Gandikota

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Gandikota is a village and ancient fort on the right bank of the Penna river in Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh, India, about 15 km from Jammalamadugu. It sits in a dramatic canyon formed by the Penna river and the Erramala hills, which gives Gandikota the nickname “the Grand Canyon of India.” The gorge narrows to around 100 meters at the river.

History and origin
In the 12th century, Kaka Raja, a vassal of the Kalyani Chalukya rulers, built a sand fort here. The site later came under the Kakatiya dynasty. The fort grew into a major fortified town under the Pemmasani Nayakas, who built many structures, including a large rock fortress with 101 towers. During later Muslim rule, Islamic architectural elements were added. Today, the fort is protected as a central monument by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Geology of the canyon
The gorge shows ancient sedimentary rocks known as Gandikota Quartzite, part of the Chitravati Group in the Cuddapah Supergroup. The Chitravati Group includes the Pulivendla Quartzite, Tadpatri Formation, and Gandikota Quartzite.

Main sights inside and around the fort
Within the fort area are two old temples, dedicated to Madhava and Ranganatha, now in ruins. The site also has large granaries, a magazine, a graceful pigeon tower, and a brick palace with wells. The Jamia Masjid features two adjacent minarets. Nearby are Rayalacheruvu with perennial springs and Parebagh garden with a waterfall, along with other gardens and old wells. An inscription on a boulder near Nagajhari mentions gardens given to the temple.

Outdoor appeals and nearby dams
There are camping spots outside the fort and along the Penna river. A popular downhill trek leads to the canyon floor and the riverbed. The Gandikota Dam lies upstream, and the Mylavaram Dam lies downstream.

Other notable features
The fort is known for landmarks such as the House of the Drum, a Charminar, a jail, and Red Koneru, also called the pond of swords. Legend says warriors dipped their swords in this large pool after battles, turning the water red. An old cannon remains in the fort.

Getting there and staying
The nearest railway stations are Muddanuru (MOO) and Jammalamadugu (JMDG). Trains also run via Gooty Junction. Jammalamadugu gained better rail links after a new line opened, but service is still limited. Buses run from Jammalamadugu Old Bus Stand to Gandikota. Inside the fort there are no vehicles, so visitors walk, with a popular trek down into the canyon to the river.

Accommodation and facilities
AP Tourism runs a Haritha hotel in Gandikota, though facilities are limited on weekdays due to fewer visitors.

Heritage and events
Gandikota is popularly called the Grand Canyon of India. The state government has invested about 3 crore rupees to boost tourism here. The site has historic mentions, including a 16th-century copper plate found by Tavva Obul Reddy. Kadapa-born poet Vemana is believed to have lived in Gandikota briefly, and traveler Jean Baptiste Tavernier visited during his travels to Golconda. A heritage festival is held annually.