‘The Grand Canyon of India’-A hidden gem and ultimate natural wonder in Indian geography

We all know the marvel of the Grand Canyon of Arizona. Its huge size and landscapes display dramatic scenery has always admired by the people all around the world. But, have you heard about the grand canyon of India ‘Gandikota.’  Gandikota is a small village situated in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh. Here you can see a spectacular gorge formed by the Pennar River that cuts through Erramala hills. The narrow valleys with streams running between the steep rocky walls remind one of the renowned Grand Canyon in Arizona.

A canyon or gorge is a narrow valley with steep, rocky walls located between hills or mountains. A gorge is often smaller than a canyon, although both words are used to describe deep, narrow valleys with a stream or river running along their bottom. In fact, gorges are formed because of rock erosion over a long period of time. The flow of penner river water leads to a deep trench through the land, by which many layers of rock exposed in the area. In this whole process, a spectacular site Grand Canyon of Gandikota formed. it is also known as the ‘Grand Canyon of India’

There are many other attractions around Gandikota.

Gandikota fort

Gandikota fort located on the right bank of the Penna River. These are the favorite tourist hotspots in Gandikota. The fort was the center of power for various dynasties, such as the  Chalukyas, Nayakas, and the Golconda Sultanate. It was built in such a manner that the Gandikota gorge provides it a natural defense on the north and west sides. The fort was built in the 13th century and has an 8 km perimeter wall guarding it. The fort made of red stone has elegant palaces adorned with beautiful carvings.

Temples

There are two famous temples– Raghunathaswamy Temple and Madhavaraya Temple. Raghunathaswamy Temple is a unique temple that has no idols but has airy corridors, complex hallways, and is flanked by an array of towering pillars. On the other hand, the Madhavaraya Temple has several idols and is a living masterpiece of olden-day architecture.

Also read- ‘Western Ghats Escarpment’ An incredible place of beautiful landscape and a gem of Indian biodiversity

The almost forgotten gorge of Gandikota is gradually coming to light as travelers are keen to explore this hidden canyon. Near Gandikota fort, lays a magnificent lake that is using water from the Pennar River. People can enjoy the canvas of nature before calm and clear water in front, the tranquil Erramala hills. Several adventure activities, like kayaking, rock climbing, trekking, and rappelling are initiated by the tourism department to attract people to this hidden place.

Belum Caves

The Belum Caves, India’s largest and longest natural cave system that is open to the public in the Indian subcontinent. It is 1.5 hours journey from Gandikota. the cave is famous for its speleothems, such as stalactite and stalagmite formations. The Belum Caves have long passages, galleries, spacious caverns with fresh water, and siphons.

How to reach Gandikota

The nearest railway stations to Gandikota are Kadapa, Jammalamadugu, and Tirupati. Gandikota is also well-connected to prime cities like Hyderabad, Vizag, and Bangalore via NH 7. Tirupati Airport is the nearest airport to Gandikota. You can take a flight, and then cover the rest of the journey by cab or bus.

Source-travel. earth, outlookindia.com