Q. Gandikota canyon of South India was created by which one of the following rivers ?

  • Cauvery
  • Manjira
  • Pennar
  • Tungabhadra

Answer: (c) Pennar

Gandikota
  • The almost forgotten gorge of Gandikota is situated on the Pennar River in Andhra Pradesh and is known as the Grand Canyon of India.
  • A gorge is any valley formed by a source of water flowing between tall slabs of steep rocks.
  • Gorges are formed as a result of erosion of rocks over a long period of time.
  • India has always been a popular tourist destination for its historic forts, stunning palaces and dense jungles.
  • Now, a lesser-known gorge in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh is drawing visitors.
  • The gorge is a stunning maze of jagged rocks layered in shades of red.
  • The Penna river meanders through the canyon floor as it cuts through the Erramala hills.
  • The area is now known as the Grand Canyon of India because of its resemblance to the famous US landmark.
  • It’s also home to two ancient temples and a 12th Century fort that sits atop the hills surrounding the gorge.
  • Pennar River
    • Pennar rises on the Nandi Hills in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka, passing north to east through Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
    • The Penna rises in the Chenna Kesava hill of the Nandidurg range, in the Chikkaballapura district of Karnataka, and flows towards the east eventually draining into the Bay of Bengal.
    • The total length of the river from its origin to its outfall in the Bay of Bengal is 597 km.
    • Located in peninsular India, the Pennar basin extends over the states of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka having an area of 55 thousand Sq.km.

Also Read: Canyons, Gorges and Valleys of India