Scientists of the Geological Survey of India, Telangana, participated in the programme
The site’s geological importance lies in its unique rock formations, including caves and rock shelters and the insights they provide into India’s geological past
HYDERABAD, JUNE 27, 2025: An information panel board highlighting the geological importance and structural significance of the Pandavula Gutta rock formations including their age and the presence of ancient rock paintings was inaugurated by Dr. Manju S, Director, Geological Survey of India (GSI), Telangana State, on Friday (June 27, 2025). She was accompanied by senior scientists Dr. Ramesh Samala, Ramesh Gunda, Tushar Chandra Patel, and Ashok Kumar Kalabathula.
The site’s geological importance lies in its unique rock formations, including caves and rock shelters and the insights they provide into India’s geological past. Pandavula Gutta consists of coarse-grained sandstone of the Jakaram Formation of the Mulugu Group of rocks of Pakhal Supergroup and boasts a rich history, including Palaeolithic cave paintings and habitation sites from the Mesolithic to medieval periods. These rock paintings consist of a majority of large-sized animal figures, viz., bison, antelope, tigers, and leopards.
Besides these rock paintings, inscriptions of the Rashtrakuta period and fresco paintings of the late medieval period have also been reported from these hillocks. These paintings form a major attraction and provide valuable insights into the lives and beliefs of prehistoric people. The presence of these paintings and habitation sites indicates a long history of human presence in the area, providing further context to the site’s geological significance. The scientists stated that the above information is highly beneficial for visitors to understand the geological features and evidence of Palaeolithic life at Pandavula Gutta. They also emphasised that the people of Telangana should visit this National Geo-tourism site to witness its natural beauty and experience the historical significance of the state’s only geo-heritage site.
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