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Deep within the lush landscapes of Wayanad lies a treasure trove of ancient history and natural wonders—the renowned Edakkal Caves. These caves, situated 10 kilometers from Sulthan Bathery, offer a captivating journey into our distant past.
Unveiling Ancient Secrets: The Mystique of Edakkal Caves
The Edakkal Caves are not your ordinary caverns; they are natural rock formations with interior carvings and pictorial depictions believed to date back to around 6000 BC. The name “Edakkal” translates to “a stone in between,” signifying the cave’s unique formation—a massive boulder wedged between two larger boulders, estimated to be over 8,000 years old.
The caves themselves are adorned with prehistoric wall carvings depicting animals, humans, and other figures—a testament to the earliest expressions of human creativity. Legend has it that Edakkal Caves were formed when arrows from Lord Rama’s sons split a large rock, creating this narrow passage that has fascinated explorers and historians for centuries.
Discovered in the 19th century by Fred Fawcett, the cave’s carvings reveal multiple periods of human habitation and offer tantalizing links to the Indus Valley civilization. Some symbols remain undeciphered, adding to the mystery and allure of this ancient site.
The Edakkal Caves, located 25 kilometers from Wayanad on Ambukuthi Mala hills, are accessed via around 300 stairs that provide a scenic view of the surroundings from the top. These caves, with their petroglyphs dating back thousands of years, represent a captivating blend of natural beauty and ancient heritage.
Plan Your Visit to the Edakkal Caves
To reach these historic caves, visitors embark on a trek up Ambukuthi Hills, a path enveloped in the delightful aroma of coffee plantations. The trek, while demanding, rewards adventurers with stunning countryside views along the way.
To visit the Edakkal Caves, travelers can reach the nearest railway station, Kozhikode, located approximately 97 kilometers from Sultan Bathery. Alternatively, the nearest airports are Calicut International Airport (110 kilometers) or Kannur International Airport (110 kilometers), providing convenient access to this remarkable archaeological site.
If you’re ready for an adventure that combines history, nature, and breathtaking views, the Edakkal Caves await your exploration in the heart of Wayanad.
FAQs
Entry Fee for Edakkal Caves
There is an entry fee of INR 20 per person, with additional charges applicable if you wish to bring your still or video cameras.
Best Time to Visit Edakkal Caves
The ideal time to explore the natural beauty of Edakkal Caves is from November to March, with visiting hours from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Things to Do at Edakkal Caves
Exploring Edakkal Caves offers a thrilling trekking experience, featuring a challenging climb from small caves to larger ones—a truly adventurous journey. Nearby, you can immerse yourself in the tribal settlements for a day or two with prior permission, gaining insight into local culture. Don’t forget to visit the spectacular Soochipara Waterfalls located nearby!
How to Reach Edakkal Caves
The nearest railway station to Edakkal Caves is Nilambur Road, approximately 38 km away. Once you reach Kalpetta, use the map on this page for directions to reach Edakkal Caves. For those traveling from Sultan Bathery in Wayanad, the closest railway station is Kozhikode (Calicut), located around 97 km away. The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport, which is approximately 23 km from Kozhikode.
