Gooty Fort or Gutti Kota, also called Ravadurg is a ruined fort that is located in the heart of South India on a group of hills that rise up to 680 m above the sea level, at a distance of about 52 km from Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. It is said to be one of the oldest forts in the state. On the walls of the fort, you will find the oldest inscriptions. The fort’s unique octagonal-shaped shell makes it different from other forts in India. The fort is an important cultural landmark showcasing the Vijayanagar Empire’s architectural brilliance. The fort is being preserved so that explorers can continue its historical significance. The climb up to the fort is quite tough, but the best part is that it offers trekkers a chance to explore the history of the ruins. Visit Gooty Fort to witness a pleasant view from the premises.
History of Gooty Fort
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Previously Gooty Fort was known as Gowthampuri and was later renamed as Gooty. The earliest inscriptions on the walls of this fort date back to the 7th century. As per the inscriptions, the place was called Garha, meaning Fort; while another inscription of Bukkaraya mentions this place as King of Forts. It is said that the fort has been held by various dynasties, including the Vijaynagar Empire, the Marathas, Mughals and the British, so you will experience a marvellous architectural blend of temples, dargah and cemetery, old mosque, pools, granaries and even more.
Must Read: Places To Visit In Andhra Pradesh
Places To Visit Nearby
There are many places near Gooty Fort, which when included in your visit, can make it wholesome and enjoyable.
1. ISKCON Anantapur Temple
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In Somaladoddi, Andhra Pradesh, the stunning ISKCON temple is a spiritual place to worship Lord Krishna. It is built in the shape of a chariot. Visit the temple for its peaceful ambience. If you visit the temple, in the early morning or in the evening, you can witness the lively aarti ceremony there. The temple is well connected by road from the city centre. Our guided tours will make your visit to the temple comfortable and memorable.
Location: About 50 kilometre from Gooty Fort
Entry fee: Free
2. Belum Caves
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Belum Caves is located in the Nandyal district of Andhra Pradesh, India’s second-largest cave complex. Popular for its speleothems (structures found in caves due to the deposition of minerals), Belum Caves have so much to explore – from its long passages, wide galleries, chambers of fresh water and siphons. It has been found out that Belum Caves were formed due to the constant flow of underground water from River Chitravathi for millions of years. River Chitravathi has now gone extinct. The caves came to scientific attention by Robert Bruce, a British surveyor, in 1884. Belum Caves are one of the most important and protected monuments. The caves also reach the deepest point of about 151 ft from its entrance level and have a length of about 10,594 ft, making them the second largest caves in India.
Location: About 68 kilometre from Gooty Fort
Entry fee: Free
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Andhra Pradesh
The Delicacy Of Andhra Cuisines
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How can a trip be completed without the traditional food of that place? Anantapur has a unique cuisine since it influences Afghan and Persian cooking and the Andhra cooking style. When in Anantapur for a visit to Gooty Fort, do try the specialities of the place, such as Karapu Annam (chilli rice), Bandar Laddu (a ladoo made of besan, ghee and sugar, also called thokkudu laddu), Rasam (a soup of spices), Kodi Kura (Andhra style Chicken curry and Attu (a kind of dosa which is breakfast in Andhra Pradesh). If you are a sweet lover, do try Chandrakala, a famous sweet made of maida, khoya (dried milk), and sugar syrup and Kakinada Kaja, a dessert made of maida and sugar syrup.
Best Time To Visit Gooty Fort
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November to February would be the ideal months to visit this fort as the temperatures are very pleasant and enjoyable during this period. This climate is ideal for exploring the ruins and you will face no discomfort while hiking.
Suggested Read: Hotels In Macherla
How To Reach Gooty Fort?
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You can reach Gooty Fort via road and rail. The nearest railway station is Gooty railway station (Gooty junction), about 5 kilometres away, which is well-connected to cities. By road, you can reach there by bus or taxi from Anantapur.
Practical Tips To Keep In Mind
You should wear comfortable shoes for the trek as the steps are difficult. Carry water and refreshments due to limited facilities inside to avoid the midday heat, and start trekking early.
Further Read: Temples In Andhra Pradesh
Gooty Fort is a historical fort, known for its grand architecture and rich history. Visit the fort to take long walks on its premises on a pleasant day. The fort is huge and there is a vast area there for you to explore. It is a nice location to get some scenic views from the height of the fort. You can enjoy a picnic, a mini excursion or some peaceful time off the busy schedules of daily life. Plan your visit to Gooty Fort and book your trip to Andhra Pradesh today.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Gooty Fort
Is photography allowed inside the fort?
Yes, photography is allowed inside the fortress.
Are there any entry fees to visit the fort?
No, there are no entry fees formally, but it is a matter of chance, so visitors should cross-check it.
How to reach the Fort?
After reaching the station, you can take an auto to reach the main town which is nearly 5 kms.
Are there guided tours available at the Fort?
Guided tours may be available and you can hire guides for your fort visit as they can provide you with detailed historical incidents.
What is the speciality of Gooty Fort?
Gooty Fort, one of the oldest hill forts of Andhra Pradesh, was built using granite rocks and domes were built of fine stone, mortar and lime. The fort has the shape of a shell and it actually comprises 15 small forts with different gate paths.
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