What makes Andhra Pradesh’s Gandikota Canyon so popular?

Gandikota village, located in Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh, is home to a stunning canyon, by the Pennar river. Also called Gandikota Canyon, this natural structure is often compared to the Grand Canyon of Arizona, USA. Though it wouldn’t be fair to compare the two, Gandikota has a history to it and enjoys its own special features and popularity.
Over time, the Pennar River carved the pink granite rock of Erramala Hills and formed Gandikota Canyon. What we see now is a spectacular natural formation!


Gandikota Canyon has been an important part of Andhra Pradesh’ history. From the Kakatiyas and Vijayanagaras to the Qutub Shahis, everyone knew that the massive canyon needed to be under their control for better administration of the kingdom.
A lot of local and important attractions are named after the Gandikota Canyon which, like it or not, is an imposing structure and clearly a very influential one too.


Take Gandikota Fort for instance. The 13th century red sandstone fort with its 5-mile wall was once home to some of history’s biggest and most influential rulers. The fort complex also has Gandikota temple and Jama Masjid.


The Gandikota wonders don't stop here. About an hour and a half away from the canyon, lies India’s second largest cave system – the Belum Caves in Kurnool district. These caves were formed some millions of years ago, when a constant stream of water cut through the black limestone deposits in the area. The cave system is also the second largest in the Indian subcontinent, right after Meghalaya’s Krem Liat Prah.

Right outside the cave, on a hillock, there’s a white 40 ft Buddha statue. Right behind that is the Belum Cave with some of the most striking stalagmite and stalactite formations that you will ever see. Belum is 150 ft deep and is an important site for Buddhists.

1. Where is Gandikota Canyon?
   Gandikota Canyon is located in Gandikota village by the Penna river, 15 km from Jammalamadugu in Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh.
2. Are people allowed to visit Gandikota Fort?
   Yes, people can visit Gandikota Fort from 8AM to 6PM. There are no entry fees.
3. What is the best time to visit Gandikota?
   September to February is the best time to visit Gandikota.