Discover The Ancient Wonders Of Edakkal Caves In Wayanad

Inside, you can find amazing old drawings carved into the rock walls. These carvings tell us about how people lived a really long time ago —– about 8,000 years! It’s like an ancient art gallery where our ancestors shared their stories through pictures, making it one of the oldest examples of humans expressing themselves. 

Isn’t that interesting? There’s more! Get ready for a little workout! You’ll need to walk uphill and climb some steep stairs to get there. But it’s worth it. Once you’re inside, You will see old pictures of people and animals from thousands of years ago carved into the walls. It’s like stepping back in time where our ancestors left their art for us to find.

The Edakkal Caves aren’t just amazing for what’s inside; The whole journey there is beautiful too! On your drive to the caves, you’ll see lots of pretty sights. While you climb up to reach them, you can take breaks to look around at the stunning views. When you finally get to the top, the whole countryside is at your sight. The trip is totally worth it just for all the beautiful scenery you get to enjoy along the way.

Edakkal Caves History

Edakkal Caves History: When Were They Found?

Even though the caves are ancient, people only found out about them recently in the 19th century. A police officer named Fred Fawcett discovered them accidentally while he was out hunting.

How Old Are The Edakkal Caves In Wayanad?

The oldest drawings in the caves are very, very old. They might have been made as far back as 6000 BCE, which was during the Stone Age. The newest drawings are from around 1000 BCE. That means people were making art in these caves for thousands of years!

What’s Inside The Edakkal Caves In Wayanad?

There are many different kinds of carvings in the caves. The way they look shows that different groups of people lived there over time. Scientists are still trying to figure out what some of the symbols mean. So far, they’ve only understood about 400 of these old drawings. Interestingly, some of these drawings look similar to those found in another ancient place called the Indus Valley.

Edakkal Caves’ Story 

People tell an old story about how the caves were made. They say that Luv and Kush, who were the sons of  Lord Rama, shot arrows that split a big rock. This split made the narrow cave passage we see today.

Best Things To Do At Edakkal Caves

• Trek Up To The Caves:

It is about a 1 km trek uphill to the entrance of the cave. On your way, you will find places to eat and shops selling local stuff on the way. (Explore more details about the Edakkal Caves Trek below!)

• Explore Old Carvings:

The cave is made of a big rock that is split in two, with another rock on top as a roof. You’ll see old drawings and shapes on the rock walls. There are even some ancient writings in some spots and great paintings to explore which is one of the best things to do at Edakkal Caves. 

• Enjoy The View: 

Look at the beautiful scenery from the hilltop like tea gardens, countryside, and mountains in the distance. And the best part is there’s even a telescope to get a better look at everything around you.

Edakkal Caves Wayanad Location 

Edakkal Caves, Wayanad, Nenmeni, Kerala, 673595, India

How To Reach Edakkal Caves Wayanad

• By Bus: Many buses in Wayanad go to the caves. They’ll drop you near the parking area. The caves are on the way to a place called Ambalavayal.
• By Taxi or Cab: This is the convenient way to go. They’ll take you to the caves and can also drive you to other fun places to visit in the area.

Best Time To Visit Edakkal Caves Wayanad 

Edakkal Caves Wayanad Entry Fee 

Edakkal Caves Wayanad Entry Fee

• Indians:  Rs. 50/- per person
• Foreign Tourists: Rs. 60/- per person

Edakkal Caves Wayanad Timings 

Edakkal Caves remain open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, except Mondays and public holidays.

It is always recommended to check in advance the opening hours of Edakkal Caves travelling during monsoon season. 

Suggested Read: 30 Top Places To Visit In Wayanad | Kerala’s Hidden Gem

Edakkal Caves Wayanad Trek Details

1. You will start your trek from the Edakkal Caves Parking area. 
2. You need to trek for about 1 km to reach the entrance of the cave.
3. Once you reach the entrance, there will be over 300+ stairs( Some stairs are big, so you can stop and rest.).
4. Keep in mind that there are some stairs that will lead you through dark paths to reach the cave. 
5. While the trek is not easy; it’s moderate. 
6. Trek Duration: 30 to 45 minutes( One way).
7. Edakkal Caves Height: 200 ft above sea level.

Tips & Guidelines To Visit Edakka Caves

• Safety For Older Visitors

Elderly people should think twice before attempting this trek. The steep climb and many stairs can be challenging for those with limited mobility or health issues.

• Time To Explore Edakkal Caves

Most visitors spend about 2 to 3 hours exploring Edakkal Caves, which gives you enough time to climb up, see the carvings, enjoy the views, and climb back down at a comfortable pace.

• Watch Out For Wildlife

Be careful of monkeys in the area. They can be curious and sometimes aggressive. Don’t feed them or leave food out. Keep your belongings close.

• Sun Protection

Bring hats and sunglasses. The trek is mostly outdoors, and the sun can be strong. Protecting your eyes and face will make the hike more comfortable and prevent sunburn.

• Proper Footwear

Wear shoes that are good for walking. Choose comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip. The path can be uneven and sometimes slippery, so flip-flops or dress shoes aren’t a good idea.

• Stay Hydrated

Drink lots of water during your hike. The climb can be tiring, and it’s easy to get dehydrated, especially in warm weather. Bring a water bottle and take regular sips throughout your trek.

• Plastic Restrictions

The area has rules against plastic to protect the environment. Don’t bring plastic bags or disposable plastic items. If you must bring a plastic water bottle, you’ll need to pay a deposit fee. You’ll get this money back when you return the bottle.

These guidelines will help you have a safe, comfortable, and environmentally responsible visit to Edakkal Caves.

Conclusion 

Edakkal Caves are not just beautiful; the historical importance of Edakkal Caves makes them extra special. When you visit, you get to see old art, enjoy pretty views, and imagine how people lived thousands of years ago. Even though the climb up can be a bit tiring, it’s totally worth it. Whether you love history, enjoy nature, or just want to see something unique, these caves have something for everyone.