If you’re looking for an offbeat adventure filled with dense forests, scenic hills, ancient temples, and thrilling wildlife, then Nallamala Hills Tour takes you to the perfect destination. Nestled in the Eastern Ghats, this breathtaking mountain range stretches across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, covering parts of Kurnool, Prakasam, Guntur, and Kadapa districts.
Home to the largest stretch of undisturbed forest in South India, the Nallamala Hills is a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, trekkers, and spiritual seekers. With its lush green landscapes, deep gorges, roaring waterfalls, and ancient temples, this region offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
This Nallamala Hills Tour covers everything you need to plan your trip, including how to reach, the best time to visit, accommodations, must-visit places, adventure activities, travel routes from Vijayawada and Guntur, distances from major cities, and local cuisines.
How To Reach Nallamala Hills? 🚗🚆✈️
Nallamala Hills is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible from major cities like Hyderabad, Vijayawada, and Guntur.
By Road 🛣️
- From Vijayawada (290 km) – A 5.5-hour drive via Guntur and Nandyal.
- From Guntur (250 km) – A 5-hour drive via Narasaraopet and Markapur.
- From Hyderabad (250 km) – A 5.5-hour drive via NH 44.
Regular APSRTC buses and private taxis are available from Vijayawada, Guntur, and Hyderabad to towns near Nallamala Hills, such as Srisailam, Markapur, and Atmakur.
By Train 🚆
The nearest railway stations to Nallamala Hills are:
- Markapur Road Railway Station (100 km) – Connected to Vijayawada, Hyderabad, and Chennai.
- Nandyal Railway Station (120 km) – A well-connected station for travelers from Bangalore and Kurnool.
From these stations, you can take a bus or taxi to Nallamala Hills.
By Air ✈️
The nearest airports are:
- Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (250 km) – The best option for international travelers.
- Vijayawada International Airport (290 km) – Well-connected to major Indian cities.
From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Nallamala Hills.
Best Time to Visit Nallamala Hills ☀️🌧️
Nallamala Hills has a tropical climate, with winters being the best time to visit.
Best Time to Visit: October to February for comfortable weather and outdoor adventures.
| Season | Months | Weather | Best Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | October – February | Cool & Pleasant (15°C – 25°C) | Trekking, Wildlife Safari, Temple Visits |
| Summer | March – June | Hot (30°C – 40°C) | Early Morning Trekking Only |
| Monsoon | July – September | Rainy & Lush Green (20°C – 30°C) | Waterfalls, Photography, Scenic Drives |
Nallamala Hills Activities 🎒🌲
Nallamala Hills Tour offers a thrilling mix of adventure, spirituality, and nature experiences.
1. Trekking & Hiking 🥾
- Explore challenging trekking trails through dense forests and rocky terrains.
- Popular treks: Srisailam to Mallela Theertham, Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary Trails.
2. Wildlife Safari at Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve 🐅
- Spot tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and wild boars in India’s largest tiger reserve.
- Enjoy a thrilling jeep safari through the reserve’s dense forests and river valleys.
3. Visit the Ancient Srisailam Temple 🛕
- One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, attracting thousands of devotees.
- Offers breathtaking views of the Krishna River from the temple complex.
4. Waterfall Hopping & River Adventures 🌊
- Visit Mallela Theertham Waterfall, a hidden gem in the middle of the forest.
- Take a boat ride in the Krishna River near Srisailam Dam.
5. Birdwatching & Nature Walks 🦜🌿
- Spot rare birds like grey hornbills, paradise flycatchers, and painted storks.
- Best locations: Gundla Brahmeswaram Sanctuary, Atmakur Forest Trails.
Nallamala Hills Hotels & Resorts 🏨🌴
Nallamala Hills Tour offers eco-friendly forest lodges, budget hotels, and spiritual stays.
Luxury & Boutique Resorts 🌿
- Haritha Resort, Srisailam – A government-run eco-resort with forest views.
- Punnami Srisailam Resort – A comfortable retreat near the Srisailam Temple.
- Jungle Bells Nature Camp – A boutique eco-lodge in the heart of Nallamala Forest.
Budget Stays & Homestays 🏡
- Atmakur Forest Guest House – A budget-friendly stay with wildlife views.
- Gundla Brahmeswaram Forest Camp – Ideal for camping and adventure stays.
- Markapur Budget Hotels – Affordable stays available in Markapur (100 km away).
For an authentic experience, opt for a forest lodge or a camping stay.
Best Places to Visit in Nallamala Hills 🌄🏕️
1. Srisailam Temple & Dam
A Jyotirlinga temple, surrounded by breathtaking river views.
2. Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve
India’s largest tiger reserve, offering safaris and trekking experiences.
3. Mallela Theertham Waterfall
A stunning waterfall deep inside the Nallamala forest.
4. Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary
A wildlife sanctuary with rare bird species and scenic landscapes.
5. Cumbum Lake (Near Markapur)
One of India’s oldest man-made lakes, ideal for picnics and boating.
Nallamala Hills Tour from Vijayawada 🚗
Nallamala Hills is just 5.5 hours from Vijayawada, making it a perfect weekend getaway.
- Distance: 290 km
- Travel Time: 5.5 hours
- Route: Vijayawada → Guntur → Markapur → Nallamala Hills
Nallamala Hills Tour from Guntur 🚗
Nallamala Hills is just 5 hours from Guntur, making it an easy nature escape.
- Distance: 250 km
- Travel Time: 5 hours
- Route: Guntur → Narasaraopet → Nallamala Hills
Nallamala Hills Distances from Major Cities
| City | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Vijayawada | 290 km | 5.5 hrs |
| Guntur | 250 km | 5 hrs |
| Hyderabad | 250 km | 5.5 hrs |
| Chennai | 480 km | 9 hrs |
Final Thoughts 🌿🏕️
Nallamala Hills is one of the best eco-tourism destinations in India, offering a perfect mix of adventure, wildlife, and spirituality. Whether you want to explore deep forests, go on a wildlife safari, or visit an ancient temple, Nallamala Hills is the perfect getaway for nature lovers.
So pack your bags and explore the untouched beauty of Nallamala Hills! 🌲✨
