I was staying in Hyderabad and was in a mood to explore new adventurous destination close to nature As Hyderabad’s central location makes it easy to explore a range of diverse attractions such as thrilling canyon, from ancient forts and scenic temples to stunning waterfalls and unique heritage sites. So one fine morning, we packed our baggage for Gandikota and left by road.
Gandikota is a great travel destination that will appeal to all kinds of travellers. It offers you interesting heritage sites like the Gandikota fort, beautiful view points of the Grand Canyon of India and loads of adventure activities like kayaking, trekking and rock climbing.
One can also, camp overnight under the open clear skies in Gandikota. The topography and scenic beauty make this canyon a unique place. It is at a distance of about 390 km from Hyderabad .The closest town and Railway Station to this is Jammalamadugu (15 km away).
Gandikota is located in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh.
It is at a distance of about 390 km from Hyderabad. The closest town and Railway Station to this is Jammalamadugu (15 km away).
It is known for its huge gorge formed by river Penna that cuts through the Erramala hills. This enticing piece of nature’s architecture is called the Grand Canyon of India, who is captivated by its unmatched beauty. The blue green Penna River pierced through the ravine creating a bewitching scène. While on the other bank is whispering ancient Gandikota fort.
Gandikota Fort is truly a hidden gem that has not yet been fully explored by the world. However, if you do manage to get here, you are bound to be mesmerized by its massive stone walls, the surreal beauty of the neighbouring Pennar River gorge and the ancient temples and mosque situated in its premises.
The amazing view that you will get to experience while you will reach the top would be just all worth it. You will not just be greeted by incredible views but also pelicans fly over when the sun starts to dim.
Rocks were slippery and with caution we reached the viewpoint where very beautiful canyon view is there amidst the erstwhile fort ruins on the side. Penna River is green and the canyon walls. it was extremely windy.
We spend taking pictures and filling up the beautiful views in our eyes. The entire serenity of the place leaves you with a peaceful mind. The view of the Erramala hills with blue skies and chirping birds were beyond words to explain.
I was mystified after seeing the assembly of rocks that sit with sharp cuts on top of each other. But viewing and climbing on them is just a different thing. It was a strange thrilling experience for me. This serene beauty of the river amid the rugged rocks creates a type of mystical aura.
History of Gandikota | who built Gandikota fort?
It is important to be aware of the history that has shaped our present.
“Gandi” means a gorge in Telugu while “Kota” refers to a fort. Gandikota fort history goes back to the early 1120s when the picturesque gorge was brought to the forefront by a subordinate of the Chalukya king. Kapa Raja was the first to build a sand fort. The fort was annexed by the Tughlaq dynasty.
Later, in 1336 – the famous Vijayanagara kingdom headquartered in Hampi, drove the Khilji clan out and took over the region. Gandikota was given to its commanders who came to be known as the Kamma Kings or the Pemmasani Nayaks. The Kamma Kings ruled for over 200 years and expanded the small Gandikota fort.
The strategic position of the fort by the gorge made it a perfect station for defense.
Gandikota was covered with dense forests and water springs. The flowing Pennar River through the gorge allowed the whole region to flourish not just in trade but in agriculture too. When you visit Gandikota fort today, you can see the remains of the various aqueducts, channels and water tanks used to stream the water effectively to farms and various areas of the village.
How the Gandikota Canyon was formed?
A gorge in any valley is formed from the source of water that flows between the gigantic slabs of rocks. The Gorge is formed out of the result of erosion of rocks over a greater period of time. The flowing rivers lead to the cutting of the rocks that further lead to the gorges forming over a period of centuries.
One of the most difficult things for the human mind to ever imagine is how a process happened over a larger period of time that led to the formation of a huge gorge. The swift flow of water led the water to cut a very deep trench through a landscape that further exposed off many layers of rock that led to the magnificent creation of what we know today as the Grand Canyon of India.
Gandikota is famous for its numerous adventurous activities.
Before trying any of the activities around do take out the time to catch a sunrise or a sunset. The stunning orange colour that bounces over the rocks is beyond perfect to experience.
Some of the adventure activities that you can enjoy here include rock climbing, rappelling, trekking and kayaking. If you are looking for more than camping here under the lit sky is and sparkling water of the Mylavaram Dam is also a great option.
The camping site is on the edge of the canyon, where the wind is usually cold and heavy. Don’t forget to carry some stoles to protect yourself from the chill.
Adventurous Camping Stay
If you wish not to reside in an accommodation facility and instead wish to get a closer and better experience out then camping is the aptest experience for you. Camping at the banks of the Pennar River is a different stay option that lets you enjoy the quirks of nature at its best.
The sound of the river flowing right next to you while you camp or lit a bonfire is perfect to enjoy at Gandikota. Freakouts Adventure offers easy and comfortable camping opportunities for travellers.
We came to our camping place. It’s time for sunset and the stunning orange colour that bounces over the rock is beyond perfect to experience. Camping at the banks of Pennar River made me enjoy the quirks of nature at its best. The highlight of this entire trip is the viewpoint of Pennar River.
This serene beauty of the river amid the rugged rocks creates a type of mystical aura. That night, we enjoyed the bonfire and ate our dinner in a hotel. Listening to the sound of the flowing Pennar River in adjacent and sleeping, on a hilltop, under the lit sky with stars is one of the best experiences I ever had.
After all these activities, we returned back to home. My camera was fully loaded with beautiful photos. The musical silence and the magical romance from top of Gandikota view point is etched in my mind for ever.
In the end of your trip, you will realize that two eyes are not enough to watch that scenic beauty, really amazing. I bet that the Gandikota history has created desire to travel within you. Let me start this travel to Gandikota.
The End
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