Ezhuthala Cave Rock Paintings, Marayoor - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 4 km from Marayoor Bus Stand, Ezhuthala Cave is a prehistoric cave situated inside Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary in Marayoor. Known for its ancient rock art, it is one of the popular places to visit in Marayoor.

Situated in the Sandalwood Reserve Forest in Koodakavu, Ezhuthala Cave is the most famous rock art site in Kerala. There are about 90 rock paintings located in a huge rock shelter at an altitude of 1500 m. The shelter is formed out from a huge granite rock resembling a cobra hood hence the tribal people call it Pathipara. The shelter opens to the west and is approachable from the southern side. The shelter measures 14.5 m at the base. The paintings are executed mainly in red ochre and white kaolin and are said to be one of the most beautiful depictions of the prehistoric era in the country. The superimposition of the paintings is seen here in large numbers. The main depictions are three giant humans in red ochre with border, humans engaged in different activities, different poses of animals like cattle, sambar, deer, Nilgiri Thar, etc.

Attala, situated in the west part of Marayur Township, also has more than 90 painted motifs. Most of the paintings at Attala are abstract designs except for a few human and animal figures. One can also find 10 painted motifs on the south-western slope of the plateau overlooking the Pambar River. Also, one can see is a rock painting at Manala inside Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary near the Alampetty tribal settlement. All these paintings are the major tourist attractions that captivate thousands of tourists during the weekends.

Timings: 9 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Free