Edakkal Caveswayanad
Exquisite Rock Carvings
Overview
Located 1,200 meters above sea level, Edakkal has two caves—one, which is 96 feet long and 22 feet wide, and the other, 18 feet long and 12 feet wide.
What To Expect?
A moderate 45-minute uphill trek leads you to this prehistoric wonder. Expect to see ancient petroglyphs dating back to 6,000 BCE, featuring human and animal figures, symbols, and ancient scripts. From the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Wayanad valley and the surrounding Ambukuthi Hills.
Tips
- Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip as sections of the trek are steep and rocky.
- Carry your own water bottle as there are no shops during the actual trek stretch.
- Arrive early in the morning (by 8:00 AM) to skip the large crowds and avoid the afternoon heat.
- Avoid visiting during heavy rain as the paths can become slippery and dangerous.
- Baggage and umbrellas might need to be deposited at the entrance counter for a small fee.
Exploring Edakkal Caves
More About Edakkal Caves
Edakkal Caves are natural rock shelters located on Ambukuthi Hills in the Wayanad district of Kerala. The name 'Edakkal' literally means 'a stone in between', referring to the unique formation where a massive boulder is wedged between two larger rocks.
These caves are of immense archaeological importance as they house petroglyphs—ancient rock engravings—believed to date back to the Neolithic Age. The carvings depict figures of humans, animals, and mysterious symbols that provide a rare glimpse into the lives and expression of prehistoric civilizations in the Western Ghats.
Exploring a destination...
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Discover a new city through a food tour. Food tour’s are the easiest way to take a tour, learn about the local delicacies, and the best of all, get great tips that aren’t just “local” tips for tourists, but sometimes, lessons for a lifetime too
Use Public Transportation. When you are in a new city, you can possibly see places and people that you wouldn’t normally see when simply walking to the places that checks your list. Some buses or rails take you to parts of the city you wouldn’t get to see otherwise.
Find a local festival. Go beyond what other tourists might do while visiting a place. Look for the unique things you would want to do. Use social media or the local tourism website to find out what’s going on locally.
How to reach Edakkal Caves
Located 12 km from Sulthan Bathery and 25 km from Kalpetta. You can reach the base by taxi or local bus, followed by a 1 km steep uphill trek involving around 300 stairs to reach the entrance.
Tips for Visiting Edakkal Caves, wayanad
- Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip as sections of the trek are steep and rocky.
- Carry your own water bottle as there are no shops during the actual trek stretch.
- Arrive early in the morning (by 8:00 AM) to skip the large crowds and avoid the afternoon heat.
- Avoid visiting during heavy rain as the paths can become slippery and dangerous.
- Baggage and umbrellas might need to be deposited at the entrance counter for a small fee.
