PLACES OF INTEREST-1- GANDIKONDA FORT

GANDIKONDA FORT

            Situated on the banks of river Pennar, Gandikota derives its name from two Telugu words  "Gandi" meaning gorge and, "kota" meaning fort.  Also known as 'George fort',  it is a stone fort built upon a hill.  Guarded by a huge entrance gate that's 20 feet high and 101 bastions each over 40 feet high, it still remains a very imposing structure. Believed to have been built during the later half of the 13th century A.D.,  Gandikota impressed the French traveler Tavernier, so much that he opined that it resembles Hampi Vijayanagara in its massive monuments.

         Within the fort, there are many interesting places of worth seing.  The Ranganatha and Madhavaswamy temples, built during the 15th -16th centuries, are adorned with sculptures and are in an architectural style reminiscent of the Vijayanagara period.  The Juma Masjid, covering a huge area stands next to a large granary, used to stockpile food during the time of a siege.  An impressive 'Pigeon Tower' and a palace with plastered decorations are also interesting structures.

        From the top of the fort, you can have a breathtakingly panoramic view of the surrounding forests and valleys.  Nearby, is the picturesque Mylavaram Dam which is a popular picnic spot because of the sparkling waters, lush trees and cool breeze, which make you want to stretch out and relax.

How to reach : It is located 77 Kms from Cuddapah and 15 Kms from Jammalamadugu.