Edakkal cave is one of the supreme tourist destinations in Wayanad which is formed by a huge boulder which is wedged between two bigger stones. Hence, the cave is known as the Edakkal Cave which literally means "a stone in between". The Edakkal Cave is situated on Ambukutty Mala at a height of 1,200 m above the sea level, in Wayanad district. Even though it looks like a cave, it is believed that it is actually a fissure in the rocks that has occurred due to natural calamities and climate change. The cave has a length of 96 feet and a width of 22 feet.

According to history, the Superintendent of Police of the Malabar district named Fred Fawcett discovered these caves during his hunting trip to Wayanad in 1890. The Edakkal cave in Wayanad is the only place in India which is renowned for Stone Age Carvings. This cave also has carvings that belong to the Neolithic and Mesolithic age. One has to trek up Ambukutty Hills in order to reach the Edakkal Cave.

Why Special?

Edakkal cave is the only place in India known for Stone Age Carvings. The cave has two chambers. The lower chamber has a length of 18 feet with a width of 12 feet. And the upper chamber has a length of 96 feet and is 22 feet wide. You can find carvings belonging to the Neolithic and Mesolithic age in this cave. These carvings include ancient weapons, ancient stone scripts, symbols, animal figures and human beings.

What you will Experience

To reach the Edakkal cave, one has to trek up Ambukuthi Hills, which is a 45-minute climb with the cool breeze and beautiful scenery of coffee plantations that accompanies throughout the way. The entrance of main cave offers a breathtaking view of the Wayanad hills and the surrounding peaks. The engraved paintings in Edakkal cave will take you to the pre-historic period. You can enjoy the amazing panoramic view of the surrounding peaks through the telescope kept near the cave.

Entry & Exit Timings:

All days of the week. Entry Time : 9:00 AM. Exit Time : 4:00 PM.

Best Time To Visit : October to May

Way to Reach :

 By Air - Calicut International Airport is the nearest airport to the Edakkal Cave Wayanad which is situated at a distance of 110 Km.

 By Rail - Calicut Railway Station is the nearest railway station to the Edakkal Cave Wayanad which is situated at a distance of 97.5 Km.

 By Bus - Sulthan Bathery Bus Station is the nearest bus station to the Edakkal Cave Wayanad which is situated at a distance of 14.4 Km.

FAQs about Edakkal Cave

Where are Edakkal Caves located?

Edakkal Caves are located on Ambukutty Mala, at an elevation of 1,200 meters above sea level, in Wayanad district, Kerala.

What makes Edakkal Caves special?

Edakkal Caves are unique as they are the only site in India with Stone Age carvings, featuring inscriptions and figures from the Neolithic and Mesolithic ages.

How were the Edakkal Caves formed?

The Edakkal Caves are believed to be a fissure formed between two large rocks, created by natural calamities and climate changes, with a massive boulder wedged between them.

What kind of carvings can be seen in Edakkal Caves?

The Edakkal Caves contain carvings of ancient symbols, human figures, animal figures, and weapons dating back to the Neolithic and Mesolithic periods.

Is the trek to Edakkal Caves difficult?

The trek is moderately challenging and takes around 45 minutes to complete. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes for the climb.

What can I experience at Edakkal Caves?

Visitors can explore the prehistoric carvings inside the caves and enjoy a panoramic view of Wayanad hills and surrounding peaks from the entrance of the cave.