Guna Caves, also known as Devil’s Kitchen, is a renowned tourist attraction near Pillar Rocks in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu. Famous for its unique rock formations, narrow passages, and natural beauty, the cave offers a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Nestled at an altitude of 2,200 meters, the Guna Caves exude mystery and wonder, drawing numerous travelers.
Overview of Guna Caves
Originally called Devil’s Kitchen, the caves were renamed Guna after the 1992 Tamil blockbuster movie “Guna” was filmed there. Located on Moir Point Road, the caves are about 10 kilometers from Kodaikanal and can be reached by walking through pine forests. Although visitors cannot enter the caves for safety reasons, they can view them from a secure distance. The area is covered with Shola trees and grass, with gnarled, twisted roots creating an enigmatic atmosphere, perfect for photography.
Discovered in 1821 by an American named Mr. B. S. Ward, the caves are steeped in history and myth. According to Hindu mythology, the Pandavas stayed and cooked their meals here. The caves gained widespread fame after the hit song ‘Kanmani Anbodu Kadhalan’ from the movie “Guna” was shot at the location, making it a celebrated spot for movie lovers.
Currently, the deep, narrow caves are barricaded with iron bars due to their dangerous nature, which has led to numerous accidents and fatalities. Notably, in 2016, a group of young explorers found a hidden chamber with ancient pictographs, adding to the site’s intrigue. Unfortunately, the caves have a dark history, with at least 16 people having disappeared since the early 2000s. Tragic incidents, such as the deaths of several students in 2017, have further emphasized the need for caution.
Guna Caves Total Length
Devil’s Kitchen gained fame after the song from Kamal Haasan’s film “Guna” was shot there, leading to its renaming as Guna Caves. Due to several accidents, the caves have been fenced off, and entry is prohibited. It is said that the caves have a 3,000-foot drop, with light penetrating only up to 500 feet. The area is covered with huge trees and their sprawling roots, making it a fascinating place to visit. However, be cautious as some spots are very slippery, and groups of monkeys may occasionally appear. Despite these challenges, it’s a great spot to enjoy and connect with nature.
Why are Guna Caves Called Devil’s Kitchen?
The name Devil’s Kitchen adds to the cave’s mysterious allure. While home to many bats and associated with darkness, there is no clear explanation for the “Devil” part in Hindu mythology. It is believed that the name “kitchen” comes from the Pandavas’ use of the caves during their exile.
Surrounded by three large pillar rocks, the Guna Caves require visitors to descend between rocks to reach the entrance, highlighting the adventurous nature of the site. Despite its restricted access to safety, the caves continue to draw curiosity and admiration for their historical and natural significance.
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How to Reach
- Kodaikanal Bus Stand: Approximately 8.5 km away.
- Madurai International Airport: About 141 km away.
- Palani Railway Station: Around 74 km away.
Accommodation
- Hotel Tamilnadu – Kodaikanal: Fern Hill Road
Current Status
As of 2024, the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department has reopened the road to the caves, allowing visitors to see the site from a distance. However, entry into the caves remains restricted for safety reasons. Additionally, access to the area is limited to 100 visitors per day to protect the environment, with plans to further restrict visits for wildlife conservation.
Guna Caves remains a place of wonder, history, and natural beauty, ideal for those seeking a mix of mystery and adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Ans: No, for safety reasons, visitors are not allowed to enter the caves. They can view the caves from a safe distance as the entrance is barricaded.
Ans: The caves were originally known as Devil’s Kitchen due to their mysterious and dark interiors, which some found spooky. The name adds to the intrigue and mystique of the site.
Ans: The caves were renamed Guna after the 1992 Tamil movie “Guna” was filmed there, significantly boosting their popularity.
Ans: 3000 feet is the total length of Guna Caves.
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