Kailash and Kutumsar Caves – Explore the Underground Wonders of Kanger Valley, Chhattisgarh

Deep inside the heart of Kanger Valley National Park near Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, lie two of India’s most stunning underground marvels — Kailash Cave and Kutumsar Cave. These natural limestone formations are celebrated for their breathtaking interiors, mystical ambience, and geological significance. Together, they form a key part of Bastar’s eco-tourism circuit, attracting adventurers, researchers, and nature enthusiasts from across the country. 

Kutumsar Cave – The Underground Mystery

Discovered in the early 20th century near Kutumsar village, this cave is one of India’s deepest and longest natural caves, extending over 300 meters and descending about 35 meters underground. Formed by the slow action of water dissolving limestone over thousands of years, Kutumsar Cave features a maze of narrow passages, echoing chambers, and mesmerizing stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Inside, visitors experience:

• Pitch-dark tunnels lit only by flashlights

• Natural sculptures resembling deities like Lord Shiva and Nandi

• A small underground pond, considered sacred by locals

• Rare blind fish species, perfectly adapted to the darkness

The cave offers a thrilling yet humbling encounter with nature’s underground artistry.

Kailash Cave – The Temple of Nature

Located about 40 km from Jagdalpur, Kailash Cave lies within the same national park, perched on a small hill inside the dense forests of Kanger Valley. Unlike Kutumsar, which is dark and humid, Kailash Cave is known for its dry interiors and calm atmosphere, often described as a “natural temple.”

This cave stretches nearly 100 meters, with its walls and ceilings adorned with beautiful limestone formations. At the center of the cave lies a stalagmite resembling a Shivling, earning it the name Kailash, after Lord Shiva’s mythical abode. The echoing sound within adds a divine aura, enhancing the spiritual charm of the cave.

Kanger Valley National Park – The Common Treasure

Both caves are nestled within Kanger Valley National Park, one of India’s most biologically diverse parks. The park is home to:

• Dense sal, teak, and bamboo forests

• Rare wildlife including leopards, deer, and bats

• Picturesque waterfalls like Tirathgarh Falls

• Pristine underground and surface streams

Exploring the park alongside these caves gives visitors a complete experience of Bastar’s wild and mystical beauty.

Location & Accessibility

• Nearest City: Jagdalpur (approx. 35–40 km)

• By Air: Nearest airport is at Raipur (290 km)

• By Train: Jagdalpur Railway Station is the nearest railhead

• By Road: Regular buses and taxis connect Jagdalpur with Raipur, Dantewada, and nearby towns

Best Time to Visit: November to June (both caves remain closed during the monsoon due to flooding and safety concerns)
Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Permitted with park ticket; local guides are mandatory for cave visits. 

Nearby Attractions

• Tirathgarh Waterfalls – A scenic multi-tiered waterfall nearby

• Kanger Dhara – A serene forest picnic spot

• Chitrakote Falls – India’s largest and most majestic waterfall

• Kotumsar Tribal Villages – Explore the vibrant local Bastar culture

Travel Tips

• Always carry flashlights; the caves are completely dark.

• Wear non-slip shoes and comfortable clothing.

• Avoid touching the formations; they are fragile and take centuries to form.

• Photography may require permission.

• Respect the natural and spiritual sanctity of the site.

FAQs on Kailash and Kutumsar Caves

1. Where are Kailash and Kutumsar Caves located?
Both caves are located inside Kanger Valley National Park, near Jagdalpur in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district.

2. What is special about these caves?
They showcase magnificent limestone formations, underground ponds, echo effects, and natural Shivling formations, making them both geologically and spiritually unique.

3. Are the caves open all year round?
No, both caves remain closed during monsoon (July–October) due to high water levels and safety concerns.

4. Do I need a guide to visit these caves?
Yes, entry is allowed only with local guides for safety and navigation.

5. Which is easier to explore – Kutumsar or Kailash Cave?
Kailash Cave is easier to explore with dry pathways, while Kutumsar Cave is more adventurous and deeper.

Conclusion

A journey to Kailash and Kutumsar Caves is like stepping into another world — one sculpted by time, water, and faith. Nestled amid the pristine forests of Kanger Valley National Park, these caves stand as a testament to Chhattisgarh’s untamed beauty and rich natural heritage. For those seeking mystery, spirituality, and adventure, this duo of caves offers an unforgettable underground experience in the heart of India.