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YSR Kadapa district · fort

Gandikota గండికోట

The 'Grand Canyon of India' — a red gorge and a fort above it

October to Februarybest time2 daysideal₹800–3,500per person / day

About Gandikota

The Penna river has cut a sheer red-sandstone gorge at Gandikota, and on its rim stands a fort first built in the 12th century and expanded under the Vijayanagara and Pemmasani rulers: a Jama Masjid, the Madhavaraya and Ranganatha temples, a granary and long walls. Sunrise and sunset over the gorge, and tent camping on the rim, have made it Rayalaseema's most photographed spot.

Why visit

  • The gorge view — unmatched in south India
  • Fort with temples, mosque and granary
  • Camping and kayaking

Things to do

01Gorge viewpoint at sunrise and sunset
02Fort walk: Jama Masjid, temples, granary
03Kayaking on the Penna (seasonal)
04Tent camping
05Belum Caves the next day

Where to stay

APTDC Haritha resort at the fort, private tent camps and homestays in Gandikota village; more hotels in Jammalamadugu and Proddatur.

Good to know

Is Gandikota safe for camping?

Yes — several operators run tent camps on the rim with meals and bonfires. Stay away from the cliff edge at night and in wind.

How far is Gandikota from Bangalore?

About 280 km, roughly 5–6 hours by road via Anantapur and Tadipatri. Most people combine it with Belum Caves and Tadipatri.