Gandikota gorge(canyons) have a lot to offer in terms of activities . This was also my first time Kayaking and despite of the scorching sun, I enjoyed it. You can camp right next to the canyons overlooking the Pennar river which was the highlight of the entire trip.
Let’s start from the scratch and see what makes Gandikota so special ???
Where is Gandikota
First things first, where are these canyons I am talking about so fondly !! Situated on the right bank of Penna river, 15 km from Jammalamadugu in Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh is the village of Gandikota.
It is home to the famous gorge cutting through Erramala range of hills. Gandikota acquires it’s name from the same gorge as it’s known as “Gandi” in Telugu.
Why visit Gandikota
Gandikota although majorly famous for it’s gorge which hugely resembles the grand canyons of Arizona state in United States, has a lot of other things to offer.
The first look of the Gorge with river Penna flowing in between would astound you. There are camps and benches overlooking the gorge where you can sit and enjoy the view. If you have sufficient time stay overnight in one of these camps. The view of canyons at night with the occassional lightning in the sky is one of my fondest memories of Gandikota.
The first ray of sun falling on your tents is so enriching. Get up early in the morning and don’t miss out on the gorgeous sunrise.
Apart from the Gorge, Gandikota has a huge fort built during Vijayanagara empire. This Fort houses temples, granary, mosque etc. The architecture resembles much as of Hampi and the fort walls can be explored on foot. It takes around 2 hours to cover the entire fort area. It’s very much like our own Great Wall of China !!!
The second day can be used to visit Belum caves, situated at a distance of 60kms from Gandikota. Belum caves are the largest and longest cave ecosystem open to public in Indian subcontinent. Belum caves have a length of 3229m, making them the second largest caves in Indian subcontinent after Krem Liat Prah caves in Meghalaya.
What places to visit
Penna river Gorge viewpoint:
Penna river not just offers great views but plenty of activities. One such activity you can try is Kayaking. It’s therapeutic to sit in a boat with gorgeous views all around. Just water as long as you can see. You can also grab a vantage point and just sit there overlooking the gorge and thank your stars for bringing you to this place !!!
Madhavaraya Temple:
The entrance reminds of the Virupaksha temple of Hampi as both were constructed during Vijaya Nagar period. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu but doesn’t have any idol placed. It’s only used by villagers during festivals.
Raghunathaswamy Temple:
Another temple, with beautiful architecture and a complex system of pillars, hallways and corridors. You can climb up on the roof of the temple and get a view of gorge on the left side.
Juma Masjid:
Masjid is deserted like all the other places in the Fort. It has two adjacent minarets and a fountain area in front.
Belum caves:
The second longest cave ecosystem in the Indian subcontinent, this place is admirable. It is known for it’s stalactite and stalagmite formations.
Fort walls:
Fort walls cover a huge area and can be explored on foot. It takes almost 2 hours to go around. You can also come here to see the sunset.
How to reach
By Train : Kondapuram is the nearest Railway station. Gandikota is 50kms away from here.
By Bus: Jammalamadugu is the nearest stop from where local buses run for Gandikota. You can get buses from both Bangalore and Hyderabad to Jammalamadugu.
Where to stay
APTDC complex: Situated around 2 kms away from the fort, is the government run guest house under the banner of Haritha resorts. The place is well-maintained and priced around 2000 per night. They have a in-house canteen and playground for kids.
Camps near Gorge: Tents next to the gorge with a beautiful view of Penna river can be taken on rent for around 1500 for 3 people. They also provide food and bonfire if needed. You can even get your own tent to pitch and have an adventurous camping experience.
When to go
Visit Gandikota between September to February as summers can be as hot as 40-45 degree celsius. You won’t be able to enjoy the place in such heat.
Even the caves would be humid and burning up in summers.
What to Eat
I don’t have enough words to praise Andhra food. If you’re non-vegetarian then Andhra chicken is a must try !! It’s Lip smackingly good.
And if you’re a vegetarian then try the Andhra special Pappu (Lentils) also known as Daal in North India. This spicy and tangy Pappu is definitely going to leave you licking your fingers and asking for more **drools all over the laptop while writing** :))
Try Dosa/ Egg Dosa, Idly with coconut and tomato chutney for breakfast.
What to carry
Don’t forget essentials like Sunscreen, Umbrella, raincoats, Sunglasses, caps to avoid sun. Also carry water bottles and keep sipping at regular intervals to avoid cramps and sun stroke.
