Edakkal Caves
Edakkal Caves in Edakkal, Wayand accommodate the signs and symbols of prehistoric man who resided inside these natural rock formations and left his footprints for the next generations to admire. Located at a height in a mountain called Ambukutty Mala, the twin caves have carvings belonging to the Neolithic age (considered to be 7,000 to 8,000 years old).
Specialty Of Edakkal Caves
The Malayalam word Edakkal translates to ‘in-between’ and the name completely justifies these formations in between the space of huge rocks. In actuality, these are not caves but V-shaped fissures, better known as clefts. The truly majestic atmosphere inside the caves draws the attention of tourists interested in peeping into their history of origin.
The carvings inside the caves feature human and animal figures. While many symbols carved on the rock walls are yet to be deciphered, there are other carvings that clearly depict the tools like bows and knives that prehistoric man used.
The caves can be accessed after a trek of 300 m, offering wonderful scenic beauty on the way. There is a telescope fixed near the caves that allows visitors to enjoy the breathtaking views of the distant places.
However, the true attractions of these caves are the carvings, some of which are in the form of paintings, offering resemblance and a possible connection with the Indus Valley Civilization of the North. The caves are considered significant discoveries, the rarest to be found in the South Indian region, and offer great information about the human ancestors.
A Forest Department guide is present at the caves to help explain the significance of the carvings and some of the history of the region. The caves are open daily.