Nestled in the remote hills of Wayanad in Kerala, the Edakkal Caves are a truly magical and captivating sight. Located at an altitude of 1,200 m, these mysterious caves are believed to have been formed by natural forces over the past 6,000 years. As one of the most popular tourist attractions in Wayanad, the Edakkal Caves offer a unique experience unlike any other. Visitors can explore its many chambers and discover the fascinating history of the area. With its ancient carvings, stunning views and captivating atmosphere, the Edakkal Caves are a must-visit for any traveler. So, if you’re looking for a unique adventure, then the Edakkal Caves should be on your list! Read on to learn more about this mystical attraction in Wayanad and how to plan your visit.
History of the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad
The Edakkal Caves are believed to have been created by water erosion over the past 6,000 years. It is believed that these caves were once a network of connected underground rivers that were later transformed by constant dripping of water. The word “Edakkal” is derived from the words “Eda” and “Kal”, which mean “red” and “rock” respectively. The red color on the caves is a result of iron oxides from the soil being dissolved in the water, along with the microorganisms that feed off it. The Edakkal Caves were discovered in 1895 by a British military officer named J.G. Lorimer. The first archaeological studies of the caves were conducted in the 1930s by Kenneth McPhail, the Director of the Archaeological Survey of India.
Location of the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad
The Edakkal Caves are located in the town of Badagara in Wayanad, Kerala. They are situated at a distance of 46 km from Kalpetta, the district capital of Wayanad and around 100 km from Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital. The caves can be easily reached from Calicut International Airport, which is around 120 km away. There are many ways to reach the Edakkal Caves, the most common being is the Badagara-Ettimadu-Edakkal route.
Exploring the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad
The Edakkal Caves are formed by two large vertical caves and a network of smaller caves. The main attraction at the Edakkal Caves is the large rock carving on the ceiling of the main cave. This rock carving, believed to be over 6,000 years old, is the oldest rock art in Kerala.
There are various theories regarding the meaning of the carvings, but they are yet to be deciphered. One of the caves has a natural opening, while the other can only be accessed through a narrow and slippery passage. Visitors can also explore the smaller caves, which are formed by water seepage. There is a small stream in the caves, which flows right through the middle of both caves before uniting to form a larger stream outside. The two large vertical caves are connected by narrow walkways and ladders, making them an interesting place for adventure seekers.
Viewpoints at the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad
Ettimadu Viewpoint – This is a panoramic view of the Ettimadu Reservoir and the surrounding hills from the Edakkal Caves. The Reservoir is a popular spot for fishing and boating during the monsoon.
Shelters Viewpoint – This viewpoint is located near the Ettimadu Dam, from where tourists can see the entry to the Edakkal Caves.
Adventure activities at the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad
- Rappelling – This is a popular activity at the Edakkal Caves, where adventure seekers can rappel down the vertical caves. This is an extremely exciting activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
- Rock climbing – If you’re looking for an adventure that is out of this world, then rock climbing is the perfect activity for you. You can experience the thrill of scaling vertical rock walls with the help of equipment such as ropes, carabiners and harnesses.
- Trekking – The Edakkal Caves are one of the best places to experience the joy of trekking. The trail from Ettimadu Dam to the caves is a moderate trail that can be done in a couple of hours.
How to reach the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad
The Edakkal Caves can be reached by road from Kalpetta (Badagara). If you are coming from Calicut, then you can take the Thamarassery route to reach Ettimadu Dam. From here, you can follow the signs to reach the caves. Buses and taxis are available from Kalpetta, which takes around 2 hours to reach the caves. Travellers can also hire a car or scooter to reach the Edakkal Caves.
Best time to visit the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad
The best time to visit the Edakkal Caves is between October and February. During these months, the temperatures are moderate and monsoons are over.
Accommodation near the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad
If you’re looking for the best resort in Wayanad for your honeymoon or family vacation, look no further than Serene Valley Resort. From its breathtaking views of the valley to its luxurious amenities, this resort is sure to make your stay unforgettable. The resort itself is surrounded by lush greenery, which creates a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, from swimming in the pool to exploring the manicured gardens. The resort also boasts a spa and fitness center, so you can take some time to pamper and rejuvenate yourself. And if you’re looking for a romantic getaway, the resort offers a variety of romantic packages for couples, from candlelit dinners to spa treatments. Serene Valley Resort truly has something for everyone – whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation. So come and experience the best premium villa resort in Wayanad with private swimming pool – you won’t regret it!
What to bring when visiting the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad
A pair of comfortable shoes – One of the many reasons why trekking at the Edakkal Caves is so popular is because the paths leading to the caves are not very difficult to navigate. However, the trail can get a bit slippery during monsoon, so make sure you wear a pair of sturdy and waterproof shoes.
- A camera – The Edakkal Caves are a photographer’s delight, making them a perfect selfie spot. So, make sure you bring along a good camera or a phone with a good camera to capture some amazing pictures during your visit.
- A flashlight – The caves have a very dim and eerie atmosphere, making them the perfect setting for an adventure. However, it can get a bit difficult to navigate the caves during low light, especially if you’re trekking alone. So, make sure you bring a good flashlight to explore the caves during low light.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a thrilling and adventurous experience, then the Edakkal Caves should be on your list. These mysterious caves have been carved out by water over the past 6,000 years. The Edakkal Caves make for a unique and captivating sight and are a must-visit for any traveler. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your backpack and head to the Edakkal Caves now!