurous setting. Take a trip to the Ista Kameswari Temple with a wonderful drive through the dense forest, or take a ropeway to explore the Akkamahadevi Caves.

4. Horsley Hills

At an elevation of 4100 ft, Horsley Hills are dotted with dense forests, abundant plant and animal life, and a number of small temples across its many hillocks. Adventure sports, trekking and birdwatching are some of the more common activities for travellers here.

5. Lonavala

One of the most sought-after hill stations for both Mumbaikars and Hyderabadis, Lonavala’s scenic vistas, blending the mountain mists with green pastures and crisp natural breeze makes it a clear favourite. Some of the popular attractions here include the Karla and Bhaja Caves, the Duke’s Nose Peak and the Walwan Dam. Try to visit from October till May for the best experience.

6. Papi Hills

A scenic gorge located over the Godavari River, Papi Hills provide some of the most panoramic landscapes in the region – perfect excuse for bringing a good camera along. During the winter months, the scenes of the mountains shrouded by mist over the icy waters of the Godavari are truly memories to remember for a lifetime. Try visiting the village of Perantalapalli and bathing in the mountain waters at Pamaleru Wagu.

7. Araku Valley

Situated in Vishakhapatnam, this picturesque valley is renowned for its rich biodiversity spots. Replete with thick forests, vast coffee plantations and home to several indigenous tribes, Araku Valley also has a number of beaches such as the Rama Krishna Beach, caves like the Borra Caves and trails that wind through endless coffee plantations – making it a truly rich experience for your weekend getaway.

8. Chikmagalur

Translating to “the Younger Daughter’s Town”, Chikmagalur is as feisty a hill destination as the name implies. Nestled in the Baba Budan Giri (often called the “birthplace of coffee”) – Chikmagalur is resplendent with scenic vistas, mist-clad peaks, coffee plantations and the aroma of mountain air. Some attractions here include the Baba Budan Giri (1866 m), Hebbe Falls (550 ft) and the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.