Plan your weekend: Gandikota, India’s very own Grand Canyon

There are several other attractions in and near the village that allure visitors, the most special being the ancient, magnificent Gandikota Fort that sits grandly on top of the canyon. Apart from the unmatched beauty of the gorge, the mystical charm of this fort makes a visit to this village all the more exciting for history lovers and adventure seekers. The area is full of rocky plains and dry plateau landforms with the Pennar River flowing in the background. Situated on the banks of river Pennar, Gandikota derives its name from two Telugu words ‘Gandi’ meaning gorge and, ‘kota’ meaning fort. Also known as George fort, it is guarded by a huge entrance gate that’s 20 feet high and 101 bastions each over 40 feet high. The fort is surrounded by the deep gorge, impenetrable hills and dense forest. The landscape also includes monolithic boulders of red granite. All these provide a natural line of defence to theresidents of the fort.

The Fort has remains of temples, a granary, a royal pond and a mosque and is scattered with ruins. The fort is built in such a way that the gorge provides a natural defense on its west and north sides.

Gandikota was one of the greatest forts of south India in its heydays and so were the kings who ruled the region. Various kings of this fort become the hero for local population due to their bravery and their songs are in custom. One can also visit Mylavaram Dam nearby and do some boating in the serene waters of the reservoir. The sight of distant windmills with small stretches of visible roads along with pretty hues painted in the sky during the sunset is worth experience during yourGandikota trip.

The nearest railway station is 26 km away at Muddanur in Kadapa district. There are a number of trains from Gooty Junction as well. The nearest airport is at Kadappa which is 77 km away.