Gandikota, Ancient fortified village in Kadapa district, India
Gandikota is a village in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh, set on a rocky plateau above the Pennar River. The settlement sits between steep reddish canyon walls that run for several kilometers and form a natural defensive position.
The fort was built in the early twelfth century by a local ruler who used the natural gorge as a strategic advantage. Later, it passed through the hands of several southern dynasties, each adding new structures within the walls.
The village contains both Hindu temples with detailed stone carvings and an Islamic mosque with multi-arched entrances, reflecting the regional architectural diversity.
Visitors reach the village by road from Jammalamadugu, about two hours' drive from larger cities. Winter months offer more comfortable conditions for walking along the rocks and through the ruins.
The river valley offers a clear view of layering in the reddish rock after sunrise, showing millions of years of geological process. Few travelers know that a direct path leads down from the plateau to the riverbed, where water flows shallow over smooth stones.
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