Kuntala Waterfalls is located in the Adilabad district of Telangana, about 250 kilometers north of Hyderabad. It is the highest waterfall in Telangana and a popular weekend getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers from Hyderabad and nearby cities.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Hyderabad to Kuntala Waterfalls. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, fares, and useful tips to plan your trip confidently and enjoy the scenic journey.

Getting from Hyderabad to Kuntala Waterfalls – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a comfortable and affordable option, especially if you prefer a relaxed journey. However, there is no direct train to Kuntala Waterfalls, so you need to combine train and road transport.

• Take a train from Hyderabad Deccan (HYB) to Adilabad Railway Station, which is the nearest major station to Kuntala Waterfalls, about 40 km away. The journey takes around 6 to 7 hours, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class.

• Trains like the Hyderabad-Adilabad Passenger and express trains run daily with moderate frequency, but booking in advance on IRCTC is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.

• From Adilabad station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Kuntala Waterfalls. The road journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, with taxi fares around ₹800 to ₹1200 one way.

• Train travel is less affected by seasonal road conditions, but monsoon rains can cause delays. Carry water and snacks as station facilities may be limited.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Kuntala Waterfalls from Hyderabad. State-run and private buses connect Hyderabad to Adilabad and nearby towns close to the falls.

• From Hyderabad’s MGBS (Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station), you can catch a direct or connecting bus to Adilabad, which takes about 6 to 7 hours. Bus fares range between ₹250 and ₹400 depending on the type of bus.

• Frequent Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) buses operate on this route, including deluxe and non-AC services. Booking tickets online or at the station is advisable during peak seasons.

• From Adilabad bus station, local buses or shared autos are available to the Kuntala Waterfalls area, but they may be infrequent. Hiring a taxi or private cab is more convenient for the last leg.

• Road conditions on NH44 and connecting highways are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause slippery patches and occasional delays.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Hyderabad to Kuntala Waterfalls is a flexible and comfortable option. It allows you to explore at your own pace and stop at scenic spots along the way.

• The distance from Hyderabad to Kuntala Waterfalls is approximately 250 km via NH44 and State Highway 1, taking around 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The route is well connected with toll plazas on NH44; toll charges may total around ₹150 to ₹250 one way. Fuel costs for a car will vary but expect about ₹1500 to ₹2000 for a round trip.

• There are several rest stops and eateries along the highway, including popular dhabas near Kamareddy and Nirmal, where you can enjoy local Telangana cuisine.

• Driving during early morning hours is recommended to avoid city traffic and reach the falls before the afternoon crowd. Monsoon season requires extra caution due to wet roads and fog in some areas.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Hyderabad to Kuntala Waterfalls is convenient for groups or those who prefer door-to-door service without driving themselves.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available in Hyderabad, but long-distance rides to Kuntala Waterfalls may require advance booking and negotiation.

• The taxi fare for a round trip can range from ₹4000 to ₹6000 depending on vehicle type and negotiation, including waiting time at the falls.

• Local taxi operators in Adilabad can also be hired for the last leg if you prefer to travel by train or bus first.

• Ensure the taxi driver is familiar with the route to Kuntala Waterfalls, as some roads near the falls are narrow and less signposted.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Hyderabad to Kuntala Waterfalls. It covers key actions to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

• Book your train or bus tickets online in advance via IRCTC or TSRTC portals to secure your seat, especially on weekends and holidays when demand is high.

• Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, comfortable shoes, and rain gear if traveling in monsoon season to stay prepared for the trek to the falls.

• Arrive at Hyderabad Deccan Railway Station or MGBS bus station at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or bus stand easily.

• On reaching Adilabad, use prepaid taxi counters or trusted local cabs to reach Kuntala Waterfalls safely, as public transport options may be limited and irregular.

• Carry some cash in small denominations for tolls, local transport, and food stalls, as digital payments may not be accepted in remote areas near the falls.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety: Avoid traveling alone to Kuntala Waterfalls, especially during monsoon or after dark. Inform someone about your travel plans and expected return time.

• Food and Water: Carry sufficient drinking water and light snacks, as food options near the falls are limited and hygiene standards vary.

• Booking Strategy: Use official websites like IRCTC and TSRTC for booking tickets to avoid scams and last-minute cancellations common with unofficial agents.

• Local Transport: Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are safer and more reliable than hailing random autos or taxis near stations in Adilabad.

• Luggage: Keep your luggage minimal and secure, as trekking paths to the falls can be slippery and crowded, making heavy bags difficult to manage.

• Seasonal Warnings: Avoid visiting during heavy monsoon rains (July to September) due to slippery trails and risk of flash floods near the waterfall area.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kuntala Waterfalls is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and the water flow is good. Summers can be hot, and monsoon brings heavy rains that may disrupt travel.

Travel conditions vary with seasons, so planning your trip accordingly will ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Dussehra and Sankranti when highways and transport hubs are crowded with holiday travelers.

• Monsoon season can cause slippery roads and occasional landslides on the route, so it is best to avoid this period or check weather updates before traveling.

• Early morning departures help you avoid city traffic and reach the falls before afternoon crowds, especially on weekends.

• Winter mornings may have fog on highways near Adilabad, so drive carefully and use headlights.

Arrival at Kuntala Waterfalls & What to Expect

When you arrive near Kuntala Waterfalls, you will find limited public transport options. Most visitors use taxis or private vehicles to reach the parking area close to the falls.

From the parking area, a short trek of about 1 km through forested paths leads to the waterfall viewpoint. The trek is moderately easy but can be slippery, so wear suitable footwear.

Local transport options include shared autos or jeeps from nearby villages, but these are infrequent. It is best to arrange your return transport in advance. Accommodation options near the falls are limited, so many travelers prefer staying in Adilabad town, which has hotels and guesthouses with better facilities.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Kuntala Waterfalls from Hyderabad is by combining train travel to Adilabad with a taxi ride to the falls. This option balances comfort, cost, and convenience well for most travelers. Alternatively, self-driving offers flexibility but requires careful planning for road and weather conditions.

Remember to book your tickets early, carry essential supplies, and plan your travel times to avoid crowds and seasonal challenges. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a memorable trip to Kuntala Waterfalls and experience the natural beauty of Telangana’s highest waterfall with ease and confidence.