Must doKathakali evening in Fort Kochi
Watch the performers put on their make-up, then see Kerala's classical dance-drama up close.
WhereAmbukuthi Mala, near Sulthan Bathery, Wayanad
TimingsAbout 9 am to 4 pm
ClosedMondays
WalkAbout 1 km uphill, steep in parts
Time2 hours
ParentsSome effort, many steps
Check before you go: Timings and the closed day can change with the season, public holidays or heavy rain, when the climb may be shut. Check the official timings before you go; on our trips we confirm them for you.
The Edakkal Caves are rock shelters on Ambukuthi Mala in Wayanad, Kerala, known for ancient carvings thought to be thousands of years old. Reaching them is an uphill walk of about 1 km with many steps. The caves are usually open from about 9 am to 4 pm and closed on Mondays.
The Edakkal rock carvings
Inside the upper cave, the walls are covered in carved figures, animals and symbols, among the oldest rock art in South India. "Edakkal" means "a stone in between", after a huge boulder wedged across a cleft in the rock that forms the cave roof.
Is it okay for parents?
Some effortStepsMany, on an uphill walk
WalkingShort but steep
The walk up Ambukuthi Mala
From the parking area, a road and then stone steps and iron ladders lead up to the caves. It takes 30 to 45 minutes at an easy pace. The views over Wayanad from the top are a reward of their own.
- Go early: the caves close by 4 pm and the queue grows through the day.
- Closed: on Mondays and some public holidays.
- Wear: shoes with grip; the steps can be slippery after rain.
Veg and Jain food
Carry water and snacks.
Experiences nearby
Do more with locals
Must do
Nature & slowTea estate morning in Munnar
Walk the tea slopes in the cool morning, see how the leaf is processed, then taste it fresh.
AdventureCycling through the tea estates
Ride quiet estate roads through the tea hills, with stops for the views.
Food & peopleSpice plantation walk in Thekkady
See pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and cloves growing, with a farmer who knows every plant.
AdventureJungle walk in Periyar
A guided walk in the Periyar forest, looking for birds, giant squirrels and signs of elephants.
Nature & slowVillage canoe ride on the backwaters
Slip into the narrow canals a houseboat cannot reach, past homes, paddy and toddy shops.
Food & peopleHome-cooked sadya lunch
A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, with a family in a backwater village.
FAQ
Edakkal Caves Wayanad: your questions
Are Edakkal Caves open on Mondays?
No. They are usually closed on Mondays, and open from about 9 am to 4 pm on other days. Entry is around ₹30 for adults.
How hard is the Ambukuthi Mala climb?
Moderate. It is about 1 km uphill with many steps and some iron ladders near the top.
Can elderly parents visit the Edakkal caves?
Only if they manage steep steps comfortably. Others can enjoy Wayanad viewpoints and plantations instead.
How old are the Edakkal carvings?
They are thought to be several thousand years old, among the oldest rock carvings in South India.
What else is near the Edakkal caves in Wayanad?
Coffee and spice plantations, Banasura Sagar dam and Pookode Lake are all within an easy drive.
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