Most of you would have seen the magnificent Antelope Canyon in Arizona, the United States, in various international tour packages and itineraries. But did you know that India houses one such marvelous Canyon? Surprising, right? Yes! Andhra Pradesh, one of the southern states, houses India’s Grand Canyon. It is a naturally formed gorge that’s more of a hidden gem today. And this place is definitely the number one offbeat tourist destination for nature lovers.
Where is it exactly located?
It is located in a small village in Andhra Pradesh called ‘Gandikota,’ which is fifteen kilometers away from the popular ‘Kadapa’ district. In addition, this village also features the majestic Gandikota Fort, which was once a powerhouse of several dynasties.
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What is special about the hidden Grand Canyon of India?
The Canyon Gorge, formed between the Penna River and the Erramala range of hills, consists of Quartzite sedimentary rocks, which are believed to have formed more than one thousand years ago. These natural formations remind us of the exquisite power of nature and remain an inspiration to architectural mavens and veterans.
According to the Cuddapah Basin’s lithostratigraphy, Gandikota’s Canyon is a part of the ‘Chitravati’ Group and features the mesmerizing country’s second-largest ‘Belum’ Caves.
What is the best time to visit Gandikota?
By the time you read, it is still a hidden gem and has fewer footfalls and tourists. So, you can plan to visit the place anytime your vacation starts. However, if you’re particular about the weather conditions, then visiting it during the monsoon or winter months, typically between September and March, is better. During these months, the weather is cool and allows you to admire the spectacle for a long time. On the other hand, the summer months would be hot, and you can only spend a few minutes witnessing it.
Is Gandikota the Arizona of India?
Dilip Saha from the Indian Statistical Institute and Vikash Tripathy from the Geological Survey of India have researched and claim that Gandikota Canyon is attributed to peculiar quartzite, pebble beds, and herringbone cross beds that are unique in themselves.
Moreover, geologists across nations have begun comparing Arizona’s Canyon in the United States with Gandikota’s Grand Canyon of India. Thus, nothing wrong with calling our Grand Canyon the ‘Arizona of India.’
Frequently asked questions
- Which river is called the Grand Canyon of India?
Clearly, no river is called by this name. Rather, the gorge formation of the Grand Canyon is observed on the banks of the Penna River flowing in Gandikota village, India.
- How many days are required to explore the Grand Canyon?
Generally, one or two days are sufficient to experience this architectural beauty, along with nearby tourist spots such as Gandikota Fort and Ranganathaswamy Temple.
- How To Reach Gandikota?
Since it is a village, reaching by road or train is more suitable. The roads are well-established and have connectivity to major cities in and around the state. The nearest railway station is Jammalamadugu, which is less than twenty kilometers away. The second nearest station is the Kadapa station, which is seventy-five kilometers away.
- Is it suitable for backpackers?
Needless to say, this tourist spot is perfect and the right choice for backpackers, eco-tourists, hikers, wanderlusts, photographers, and groups of friends.
