Hidden Caves in Kannur
Unveiling Hidden Caves in Kannur
Beyond the sun-kissed beaches, serene backwaters, and scenic hills, Kannur hides another treasure — its mysterious caves. Carved by nature and man, some of these caves are millions of years old, while others were meticulously hand-crafted. For adventurers, history enthusiasts, and explorers, Kannur’s caves offer a blend of mystery, natural beauty, and cultural significance.
In this blog, we’ll explore the most fascinating caves in Kannur: Kunjiparamba, Ayyanmada, Thamburan, and Odakkolly.
Kunjiparamba Caves (Payyavoor)
Nestled within lush rubber plantations in Payyavoor, these caves were a local secret for years.
Famous as a shooting location for the Malayalam movie Lokah — cinema fans often visit to relive the scenes from the film.
Inside: rugged rocky walls, cool interiors, and untouched natural charm ideal for photography and exploration.
Perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and movie buffs.
How to Reach
By Road: Payyavoor is ~50 km from Kannur town. Local jeeps and autos are available.
By Rail: Kannur Railway Station (~50 km).
By Air: Kannur International Airport (~35 km).
Facilities & Access
Located on private land (owned by P. Ummer)
visitors must seek permission.
No official facilities — carry your own food, water, and essentials.
Tips
Wear sturdy shoes.
Bring a flashlight for dark interiors.
Respect the landowner and local community.
Ideal for Lokah fans and adventure enthusiasts.
Ayyanmada Cave (New Naduvil)
Situated in New Naduvil along Kaithalam Road.
Features natural chambers with narrow passages.
A serene spot close to the scenic Palakkayam Thattu hill station.
Open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
How to Reach
By Road: Drive via Naduvil through Kaithalam Road.
By Rail: Kannur Railway Station (~60 km).
By Air: Kannur International Airport (~55 km).
Best Time to Visit
Located on private land (owned by P. Ummer)
visitors must seek permission.
No official facilities — carry your own food, water, and essentials.
Tips
Carry a strong flashlight.
Expect narrow paths requiring careful crawling.
Watch for insects or reptiles.
Consider going with a local guide.
Thamburan Cave (Vellora)
A natural cave near Koovary/Vellora in Kannur.
Unique feature: a stream flows through the cave, creating a serene ambiance.
Built manually by Thomas Chetan (C.T. Thomas) over two years with arches and passages showcasing dedication and artistry.
Original length: ~75 meters; planned extension up to 100 meters.
How to Reach
By Road: Accessible via Koovary/Vellora.
By Rail: Kannur Railway Station (~45–50 km).
By Air: Kannur International Airport (~40 km).
Timings:
Daily from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
No entry fee reported.
Tips
Parking available nearby.
Carry a flashlight.
Wear shoes with grip.
Some areas may still be under expansion.
Odakkolly Natural Cave (Cherupuzha)
Located in Odakkolly, Cherupuzha, Kannur.
Offers simple exploration routes as well as adventurous paths with narrow passages.
Perfect for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers.
Surrounded by lush greenery, providing scenic views and a tranquil environment.
Home to unique rock formations and small wildlife, making it a nature and photography haven.
How to Reach
Address: Chavaragiri–Odakkolly Road, Cherupuzha, Kannur, Kerala – 670511.
Plus code: 8C49+CMM.
By Road: Best reached by private vehicles; roads may be patchy.
By Rail: Payyannur Railway Station (~50 km).
By Air: Kannur International Airport (~65 km).
Timings
Open daily from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Entry Fee:
Normal exploration: ~₹100/day.
Adventure routes with guides: ~₹300.
Tips
Go with a guide for adventure routes.
Carry a torch/flashlight.
Wear rugged clothes and shoes with good grip.
Avoid visiting during monsoon; interiors can be slippery.
Conclusion
The hidden caves in Kannur are more than just geological marvels — they are stories carved in stone. From the cinematic Kunjiparamba Caves (Lokah shooting spot) to the mysterious Ayyanmada, the artistic Thamburan, and the adventurous Odakkolly, each cave offers a unique experience.
For travelers seeking to go beyond conventional sightseeing, Kannur’s caves promise adventure, history, and a touch of mystery. With Nandhanam Holidays, you can explore these hidden gems safely, responsibly, and memorably.