These natural caves near Pillar Rocks were formed by huge boulders piled together, creating narrow, winding passages that locals long called Devil's Kitchen. The site gained its popular name, Guna Caves, after scenes from the 1991 Tamil film Gunaa, starring Kamal Haasan, were shot here. Due to their depth and past accidents, entry into the caves themselves is restricted, but visitors can view the formation and surrounding viewpoint from a safe perimeter. Guna Caves (Devil's Kitchen) sits at an elevation of 2106 m and is typically explored in about 1-2 hours. The most favourable months to visit are April, March, February, and May, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Pine Forest Walk, The Devil's Kitchen Rock Formation, and Pillar Rocks Viewpoint. Other notable highlights include kamal Haasan film Gunaa’s iconic cliff ledge, massive granite boulders balanced overhead, and cool, dark cavern interior on hot days. It falls within Kodaikanal, Dindigul district, and Tamil Nadu, India.
State: Tamil Nadu
Ideal Duration: 1-2 Hours
April, March, February, May
There is a nominal entry fee, typically around ₹10–₹20 per person, which is collected at the small ticket counter near the parking area. No prior permit is needed, but you must show your ID for the forest check. Carry cash, as card payments are not accepted at the counter.
Visit between 9:00 am and 11:00 am, as the morning light is clear and the mist usually lifts, giving you a good view of the fissure and the valley. Afternoon hours often bring heavy fog and rain, making the walk slippery and reducing visibility. Avoid visiting after 4 pm, as the area gets dark and quiet quickly.
The cave is officially closed to visitors for safety reasons, as it is a deep, narrow fissure with slippery rocks and no proper railings. You can view the entrance and the surrounding forest from a designated viewing platform, but you cannot go inside. Always follow the posted warnings and stay behind the barriers.
Wear sturdy, non-slip walking shoes, as the path is uneven and can be muddy. Carry a light rain jacket or umbrella, a water bottle, and a small first-aid kit, but do not carry heavy bags. A walking stick is very helpful for the short incline, and always stay with your group, as mobile signal is weak in the forest.
The cave is about 6–7 km from the Kodaikanal bus stand, and you can hire a private taxi or take a local shared jeep. The last stretch involves a short, steep walk down a rocky path, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It is best to go early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat, and to ask your driver to wait.