Edakkal Caves
Edakkal Caves
4
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 4:15 PM
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- Priyanka9987Mumbai, India526 contributionsMust visit in wayanadHighly recommended trek/ walk and must visit places near Wayanad. The trek takes about 2.5 hrs with a 6-yr old. Takes 20mons till entry point, 40 mins for the uphill trek till the highest point and 20 mins downhill back to parking The trek is steep but has many places to take a break, with greenery all around with great views. The view from the top is beautiful and the cave drawings are must see. Take the help of a guide to understand what they mean and they also take very good pics of you. Start early by 8-9am and be done by noon. Weekends are crowded with school and college groups..quite touristy entrance and a great place to shop for things back home in the form of banana chips chocolates eucalyptus oil and spicesVisited November 2023Travelled with familyWritten November 26, 2023
- Anoop Kumar NMelbourne, Australia48 contributionsWe can say I have visited the Edakkal CavesWe were there at 9:30 am. queue was very long and it took 2 hours to get a ticket ( RS.50) . It is not a very good cave. Just an experience . The area was surprisingly clean. Wear shoes and take drinking water. nearly 1.3km from the parking. Very difficult to get parking . No parking slots. peoples will park where ever they can. ( Rs.50/car). When we take plastic bottles give Rs. 20 for a sticker and when we came back they show the bottle and get the refund. Not recommended for elderly and small kids.Visited December 2023Travelled with familyWritten December 29, 2023
- Big Indian ToursAsia617 contributionsEdakkal CavesA challenging adventure with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment despite the tough journey. A place with an astonishing combination of natural beauty and historical significance. The adventure offers a journey back in time, decoding messages left by ancestors. A nominal fee of 20 rupees for parking. About a kilometre journey from the parking lot to the ticket counter. Entry fee of 50 rupees per person. Sturdy shoes are advised due to slippery roads. Descent poses a challenge with steep stairs and steep iron or steel steps for about 1km. Not recommended for aged people and children due to challenging paths and steps. The cave contains historical symbols by early humans. Engraved Tamil Brahmi letters and pictorial representations on side rock walls. Unique rock formations, ancient symbols and carvings date back to 6000 BCE. Views can be hindered by the popularity of the destination. There is a limit for the total count of tickets they will not allow more than 2000 tickets total for one day. Knowledgeable guides available in the main cave will showcase notable petroglyphs. Takes around 1.5 to 2 hours for a round-trip. For those seeking an adventure, this cave offers more than just a physical challenge; it presents a distinctive and unforgettable destination, blending a rich tapestry of historical and cultural experiences.Visited December 2023Travelled with friendsWritten January 1, 2024
- Swagatika PBengaluru, India58 contributionsYes - if you like walking and climbingAfter reaching to the spot, my 5 year old reacted - just to see this you made me do all that hard work!! It’s really tough walking uphill for around 1.2 km, and then realising you have to climb quite up to reach the cave. The carvings are almost fading, just the huge rocks. You should avoid this place with small kids and elderly people. Neither they will enjoy the trek nor the boulders. If you are in Wayanad and nothing much to do, want to do some hiking and climbing, should visit. Gets closed at 4 pm, so try to reach to the parking lot by 3 at least.Visited December 2023Travelled with familyWritten January 3, 2024
- Satish PThane, India1,253 contributionsJourney better than the destinationThe road to the caves is quite steep and steps are also steep. Good part is that there are trees by the side so even during the afternoon sun, it's comfortable to walk. Surrounding ambience was quite scenic. Caves however were a bit of disappointment. Not many carvings.Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten February 17, 2024
- Deepak DhandaPune, India28 contributionsAmazing and EducativeGlad I could witness the stone art of 6000 BC in a cave 30000 yrs old. The Heritage site is very well managed by the Kerala Administration. Guides inside the Cave will help you understand the art work. One km walk and 780 steps to cave. Must SeeVisited February 2024Travelled with familyWritten February 26, 2024
- ELDHO MONCYIndia7 contributionsExploring Edakkal CavesVisiting Edakkal Caves was a captivating experience that combined history, nature, and adventure. Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Wayanad, the caves offered a glimpse into ancient rock carvings and inscriptions dating back thousands of years. The trek up to the caves was moderate yet exhilarating, with breathtaking views of the Western Ghats along the way. Inside, the cave walls adorned with prehistoric artwork provided a sense of awe and wonder. The guides were knowledgeable, adding depth to our understanding of the significance of these archaeological wonders. Overall, Edakkal Caves proved to be a perfect blend of exploration and learning, making it an unforgettable outing with colleagues.Visited June 2024Travelled with familyWritten June 23, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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SGN
17 contributions
May 2022 • Family
Long lines to get in. Expect about a kilometer of walking on steep incline roads to get to entrance. Entry closes after about 2000 visitors each day. So better visit early. There are massive lines trying to get to first cave and people jostling to get ahead on steep steps, which is a recipe for disaster some day!! But the upper cave was worth the hike! Breathtaking views and rock engravings.
Written May 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
chow69
Bhopal, India2,060 contributions
Jan 2020
These prehistoric caves are located close to Ambalavayal off the Calicut-Bangalore National Highway. The turning to the right moving from Meenagadi to Sultan Bathery is short of Sultan Bathery.
We visited these caves during our recent visit to Wayanad and Kerala and had a great time walking up to the top of the hill where the caves are located. The Tourism Department has affixed a metallic staircase to assist climbers, but the climb is indeed strenuous. The view from the top of the hill is awesome and one needs to take breaks while climbing to the top.
These caves are supposed to be camping shelters of the South Indian Neolithic community and the cave walls contain a collection of Neolithic rock engravings and images.
The Edakkal Caves are not caves in the true sense of the word. They are a cleft in between two rocks which may have been formed by the rock which forms the roof of the cave.
We visited these caves during our recent visit to Wayanad and Kerala and had a great time walking up to the top of the hill where the caves are located. The Tourism Department has affixed a metallic staircase to assist climbers, but the climb is indeed strenuous. The view from the top of the hill is awesome and one needs to take breaks while climbing to the top.
These caves are supposed to be camping shelters of the South Indian Neolithic community and the cave walls contain a collection of Neolithic rock engravings and images.
The Edakkal Caves are not caves in the true sense of the word. They are a cleft in between two rocks which may have been formed by the rock which forms the roof of the cave.
Written February 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Beat R
Basel, Switzerland93 contributions
Feb 2024 • Friends
The Edakkal ("a stone in between") Cave is actually a cave-like rock shelter open at the top, formed by a boulder wedged between two large boulders. On the walls you can see petroglyphs, images carved into the rock, human beings, animal figures, tools and symbols. They date from the Neolithic period and are between 8,000 and 3,000 years old. The youngest, the so-called man with a glass bowl, is associated with the Harappa culture (Indus culture). The petroglyphs are the only examples known to date from South India. Along with two Jain temples and the Thirunelli Mahavishnu Temple, they are one of the historical highlights of the Wayanad region. - The reviews advise against visiting for older people. The reason for this is the steep climb. As a 71-year-old, still quite sprightly Central European, the visit was not easy for me either, but it is definitely worth it for anyone who enjoys history and nature and is still a good walker. The steep asphalt road (no driving allowed) leads from the car park about 1.2 km up to the entrance, where you pay a small entrance fee - and where the last toilets are located before the actual climb. The path is lined with souvenir shops and simple food options (snacks and drinks) as well as a small cinema for children (dinosaurs in 3D). There are also supposed to be many monkeys on the road that occasionally demand food. We didn't see any. After paying the entrance fee, there are around 380 steps (not counted), which first consist of irregularly high and wide stones, then of metal, leading very steeply up to 1200 m above sea level. It is advisable to tackle the climb in the morning when it is not yet so hot. The whole thing is breathtaking, in the truest sense of the word, both the climb and the view. Once you reach the top, you enter the "cave", where there are usually already lots of visitors and guides who can explain the petroglyphs if you want. Occasionally there are a lot of visitors, so access is limited. So arrive early. When we were there, there were a lot of young people in class groups. Despite the crowds of visitors, everything is very clean and well maintained. And the metal stairs are very well maintained. So there is no danger. If you feel reasonably fit and can cope with the high temperature, a visit is definitely recommended. You will remember the wonderful landscape and the unique rock paintings of our ancestors for a long time.
Written March 7, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kapil Sood
Bengaluru, India413 contributions
Mar 2023
Very nice caves if you are interested in history, not very often you see things which are (claimed to be) 6000 years old!
What to expect:
1. As you approach this place there is a parking fee collected, Rs.40/- for the car and they allot you a parking lot number, there are almost 10 of them. Very organised.
2. There is a very steep walk up, approx 1Km. There are shops on the way for eats and tit bits. They are very polite and don't push you much.
3. Then you reach the ticket counters & there are toilets too. Ticket is Rs.50/- per adult.
4. After this the real fun (challenge) starts. There are big steep stone steps up and steel steps down. Approx 300+ steps.
5. This place can get very crowded too, so getting there early in the day is better as the crowds are less and it is not very hot.
6. Assuming the steps can get very slippery during the rains, so exercise caution.
7. Not advisable for people above 70, pregnant women, people with heart ailments, people who don't exercise to do this walk, it'll be too strenuous.
8. Beautiful views from the top and the icing on the cake are the stone carvings, 6000 years old!
Must visit for history lovers for sure!
What to expect:
1. As you approach this place there is a parking fee collected, Rs.40/- for the car and they allot you a parking lot number, there are almost 10 of them. Very organised.
2. There is a very steep walk up, approx 1Km. There are shops on the way for eats and tit bits. They are very polite and don't push you much.
3. Then you reach the ticket counters & there are toilets too. Ticket is Rs.50/- per adult.
4. After this the real fun (challenge) starts. There are big steep stone steps up and steel steps down. Approx 300+ steps.
5. This place can get very crowded too, so getting there early in the day is better as the crowds are less and it is not very hot.
6. Assuming the steps can get very slippery during the rains, so exercise caution.
7. Not advisable for people above 70, pregnant women, people with heart ailments, people who don't exercise to do this walk, it'll be too strenuous.
8. Beautiful views from the top and the icing on the cake are the stone carvings, 6000 years old!
Must visit for history lovers for sure!
Written March 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The One Who Thinks Too Much
Kakkanad, India16 contributions
Jan 2020
Ancient pictures and letters engraved in a cave formed by giant rocks, People can enter into the cave through steps and walk around the cave freely because it is ample space inside. It is an enjoyable place for, family, couples and friends. Walking in and out through the steps can be a workout But you will be tired of walking if you are not healthy or aged.
Written March 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rensilla
Bengaluru, India13 contributions
Mar 2020 • Friends
I was so determined to reach the top and discover what beauty lies up there above. But it was disappointing. Maybe I expected too much? Pr maybe not?
If you planning to climb up with small kids, I suggest you not to. The climb gets difficult at some point even without having any weights on you.
But my advice to you would be, if you want to climb and see what's there, ENJOY THAT CLIMB. That is the only thing you will take back from these caves.
If you planning to climb up with small kids, I suggest you not to. The climb gets difficult at some point even without having any weights on you.
But my advice to you would be, if you want to climb and see what's there, ENJOY THAT CLIMB. That is the only thing you will take back from these caves.
Written March 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Neo123456
Bengaluru, India51 contributions
May 2022 • Couples
Few pointers to plan your travel to the caves :
1. You’ll have to walk on very steep road for 1km to reach to the cave. You’ll have lot of eating/shopping options on the way
2. There are around 300 steps one way to reach to both caves. Views are breathtaking and worth the effort
3. Not very crowded and very well maintenance by Kerala govt
4. Cave at the top has sculptures.. you’ll find a guide who’ll share stories of 30,000 years before.
Eddakal means stone between the caves
1. You’ll have to walk on very steep road for 1km to reach to the cave. You’ll have lot of eating/shopping options on the way
2. There are around 300 steps one way to reach to both caves. Views are breathtaking and worth the effort
3. Not very crowded and very well maintenance by Kerala govt
4. Cave at the top has sculptures.. you’ll find a guide who’ll share stories of 30,000 years before.
Eddakal means stone between the caves
Written May 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Satish Kumar
Chennai (Madras), India39 contributions
Dec 2020
Edakkal caves is one of the UNESCO certified monument. It is actually situated at the highest peak in the district on the Ambukuthi Mala.
A steep trek to the top of the hill, which would probably take few hours and it really depends on the fitness level. As you walk to the top there is a narrow path that would actually challenge the elderly and once you get through it, there is a modern steel steps that would take you to the peak. There are enough shops on the way to keep you hydrated and there are few shops that offer fresh coffee powder and spices.
Once you reach the top you could see ancient rock engraving dated back some 100 + years ago. It is being well maintained and one of the main a tourist attraction at the district. This place also provides a breath taking view of the district and you could enjoy the scenic view with lush greenery until horizon.
A steep trek to the top of the hill, which would probably take few hours and it really depends on the fitness level. As you walk to the top there is a narrow path that would actually challenge the elderly and once you get through it, there is a modern steel steps that would take you to the peak. There are enough shops on the way to keep you hydrated and there are few shops that offer fresh coffee powder and spices.
Once you reach the top you could see ancient rock engraving dated back some 100 + years ago. It is being well maintained and one of the main a tourist attraction at the district. This place also provides a breath taking view of the district and you could enjoy the scenic view with lush greenery until horizon.
Written December 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Big Indian Tours
Asia617 contributions
Dec 2023 • Friends
A challenging adventure with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment despite the tough journey. A place with an astonishing combination of natural beauty and historical significance. The adventure offers a journey back in time, decoding messages left by ancestors.
A nominal fee of 20 rupees for parking. About a kilometre journey from the parking lot to the ticket counter. Entry fee of 50 rupees per person. Sturdy shoes are advised due to slippery roads. Descent poses a challenge with steep stairs and steep iron or steel steps for about 1km. Not recommended for aged people and children due to challenging paths and steps.
The cave contains historical symbols by early humans. Engraved Tamil Brahmi letters and pictorial representations on side rock walls. Unique rock formations, ancient symbols and carvings date back to 6000 BCE.
Views can be hindered by the popularity of the destination. There is a limit for the total count of tickets they will not allow more than 2000 tickets total for one day.
Knowledgeable guides available in the main cave will showcase notable petroglyphs. Takes around 1.5 to 2 hours for a round-trip. For those seeking an adventure, this cave offers more than just a physical challenge; it presents a distinctive and unforgettable destination, blending a rich tapestry of historical and cultural experiences.
A nominal fee of 20 rupees for parking. About a kilometre journey from the parking lot to the ticket counter. Entry fee of 50 rupees per person. Sturdy shoes are advised due to slippery roads. Descent poses a challenge with steep stairs and steep iron or steel steps for about 1km. Not recommended for aged people and children due to challenging paths and steps.
The cave contains historical symbols by early humans. Engraved Tamil Brahmi letters and pictorial representations on side rock walls. Unique rock formations, ancient symbols and carvings date back to 6000 BCE.
Views can be hindered by the popularity of the destination. There is a limit for the total count of tickets they will not allow more than 2000 tickets total for one day.
Knowledgeable guides available in the main cave will showcase notable petroglyphs. Takes around 1.5 to 2 hours for a round-trip. For those seeking an adventure, this cave offers more than just a physical challenge; it presents a distinctive and unforgettable destination, blending a rich tapestry of historical and cultural experiences.
Written January 2, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Priyanka9987
Mumbai, India526 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
Highly recommended trek/ walk and must visit places near Wayanad. The trek takes about 2.5 hrs with a 6-yr old. Takes 20mons till entry point, 40 mins for the uphill trek till the highest point and 20 mins downhill back to parking
The trek is steep but has many places to take a break, with greenery all around with great views. The view from the top is beautiful and the cave drawings are must see. Take the help of a guide to understand what they mean and they also take very good pics of you. Start early by 8-9am and be done by noon. Weekends are crowded with school and college groups..quite touristy entrance and a great place to shop for things back home in the form of banana chips chocolates eucalyptus oil and spices
The trek is steep but has many places to take a break, with greenery all around with great views. The view from the top is beautiful and the cave drawings are must see. Take the help of a guide to understand what they mean and they also take very good pics of you. Start early by 8-9am and be done by noon. Weekends are crowded with school and college groups..quite touristy entrance and a great place to shop for things back home in the form of banana chips chocolates eucalyptus oil and spices
Written November 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
An welchem Wochentag ist die Höhle geschlossen? / At which day of the week are the caves closed?
Written April 21, 2019
what is the best time to visit edakkal caves
Written November 1, 2017
It is a bit of a hike so try to go when it is not too hot and also try to go early in the morning because as the sun comes up you will find it more difficult to climb.
Written November 2, 2017
I have a two year old boy. Is it advisable to carry him and climb up?
Written September 30, 2017
No certainly not. You may not be able to carry your child and climb the rocky path. In some places you have to climb 2 ft high on a single rock.
Written September 30, 2017
how long it take to visit eddakal cave properly ?? Is there any jeep ride - if yes how its used ??
Written August 8, 2017
There is no jeep ride. Can hire auto from Kolgappara or Ambalavayal.But ask auto to wait since its difficult to find return.
1.5 km trek from the parking and takes 30 to 45 minutes one way.
if your group have Aged or people who suffer to walk please avoid this place.
Otherwise its good place to visit in Wayanad for both history and trek.
Written August 9, 2017
Hi All,
i want to visit Edakkal Caves coming sunday 17-07.
How do I get there using public transportation?
Any advice?
Thanks in advance
Written July 12, 2016
You can find enough buses from sulthan bathery bus station. You can see the bus route boards in the name of Vaduvanchal, Ambalavayal. You may take tickets to Ambalavayal ( Nearly Rs.10) and hire an autorikshaw(Tuk tuk) to edakkal cave ( Nearly Rs. 60). After reaching the parking area of edakkal just 800Mtr walking is necossary to reach the ticket counter of edakkal
Written July 14, 2016
It should be open during monsoons but not a recommended time to visit.
Written June 6, 2016
we arethree couples visiting age group 55 to 65....whattime tovisit andwhy
Written April 20, 2016
Start at morning. Keep in mind that you have to climb some distance to reach the cave. Take rest at points and climb slowly. Enjoy the trip.
Written April 22, 2016
its part of your entry ticket, it is a complete guided trekking so dont worry but enontry is allowed till 2 pm only
Written March 19, 2016
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