The place derived its name from the Telugu word, ‘Gandi” which means a gorge and ‘kota’ a fort. This strong fort is built on top of a gorge of the River Pennar in a scenic spot, therefore the place and the fort is known as Gandikota. Legends records that the fort was first built by a one Kapa Maharaja in c. 12th century CE. Recorded history begins with the Kakatiyas during 13th Century CE. The fort came under the possession of the Vijayanagara rulers and Bukka I, who strengthened it. The temples within the fort were built by them. After the fall of Vijayanagara empire, the QutbShahis of Hyderabad under Mir Jumla captured the fort. The mosques and other secular structures were built by him. The imposing Jami Masjid is a pleasing building. Early in the 18th century it passed on to the hands of Cuddapah Nawabs. After brief holding by Hyder and Tippu, it was ceded to the British by a treaty with the Nizam in 1800 C.E.

            The fortifications are extensive about 8 km in circumference with impressive bastions and one main entry. Within there are few secular and religious buildings. Madavaraya Swamy and Ranganayakula temples were built in the typical Vijayanagara style. Among the secular structures important are the massive granary and the palaces were built by Mir Jumla. The Jami Masjid incorporates the decorative elements of the Qutb Shahi style, notably the plaster work. A tower named Charminar and a structure known as Jail is also noteworthy. French Traveller, Jean Baptiste Tavernier who stayed here for 15 days from 1st Sep, 1651 to 15th Sep. 1651 had left fair account of the Fort and the temple inside. He also records that the metal images of the temple was melted to make the guns for Mir Jumla.