Ananthagiri Hills Forest Trails

Ananthagiri Hills lie in the Vikarabad reserve forest of Vikarabad district, about 79 km southwest of Hyderabad in Telangana, India. The hills are regarded as the source area of the Musi river and are known for an old Ananthapadmanabha Swamy temple, dense dry deciduous forest, streams and viewpoints. They are the closest sizeable forest-hiking option for Hyderabad residents seeking a break from the city.

Access is easiest by car via Chevella Road and NH 163 towards Vikarabad, then the Ananthagiri road. Without a car, a TGSRTC bus from MGBS or Koti to Vikarabad takes roughly 1.5-2 hours, followed by an auto or shared jeep for the last 7 km to the hills. Parking is informal near the temple area, and visitors should check locally whether the forest department requires a permit or charges an entry fee for particular trails.

Trails range from a short temple walk of about 1-2 km to longer forest loops, giving 2-6 km in total depending on the route. The hills reach roughly 600-700 m, but most trails involve less than 150 m of climbing, so the overall rating is moderate largely because of length, heat and uneven footing rather than steepness. The surface is dirt, exposed roots and loose rock, with good tree shade on most sections but open patches at viewpoints. Landmarks include the temple and its surroundings, small streams that flow after the monsoon, and lookouts across the forested ridges. Suggested turn-around points are the temple for a short outing, or the first main viewpoint for a mid-length walk.

Water is limited. Visitors should carry 2-3 litres and packed food, as few shops operate near the trails, and there are no refuge huts beyond the temple's covered areas. Between July and September the forest is lush but wet, with leeches and slippery ground, so most hikers prefer October to February. Trails are not always signposted, so a downloaded offline map or local guidance is useful, and walking in a group is sensible. Plan two to four hours on the trails, plus the drive.