If you are interested in the historical places of India and would like to experience some mystery, too, then Kodaikanal Guna Caves in Tamil Nadu is the right place for you. Earlier, Guna Caves was known as Devil’s Kitchen for its dark and mysterious interiors. This place is quite a popular tourist destination in Kodaikanal for its unique rock formations, narrow passages, and natural beauty. Standing at an altitude of 2,200 meters, the Guna Caves is just eight km away from Kodaikanal. Read on to learn more about Guna Caves.
Overview Of Kodaikanal Guna Caves
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An off-beat tourist destination in Kodaikanal, Guna Caves is a heritage site that also offers visitors the element of mystery and adventure. Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Kodaikanal, this place is a popular destination among nature lovers, historians, and adventure freaks. Quite famous for their mysterious and eerie ambience, these caves are situated at 2,200 metres and used to be known as ‘Devil’s Kitchen’. They were later named after the famous Tamil movie “Guna,” which was shot here.
Guna Caves are situated 10 kilometres from Kodaikanal on the Moir Point Road. There is a short walk through the pine forest to reach these caves. Though the caves are closed for visitors for safety reasons, you can always view the caves from a safe distance. Shola trees and grass surround the caves, and the gnarled, matted and twisted sets of roots of these trees are spread across the area, giving a mysterious touch to the place.
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History Of Kodaikanal Guna Caves
If we go by history, these caves were undiscovered until 1821, when Mr BS Ward, an American man discovered this place. The origin of the Guna Caves is still not accurately known, however, it is believed that these caves have formed millions of years ago due to the natural weathering of rocks. Earlier, they were only known to the local tribes. These caves came into the limelight after the 1992 Tamil movie “Guna,” starring Kamal Haasan, was shot here. The hit song ‘Kanmani anybody Madhavan’ from the movie was shot in the cave, and ever since then, these caves have become quite popular among movie lovers.
The caves were named after the movie only, as they were known earlier as the Devil’s Kitchen. However, there are a few other stories associated with Guna Caves, one of which is that, according to Hindu mythology, the Pandavas stayed in these caves during their exile and cooked their meals.
Why Visit Kodaikanal Guna Caves?
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Guna Caves, also famous as Devil’s Kitchen, is one of the best tourist destinations in Kodaikanal, famous for its unique rock formations, narrow passages, and natural beauty. It has all the elements of an adventurous, mysterious, and natural tourist spot you won’t find all in one place.
The dense forests surrounding the caves highlight their natural beauty and offer stunning views of the Western Ghats. You can also enjoy an adventurous trek to the caves, exploring a variety of flora and fauna along the way. If you want some thrill, you can explore the narrow and dark passageways of the Guna Caves, which is an exhilarating experience in itself. After giving nature lovers and adventure seekers excellent opportunities to explore the place, the Guna Caves have not disappointed photographers. If you are a photographer, you will get to capture the breathtaking landscape and the eerie beauty of the caves.
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Why Devil’s Kitchen?
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There is so much mystery hidden inside the Guna Caves, and the popular name associated with it, The Devil’s Kitchen, just adds another level to this mystery. It is believed that the word “kitchen” from Devil’s Kitchen comes from Hindu Mythology, according to which Pandavas stayed in these caves and used them for cooking purposes during their exile. However, there is no accurate explanation for the “Devil” part in Hindu mythology, except for the fact that many bats in the caves are associated with darkness.
The caves are surrounded by three large pillar rocks and to enter these caves, the visitors are required to descend between rocks to reach the entrance. These are the mysterious and adventurous things related to these caves along with their historical and natural significance that attract the curiosity and admiration of the tourists.
Mysteries Of Kodaikanal Guna Caves
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Whilst there are different mysterious stories related to Guna Caves, one of the most intriguing things about the Guna Caves is the presence of hidden chambers and narrow passageways that lead deep into the earth. It is believed that all these chambers and passageways are interconnected, however, these are not fully explored due to safety concerns.
Adding to the mystery of Guna Caves, there are also some disturbing stories of animals entering the caves and never returning, adding to the mystery associated with the place. The unique rock formations in the caves are such that they form several narrow openings through which the light filters and create an eerie atmosphere, making it seem like a scene from a fantasy novel.
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Top Places To See Near Kodaikanal Guna Caves
Several places near the Kodaikanal Guna Caves are worth exploring. Some of the most popular places to visit near Kodaikanal Guna Caves are mentioned below:
1. Silver Cascade Falls
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Silver Cascade Falls is one of the top tourist destinations near Guna Caves, situated on the Kodai-Madurai Road. One of the most beautiful sights for those who love to admire the beauty of nature, this place is like a heaven on earth, located at an altitude of 2318 meters. The water of this waterfall cascades down from a height of 180 feet, giving a majestic look to it. Formed from the remains of Kodai Lake, this waterfall provides an excellent opportunity for people to dip in the pool at the bottom for a rejuvenating experience.
Location: 13 km away from Kodaikanal Guna Caves
Timings: Open for visitors throughout the day
2. Bryant Park
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Bryant Park is one of the most colourful attractions of Kodaikanal near Guna Caves, spread across an area of 20.5 acres. Located on the eastern side of Kodaikanal Lake, this park was established in 1908 by H. D. Bryant who was a forest officer from Madurai. This park boasts over 325 species of trees, cactuses and shrubs, and you will feel like you are in a rainbow with all the flowers blooming in the garden. There are also over 740 varieties of roses in this park along with a 157-year old Eucalyptus tree that is one of the main attractions of Bryant Park.
Location: 6 km away from Kodaikanal Guna Caves
Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
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3. Kodaikanal Lake
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Situated right in the heart of the Kodaikanal city, Kodaikanal Lake is man-made lake built in the year 1863. This is one of the beautiful lakes to visit near Guna Caves featuring crystal blue water and the surrounding green meadows. One of the major attractions of Kodai Lake is that it is a star shaped lake which is unique in itself. You can also enjoy boating on Kodaikanal Lake. April and June are the best months to visit Kodaikanal Lake as during this time, the weather is pleasant and you can enjoy the outdoor activities here.
Location: 7 km from Kodaikanal Guna Caves
Timings: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm
Information About Kodaikanal Guna Caves
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- The Caves are about 86 km way from Kodaikanal Railway Station at Kodai Road. There is a short trek to the Guna Caves through dense forests and rugged terrain. Hence, make sure to wear sturdy footwear and carry water and snacks for the trek.
- Guna Caves remain open to visitors every day of the week from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- The best time to visit the Guna Caves is during the winter season, from October to March when the weather is pleasant and the trekking paths are relatively dry and safe.
- The caves get crowded during weekends and holidays. Hence, it is advisable to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
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If you are looking for a little bit of mystery and history along with some natural wonders then Guna Caves should be your next stop over in your trip to Kodaikanal. The mystery of the caves is still unresolved as there are several hidden chambers and passageways inside the caves that are believed to be interconnected. So, if you love to explore a historical place that has a level of mystery to it, visit Guna Caves in Kodaikanal.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kodaikanal Guna Caves
What is the total length of Kodaikanal Guna Caves?
The total length of Guna Caves is 3000 feet. These caves are nestled at an altitude of 2,200 meters near Pillar Rocks in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu.
Why are Kodaikanal Guna Caves called Devil’s Kitchen?
The caves were originally known as Devil’s Kitchen because bats live inside these caves and they signify darkness. This is a little spooky and the name adds to the intrigue and mystique of the site.
Are visitors allowed inside the Kodaikanal Guna Caves?
No, visitors are not allowed inside the Guna Caves for safety reasons. However, you can view the caves from a safe distance as the entrance is barricaded
How did Kodaikanal Guna Caves get its name
The Guna Caves got its name after the 1992 Tamil movie “Guna” was filmed there.
What is so special about Kodaikanal Guna Caves?
There are various special attractions in Guna caves and they are its narrow passages, unique rock formations, and natural beauty.
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With a passion for exploring and travelling to the roads long forgotten, experience the world through enthralling stories and adventures. Join me as I share my experiences at some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and quench that pestering curiosity with something exciting!
