Understand
[edit]The whole village lives within the Gandikota Fort complex. Gandikota, known as the "Grand Canyon of India", is a historical fort village in Andhra Pradesh, India, famous for its stunning gorge carved by the Penna River. The region is steeped in history, with the Gandikota fort dating back to 1123, and having been ruled by various dynasties like the Kakatiyas, Vijayanagara Empire, and Mughal Empire. Key features of Gandikota: Gandikota Fort: A massive stone fort built upon a hill, overlooking the Penna River gorge. Gorge: The Penna River has carved a deep gorge, resembling the Grand Canyon, offering breathtaking views. Historical Monuments: The fort area contains temples like Madhavaraya and Ranganatha temples, a Juma Masjid, and other structures reflecting different dynasties' rule. Adventure Activities: Gandikota offers opportunities for trekking, rock climbing, and kayaking. Natural Beauty: The surrounding landscape includes forests, valleys, and the picturesque Mylavaram Dam. Nearby towns with basic facilities: Jammalamadugu: Located about 15-16 km away, is the closest railway station and has basic amenities. Tadipatri: Another nearby town with basic facilities like ATMs, pharmacies, and hotels. Best time to visit: October to February (winter months) offers pleasant weather. Evenings and early mornings are ideal for viewing the canyon due to lighting conditions.
Get in
[edit]The canyon can be reached by hiring auto or bus from jammalamagudu which is 15km away. The bus runs every two hours between the two places. There are direct buses from Bangalore to Tadipatri, from here you can take local buses to gandikota and belum caves.
Get around
[edit]The town's are well connected with bus service and you get autos at cheap rate within the town limit.
See
[edit]- Penna Gorge.
- Madhavaraya Temple. Open sunrise to sunset.
Granary Juma Masjid Water reservoir Pigeon Tower
Do
[edit]- Have a long walk through history and sit at Penna valley view point.
Eat
[edit]Vegetarian food is available at APTDC Haritha; for non-veg, you will have to inform them one day before.
You will find agents from the village hanging out in Haritha, and you can ask them to cook for you. There is an ac biryani place at jammalamagudu.
Sleep
[edit]- APTDC Haritha resort. Only accommodations in Gandikota. Cheap and neat. The contact number given on APTDC website is wrong.
- There are also lodges in Jammalamadugu, 15km away.
- You can rent tents for a nominal fees (someone from the village will always be hanging out at Haritha) and camp out near the gorge
The big town nearby is Ananthpur, which has good accommodation and food options.
Go next
[edit]Belum Caves, the second largest caves in India.