Munnar - Marayoor Dolmens

Munnar - Marayoor Dolmens

Marayoor in Munnar is a hidden gem that blends breathtaking natural beauty with a captivating historical legacy. While exclusively renowned for its fragrant sandalwood forests, Marayoor holds a secret within its embrace – the enigmatic Marayoor Dolmens. These prehistoric structures, shrouded in mystery, stand as a testament to the region's ancient past and a must-visit for any history buff or curious traveller.

Marayoor Dolmens are megalithic burial sites, estimated to date back to the Iron Age. Composed of large, intricately placed stone slabs, these dolmens formed chamber-like structures. Dolmens are regarded as the dwelling places of the Sadhus and in Malayalam, it is called Muniyaras. The dolmens are made up of four slabs of rocks, in which three of them are placed on the sides and the fourth one on the top serves as the roof. You can even find here dolmens made up of five slabs. The dolmens are scattered across rocky hillocks, their imposing presence contrasting with the lush greenery of the surrounding forests and plantations. They are a silent yet powerful testament to a bygone era.

The origins and purpose of these dolmens remain shrouded in mystery. Some theories suggest they were used as burial chambers for the dead, while others believe they served as dwellings for holy men or even astronomical observatories. The sheer size and intricate arrangement of the slabs point towards a sophisticated understanding of engineering for that time period.

Marayoor Dolmens hold immense significance for archaeologists and history enthusiasts. They offer a window into the lives and practices of the ancient inhabitants of the region. The presence of these dolmens indicates a well-developed civilization with knowledge of construction techniques and a belief system focused on the afterlife. If history and archaeology fascinate you, the Marayoor Dolmen is a great site to explore.

Marayoor has more to offer than just the dolmens. Explore the cascading beauty of Thoovanam waterfalls, or delve into the rich biodiversity of the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. Marayoor also boasts the title of Kerala's sole sanctuary for naturally growing sandalwood trees, adding another layer to the region's unique charm.