10 Things To Do Near Edakkal Caves: Wayanad’s Hidden Gems
Planning a Kerala Tour? Don’t miss exploring the best things to do near Edakkal Caves. Hidden in the beautiful hills of Wayanad, Kerala, these natural caves sit atop Ambukutty Mala, a big hill that gives you great views of the green forests all around. But there is more to explore than just visiting the caves.
One of the best things about Edakkal Caves is its proximity to various attractions. You can see beautiful waterfalls, spot wild animals, enjoy stunning views, and learn about local culture. Whether you love history, nature, or just want to have a great time, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s start our adventure!
10 Top Tourist Places To Visit Near Edakkal Caves
1. Explore The Ambalavayal Heritage Museum
Imagine stepping into a time machine that takes you back thousands of years! That’s what visiting the Ambalavayal Heritage Museum feels like. It is a special place in Wayanad, where you can see amazing old things from long ago.
Exploring the Ambalavayal Museum is one of the best things to do near Edakkal Caves, as you will find all sorts of artefacts. There are stone carvings that look like ancient art, pottery from the Megalithic Age, and numerous stone weapons; all models from the 14th to 16th centuries!
Whether you’re a history lover or just curious about old stuff, this museum has something for everyone. This museum’s rich historical context is among the best things about Edakkal Caves and its surroundings.
Location: Ambalavayal, Kerala 673593, India.
2. Visit Ancient Jain Temple Wayanad
Exploring the Ancient Jain Temple, a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India is undoubtedly one of the best things to do near Edakkal Caves. As you walk in, you’ll see big stone pillars holding up the roof.
The temple has three parts: The Front area, the Middle room, and the Inner Sanctum. The highlight of the temple is the carving of Mahavir Jain( in the Inner Sanctum), an important Jain teacher. You can also spot carvings of lotus flowers, snakes, and even some Hindu gods in the temple.
Interesting Facts
- This old temple has no statues inside except beautiful carvings.
- Long ago, the temple used to be an office and even a storage for weapons!
Location: Bangalore-Calicut Highway, Sultan Bathery, Kerala 673592, India.
3. Admire Neelimala’s Viewpoint
Enjoying the scenic views from Neelimala’s Viewpoint is one of the top things to do near Edakkal Caves. You can see green hills, tea farms, and the tall Western Ghat mountains from the distance.
It’s a great spot to breathe in fresh mountain air and enjoy the beautiful nature all around. The view is extra pretty during sunrise and sunset when the light makes everything look magical.
Location: Vaduvanchal, Kerala 673581.
4. Enjoy The Scenery At Sunrise Valley Viewpoint
While the breathtaking landscapes visible from other viewpoints are among the best things about Edakkal Caves area, Sunrise Valley Viewpoint is one of the top tourist spots near Edakkal Caves. It is famous for a big rock that sticks out over the valley, like a natural balcony. The best time to visit is early morning, as the sunrise lights up the dark valley below.
From this spot, you can enjoy the best views of thick forests and the Chaliyar River, which is one of the best things to do near Edakkal Caves. The view is so beautiful, it might just take your breath away!
Location: Sunrise Valley Rd, Kerala 673581, India.
5. Admire Kanthanpara Waterfalls
Imagine a beautiful waterfall hidden among tea gardens and forests in Wayanad, Kerala. That is Kanthanpara Waterfalls — nature’s own water slide. It is a two-tiered waterfall. The top part is small and friendly. In the summer months (March to June), it creates a nice pool that you can enjoy. It is perfect for a family day out!
The bottom part is bigger and louder, with water rushing down the rocks. It looks amazing, but it’s not safe for swimming but to just enjoy the view — One of the best things to do at Edakkal Caves.
Location: Meppadi, Kerala 673577, India.
Suggested Read: 30 Places To Visit In Wayanad To Witness Nature’s Beauty
6. Relax At Soochipara Falls
Soochipara is a pretty waterfall hidden in the mountains and looks like a big water slide. The waterfall is very tall; as high as a 20-floor building. It falls in three big steps.
From the walking paths, you can only see the bottom of the waterfall.
After the rainy season, when the water isn’t too strong, people can swim in the pools at the bottom. It is one of the most fun activities to do near Edakkal Caves. It is a great place for people who love nature and fun outdoor activities.
Interesting Facts
- The waterfall got its name from a pointy rock nearby that looks like a big needle. In the local language, “Soochi” means needle, so they named the waterfall Soochipara, which means “needle rock”.
Location: Wayanad, Kerala 673577, India.
7. Explore Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the top places to go near Edakkal Caves. It is a special place for animals and plants located near a town called Sulthan Bathery in Kerala. This sanctuary is part of a bigger protected area that connects with other animal parks in nearby states.
Visitors love Muthanga because they can see lots of different animals and plants. Sometimes, they might even spot animals that are usually hard to see in the wild —- One of the best things to do near Edakkal Caves.
Interesting Facts
- Muthanga is one part of a larger area called Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
- The Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is home to different types of vultures, like the white-rumped vulture and the red-headed vulture.
Location: National Highway 212, Muthanga, Kerala 673592, India.
8. Enjoy At Chethalayam Waterfalls
Chethalyam Waterfall is a hidden gem in Wayanad, Kerala. This small, peaceful waterfall is located away from busy towns, near Kalpetta and Sulthan Bathery.
It is one of the best seasonal attractions near Edakkal Caves, flowing for most of the year but drying up in summer (March to June).
Nature lovers and hikers especially enjoy visiting from September to February when the waterfall is at its best. There are plenty of activities to do near Edakkal Caves, such as hiking to the waterfall through lush forests while witnessing plenty of birds and butterflies.
Location: Chethalayam, Kidanganad, Kerala 673592, India.
9. Visit 900 Kandi
One of the unique things to do near Edakkal Caves is to visit 900 Kandi and walk on this glass bridge. 900 Kandi is a special place that covers 900 acres of land. Its main attraction is a glass bridge that sticks out from the mountain. When you stand on this bridge, you can see amazing views of the Western Ghat mountains all around you. It is a great spot for people who like to go hiking or drive on rough roads.
Location: Thollayiram Rd, Vellarimala, Kerala 673577, India.
Suggested Read: Explore the Top 14 Tea Plantations in Kerala
10. Trek To Chembra Peak
While hiking is one of the most popular activities in Wayanad, Chembra Peak is a favourite spot for hikers. The trail takes you through lush green forests and grassy areas as you climb higher. You can see this tall mountain from almost anywhere in Wayanad.
Chembra Peak is part of a big mountain range called the Western Ghats and is close to other hills in nearby areas. For those looking for unique things to do near Edakkal Caves, a trip to Chembra Peak is a must.
Location: Chembra, Kerala 673586.
What are the nearby waterfalls to visit near Edakkal Caves?
Soochipara Falls and Kanthanpara Waterfalls are the most popular waterfalls to visit near Edakkal Caves.
What are the main attractions near Edakkal Caves?
Soochipara Falls, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sunrise Viewpoint are some main attractions near Edakkal Caves.
Are there any trekking opportunities near Edakkal Caves?
Trekking is one of the famous things to do near Edakkal Caves. Banasura Hill Trek, Chembra Peak Trek, and Pakshipathalam Trek are popular trekking routes near Edakkal Caves.
Are there any accommodation options near Edakkal Caves?
Saugandhika West Gate, B’camp Resorts & Homestays, and Luxe Hotel – Rooms & Villas Wayanad are some of the best hotels near Edakkal Caves.
What wildlife can be spotted near Edakkal Caves?
Barking deer, tiger, common otter, spotted deer, gaur, leopard, bonnet macaque, sambhar, panther, Nilgiri langur, jungle cat, sloth bear, and civet cat are some of the animals you may spot near Edakkal Caves.