Gudiyam Caves Heritage Trail
Gudiyam Caves Heritage Trail
Easy
9.0 KM
Two way (4.5+4.5) km
4 Hours
Overview
Situated in the Tiruvallur district around 60 km from Chennai, the Gudiyam Caves beckons you to the relics of stone age. These heritage caves manifests more than a trek destination to an archaeological marvel, providing insights into the lives of our stone age ancestors. Formed by natural processes, these limestone caves once were bustling sites of human activity, evident from the prehistoric stone tools and cultural artefacts.
KEY ATTRACTIONS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD
- Pulicat Lake
- Veeraraghava Swamy Temple
- Eco- Park at paruthipattu lake
- Poondi Reservoir
Maximum Elevation: 141 MSL(Approx.) Meters
Nearby Medical Facility: Katchur primary health center - 12 km
Nearby Bus Stand: Thiruvallur - 22 km
Nearby Airport: Chennai - 70 km
Nearby Railway Station: Thiruvallur - 24 km
Parking Facilities: Yes
- Monkeys
- Birds
- Daypack or small hiking backpack
- Hiking boots or trail shoes as per your convenience
- Reusable water bottle
- Breathable and quick-drying Clothes are best for changing conditions
- Fleece or lightweight down jacket
- Sun hat or caps
- Trail mix, energy bars, nuts, dried fruits
- Personal medication
- Personal Identity Card
- Sunscreen
- Insect Repellent
- Hand Sanitizer
- Trash Bag
- Water-Resistant Wrap for Electronic Devices for rain protection
- Leech socks
- Rain Jacket or Poncho
- Sunglasses with UV protection
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Guests
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Know Your Package
Included
Excluded
Your transport up to reception point prior to the trek
Everything that falls outside the inclusions stated above
Things to remember before you book a trek
- Trekking in forests invariably requires physical endurance depending upon the category of the trek.
- Right planning and adequate preparations will make treks immersive and memorable.
- Pick the right trail that matches your fitness level and experience.
- Research your trek destination, be aware of local weather conditions and prepare for it.
- Know the Rules before you embark on the trek.
- Camouflage is the key to observe wildlife; Striking colours, aromatic sprays and Noise will easily give you away.
- Follow appropriate dress code and wear comfortable trekking shoes.
- Carry your backpack: water, snacks, jacket, personal medication etc.
- Please be aware that amenities at the destinations may be offering minimal comfort.
- Pay attention to instructions of the trek leader/ guide.
- Maintain lane discipline and stay with the group; short cuts may turn adverse.
- Observe carefully and do not miss out the little surprises and signs of the animal world.
- It's not a race, listen to your body and take adequate breaks as and when required.
- Selfies at your own risk.
- Refrain from picking wild plants and flowers though they may attract you.
- Treat wildlife with respect: approaching and feeding wild animals can endanger yours and group’s safety.
- Enjoy the scenic view of forest streams & waterfalls; Bathing is prohibited.
- Be a responsible trekker and leave no trash.
Guest reviews
Exploring History and Nature: A Memorable Gudiyam Caves Heritage Trail with Trek Tamil Nadu
I'm Jaikishore R, Senior Associate in Tamil Nadu Government Skill Development Corporation. I recently had the opportunity to experience the Gudiyam Caves Heritage Trail in Tiruvallur District, Tamil Nadu, as part of an initiative by Trek Tamil Nadu. Our group of four, including three men and one woman, had a fantastic experience on this easy-level trek, which took us through the beautiful and historically rich terrain near the Gudiyam caves. Booking and Registration: The booking process was smooth and efficient. We opted for the 8 am slot on January 17, 2025, and the Trek Tamil Nadu team was very accommodating, especially since we were a small group of just four. The Trek Tamil Nadu helpline staff were friendly and responsive. I would recommend booking the 7 am slot, as it gets quite hot after 11 am, and an earlier start makes for a more comfortable trek. The Trek: The Gudiyam Caves Heritage Trail spans 9 km (4.5 km each way) and is relatively easy, making it ideal for first-time trekkers or those seeking a mild adventure. The trek is mostly flat with some gentle ascents, and the local guides, Dilli Babu and Deva, were extremely knowledgeable. They provided valuable insights into the caves' archaeological significance and the area's prehistoric history. The caves, especially Cave 2, are remarkable, and the natural beauty surrounding the trail adds to the allure of the trek. Safety is a top priority, and the presence of forest guards, including a female guard, ensures that everyone feels secure, making it a great option for women-only groups as well. The trail is clearly marked, and the terrain is manageable, making it accessible for beginners. Amenities and Refreshments: We were given a welcome kit at the start of the trek, including a cap, a cloth bag, and a birds pamphlet, which was a nice touch. The refreshments provided were a light meal with snacks—Poha, juice, and Ellu Burfi—served with a stunning view from the top of the cave mountain. It’s worth noting that there is no food available along the trail, so it’s advisable to carry your own supplies. Water is available for refills at the starting point, and we were reminded to carry enough water (at least 2 liters per person). Safety and Comfort: The trek was well-managed, and we felt taken care of at every step. The guides and trek guards made sure to keep the group safe and well-informed. The restroom facilities were clean, and the whole environment felt well-maintained. Suggestions: While the guides were excellent, a bit more proactive and detailed explanation about the archaeological history of the caves would have added further value to the trek. Also, be sure to wear sturdy trekking shoes as some parts of the trail can be slightly challenging, and good footwear will make the experience more comfortable. Conclusion: Overall, this trek was a wonderful experience for our small group. The combination of nature, history, and the well-organized trekking service made it a memorable outing. The effort by the Tamil Nadu government to offer local employment through this initiative adds an authentic touch to the journey. The trek, priced at ₹859+GST per person, is well worth the money, and we’re excited to explore more of the 41 trekking locations in Tamil Nadu offered by Trek Tamil Nadu. Rating: 5/5. Highly recommended for those looking to explore both nature and history!
Group of 25 - Very Good experience
We were a group of 25 who had booked this during the mid of December 2024. The booking experience was good. The helpline guys of TrekTamilnadu were very helpful. Generally, the Trek operates only over weekend. Since we were a group of 25, they were kind enough to open it for us on midweek. We reached the place and the entry is good. A welcome kit is given. Full marks there. Safety is well taken care of as Forest guards accompany us and also the trail is well-marked. They have a women guard as well. So It should be fine for women-only groups as well. It takes 3-5 hours based on how fast you are. It is pretty flat for most of the trek and has a bit of ascent in some places. It could be a brief intro to trekking if incase one wants to go on future treks. There is a watch tower and also a viewing point to get a nice view of the area. There are two caves as well. Cave 2 is a bit bigger. You cannot make any noise as there are alot of honeybees near Cave 2. My only suggestion would be for the guides to be a bit proactive in explaining things and setting the pace. They do converse occasionally and explain things. But it would be better if they were more informative. Please get food and go as there is nothing available in that area. A restroom is available for Male/Female. It is clean as of now. It would be nice if they maintain it in the future. There is no water in the trail and is available for filling at the start point. Overall, our team was very happy and we would rate the experience 4.5/5. Best wishes to TrekTamilnadu for their initiative.
All girls trip (3 Members) - Gudiyam Cave visit from Chennai
Very safe for women & everyone. We visited on 24/Nov/2024 in 8.00 AM slot. From entrance, throughout the trek until the time we left they were super friendly and respectful. We were a trio girl group aged 26, we got a lady guide with us, Sudha was super cute and knowledgeable about the site. In fact she and other 2 guides came till main road to send us back in auto safely. It's better to start at 7 am slot as it gets very hot later. Carry atleast 2 litres of water per person. Wear a good trekking shoes otherwise it gets difficult. They served a hot ready to eat breakfast on top of a cave mountain. The view was breathtaking. Good trek for nature lovers. Eventually at the end of the trek, you will understand the importance of co-exsisting and loving the nature for a better future. Chennai people can book cab directly, but while returning u will have to take share auto and bus to tiruvallur from their cab is available.
Very good experience - will recommend
Account creation and booking process was very smooth. The reception point can be easily reached by private transport only. The Google map route is perfect with reception upto the end. There is a clean toilet at the reception area. The trail is mostly flat. In some places it is single file only and in many places there are large pebbles and loose gravel so you need to wear suitable shoes. The forest guards accompanying the trip being local have very good local knowledge and also very well equipped to handle visitors. The breakfast pack provided included a dehydrated poha pack for which the trek guides carry hot water. There are no paleolithic tool remains on site that we can see. There are about 16 caves on site but only 2 open for entry. The views are breath taking. Many parts of the trail have forest cover but a large part is exposed to the sun. We will definitely be back and also explore other trails managed by Trek Tamilnadu!
Good trekking experience near chennai
It's better to start at 7 am slot as it gets very hot later. Carry atleast 2 litres of water per person. Wear a good trekking shoes otherwise it gets difficult. The guides are friendly. They served a hot ready to eat breakfast on top of a cave mountain. The view was breathtaking. Good trek for friends and families. You will also learn about the importance of this place.
