Horsley Hills and Talakona Falls 2 Day Taxi Package

Horsley Hills Talakona Falls package: a nature break

The Horsley Hills Talakona Falls package is a two day green escape that does not involve temples. Day one is Talakona, a waterfall inside the Sri Venkateswara National Park, about 50 km from Tirupati. Day two is Horsley Hills, a small hill station in the Chittoor district at roughly 1,200 m or more above sea level that stays cooler than the plains. Stay and meals are arranged and paid for by the traveller; Go Tirupati Cabs provides only the vehicle and driver for the whole trip.

You need a vehicle for this trip because public transport links between Talakona and Horsley Hills are limited. Distances for the second leg vary by route, so the driver will confirm the current road plan.

Talakona waterfall

Talakona is often described as the highest waterfall in Andhra Pradesh, with a drop of roughly 270 feet according to travel sources. A short forest walk of about 1 km leads to the pool, and the trail is manageable for most but can be tiring for elderly visitors. Entry is regulated by the forest department with a small per-person fee, and vehicles may have to park outside. Many sources give different timings and fees, so confirm at the gate. The Tirupati to Talakona taxi ride takes about 1.5 hours and passes through forest roads, so start early.

Horsley Hills

Horsley Hills (also called Yenugu Mallamma Konda) is named after a British collector, W. D. Horsley. It has eucalyptus woods, a giant eucalyptus tree called Kalyani that is said to be around 150 years old, small lakes and viewpoints, and adventure activities run by the tourism department. Accommodation is limited and includes a government-run resort and a few lodges, so book yours early and keep a plan B in Madanapalle; we do not book hotels. Evenings are cool, so take a light jacket.

Tips for the drive

Carry water, snacks, and sun protection. Plastic is controlled inside the forest area. Mobile signals can drop. Roads on the Horsley Hills side include a ghat section, so the driver may slow on bends. Keep the second-day return flexible: start by about 11 am to be back in Tirupati by late afternoon. Confirm every timing and fee on the day, as these change by season and management.

Who this trip suits

The package suits families, friends and small groups who want a change from temple trips. Children enjoy the forest walk and the open spaces at Horsley Hills, while photographers prefer the early morning light at the viewpoints. Do not carry plastic that can be left behind, avoid loud music in the forest, and follow the forest staff instructions at the falls.

Because this is not a temple trip, the pace is flexible. If it is raining heavily or the trail is closed, the driver will discuss alternative nearby spots with you. Your stay and meals are your own arrangement; there are few eating options close to the falls, so carry some food and water.

Sample plan

1. 6:00 amPick-up in TirupatiEarly start for cooler weather and clear forest roads.
2. 7:30 amReach TalakonaAbout 50 km, 1.5 hours.
3. 8:00 amForest walk and waterfallAbout 2 to 3 hours including the trek and photographs; confirm gate timings locally.
4. 12:00 pmLunch near TalakonaCarry snacks; limited choices.
5. 1:00 pmTalakona to Horsley HillsAbout 120 km, 3 hours (approximate).
6. 4:30 pmCheck in and viewpointsOwn stay at Horsley Hills; sunset at a viewpoint.
7. Day 2, 6:00 amSunrise and Kalyani eucalyptus treeEasy walks around the hill station.
8. 10:00 amLake and parkOptional adventure activities at your own cost.
9. 11:30 amReturn to TirupatiAbout 140 km, 3.5 hours; arrive by late afternoon.

Taxi cost by vehicle

Frequently asked questions

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