The grandeur of Gandikota Fort

Where?

About 400 kms from Hyderabad.

Gandikota fort overlooking the gorge over Pennar river

What is it?

A picturesque fort on top of a gorge steeped in history and relevant for multiethnic communities.

Plaque detailing the history of Gandikota fort

What greeted us within the fort?

We made our way into the fort through a majestic entrance which was constructed wide enough for the royal elephants to march in.

The majestic entrance of Gandikota fort

Gandikota's own version of Charminar and an ancient prison house were the next stops on the journey.

Charminar - Gandikota fort version

The ancient prison house - Gandikota fort

Then, the magnificent Madhavaraya temple with its awe-inspiring gopuram and resplendently carved pavilions emerged. This temple is an excellent example of Vijayanagara school of architecture.

The spectacular Madhavaraya temple within the Gandikota fort

Vijayanagara school of architecture - Madhavaraya temple pavilions

Next stop was to the Gandikota gorge viewpoint where this breathtaking sight lay in wait. The rocks overlooking the gorge allowed us to sit for a while and take in the panoramic views.

The gorge adjoining the fort

After paying visits to the Jama Masjid and Ranganatha Swamy temple we exited the fort and reached the hiker's viewpoint right outside the fort premises. The serenity of river Pennar and surreal sighting of the fort at sunset created a magical moment which can't be described in words. I was really glad if we couldn't make it to the fort at sunrise we were at least there at the right place for sunset as this dreamlike phenomenon began to engulf us.

Surreal view of Gandikota fort at sunset

Travel tips

If you are looking for a getaway spot for a long weekend from either Bangalore, Hyderabad or Kurnool then Gandikota Fort be on top of your list.
Nandyal which is about 90 km away from Gandikota offers excellent choices for overnight stay.
At least allocate a half day to comfortably stroll through all of the fort attractions and enjoy the vistas of the gorge.
Preferably, be their by either sunrise or sunset, those times would be the best to click some Instagram worthy pics.

In conclusion

They say Gandikota fort is a hiker's paradise. I cannot speak to the facilities for hikers out there because but I did see a huge area right outside the fort where hikers can pitch their nets and enjoy views of the Pennar river and gorge.

A lot of people refer to the Gandikota fort as the Grand Canyon of India but as someone who has visited both places, the experience that they both deliver are vastly different. If Grand Canyon is a portrait that nature drew, Gandikota is the perfect marriage between history and nature, such combinations rarely come by. Therefore both places are must visit according to me. We may never know all the fables hidden inside the Gandikota fort but whoever visits this place will have a story of their own which they can share with their near and dear.

Rated: Must Visit

Until next time,

Your historical sightseer

PS: Please take care of your footing as well as those of your family members when you visit the various viewpoints with precipitous drops. Never let kids out of your sight at these places. Be careful and may you collect a truckload of great memories.

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