Kutumsar Caves, Jagdalpur | Timings, How to Reach, Entry Fee

Kutumsar Caves, Jagdalpur Overview

Located near Tirathgarh falls, the Kailash and Kutumsar caves are underground caves situated 35 meters below ground level. With a length of two kilometres, these are considered to be the second longest natural caves in the world. With incredible formations of stalactites and stalagmites, the caves contain five chambers. There is one stalagmite formation in the shape of a shivalinga towards the end of the cave. The Kailash and Kutumsar are only accessible until a certain extent because of the lack of oxygen. This natural cave surrounded by the dense Kanger National Park is a sight to behold.

About Kutumsar Caves

The Kotumsar cave is located on the banks of river Kanger which is 40 km away from Jagdalpur. It is located in the dense forests of Kanger Valley National Park. The Cave has a frequent deposition of limestone since it lies in the Kanger limestone belt. It has received interest from many tourists across the country. A path that has been created for visitors to observe the cave, it extends till the end of the cave. The cave also has significant ecological importance and has also attracted researchers. The enormous vertical fissure formed in the wall of the hill acts as an entry point of the cave. There is a concrete path created which extends till the end of the cave. It is of great convenience to the people visiting the place. The main tunnel of the cave is 200 meters long with many lateral and downward passes. The cave also comes under the most biologically explored caves in India. Many new species of living creatures including plants and animals have been considered to be sourced from these caves. Recently in 2011, a new chamber has been discovered by groups of forest officials. Though, due to its very low accessibility and other dangers, it is not open to the tourists.

History of the Cave

The existence of Kotumsar Cave can be traced back in the British era. Further explorations were conceded and the cave was accurately mapped in the 1980s. Since then it was used for archaeological research and later as a tourist destination. Since olden times caves are considered as a religious place. They reflect the history as well as the influence of nature on an area. This has also summed to the upbringing of the place as a tourist destination. The cave has great ecological importance to it.

Construction of Kotumsar Cave

The cave came into existence naturally during the Pre- British era. It has been transformed and stands as a tourist destination today. There is an entry point created on the fissure in the wall of the hill. A concrete road extending to the end of the cave has been constructed for the visitors. There are panoramic views that can be witnessed in the cave. Many stalagmites and stalactites have naturally occurred in the cave and have attracted many interested. There are several lateral downward passages which have been formed in the chambers of the cave. The overall construction in the cave is built for the convenience of the tourists.

Places to Visit Nearby

There are several other places located near the Kotumsar Cave which tourists can visit. These include the Teerathgarh Falls, Kanger Dhara, Kailash Cave, and the Kanger valley national park. These places also attract many tourists through their rich natural beauty. They have also contributed to the development of the tourism industry in Chhattisgarh.

Best Time to Visit Kotumsar Cave

The best time to visit the cave is during the winter season. This is due to the weather being cold and pleasant. The temperature lies between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. Hence it is the perfect time to visit the place. The monsoon season is considered as the offseason because there is heavy precipitation in the valley. The accumulation of water in the cave makes it dangerous to visit the cave for the tourists.

How to Reach Kotumsar Cave

The Cave is located 40 km away from Jagdalpur and has great accessibility via roads. The Caves are well connected to nearby cities of Bastar region. One can reach there by private vehicles as well as public vehicles such as buses or cabs. The nearest railway station is Jagdalpur Railway Station located in the Bastar region itself. The nearest airport is the Visakhapatnam airport located 300 km away from the Cave. The best option to reach there is from the city of Jagdalpur via road.

The Kotumsar Cave is a rich natural and ecological gift of nature to the country. It has promoted research as well as tourism greatly in Chhattisgarh. The Cave also has a strong ecological and biological importance to various researchers. One can visit the place to explore its panoramic beauty and know more about the cave. It has also attracted many tourists who wish to see its natural beauty.