Edakkal Caves, Wayanad - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

About Edakkal Caves

At a distance of 6 km from Ambalavalayal, 14 km from Sulthan Bathery, and 28 km from Kalpetta, Edakkal Caves are two natural caves located on top of Ambukutty Mala near Ambalavalayal in Wayanad. It is one of the popular places of heritage in Kerala, and among the must-include places in the Wayanad tour.

The Edakkal caves are of historical and archaeological significance as it has carvings that date back to the Neolithic era, the late Stone Age. The caves have two levels accessible through narrow iron steps. The lower chamber is around 18 feet long and 10 feet high. A small path from here leads to the upper chamber which is around 95 feet long and 18 feet high. These caves are natural rock formations that were formed by a large split in a huge rock. The stone walls in the upper chamber have several line drawings belonging to the Neolithic Age dating back to 6000 BC, the earliest drawings being 8000 years old. According to archaeologists, this place is one of the earliest centers of human habitation. A few rock carvings from the Bible were carved recently near the entrance of the trek path.

History of Edakkal Caves

Situated at an altitude of 4000 feet, Edakkal Caves were discovered by Fred Fawcett, the then Superintendent of Police of the Malabar district in 1890, during his hunting trip to Wayanad. The name 'Edakkal' literally means 'a stone in between'. Here one can see a cave formed by a heavy boulder straddling a fissure in the rock. This heritage site is considered one of the prime Wayanad places to visit, especially for history buffs.

Legends of Edakkal Caves

Many legends are there behind the formation of Edakkal caves. According to one, these caves are said to be formed with the arrows fired by Lava and Kusha, the sons of Lord Sri Rama. Another one is associated with Kutti Chathan and the Goddess Mudiampilly. The local people used to have pilgrimage trips to this place to honor the Goddess.

Carvings at Edakkal Caves

There are three types of rock carvings in the cave with the oldest believed to be 8000 years old. The other drawings range over the period from 5000 BC to 1000 BC. The carvings include animal & human figures, squares, stars, crosses, wheels, triangles, spirals, tridents, and plant motifs. The human figures have masked faces and raised hair. There are ancient inscriptions as well with some pointing to a Tamil Brahmi script. Recently, historians and archaeologists have speculated that there is a link to the Indus Valley civilization as they have found a carving of 'a man with a jar cup', one of the most distinctive motifs of the Indus Valley civilization (2300 BC to 1700 BC).

Best Time to Visit Edakkal Caves

The most preferred time to visit Edakkal Caves is from November - March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploration. Just remember to avoid the scorching summers as they can ruin the fun of exploring Edakkal Caves.

Edakkal Caves Timings

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 9 AM to 4 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM to 4 PM
Thursday: 9 AM to 4 PM
Friday: 9 AM to 4 PM
Saturday: 9 AM to 4 PM
Sunday: 9 AM to 4 PM

Edakkal Caves Entry Fee

Indians

Entry: Rs. 20 for Adults & Rs. 10 for Children
Camera: Rs. 30
Video: Rs. 150

Foreigners

Entry: Rs. 40 per Person
Camera: Rs. 30
Video: Rs. 150

How to Reach Edakkal Caves

Jeeps and Auto Rickshaws are available to reach the caves from Ambalavayal. From the parking area, one needs to trek 1.5 km to reach the caves. Most of the trekking path is cemented and lined up with several shops selling spices, drinks, and locally made handicrafts. The trekking route is covered with coffee plantations and it takes around 45 minutes to climb up the hills. The views of Wayanad hills and surrounding peaks from the entrance of the main cave are breathtaking.