Guna Caves History
The Guna Caves (Guna Cave) boast a rich history, dating back to their discovery in 1821 by British officer B.S. Ward. Initially named Devil’s Kitchen, the caves remained relatively unknown until the late 1980s. However, their true fame arrived with the release of the popular Tamil film “Guna” in 1991 starring Kamal Haasan. The movie, featuring scenes shot within the caves, catapulted them into the spotlight, forever linking their name to the film’s title.
Several people have gotten lost inside the Guna Caves and never been found, including a government official’s nephew in 1996. Some were thought to have taken their own lives, while others were tourists or locals who simply went exploring and fell into dangerous holes. The caves were closed to the public from the early 2000s to 2016 because so many people were disappearing. Unfortunately, some people chose to ignore the warnings and still went inside.
According to police records from 2016, at least 16 people have died after falling into holes inside the cave. Only one person is known to have survived falling into a hole in the Guna Caves, back in 2006. The Malayalam survival thriller movie “Manjummel Boys,” released in February 2024, is based on this incident.
Consequently, the deep, narrow caves were permanently closed to the public. Now, visitors can only observe the cave’s entrance from a distance behind iron bars. However, tourists can enjoy the remaining vegetation and gnarled Shola trees in the surrounding area.
Interesting Facts About Guna Caves
- Geological Wonder: Guna Cave is a natural marvel formed by a complex interplay of geological processes over thousands of years. It features narrow passages, steep drops, and intriguing rock formations, making it a top attraction for geology enthusiasts and thrill-seekers.
- Historical and Cultural Significance: The cave holds historical and cultural significance in the region. It is believed to have been used as a hiding place by the local tribes during ancient times. According to local lore, it was also used by the Pandavas during their exile period in the Mahabharata epic.
- Association with Movies: Guna Cave gained popularity beyond its geological and historical significance due to its appearance in Indian cinema. It was featured prominently in the Tamil film “Guna,” by Kamal Haasan. Another Malayalam film titled “Manjummel Boys,” released in 2024, featured the true accident that occurred in this cave. The success of both films brought further attention to the cave, making it a recognizable landmark.
- Unsolved Mysteries: The Guna Caves in Kodaikanal are steeped in mystery, with stories of unexplained disappearances adding to their popularity. Local folklore tells of the “12 Deaths,” where 12 entered but only 11 returned. Police records note 16 disappearances linked to the caves. Now trekking into the caves is banned and visitors can view them from outside. Trekking routes from the Pine Forests are also remain closed for security reasons.
