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Guna Caves, Kodaikanal

Guna Caves, once known as the Devil's Kitchen, are a set of deep clefts in the rock among the pine forests near Kodaikanal. They became famous after the Tamil film Guna, starring Kamal Haasan, was shot here in 1991, and interest rose again after the Malayalam film Manjummel Boys. Today visitors see them from a fenced path and viewing points rather than going down inside.

Pine trees, Kodaikanal
Also known as
Devil's Kitchen
Ideal time needed
About 1 hour
Nearest railway station
Kodai Road
Nearest airport
Madurai

What to see

The walk to the caves passes tall pines, twisted roots and moss-covered boulders, with mist often drifting through the trees. The caves themselves are narrow, deep chasms formed as soil and rock wore away along the cliffs. From the viewing area you look down into the gaps and out across wooded valleys, which is the main reason to come.

The surrounding forest is good for bird watching and nature photography, especially in the early morning when it is quiet.

Safety and access

The inner sections are closed off because the drops are deep and hidden, and there have been fatal falls here in the past. The site was shut for a long period and reopened with fencing, guards and monitoring. Stay on the marked path, do not climb over barriers, and keep a close eye on children. Access and timings are controlled by the forest department, so check locally before planning your day.

Best time to visit

Kodaikanal is pleasant for much of the year. Mornings are clearer, and the path can be slippery after rain, so wear shoes with good grip. Weekends and holidays bring crowds on the Pillar Rocks road, so an early start helps.

How to reach

Guna Caves are on the Pillar Rocks and Pine Forest route, a short drive from the town centre. Most people cover them in a half-day sightseeing loop with Pillar Rocks, the Pine Forest and Moir Point. Kodai Road is the nearest railway station and Madurai the nearest airport. We can arrange a Kodaikanal sightseeing cab or a full hill-station package.

Also nearby

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