Ariyannur Ancient Caves
The Ariyannur Ancient Caves, specifically known for the Ariyannur Umbrellas or Kudakkallu, are a significant megalithic burial site dating back to the Iron Age, approximately 2000 BCE. This site is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It features six massive mushroom -shaped stones, or "umbrella stones," which were used as burial markers for the ancient inhabitants of this region. Of the six stones, four remain intact, showcasing the incredible engineering and ritualistic practices of prehistoric Kerala. The site is situated on a small hillock, providing a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Archaeologists believe these structures were built by placing a large, circular, convex capstone over four inclined support stones. This unique form of megalithic architecture is rare and provides vital clues about the social structure and funerary customs of early civilizations in South India. A visit to Ariyannur is like stepping back in time, offering a profound sense of connection to our ancient ancestors. The site is quiet and well-maintained, allowing visitors to contemplate the mysteries of the past in a peaceful setting. Nearby, the Harikanyaka Temple adds a layer of spiritual heritage to the location, making it a comprehensive cultural destination for any traveler visiting the Guruvayur-Thrissur circuit.
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
Duration: 1 to 2 HoursPlace Type:
Category: Archaeological SiteEntry Fees:
Minimal/Free.
Government Policy: Usually free for domestic tourists.
Maintenance Fee: A nominal fee of INR 20 may apply during peak seasons. ...Minimal/Free.
Government Policy: Usually free for domestic tourists.
Maintenance Fee: A nominal fee of INR 20 may apply during peak seasons.Special Events:
ASI Awareness Week.
Heritage Day: Occasional lectures and cleanliness drives organized by the archaeology department.
Temple Festivals: Local festivals at the nearby Harikanyaka Temple. ...ASI Awareness Week.
Heritage Day: Occasional lectures and cleanliness drives organized by the archaeology department.
Temple Festivals: Local festivals at the nearby Harikanyaka Temple.Best Photo Spots:
Photo Spots: Umbrella Stones.
Close-ups: Capture the texture of the laterite stones.
Panorama: The view of the site against the green backdrop of Kandanassery.
Silhouette:Photo Spots: Umbrella Stones.
Close-ups: Capture the texture of the laterite stones.
Panorama: The view of the site against the green backdrop of Kandanassery.
Silhouette: The stones look dramatic during the twilight hour.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
-
Archaeological Study.
Guided Tour: Read the ASI boards to understand the history.
Photography: Take wide-angle shots of the mushroom stones.
Meditation: Enjoy the quietude of the ancient burial grounds.
Nearby Temple: Visit the Harikanyaka Temple just a few meters away.
Education: Teach children about the Iron Age and megaliths.
Sketching: Artists often come here to draw the unique stone forms.
Bird Watching: The trees surrounding the site house many tropical birds. ...
Information
-
Why Famous:
Prehistoric Heritage.
UNESCO Interest: The site is part of the megalithic cluster proposed for UNESCO status.
Unique Design: One of the few places in India where "Umbrella Stones" are found intact. ...Prehistoric Heritage.
UNESCO Interest: The site is part of the megalithic cluster proposed for UNESCO status.
Unique Design: One of the few places in India where "Umbrella Stones" are found intact. -
Architecture:
Megalithic Stone Structures.
Engineering: The "Kudakkallu" consists of a large capstone resting on four clinostats.
Dimension: The capstones are roughly 3 meters in diameter and stand about 1. 5 to 2 meters high. ...Megalithic Stone Structures.
Engineering: The "Kudakkallu" consists of a large capstone resting on four clinostats.
Dimension: The capstones are roughly 3 meters in diameter and stand about 1. 5 to 2 meters high. -
How To Reach:
Local Transport.
By Air: Cochin International Airport (80 KMS).
By Train: Guruvayur Station (9 KMS).
By Road: Take a bus toward Kunnamkulam and get off at Ariyannur. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Harikanyaka Temple (0. 5 KMS), 2. Guruvayur Temple (9 KMS), 3. Punnathur Kotta (8 KMS), 4. Mammiyoor Temple (9 KMS), 5. Chowallur Siva Temple (6 KMS), 6. Kunnamkulam (7 KMS), 7. Arthat Church (8 KMS), 8. Palayur Church (10 KMS), 9. Vilangan Hills (15 KMS), 10. Thrissur City (22 KMS).
Tourism Tips
-
Site Etiquette.
Health & Safety: Watch your step as the ground can be uneven.
Packing: Sunscreen and comfortable shoes are a must.
Cash: Minimal cash needed for travel; no shops at the immediat...
Reviews
Ariyannur Ancient Caves Tourism:-
Information about New and Updated Locations(891+) of Kerala Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Note:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.
Near Places
Akkikkavu
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Ariyannur Ancient Caves
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Arthat St. Mary's Simhasana Church
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Blangad Beach
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Chamundeswari Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Chavakkad Beach
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Chemmanthatta Mahadeva Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Chowalloor Shiva Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Guruvayur Devaswom Museum
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Guruvayur Municipality Childrens Park
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities