The fort of Gandikota acquired its name due to the gorge in Telugu it is called gandi , formed between the Erramala range of hills, also known as Gandikota hills and the river Pennar that flows at its foot, reducing its width to a mere 300 ft.
Gandikota was founded in 1123 by Kapa Raja of nearby Bommanapalle village and a subordinate of Ahavamalla Someswara I, the Western Chalukyan king of Kalyana.The town played a significant role during the Kakatiya, Vijayanagara and Qutub Shahi periods.
Place of historical importance.
Situated amidst beautiful landscape and wild forests, it is endowed with vast natural resources. Within the fort are two ancient temples, dedicated to Madhava and Raghunatha, both are in ruins and the fort area is full of the debris of ages and many ancient structures in varying stages of decay. The large granary, with a vaulted roof, is now used as the traveller s bungalow.
The Jamia Masjid has two adjacent minarets. The other structures within the fort, include another large granary, a magazine, a graceful pigeon tower with fretted windows and an extensive palace built by bricks with some plastered decorations and some wells. There is an old cannon still lying in the fort.
How to Reach
Gandikota is located at a distance of 80 Km from Kadapa city. Nearest Railway station is 26KM away at Muddanuru. There are number of trains from Gooty Jn. Nearest Town is Jammalamadugu.
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