The Edakkal Caves are located in Wayanad district, Kerala, India, situated on Ambukuthi Hill near Ambalavayal town.
Edakkal Caves are famous for their ancient petroglyphs, which are estimated to be as old as 6000 BC. They are a remarkable example of prehistoric rock art and are considered to be one of the earliest centers of human habitation.
Edakkal Caves can be reached by road from Kalpetta in Wayanad. The nearest city is Sulthan Bathery, from where you can take local transport or hire a taxi to the lower entrance of the cave site. Visitors have to trek for about 1 kilometer from the entrance to reach the cave mouth.
Yes, there is a nominal entry fee for visiting Edakkal Caves. The fee is subject to change, and it is advisable to check the latest fee structure before planning a visit.
The visiting hours for Edakkal Caves usually range from early morning to late afternoon. However, these timings could change, and tourists should verify the latest timings before their trip.
The best time to visit Edakkal Caves is between the months of October and May when the weather is pleasant. The monsoon season, from June to September, might not be ideal due to heavy rains that could make trekking to the caves challenging.
Basic facilities such as parking, restrooms, and a small snack shop are available near the entry point. Guide services are also available to provide information about the caves' history and significance.
Visitors to the Edakkal Caves are expected to respect the archaeological site by not touching or damaging the carvings, following the designated paths, and not littering. The caves may occasionally be closed for maintenance or safety reasons, so it's important to check for any restrictions before visiting.
Photography is usually allowed inside Edakkal Caves for personal use. However, for any commercial use or professional photography, permission may be required from the authorities. Flash photography is generally discouraged to protect the integrity of the petroglyphs.
Other attractions near Edakkal Caves include the Wayanad Heritage Museum, the Phantom Rock, Karapuzha Dam, and the tea estates of Wayanad. The region is also known for its wildlife sanctuaries and scenic trekking routes.
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