The Four Most Famous Caves in Kodaikanal

Located in Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is a renowned hill station in India. Perched at an elevation of 6,998 feet above sea level, Kodaikanal is known for its popular tourist destinations. It boasts picturesque lakes, scenic trekking trails, mountains offering spectacular views and mysterious caves. In this article, we explore four of the most famous Kodaikanal caves, sure to satisfy the dreams of every explorer.

Guna Caves

Previously known as Devil’s Kitchen, the Guna Cave, Kodaikanal has gained fame after being featured in Kamal Hassan's movie “Guna”. The name stuck after the film's shoot at this location. Due to their steep and perilous nature, the cave is not accessible for entry but can be admired from a safe distance. It is open to visitors from 9 AM to 4.30 PM. On the walk towards the cave, you'll be greeted by stunning pine trees with roots forming intricate spiral patterns on the ground. The cool mountain breeze combined with the remarkable structure of the cave makes for a memorable experience. While in the area, consider visiting nearby attractions like the Pine Forest, located about 560 metres away and the Pillar Rocks viewpoint, approximately 880 metres from the caves.

Kukkal Caves

The Kukkal Caves, Kodaikanal, once the abode of the Paliyans tribe, are formed from overhanging slabs of metamorphic rocks like granulite and charconite. Visitors can still find ancient carvings on the cave walls, left by the former inhabitants. Access to these caves is only possible by foot from Poombarai, a village reachable by bus. Before entering the caves or trekking in the surrounding forest, obtaining permission from the forest authorities is necessary. They also provide a map to help navigate the caves independently. Open from 10 AM to 5 PM, the area is often rainy, so appropriate attire is recommended for safety. The trek to the cave itself is rewarding, offering views of diverse flora and fauna along the path.

Kodaikanal Lion Cave

Located near the Levinge Stream, the Lion Cave offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience for visitors. This relatively hidden spot is about 120 metres from the Vattakanal waterfalls. To reach it, one must trek from these waterfalls. While there are no fixed visiting hours for the cave, it is advisable to explore it between 9 AM and 4:30 PM. After dark, navigation becomes challenging due to the slippery conditions caused by the waterfall's spray. The cave, partially concealed by lush greenery, is compact in size. It's named after a local legend that a lion once dwelled there. If you're visiting Vattakanal waterfalls, a side trip to this cave is certainly worthwhile. However, remember to wear suitable footwear, as the terrain can be quite slippery.

Dolmen Circle

The Dolmen Circle is a significant site where dolmens, believed to be the shelters of prehistoric humans, are found. Dolmens, essentially two large vertical slabs topped with a flat stone, served not just as dwellings but also as places to safeguard valuables. In Kodaikanal, only a few of these ancient structures have withstood the test of time. Visitors can still see them in areas like Periyakulam near Palamalai and about 2 kilometres beyond Pannaikadu near Machur. While these sites are accessible anytime, the ideal visiting hours are between 9 AM and 4:30 PM. Exploring these dolmens offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of prehistoric humans, making for a truly remarkable journey.

Having highlighted the most renowned Kodaikanal caves, we invite you to enhance your stay in this charming hill station with our hotel offerings.

The Carlton, Kodaikanal, is ideally located near the iconic Kodaikanal Lake, just a short walk away from this popular attraction. Whether you're on a family getaway or a group of backpackers adventuring through the hills, our hotel offers a range of rooms tailored to meet your needs, along with amenities designed to enrich your stay. Positioned in a prime location, The Carlton ensures easy access to various tourist spots, promising an unforgettable experience in Kodaikanal.

If you are looking to explore Kodaikanal, we would recommend this blog on some of the best things to do in Kodaikanal.