Gandikota Madhavaraya Swamy Temple, Andhra Pradesh

Address

Gandikota Madhavaraya Swamy Temple, Gandikota, Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh 516434

Diety

Madhavaraya Swamy

Introduction

Madhavaraya Temple in Gandikota is an ancient temple located at Gandikota Fort in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh, India. This ancient temple constructed during the 15th century is currently in ruins is still a religious destination due to the magnificent Kakatiya architectural style reminiscent of the Vijayanagara period. Madhavaswamy Temple was built in the golden age of Sri Krishna Deva Raya

Puranic Significance

Madhavaraya Temple is now a historical monument and is noted for the imposing temple tower which can be seen from any corner of the village and the interesting and intricate sculptures of architectural value. The idol of the temple and many sculptures are destroyed during invasions but the ornately decorated mandapa is still intact. The carvings of fish and tortoise seen inside the dwaram (entrance) suggest the temple was once a shrine dedicated to Mahavishnu. Gandikota Fort, popularly known as the Grand Canyon of India, got its name due to the gorge formed between the Erramala Hills (Gandikota hills) and Pennar River that flows at its foot. The fort also houses an ancient Ranganatha Swamy Temple which is also in ruins.