Guna Caves Devil's Kitchen - a room that has a table and a vase on it
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Guna Caves Devil's Kitchen

4.2
·18k reviews·Kodaikanal, India

Explore the mysterious Guna Caves, also known as Devil's Kitchen, a natural wonder famed for its dramatic rock formations and ancient tree roots.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

October to March

Cool weather, misty magic

CrowdMedium
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Guna Caves Devil's Kitchen - a room that has a table and a vase on it

Guna Caves Devil's Kitchen

Best Time

October to March

Cool weather, misty magic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the mysterious Guna Caves, also known as Devil's Kitchen, a natural wonder famed for its dramatic rock formations and ancient tree roots.

4.2
(18k reviews)

"Mysterious and thrilling, Guna Caves offers a spooky yet fascinating experience surrounded by dense pine forests."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wear Sturdy Shoes

Paths can be slippery and muddy. Good grip is essential for safe exploration.

🐒 Guard Your Snacks

Monkeys are common and can be bold. Keep food and bags secure to avoid unwanted attention.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Devil's Kitchen Chasm

The Devil's Kitchen Chasm

Between Pillar Rocks

A deep, narrow chasm with a mysterious and thrilling atmosphere, best viewed from the safety of the barricades.

Twisting Tree Roots

Twisting Tree Roots

Around the cave entrances

Nature's artwork: ancient tree roots that twist and spread in fascinating, almost surreal patterns.

Pillar Rocks Viewpoint

Pillar Rocks Viewpoint

Near Guna Caves

Three gigantic granite pillars rising dramatically, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Guna Caves Safely

While Guna Caves offer a thrilling experience, access to the deeper parts is restricted for safety. Visitors can admire the dramatic rock formations and unique tree roots from designated viewing areas. Be mindful of slippery paths, especially after rain, and keep belongings secure from monkeys. Reddit

Best Time for Mystical Views

Visit between October and March for pleasant weather and a magical, misty atmosphere that enhances the caves' eerie charm. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer unique lighting for photos, but be aware of potential crowds. Instagram

Best Times

When
October to March
Why
Cool weather, misty magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, soft light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons (3-4 PM)
Why
Sunlight on formations
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Real manjummel boys in kodaikkanal guna cave#gunacave #manjummelboys
@salmankl84
39.9K likes • 822.3K views

🚶‍♀️ Wear Sturdy Shoes

Paths can be slippery and muddy. Good grip is essential for safe exploration. Reddit

🐒 Guard Your Snacks

Monkeys are common and can be bold. Keep food and bags secure to avoid unwanted attention. Reddit

Goosebumps when this song started playing🎧🔥 tag your gang. #for #cupcut #viral #fyp #tamilsong #90s #ilayaraja #kanmanianbodukadhalan #bgm #manjumelboys #fyp #fypシ゚viral #fyp #gunacave #guna #kamal
@esai_com_editz
28.3K likes • 541.4K views
Guna Caves, initially named as Devil’s Kitchen, is a cave located in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, India #devilskitchen #gunacaves_kodaikanal_forest #gunacaves #gunacave❤️⭐ #gunacaves_kodaikanal_forest🌳🍀☘️ #gunacaves_kodaikanal_fog #kodaikkanal🌨️🌨️🌨️🌨️ #kodaikkanal #cave #pemari #kanmani #gunamovie #gunacavekodaikanal⛰️ #gunacaves_kodaikanal_forest🌳🍀☘️⛰️ #gunacaves_kodaikanal_forest❄️
arts_of_jd
144 likes • 1.7K views

📸 Capture the Roots

The unique, twisted tree roots are a photographer's dream. Look for them near the cave entrances. Reddit

💰 Cash for Local Shops

Nearby shops and restrooms often accept only cash. ATMs might be scarce. Reddit

20.4M views😍1.5M LIKES #gunacave #gunacaves_kodaikanal_forest🌳🍀☘️😍 Guna Caves, also known as Devil's Kitchen, is a captivating natural formation located in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, India. These caves gained prominence after being featured in the 1991 Tamil film "Gunaa," starring Kamal Haasan, which led to their popularization and the adoption of the name "Guna Caves."
diwa_keerthi
1.5M likes • 20.5M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wear Sturdy Shoes

Paths can be slippery and muddy. Good grip is essential for safe exploration. Reddit

🐒 Guard Your Snacks

Monkeys are common and can be bold. Keep food and bags secure to avoid unwanted attention. Reddit

📸 Capture the Roots

The unique, twisted tree roots are a photographer's dream. Look for them near the cave entrances. Reddit

💰 Cash for Local Shops

Nearby shops and restrooms often accept only cash. ATMs might be scarce. Reddit

📏 Admire from Afar

For safety, visitors are advised to view the deep caves from the barricaded areas. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(18k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Guna Caves is a captivating natural site known for its mysterious atmosphere and unique rock formations, especially the striking tree roots. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained viewing areas and the convenience of nearby shops. However, the inaccessible nature of the deeper caves and the potential for slippery paths and crowds are noted drawbacks.

"Guna Caves is a fascinating spot with beautiful naturally formed roots, giving it a mysterious and unique charm. The area is well-maintained, and parking is available, which makes visiting convenient.

There are lots of great spots to take pictures, making it a treat for photography enthusiasts. Plus, you’ll find shops nearby for snacks and souvenirs. Overall, it’s a wonderful place to explore and experience nature up close."

Pooshan d

"Mysterious and thrilling, Guna Caves in Kodaikanal offers a spooky yet fascinating experience. Surrounded by dense pine forests, the caves are deep, narrow, and mostly inaccessible, adding to their eerie charm. Great for adventure seekers and photo lovers, but not ideal for the faint-hearted. Safety is a concern—view from a distance is advised.
Tip: Visit early, and wear good shoes
The caves are located 10 km from Kodaikanal town, along Pillar Rocks Road / Moir Point road.Altitude is about 2,200 m (~2,230 m) above sea level.
Kodaikanal Tourism.
Address: Pillar Rocks Rd, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, 624103.
The caves are open to visitors daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (or 4:30 pm according to some sources).
Visitors can view the caves from a safe distance (they’re barricaded / grilled) but cannot go deep inside.
One way route."

Padmaja Pol

"Most welcoming spot in Kodaikanal. Must visit with friends for more vibe and enjoyment. Need to be carefull while walking there are more slippery pathway. Most of them fall down due to this slippery mud way. Be carefull and safe. There is not entry ticket and there is no signal. Cash only accepted in near by shops and restroom facilities available with 24/7 water. Monkey problems are there be carefull with snacks and bags. Limited parking facility available. Best tim to visit 3-4 then sun rays will be fallen under."

Varadharaju C

What People Like

Mysterious atmosphere
Unique tree roots
Natural rock formations

What People Dislike

Limited access
Slippery paths
Crowded at times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Guna Caves are located about 8 km from Kodaikanal town. You can hire a taxi or take a scooter. The route winds through misty paths and dense shola forests, adding to the adventure. Instagram

Yes, limited parking is available near the caves. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot. Reddit

Many visitors opt for a circuit tour that covers popular spots like Guna Caves, Pillar Rocks, and Pine Forest. Renting a scooter or hiring a taxi for a day is a common approach. Reddit

While direct public buses might be limited, you can reach Kodaikanal town by bus and then arrange local transport like taxis or auto-rickshaws to the caves. Reddit

Guna Caves are situated at an altitude of approximately 2,200 meters (about 7,200 feet) above sea level. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entry ticket required to visit Guna Caves. The attraction is freely accessible to visitors. Reddit

Guna Caves are typically open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm or 4:30 pm. It's always a good idea to check locally for any last-minute changes. Reddit

For safety reasons, visitors cannot go deep inside the caves. Access is restricted, and you can view the formations from a safe, barricaded distance. Reddit

While the caves themselves are largely inaccessible, the viewing areas are generally safe if you exercise caution. Be mindful of slippery paths and stay behind the safety barriers. Reddit

No advance booking is necessary as there is no entry fee. You can visit anytime during the operational hours. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The unique, twisted tree roots are a major photographic draw. The dramatic rock formations and the misty landscape also offer excellent photo opportunities. Reddit

Crowds can make it challenging to find space for photos, especially during peak times. Visiting early in the morning or late afternoon can help. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the dramatic rock formations and expansive views. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions if it's misty. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in areas where it might disturb wildlife or other tourists. TikTok

The combination of the eerie cave entrances, the surreal tree roots, and the often misty, atmospheric surroundings creates visually striking images. Instagram

🎫 🌲 Nature & Environment

You'll find deep, narrow chasms, dramatic rock formations, and the iconic, twisted roots of ancient trees that have grown around the cave entrances. Reddit

The area is known for its shola forests, which are characterized by dense evergreen trees and grasslands. The unique tree roots are a prominent feature. Instagram

The climate is generally cool, especially between October and March. Misty conditions are common, adding to the mystical ambiance. Instagram

Yes, Guna Caves are considered a natural heritage site, highlighting their geological and ecological significance. Instagram

The caves are nestled amidst dense pine forests and rolling hills, offering scenic views and a tranquil natural setting. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Guna Caves can be an exciting outing for families, offering a chance to explore unique natural formations. The accessible viewing areas allow children to witness the dramatic rock structures and the fascinating tree roots from a safe distance. Reddit It's advisable to keep a close watch on children, especially on the pathways, as they can be slippery. Reddit Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be mindful of monkeys that might approach. The nearby shops offer souvenirs, which can be a fun treat for kids. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Guna Caves is a treasure trove of unique visuals. The twisted tree roots are a standout subject, offering surreal and artistic compositions. Reddit The dramatic rock formations and the often misty, atmospheric conditions create a moody and captivating scene. Instagram Visiting during the 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon – can provide stunning light for capturing the landscape. InstagramReddit Be prepared for crowds, which might require patience to get unobstructed shots. A wide-angle lens is recommended to capture the scale of the formations. TikTok

🚶‍♂️ Adventure Seekers

While deep cave exploration is restricted, the thrill of Guna Caves lies in its mysterious atmosphere and dramatic natural features. The sheer scale of the rock formations and the 'deep, narrow gaps' create an adventurous feel, even when viewed from the safety of the barricades. Reddit The journey to the caves through dense forests also adds to the sense of adventure. Instagram The slippery paths and the presence of wildlife contribute to an exciting, albeit cautious, experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Devil's Kitchen

Originally known as Devil's Kitchen, Guna Caves earned their current name after being featured in the 1991 Tamil film 'Gunaa' starring Kamal Haasan. This cinematic exposure significantly boosted the site's popularity, transforming it from a lesser-known spot to a major tourist attraction. Instagram+1 The name 'Devil's Kitchen' itself evokes a sense of mystery and danger, possibly due to the caves' dark, maze-like interiors and the unsettling atmosphere that surrounds them. Instagram

Legend also ties the caves to Hindu mythology, with some suggesting they were the 'cooking grounds' of the Pandavas, further adding to their mystique. Instagram This blend of cinematic fame, local folklore, and natural intrigue makes Guna Caves a captivating destination for visitors seeking a unique experience. The caves are a natural heritage site, emphasizing their geological importance. Instagram

While the deeper sections of the caves are largely inaccessible and pose safety risks, the accessible areas offer a glimpse into their dramatic geological formations. The most striking features are the deep, narrow chasms and the incredibly unique, twisted tree roots that have grown around the cave entrances, creating an almost otherworldly landscape. InstagramReddit

Experiencing Guna Caves: Tips from Travelers

Visitors often describe Guna Caves as a 'mysterious and thrilling' place, offering a 'spooky yet fascinating experience.' Reddit The natural beauty, particularly the 'beautiful naturally formed roots,' is frequently highlighted as a major draw. Reddit Many recommend visiting early in the day to avoid crowds and to potentially catch the best light for photography. InstagramReddit

Practical advice from travelers emphasizes the need for sturdy footwear due to potentially slippery paths, especially after rain. Reddit Keeping a close eye on belongings is also crucial, as monkeys are known to be present and can be quite opportunistic with snacks and bags. Reddit While there's no entry fee, nearby shops and restroom facilities operate on a cash-only basis, so carrying sufficient cash is advised. Reddit

It's important to note that while the caves are a natural wonder, safety is paramount. Visitors are advised to admire the caves from the designated viewing areas, which are typically barricaded, rather than attempting to venture into the deeper, inaccessible parts. Reddit The overall vibe is often described as 'most welcoming' and a great spot for a 'vibe and enjoyment' with friends. Reddit