The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has uncovered a large number of ancient megalithic structures near the Malampuzha Dam in Palakkad, Kerala. Spanning 45 hectares, the excavation revealed over 110 megaliths, primarily built from large granite slabs and boulders, with some incorporating the region’s native reddish laterite stone.
Researchers identified a variety of burial types, including stone circles, urns, and stone chambers. Many of these chambers contain one or more small rooms constructed with upright stones. A prominent feature of the site is the presence of dolmens — flat stone slabs placed atop vertical stones — commonly used as tombs in ancient times.
Archaeologists believe these findings offer new insight into how early communities conducted burials and viewed death. The layout and clustering of the structures suggest a well-organized society during the early Iron Age. Ongoing studies are expected to reveal more about the people who built them, their customs, and how they lived.
Prehistoric rock art revealed in Andhra’s Remote Forest Shelters
In a separate discovery, ASI teams working in the Lankamala Reserve Forest in Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh, found three rock shelters featuring prehistoric art. One shelter contains vivid paintings of animals, human figures, and abstract designs.
These artworks date back to the Megalithic and early historic periods, ranging from around 2500 BCE to the 2nd century CE.
Recent explorations near the Malampuzha dam in Palakkad, Kerala has led to a fascinating discovery of megalithic structures spread across island-like mounds. The team of Archaeological Survey of India surveyed the area and came across more than 110 megaliths spread across 45… pic.twitter.com/wqj1L3IfMX
— Archaeological Survey of India (@ASIGoI) March 22, 2025
Experts say that the paintings were created using natural materials such as red ochre, white clay, animal fat, and crushed bones. The images offer a rare glimpse into the daily life and beliefs of early human communities in the region.
Inscriptions point to centuries-old Shaivite pilgrimage routes
Nearby, researchers also discovered nearly 30 ancient inscriptions in the rugged areas of Nityapujakona, Akkadevatala Konda, and Bandigani Chella. The writings, which span from the 4th to the 16th century CE, were found in scripts including Brahmi, Shell, Nagari (Sanskrit), and Telugu.
The inscriptions suggest that Lankamala was once a prominent pilgrimage center for Shaivite worshippers, drawing visitors from across northern India. According to K. Munirathnam, who led the survey, the discovery helps map out religious routes that connected various parts of the subcontinent.
He noted that a shift in worship practices began in the 4th century, as Shaivite focus gradually moved from Lankamala to Srisailam.
Together, the discoveries in Kerala and Andhra Pradesh are shedding new light on India’s ancient past. They highlight the cultural richness of early societies and the evolving nature of religious traditions over centuries. As investigations continue, experts anticipate deeper insights into the lives, beliefs, and social systems of these long-lost communities.