UNESCO World Heritage SiteUNESCO Heritage
India

Gudiyam Cave

Paleolithic rock shelters in Tamil Nadu, India

Location

Explore the Map

Historical Context

About

Gudiyam Caves are rock shelters in South India and known for prehistoric stone tools and culture. They were first identified by British geologist Robert Bruce Foote. This ancient site is situated in the Thiruvallur district near the Poondi reservoir, 60 km (37.3 mi) from Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Archaeological evidence suggests that the caves were used by Paleolithic Man. The site has been excavated by the Archaeological Survey of India in 1963 and 1964. Systematic paleolithic studies in this region indicate these sites suggest extensive movement of early hominids across the landscape about 200,000 years ago. Sixteen such shelters have been identified by the Archaeological Survey of India in Allikulli Hill ranges near Poondi.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history

Early hominid movement

c. 200,000 years ago

Archaeological Survey of India excavations

19631964

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Caves
category

Environmental and Natural Features

Rock Shelters
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore

Plan Your Visit

Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information

Reference

Details

Country

India

Coordinates

13.19° N, 79.86° E