History of Guna Caves

Have you always wanted to satisfy that travel bug inside that has always coaxed you to travel to unchartered or off-beaten places? If so, why don’t you come to Kodai’s Guna Caves? This is your kind of place if you’re searching for more!

A heritage site, it draws such folks that love to thrill themselves with a little bit of adventure. The sight is nestled prettily amidst Shola Trees and is perched at 2230 meters. You can easily reach it from the Kodaikanal bus station that is positioned just 8.5 kilometers away. 

The cave dates back to the ancient times of the Pandavas who according to legend, stayed here. It is not a child’s play where you can just walk inside tip-toing. The cave’s entrance is held together by two rocks and visitors entering it need to use their hands to lower themselves inside. In totality, there are three gigantic rocks that hold the cave together. Guna Caves ranks among Kodaikanal's top destinations to explore.

Why Guna caves is closed?

The cave has a sharp drop and one needs to be very careful so as not to fall to their deaths. In the recent past, about twelve youngsters lost their precious lives because of a sudden drop. That is why the government of Tamil Nadu erected metal bars in front of the caves so that visitors don’t enter it. 

The caves are nestled between Pillar Rock that is merely 1.5 kilometers away and Green Valley. These are a hub for bats that live in the multiple furrows. During monsoons, these furrows become engulfed with thick fog, rendering them mysterious. 

Why Guna caves called as Devil's Kitchen?

The caves are also addressed as Devil’s Kitchen because according to Hindu legend, the Pandavas prepared their food here. The name Devil is given because of the large number of bats that live here.

Interesting trivia about these caves which makes it one of the things to do in Kodaikanal -

• Do you know that these caves were hidden away till they were discovered in 1821? Yes, it was B.S Ward, a British officer who can be credited with this discovery. 
• The caves got the moniker ‘Guna’ after the hit Tamil film featuring Kamal Hassan was filmed here. It was in the year 1992. 
• You can visit this heritage site in the summer months of April, May, and June. Another season is from August till September. 
• Take an auto or taxi to reach it.

With Pine and Shola trees offering a thick blanket to its clime, these caves are a gem in their own right! This destination draws numerous nature enthusiasts, making it a must-visit addition to your Kodaikanal travel package.