Edakkal caves

Edakkal Caves

The unique experience

Among the many breath-taking Wayanad Tourist places to attract visitors, the name of Edakkal Caves first comes to the mind. Do you know why? Well, the caves are a history lover’s heaven and are an integral part of Wayanad tourism. It is one of the earliest examples of cave paintings in India where you can see drawings on the walls that go back to the Neolithic Age, about 6000 BC. Some of these paintings are 8000 years old. It is one of the prime attraction in Wayanad tour package.

About Edakkal Caves

Positioned 6 kilometers from Ambalavalayal and 14 kilometers from Sulthan Bathery, the cave system at Edakkal total to two. The caves are natural and are nestled atop the Ambukutty Mala. These are located at an altitude of 4000 feet and are a major spot in Wayanad Kerala. Meaning ‘a stone in-between’, Edakkal Caves are believed to have been created when the large rock split and formed into these caves. Visitors can access the caves on two levels. There are iron steps that lead to these caves. While the lower level is 18 feet in length, the upper tier is 10 feet in height. 

One has to trek uphill for about 1.5 kilometers to reach the caves. The journey starts at the bottom where the parking area is located.  On the way to the cave, visitors can stop for replenishing themselves with drinks and snacks as there are a number of shops selling refreshments. Also, the hiking pathway is dotted with coffee plantations which are a sight to behold. The climbing time goes up to 45 minutes for most visitors. It is one of the popular places to visit in Wayanad.

Legend

As per legend, the Edakkal Caves came into being when Lord Ram’s sons-Luv and Kush launched their arrows. 

Edakkal Caves history

These caves date back to the Neolithic era or otherwise known as the pre-historic period. These are natural rock shelters that were formed by a large split into a huge boulder. The caves were discovered in 1890 by the Superintendent of Malabar Police named Fred Fawcett on one of his hunting trips to Wayanad. 

More about the place

Places near Edakkal Caves

Wayanad Heritage Museum

Here, expect to find an interesting artifact collection. It’s a must-visit for history buffs as well as kids who will love to explore around. 

Neelimala View Point

Capture the beauty of this viewpoint as one can get an unadulterated view of the nearby terrain. It’s a gorgeous place to view the sunset. 

Soochippara Falls 

A breath-taking waterfall, the Soochippara Falls is a must to be visited if you love the thrill of trekking and bathing.

Jain Temple Wayanad

These temples are a beautiful example of Jain temple architecture and take you back to the golden period when the Jain kings ruled over the Peninsula. 

What else?

The distance from Edakkal caves to Soochipara Falls is 44.2 km. 

How to reach and weekly holiday

Distance in kilometers from - Wayanad- 28 kilometers. Edakkal caves are closed on every Monday.