The Edakkal Caves in Kerala’s Wayanad region, hidden among the Ambukuthi hills, are a tribute to the region’s lengthy history and ancient legacy. These caves, which are around 10 kilometers from Sultan Bathery, are special since they were among the first places where people lived. A visit to Edakkal Caves is not simply a vacation to a natural beauty; it is also a voyage through time that offers historians priceless information about the customs and way of life of our ancestors.
History of Edakkal Caves
Edakkal Caves’ past is shrouded in mystery. The sons of Lord Rama, Luv and Kush, are said to have created these caverns by splitting a big boulder with their arrows, creating the present-day narrow entrance. Although this narrative adds a touch of mythology, the Neolithic age, or roughly 6000 BCE, is when the caves’ genuine historical significance began. Some of the carvings and inscriptions uncovered inside the caverns date back as recently as 1000 BCE, providing fascinating hints about ancient cultures.
These carvings, which were just recently discovered in the 19th century by Fred Fawcett, a police officer in the former Malabar state, are of enormous historical significance. A magnificent archaeological site, Edakkal Caves’ carved designs indicate numerous eras of human settlement. Surprisingly, some of the petroglyphs and symbols are still unreadable, which lends the site a sense of mystery.
What Makes Edakkal Caves Special
As the sole known location for Stone Age engravings in South India, Edakkal Caves possess a special distinction. These stone carvings, which date to the Neolithic and Mesolithic eras, feature old stone writings, pictures of tools and weapons, symbols, representations of different animals, and human and animal figures. The caverns provide a direct link to the past by allowing visitors to see the artistic expression and symbolism of these ancient civilizations.
Exploring Edakkal Caves
Visitors begin a short but thrilling 45-minute climb up the magnificent Ambukuthi hills to get to Edakkal Caves. You are accompanied by the enticing smell of coffee as you go, adding to the journey’s sensory experience. You are welcomed by the magnificent carvings and the breathtaking natural rock formations when you arrive at the caverns.
Practical Information
Entry Fee:
The entrance cost at Edakkal Caves is Rs. 20, Rs. 10, and Rs. 40 for foreign visitors. A fee of Rs 25 for still camera use and Rs 100 for video camera use is also charged.
Best Time to Visit:
The Edakkal Caves are open from 8 AM to 4 PM, but please be aware that daily entry is only permitted for 1920 visitors. It’s a good idea to get there early to beat the throng.
The Climb:
A kilometer-long hike upward precedes the 380 steep steps that lead to the cave entrance on the Edakkal Caves journey. It’s a difficult yet worthwhile experience.
Edakkal Caves Wayanad Entry Fee:
– Rs 50 per person for Indians
– Rs 60 per person for Foreign Tourists
– Rs 25 for Still Camera
– Rs 100 for Video Camera
– Rs 70 for Jeep Shuttle Service (for 8 people)
Edakkal Caves Wayanad Timings:
– Monday: Closed / Holiday
– Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Nearest Town and Legends
The closest settlement and entrance to this archaeological wonder is Sultan Bathery, which is 12 kilometers from Edakkal Caves. The mysticism of Edakkal continues to be enhanced by the legends surrounding the caverns, such as the stories of Lava and Kusha, the sons of Lord Rama.
How to Reach Edakkal Caves
By Air :
The Calicut International Airport (CCJ), also known as Karipur Airport, is the closest airport to Edakkal Caves. From the caves, it is around 100 kilometers away. Major Indian cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, and Bangalore have domestic flight options to Calicut Airport. To get to Edakkal Caves from the airport, take a taxi or another mode of local transportation.
By Rail :
Kozhikode Railway Station, commonly known as Calicut Railway Station, is the closest significant railway station to Edakkal Caves and is located about 100 kilometers away. Rail connections from Kozhikode to India’s largest cities are good. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Kozhikode Railway Station to Sultan Bathery, which is the town closest to Edakkal Caves. You can further arrange transportation to the caves from Sultan Bathery.
By Road :
Sultan Bathery, which is around 12 kilometers from Edakkal Caves, is the town closest to them. Kozhikode, Kochi, and Thiruvananthapuram are just a few of the major cities in Kerala from which you may easily travel by road to Sultan Bathery. You can either take a bus or a local taxi from Sultan Bathery to Edakkal Caves.
Local Transportation: Edakkal Caves are around 12 kilometers from Sultan Bathery; you can hire a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to take you there. The route to the caves is picturesque, winding over hills and luxuriant vegetation.
Conclusion
The Edakkal Caves in Wayanad are evidence of the ongoing relationship between people and history. For everyone interested in exploring the mysteries of our past, this place is a must-visit because of its historic carvings, beautiful surrounds, and fascinating mythology. You can’t help but feel history’s weight on your shoulders as you stand in front of these amazing stone-age engravings.
“Plan your trip to Edakkal Caves and travel through time to discover the intriguing history of Wayanad’s “Ancient Heart.”
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