Escape to 'Mini Maldives' near Hyderabad for your new year celebrations! Watch video
Have you heard about the "Mini Maldives" near Hyderabad? Located in Somasila, a quaint village in Telangana's Nagar Kurnool
image for illustrative purpose
Have you heard about the "Mini Maldives" near Hyderabad? Located in Somasila, a quaint village in Telangana's Nagar Kurnool, approximately 200 km from Hyderabad, this offbeat getaway remains relatively undiscovered.
Situated on the banks of the Krishna River, Somasila boasts an island-like appearance and is known for its religious significance, featuring 15 temples dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. The Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple, believed to date back to the 7th century, is the most prominent among them. Notably, the temple complex, housing Shivalingas, comes alive during festivals like Mahashivaratri and Karthika Pournami.
A major event in Somasila is the Pushkara Snanam festival, where devotees take a dip in the Krishna River—an auspicious occasion that occurs once every 12 years. Interestingly, the present-day temple was relocated from the old Somasila village to higher ground to avoid flooding from the river.
Beyond its religious importance, Somasila serves as a beloved picnic and day outing spot, where pilgrims seamlessly blend faith with fun. The backwaters of the Krishna River create a stunning backdrop, making it an ideal setting for quiet and serene holidays.
Conveniently situated just under 200 km from Hyderabad, Somasila is a popular day trip destination, especially for tourists from Karnataka and Maharashtra. To accommodate visitors, the Telangana Tourism Department operates several waterfront cottages offering scenic views of the river, along with opportunities for boating and angling.
Despite its popularity among tourists, Somasila maintains a peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds, providing a tranquil escape. Additionally, visitors can embark on a boat ride in the backwaters, reaching Srisailam, a renowned pilgrimage destination in India.
Aside from the temples and riverfront resorts, the Somasila View Point offers panoramic vistas of the river and surrounding landscapes, making it a comprehensive destination for both religious and leisurely experiences.
