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Gandikota, a small village located on the banks of the river Pennar, is one such travel destination that has not been properly advertised or popularised. This hidden gem caters to the holistic interest of not only those tourists who have a deep-rooted interest in history and artistic architecture but also for those who desire to take a break from their hectic schedule away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Located in the district of Kadapa in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, Gandikota is sure to leave any tourists mesmerized with its spectacular beauty Here is a list of places to visit near Gandikota that gives you unparalleled experience that this small village has to offer.

5 Places To Visit Near Gandikota

This list of places near Gandikota includes different kinds of tourist places that you might not want to miss out on your trip to Andhra Pradesh.

1. The Madhavaraya Temple

The Madhavaraya Temple

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The Madhavaraya Temple is dedicated to one of the three prime deities of Hinduism Lord Vishnu. Located inside the complex of the fort, this architectural marvel should not be missed. With various Hindu Gods and Goddesses carved out on the walls of the temple, the temple infuses an essence of not only religious beliefs but also great artistic skills. For all those history buffs it is an ideal place to revisit a bygone era and one of the places to visit near Gandikota.

Things to do: Sightseeing
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

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2. The Raghunathaswamy Temple

The Raghunathaswamy Temple

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The Raghunatha Swamy temple is located 0.5 km from the bus stop. Yet another magnificent temple located inside the premises of the fort; this hidden gem doesn’t have any idols inside the temple. The architecture comprises of several pillars, corridors and is a virtual paradise for all the photogenic people out there. The various avatars of Lord Vishnu have been carved out on the walls extensively and one can only appreciate with awe and wonder the skills showcased by the artisans living in that period.

Things to do: Sightseeing
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

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3. Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid

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Jamia Masjid is another prominent religious structure built inside the premises of the fort and is quite adjacent to the Raghunathaswamy Temple. The presence of various places of worship belonging to different religions hints at the secular beliefs of the people living in those times. It is another architectural wonder, drawing parallels with the structure of CharMinar in Hyderabad, India. Carved out of red sandstone, the walls are covered with intricate designs, patterns symbolizing the various aspects of the Islamic culture and architecture.

Things to do: Sightseeing
Timings: 6 AM -6 PM

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4. Oak Reservoir

Oak Reservoir

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About 70 km from Gandikota, Owk Reservoir is an earthen barrier constructed across the Paleru River. One of the most important places to visit while in Gandikota, the place is known not only for its ideal beauty but also for various activities provided in the backwaters of the dam. One can indulge in water sports like Cruise boat, speed boat introduced by the tourism of the state of Andhra Pradesh. Truly one of the ideal places to visit near Gandikota, do not skip this place from your itinerary.

Things to do: Sightseeing, Water sports
Timings: 9 AM – 1.30 PM & 2 PM – 5.30 PM
Cost: Rs. 150 per head for Cruise Boat and Rs. 200 per head for SpeedBoat (Max 4)

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5. Mylavaram Dam

Mylavaram Dam

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It is another mesmerizing dam constructed on the river Penna. Located about 10 km from Gandikota, this place surely cannot be missed by nature lovers. The stunning beauty of the landscape and experiencing an enthralling sunset is enough to tempt you. Also, for the adventure enthusiasts several activities like kayaking, speed boat is being offered by the tourism departments. A museum is just located quite adjacent to the dam and caters to the taste of all the technology, history and culture buffs.

Things to do: Sightseeing, Water sports
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Boating Cost: Rs. 200 per head for SpeedBoat (Max 4) & Rs. 200 for Kayaking (Max 2)

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A hidden gem in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Gandikota infuses an essence of history, culture, and heritage and is also a paradise for lovers of nature and also for the adventure freaks out there. In the coming days, it will secure its position as the places to visit near Gandikota will turn into tourist hotspots. Gandikota is an ideal destination for all categories of people starting from history enthusiasts to art admirers to nature lovers to adventure freaks. So, plan your vacation to Andhra Pradesh as it can be a worthwhile experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit Near Gandikota

Which is the best time to visit Gandikota?

The ideal time to visit Gandikota is from September to March in order to avoid the sultry, hot conditions of the summer months when the temperature can soar as high as 45 degrees Celsius.

How to reach Gandikota?

Gandikota can be reached by employing several means of transport like roadways, railways, and airways.

What is the Grand Indian Canyon?

The canyon of the gorge created by the river Pennar in Gandikota is referred to as the Grand Indian Canyon.

What are the activities to do in and near Gandikota?

Apart from the various historical sites and natural beauty to be witnessed in Gandikota, one can indulge in various activities like Hiking, Camping, Rock Climbing, Water sports like Kayaking, boating, etc.

Where to stay in Gandikota?

The APTDC Complex is one of the few places to stay in Gandikota, which has an average cost of around Rs.1800 per night and it consists of 12 cottages and it is spread over a huge area. The adventure lovers can opt to camp at the site of the gorge and spend their time amidst nature.

Where should one go for camping in Gandikota?

The adventure lovers can opt to camp at the site of the gorge and spend their time amidst nature.

What is the name of the masjid situated inside the fort premises?

The name of the masjid situated inside the fort premises is Jamia Masjid.


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