Gandikota

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Gandikota Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 2 Days

Best Time: November to February Read More

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Also Refered As:

Gandikota Grand Canyon

"Grand Canyon of India"

Gandikota Tourism

Endearingly known as the ‘Grand Canyon of India’, Gandikota is a small and quaint village in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh. Flanked by River Pennar on the right side, the village is famous for the spectacular gorges formed by the river cutting through Erramala Hills. The narrow valleys with streams running between them and the steep rocky walls are reminiscent of the renowned Grand Canyon in Arizona. It requires a walk of almost a kilometre from the main gate to reach the boulder from where you can observe the mesmerising view from the viewpoint near the fort.

Located 1.5 hours away from Belum Caves, the highlight of the village of Gandikota is the ruins of Gandikota Fort, which was built in the 13th Century. The sturdy fort is flanked by the Pennar gorges on both sides and is protected by a majestic 5-mile wall. Built-in red sandstone, the fort boasts beautiful, intricate carvings in the interior. It also offers sweeping views of the hills and valleys below. In addition to a granary, jail and ruins of some temples, there are several structures within the fort that you can visit.

Gandikota Fort
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Things to do in Gandikota

1. Hike to Pennar Gorge Viewpoint

Hike to Pennar Gorge Viewpoint
Hike to the Pennar Gorge viewpoint, which offers fantastic views of the ravine created by the Pennar River flowing through the rocky canyon. Sunset and Sunrise are the best times to visit this spot fo (Read More)r the best panoramic views. The likeness of the narrow gorge to the Grand Canyon in Arizona is why Gandikota has been named the 'Grand Canyon of India'.

2. Explore Gandikota Fort

Explore Gandikota Fort
Explore the ruins of the Gandikota fort, which is located close to the Pennar Gorge Viewpoint. The fort boundaries house many other significant structures, such as the Madhavaraya Temple and Jamia Mas (Read More)jid, among others. The walls along the fort also offer brilliant views of the surrounding region.

3. Camping at Gandikota

Camping at Gandikota
Campsites at or near Gandikota Fort (provided by camp operators) are available in plenty. These campsites offer camps at affordable and premium rates with optional inclusions such as activites such as (Read More) hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, and ziplining, among many others. Certain operators also provide amenities such as food and washrooms.

4. Adventure Activities

Adventure Activities
Various adventure activities, including kayaking, paragliding, rock climbing, rappelling, trekking/hiking, etc., are available at Gandikota. These activites are provided by various operators and can b (Read More)e booked ahead or on-site depending on availability.

5. Jamia Masjid

Jamia Masjid
Jamia Masjid is an ancient mosque located within the Gandikota Fort. What is fascinating about this mosque is that it is situated in the Gandikota Fort boundaries alongside Raghunathaswamy Temple and (Read More)Madhavaraya Temple. This is an example of India's diversity and culture since ancient times.

6. Raghunathaswamy Temple

Raghunathaswamy Temple
Raghunathaswamy Temple is known for its intricate pillars, airy corridors and complex hallways. The temple now houses no idols, but the olden relics attract tourist in large numbers.

7. Madhavaraya Temple

Madhavaraya Temple
Madhavaraya Temple is another olden temple within the boundaries of Gandikota fort. Built-in the name of Lord Vishnu by Sri Krishna Deva Raya of the Vijayanagar Kingdom, it is also well known for the (Read More)intricate carvings on its walls and pillars. Just like in Raghunathaswamy Temple, there are no idols within the temple.

8. Belum Caves

Belum Caves
Located around 61 Km from Gandikota, Belum Caves are an ancient network of underground caves which are the second-largest in India. Said to be over 1 million years old, the caves comprise fresh-water (Read More)galleries, siphons, huge chambers and extended passages.

There is a resort near the cave where visitors can find accommodation, refreshments, and amenities like washrooms.

Must Know Before You Travel to Gandikota

1. The campsites are the most popular accomodation options at Gandikota.

2. Some resorts, such as Haritha Resort which is quite popular, are also near Gandikota Fort.

3. More lodges and smaller hotels are available in nearby Jammalamadagu and Tadipatri.

4. Bookings for your stay should be done well in advance, as they can get filled quickly.

5. Light, comfortable clothes and good hiking shoes are advisable when visiting Gandikota, as a lot of walking and hiking would be needed.

6. Gandikota is best experienced with your own means of private transport if possible.

7. It is advisable to carry cash as ATMs are scarce and mostly available in nearby Jammalamadagu and Tadipatri.

8. Jammalamadagu and Tadipatri also house medical and convenience stores.

9. Rickshaws can be availed within and to and from Gandikota. Be ready to bargain with them.

10. Enough water bottles, first aid kits, insect repellants and umbrellas and sunglasses to protect you from the sun should be carried.

More on Gandikota Travel

How to Reach Gandikota?

The best way to reach Gandikota is by road by private taxi or your own vehicle. The roads to and from Gandikota are in great condition and offers a smooth journey.

By Road

Gandikota is well connected to major cities such as Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Vizag. Private taxis and inter-city buses can be availed regularly to nearby locations or directly at Gandikota.

By Flight

Kempegowda International Airport at Bengaluru and Tirupati Airport at Renigunta are the two nearest airports to travel via domestic flights. From here your onward journey can be via bus or private taxi.

By Train

Jammalamadugu, located around 16 km from Gandikotais the nearest railway station. From the station, rickshaws and some small taxis can be availed.

Why is Gandikota called 'Grand Canyon of India'?

The Grand Canyon of America is known for its picturesque landscape and is just a rave for everyone, but, little do they know, India has its own gorge that is in a different class itself. Gorges are valleys formed because of water which flows continuously, eventually eroding rocks to create a path for the water. For centuries, the Penna River created the Gandikota Canyon by flowing on the same course. The Gandikota Canyon is a beautiful natural marvel with the Penna River flowing in between massive granite boulders forming awe-inspiring valleys and caves that can give tough competition to America's Grand Canyon.

Best Time to Visit Gandikota

Gandikota Photos

Gandikota
View of the Valley in the Morning
Pennar River through Gandikota Gorge
Pennar River through Gandikota Gorge

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photos

FAQs on Gandikota

What is the best time to visit Gandikota?

The best time to visit Gandikota is from November to February when the temperatures are more pleasant for travellers.

What are the places near Gandikota?

The top places near to Gandikota are Hampi which is 203 km from Gandikota, Anantapur which is located 75 km from Gandikota, Bangalore which is located 218 km from Gandikota, Mysore which is located 331 km from Gandikota, Nandi hills which is located 173 km from Gandikota

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