Visiting Kukkal Caves would be the highlight of your trip to Kodaikanal. Travelling 40 km from Kodaikanal, you will reach these caves, one of the oldest carved caves in Tamil Nadu. There is a short trek to reach the caves, and the trail features a thick forest area covered with orchids and shoal trees. Renowned worldwide as a diversity hotspot, It offers an excellent opportunity to come closer to the common and rare species of plants and animals. Here, we have discussed Kukkal Caves in detail, including its history, flora, and fauna, as well as the best time to visit the place.
About Kukkal Caves
The Kukkal caves are considered one of the oldest carved caves in Poombarai Village of Kodaikanal district. Situated at an altitude of 1500 m, these caves offer amazing and breathtaking views of the Manjampatti valley down below. This Caves are basically different types of metamorphic rocks that are overhanging, known as granulite and charconite. These old rock shelters are believed to be the home to the descendants of the Palaiyar tribes. It wasn’t until the mid-1980s that more than 30 families lived on the hilltop, and there was also a small temple located there. You will also find some old hand paintings on the walls of the temple, which indicate the presence of the Paliyan tribes in the caves.
Situated at 6200 feet above sea level, this place receives a yearlong frigid climate and misty and never-ending rains. Another major attraction of these caves is their diverse terrain, which contributes to their rich flora and fauna. Kukkal caves, nestled deep inside the forest and unhindered by human activities, make it the most peaceful place in Kodaikanal, a real haven for all those who wish to break away from their busy lives and unwind.
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History Of Kukkal Caves
The Kukkal Caves were once inhabited by the Paliyan group, and today, they are one of the best historical sites in Kodaikanal, situated at an elevation of 1300 metres.
The stones of the Caves are living proof that the Palaiyar tribes used to wear foliage outfits.
The caves are made from low pieces of metamorphic stones known as chalcocite and granulite. Until the mid-1980s, more than 90 family members lived on the top of the mountain, making these caves their rock shelters.
Flora And Fauna Around Kukkal Caves
The surrounding areas of the Kukkal Caves comprise four types of ecosystems: swamp, grassland, freshwater lake, and shola. A lake named Kukkal Lake runs through the middle of the sholas and the surrounding grasslands, adding to the place’s charm and beauty.
If you trek through the forest around the caves, you will find an enormous 800-year-old tree that bears fruit and is said to be useful for patients suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure. However, this tree is now under the care of the Tamil Nadu Forest Department. The diverse plant biodiversity of this place also features some rare species of single fern trees, jamun and rudraksha trees, along with 26 species of cinnamon and the Shenbagam flower tree. The sholas around the caves are popular among bird watchers as it is the home to about 165 species of butterflies and several relatively uncommon birds, such as the wood pigeon and Nilgiri pipit.
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Top Places To Visit Near Kukkal Caves
Here is a list of top places that you can’t forget on your trip to collect mesmerising memories to cherish forever.
1. Guna Cave
Image Credit: Parvathisri for Wikipedia
Situated 10 kilometres from Kodaikanal on the Moir Point Road, Guna Caves is a beautiful yet off-beat tourist destination in Kodaikanal. If you are someone who loves to explore historical places which are popular for their mysterious stories, then Guna Cave is the best place near the Caves for you to visit. Surrounded by the lush green landscapes of Kodaikanal, this place is a popular destination among nature lovers, historians, and adventure freaks. This cave is situated at an altitude of 2,200 metres and used to be known as ‘Devil’s Kitchen’.
Location: 16 km away from Kukkal Caves
Timings: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm
2. Silver Cascade Falls
Image Credit: R.K.PRAGADHEESH for Wikimedia Commons
Silver Cascade Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Kodaikanal. It is a beautiful sight near the Caves for those who love to admire nature’s beauty. One of the most spectacular tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu, it feels like heaven on earth, located at 2318 meters. This waterfall is formed from the remains of the Kodai Lake after the water cascades down from a height of 180 feet. A pool is formed at the bottom of the waterfall, where you can dip for a rejuvenating experience.
Location: 26 km away from Kukkal Caves
Timings: Open for the visitors from sunrise to sunset
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3. Berijam Lake
Image Credit: Chandrachoodan Gopalakrishnan for Wikimedia Commons
One of the popular natural freshwater lakes in Kodaikanal, Berijam Lake, is worth a visit. This spectacular lake is nestled amidst the most beautiful landscapes of the Western Ghats. Situated close to the Kodaikanal city at a distance of 22 km, this lake is surrounded by the lush green Upper Palani Hill range. This place is considered an ideal tourist spot for people who love to spend some time far from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can also spot some wildlife creatures around this lake, including Nilgiri langur and wild boars, as well as some migratory birds like leaf warblers and blue chat.
Location: 25 km away from Kukkal Caves
Timings: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
How To Reach Kukkal Caves
Image Credit: SarathRam for Wikimedia Commons
Located almost 40 km from Kodaikanal, Kukkal Caves are one of the oldest carved caves in South India. They were once home to the oldest settled tribes in the region: the Paliyans.
A short and beautiful journey of around 40 km from Kodaikanal, passing through the dense shawl trees and spectacular meadows, will take you to Kukkal Caves. You can take the bus up to Poombaraj and then walk the rest of the distance. Hiring a local guide to reach the caves is crucial. After walking through the geranium plantations, pine, and wattle forests, you will reach the Kukkal forest rest house. You can start an early morning hike to the Caves from the rest of the house, passing through the beautiful shoal with large wild orchids. Just make sure you are careful of the leeches on the way.
Distance from major places:
Nearest bus stand to Kukkal Caves: Kodaikanal Bus Stand (20 km)
Nearest railway station to Kukkal Caves: Palani Railway Station (85 km)
Nearest airport to Kukkal Caves: Madurai International Airport (153 km)
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Important Information For Tourists Visiting Kukkal Caves
- Prior permission is required from the Forest Department to enter the caves. You must go to the Anna Salai tourist office for permission to visit the Caves.
- Entry to the Kukkal Caves is free
- There is a trek of around 8 km to reach these caves from Poombarai
- Make sure you book your stay at the rest house near the caves so that you can start an early hike to witness the lovely scenery around the caves
- It is advised to book a guided tour of Kukkal Caves
- The weather remains pleasant in Kodaikanal around the year. However, the best time to visit the Caves is from April to June, when the weather is at its best
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Journeying to Kukkal Caves promises spectacular sights of orchids lining up in the forest. If luck is on your side, you may also spot wild animals like bison living in their natural habitat. Camping at a height of 6200 feet is itself a breathtaking experience that you should also experience once in your life. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags for an amazing trip to Kodaikanal and explore these magnificent historical caves.
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Cover Image Credit :Rafael Rodrigues Camargo for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Kukkal Caves
How far is Kukkal Caves from Kodaikanal?
The Kukkal Caves are 40 km away from Kodaikanal. You can reach by train or take the public transport to reach to the location.
Which is the oldest carved caves in South India?
Kukkal Caves are the oldest carved caves in South India, located near Kodaikanal. These caves were inhabited by Palaiyar or Paliyans.
Which is the best time to visit Kukkal Caves in Kodaikanal?
The best time to visit Kukkal Caves is from April to June. During this time, the weather remains pleasant for trekking through the forest.
What are Kukkal Caves made of?
The Kukkal Caves are basically made of different types of metamorphic stones known as charconite.
Which is the nearest railway station to Kukkal Caves?
The nearest railway station to Kukkal Caves is Palani Railway Station, which is about 85 km away from the place. You need to trek through the forest for around 8 km from Poombarai to reach Kukkal Caves.
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