Gandikota, Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh

Gandikota,is located at a distance of 90 km from Kadapa in Kadapa District of Andhra Pradesh. This handsome piece of Nature’s architecture being known as the “The Hidden Grand Canyon of India”. It is a village on the right bank of River Pennar, near Jammalamadugu. The huge fort, stunning gorge, lakes, temples, amidst beautiful landscape and wild forests endowed with vast natural resources.

History of the Fort

Spread over miles, the massive Gandikota fort was built in the 13th century, ruled by powerful Telugu dynasty, the Pemmasani Dynasty and was one of the most prominent forts in the country.

A great example of unity in diversity inside the fort are two ancient temples, dedicated to Madhavaraya and Ranganathaswamy temple and a mosque called Jamia Masjid.

Adjacent to Gandikota fort, lies a magnificent lake that is believed to have been established by emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya using water from the Pennar river. The 'Rayalacheruvu' with its perennial springs irrigating some lime and plantain gardens. It is said that this 'Cheruvu' was connected to a fountain in Jamia Masjid by pipes, traces of which can still be seen.

The fort area is full of the remains of ages and many ancient structures. The large granary, a magazine, a graceful 'pigeon tower' with fretted windows and an extensive palace built by bricks with some plastered decorations and some wells. There is an old cannon lying in the fort.

Kapada is the nearest town to get easy transport to Gandikota through bus, rail and Air services.

Contact Person

The Chief Executive Officer
Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority
5th floor Stalin Corporate Auto Nagar Industrial Area Vijayawada Andhra Pradesh
Phone Number: 9121144095
Email: managerpr[dash]tourism[at]ap[dot]gov[dot]in