Edakkal Caves
Wayanad, India
- Enjoy panoramic views
- Explore ancient cave carvings
- Learn about local history
- Trek to the cave entrance
Known for:
Description:
Edakkal Caves are two natural caves located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. Edakkal means 'a stone in between'. Inside the caves are pictorial writings believed to be from the Neolithic and Mesolithic ages. The caves are located on Ambukuthi Mala, near an ancient trade route connecting the high mountains of Mysore to the ports of the Malabar coast. Edakkal is located 25 km from Kalpadi and 9 km from Sulthan Bathery. The caves are situated 1,200 meters above sea level on Ambukutty Mala near Ambalavayal, a small town in Wayanad district. The Stone Age carvings of Edakkal Caves have drawn the attention of archaeologists worldwide.
History:
Edakkal caves are believed to have formed naturally. The carvings inside the caves are from the Neolithic and Mesolithic periods, dating back to at least 6,000 BCE. These petroglyphs depict human and animal figures, tools, and other symbols. The caves were likely used as shelters by early humans and later became important for trade routes connecting Mysore and the Malabar coast. The historical significance of the caves lies in the ancient rock carvings, which provide insights into the lives and culture of prehistoric people in the region. The caves have been studied by archaeologists and historians for many years, and they continue to be a valuable source of information about the past.