Guna Caves: The Real Life Inspiration Behind Manjummel Boys

Guna Caves

This article is quite interesting because in this blog post we will read about Guna caves. Which are full of adventure and mysterious places and people visit there for trekking and adventures. So, let us know what is so special about this place. I hope you will enjoy this blog. 

Read About Guna Caves

Guna caves at the start named The devil’s kitchen. This cave is located in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu India. This cave inspires many visitors every year. Devil’s kitchen for the name as Guna caves after the 1991 film Gunaa starring Kamal hassan. Since the release of the film, the location has inspired a large number of visitors and tourists. Subsequently, other movies were also shot there. Including the climax of the Malayalam film Shikkar (2010) and another Malayalam film Manjummel boys. Which was based on a real accident  in the cave.

The cave is notorious for its dangerous history as many people who entered to explore it have disappeared without a trace. As of 2016, police have recorded 16 fasting away in connection with the cave without bodies being recovered. To date only one person has ever run away from the depths of the guna caves. Which serves as the center description for the 2024 Malayalam film, Manjummel boys.

History Of Guna Caves

  • The caves were (reportedly) first recorded in 1821 by British officers B.S. ward. Who named it the devil’s kitchen, but continued to exist in insignificance ( for the British) until the late 1980s. In 1991. The caves are surrounding areas with the prime location in the Kamal hassan guna leading to and attracting more tourists.
  • Subsequently then, quite a few people have obscurely faded away after entering the caves. With authorities being not able to recover their bodies. Including that of the nephew of a central minister in 1996. Some of the cases were supposedly suicide. While other were of tourists or local who went in to explore the cave and fell into dangerous holes inside the caves.
  • From the early 2000s as late as 2016. The cave was shut to the public because of an increasing number of vanishing. However, people disregarded the warnings and continued to travel over the place. As of police records in 2016, the holes in the cave caused the death of at least 16 people who attempted to explore the cave.
  • In 2006, a group of friends from mezhumkunnath, Oorakam, Kerala went to explore the caves. When one among them named Subhash fell into the hole. Later he was rescued through efforts, mainly by his friends SIJU DAVID (Kuttan) and locals with the support of the police. The incident is depicted in the 2024 Malayalam film Manjummel Boys. Which had an ever Larger impact as the guna caves gained more popularity.
  • Even though most of the sections were shot in a film set because of the risk component of shooting at the caves. Some of the sections were shot in and around the caves and Kodaikanal.
  • According to the year 2024, the road to the cave was reopened to the public. But the entrance to the cave was still closed for the safety of the tourists.

Mystery of Guna Caves

  • Concealed Chambers :- One of the most fascinating features of the guna caves is the existence of concealed chambers and small passageways that lead deep into the earth. These chambers are believed to be interrelated and have not been fully traveled over due to safety concerns. 
  • disappearing Animals :- There are tales of animals entering the caves and never returning. Adding to the mystery and fear associated with the place
  • Geological Phenomena :- The cave’s unique rock formation and the way light filters through the narrow crevices create an eerie atmosphere. Making it seem like a scene from a fantasy novel. 
  • Haunting Atmosphere :- The dense fog that often involves the area and the strange sound emanating. From the depth of the caves contribute to the spooky and mysterious aura of the guna caves.

Guna caves location 

  • Address :- The Guna caves Kodaikanal situated almost 8 kilometers from the main town of Kodaikanal in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, India. 
  • Proximity to Landmark :- The caves situated near the famous pillar rocks, another popular tourist attraction in kodaikanal. This makes it appropriate for visitors to travel over both sites in one trip. 
  • Accessibility :- the path to the guna caves involved a short track through dense forest and rugged terrain. It is advisable to wear sturdy footwear and carry water and snacks for the journey. 
  • Coordinates :- the geographical coordinates of the guna caves approximately 10.2270°N latitude and 77.4888°E longitude. 

Kodaikanal Timings of Guna Cave

  • Visiting hours :- The Guna caves are open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM everyday. 
  • Best time to visit :- This is the best time to travel in the Guna-Caves because of the dry season. When the weather is enjoyable and the trekking paths are relatively dry and safe in October to March. 
  • Peak hours :- The caves inclined  to get over fill during weekends and holidays. To keep away from the rush, it is desirable to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. 

Guna Caves Entry Fees

  • Entry fees :- As of the latest information, the entry fees to guna caves is nominal. It is desirable to check for any updates or changes in the entry fee at the local tourism. Office or online before planning your visit. 
  • Additional charges :- There may be extra charges for parking vehicles near the entrance of the trekking path leading to the caves. 
  • Guided tours :- For those who interested in learning more about the history and geology of the cave. Guided tours available at an extra cost. These tours are in the control of local guides who well informed in the mythology and facts about the caves. 

Kodaikanal Guna caves

  • Natural beauty :- The guna caves surrounded by dense forest, offering stunning views of the western ghats. The trek to the cave is an adventure in itself. With the opportunity to spot various flora and fauna along the way. 
  • Photographers paradise :- The caves and their surroundings provide ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture the breathtaking landscape and the eerie beauty of the caves.
  • Adventure seekers :- For thrill seekers traveling over the small and dark passageways of the guna caves can be an intoxicating memorable moment. However, carefulness advised as some areas can be dangerous and unstable. 

Why Guna Caves Called Devil’s Kitchens?

  • Historical reference :- The name devil’s kitchen believed to have its origin from the regional ethnic organization. Who considered the caves to be a place of wicked soul due to the mysterious disappearance and eerie atmosphere. 
  • Geological formation :- The deep narrow crevices and the dark maze-like interior of the caves resemble the kitchen’s chimney. Leading to the moniker devil’s kitchen. 
  • Movie influence :- The haunting scenes from the movie Guna added to the perception of the caves as the sinister and forbidding place, further popularizing the name devil’s kitchen. 
  • Mythical stories :- Local folklore speaks of supernatural occurrences and haunted experiences within the caves reinforcing the idea of the cave being a kitchen for malevolent forces. 

How is it inside guna caves kodaikanal?

     The interior experience 

  • Dark and mysterious atmosphere: the inside of guna caves is dark and mysterious with very little natural light penetrating the deep crevices and narrow passageway. This creates a sinister and apprehension atmosphere, making it an exciting moment for visitors.
  • Small cracks and passageway: The cave are featured by their small cracks and maze-like passageways steer through these tight spaces can be demanding and need carefulness

The Rock Emergence Creates a Compound Network of Paths that Lead Deep into the Earth.

  • Unique rock Formations: The inside of the caves characterized different and complex rock evolution , shaped by millions of years of natural weathering. The rocks are massive and imposing, adding to the senses of awe and wonder as you explore the caves.
  • Hidden Chambers: There are numerous secret chambers within the guna caves, which add to the sense of adventure and mystery. These chambers are focused to be interrelated but because of the safety concerns, many areas remain unvisitable.
  • Fog and Moisture: The caves frequently enveloped in moist fog, especially during the monsoon season. The moist and humid conditions inside the caves donate to the sinister atmosphere. The sound of dripping water and the echoing footsteps add to the spooky experience.

Safety and accessibility

  • Trekking Path: To stretch out the guna caves visitors need to trek through dense forests and rough ground. The trek is relatively narrow but can be challenging because of the uneven paths and perpendicular inclines. Strapping footwear and sufficient preparation recommended.
  • Safety Concerns: The caves can be dangerous to explore, especially the deeper sections. The narrow crevices and unstable rock formations pose a like, and it is advisable to stick to the guided paths and follow safety instructions.
  • Guided Tours: for those attentive to know more about the history and geology of the caves, guided tours are obtainable. Local guides offer valuable perception and make sure that visitors have a safe and  informative experience.

Thrill and Adventure 

  • Adventure Seekers: For thrill – petitioner travel over the guna caves can be an exciting experience. The senses of mystery and the challenge of navigating through the dark and narrow passageway make it a memorable adventure.
  •  Photographic Opportunities: The caves and their surroundings provide remarkable photographic opportunities. The interplay of light and shadow, the unique rock formations, and the dense forests backdrop create a picturesque  setting for photography enthusiasts.

Guna Caves 12 deaths Mystery

The guna cave in Kodaikanal has shrouded in mystery and intrigue, with tales of unexplained events due to their mystique. One such puzzling characteristic is the legend of the 12 deaths. As per local mythology, there have been occurrences where guna caves 12 deaths people entered the caves but only 11 returned. The missing person said to have vanished without a trace. Leaving behind a chilling mystery that has perplexed visitors and locals alike. 

While these stories may be send away as trifling unfounded belief, they have contributed to the caves reputation as a piece of uncanny happenings the dark small passages and maze-like structure of the caves add to the sense of foreboding making them a popular destination for thrill seekers and adventures looking to uncover the truth behind the legends. 

regardless Efforts to clarify the caves and assure visitors of their safety, the attraction of the unknown continues to draw people to the guna caves, where the whispers of the past reverberate through the rocky corridors, keeping the mystery alive. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Guna caves in Kodaikanal provide a distinctive mix of natural beauty, mystery and adventure. Whether you are a nature devotee, a thrill candidate, or simply looking to travel over a lesser known destination, the guna caves are value adding to your travel journal. The rich history, strange interest, and breathtaking surroundings make it an unforgettable experience for all who visit. So take your bags, tighten up your hiking boots, and get ready to lay bare the hiddens of the guna cave Kodaikanal.   

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