At the heart of India’s northeastern frontier, Meghalaya is an undisputed queen, her crown adorned with emerald hills, cascading waterfalls, and labyrinthine caves. As we delve beneath her exquisite exterior, we discover a secret underworld of mesmerizing beauty: her caves are shrouded in mystery and filled with awe-inspiring natural artistry.
Here’s a tour through the magnificent seven of Meghalaya’s cave system, each adding a unique stanza to the geological poetry of the region.
Exploring Meghalaya’s Underground Wonders: A Guide to the 9 Must-Visit Caves
1. Mawsmai Cave: The Gateway to the Underworld
Our journey commences in the Eastern Khasi Hills, within the portals of the Mawsmai Cave. A cave with a warm welcome, Mawsmai offers well-lit, high-ceilinged passageways that provide even novice spelunkers a taste of the underworld.
Inside, one is greeted by stunning formations of stalactites and stalagmites, every drop of water over millennia contributing to this intricate natural sculpture. The passages bend and curve in organic whimsy, the limestone yielding tales of the earth’s ancient past. Remarkably accessible, Mawsmai serves as a perfect prelude to the underground exploration that lies ahead.
- What to See: Majestic stalactites and stalagmites formations, large limestone chambers.
- Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM daily.
- Entry Fee: INR 20 per person.
- How to Reach: Located 6 km from Cherrapunji. Shared taxis and buses from Shillong to Cherrapunji are available.
2. Krem Liat Prah: The Titan of the Underworld
Next, we descend into the abyss of Krem Liat Prah, the longest natural cave in India. The Jaintia Hills cradle this subterranean titan, a 31-kilometer-long geological marvel.
Upon entering, we encounter the gargantuan “Aircraft Hangar”, the main trunk passage that extends in sheer enormity, leaving explorers awestruck. Further, narrower passageways splinter and weave, leading to areas bearing names such as ‘God’s Wine Cellar’ and ‘Alien’s Chamber’, echoing the excitement and reverence of those who named them. Krem Liat Prah is not just a cave; it’s a labyrinthine cathedral celebrating Earth’s hidden grandeur.
- What to See: The massive ‘Aircraft Hangar’ passage, other smaller caverns, unique stalactite, and stalagmite formations.
- Timings: Daylight hours are recommended for safety, usually 8 AM to 4 PM.
- Entry Fee: No standard fee, but hiring a guide (approx. INR 1500) is advisable.
- How to Reach: Located in Jaintia Hills, about an hour’s drive from Shillong.
3. Siju Cave: The Bat Kingdom
The Garo Hills usher us into our third destination: the Siju Cave, also known as the Bat Cave. Home to a multitude of bats, it’s a testament to the biodiversity these caves can harbor.
Beyond the fluttering residents, the cave offers up an impressive array of speleothems — structures formed in caves due to the deposition of minerals from water. The Siju Cave is known for its river passages and delicate silken, needle-like formations, exhibiting the intricate needlework of nature’s loom.
- What to See: Bat habitats, river passages, delicate silken formations.
- Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM daily.
- Entry Fee: INR 30 per person.
- How to Reach: Siju is about 132 km from Tura. Shared taxis or local buses are available.
4. Krem Mawmluh: The Stone Tapestry
Krem Mawmluh Cave, located a stone’s throw from Cherrapunji, extends a challenge with its intriguing swimming routes. Its entrance invites one into a dream-like labyrinth of passages decorated by vast stretches of stone “wallpapers”.
The standout feature of this cave is a pool called the ‘Antarctica’, formed by the calcium-rich deposits trickling down the cave walls. Its ethereal beauty sparks awe and wonder, making the tough, wet passage through the cave wholly rewarding.
- What to See: ‘Antarctica’ pool, stone wallpapers, intriguing swimming routes.
- Timings: Daylight hours, generally between 8 AM to 4 PM.
- Entry Fee: No standard fee, but hiring a guide (approx. INR 1500) is highly recommended.
- How to Reach: Located 58 km from Shillong, near Cherrapunji. Shared taxis and buses are available.
5. Krem Dam: The Serpentine Riddle
Nestled in the eastern Jaintia Hills, the Krem Dam slithers down a complex system of interconnected passages like a stone serpent. With both fossil and active passages, it is a 5.3 km stretch of limestone secrets waiting to be discovered.
The thrill of Krem Dam lies in its unpredictability – the route includes wading through subterranean streams, squeezing through narrow openings, and a sense of adventure that keeps your heart pounding. It is a haven for those who love to solve the Earth’s ancient riddles, one crawl, climb, and step at a time.
- What to See: Interconnected passages, fossil, and active routes.
- Timings: Daylight hours for safety, generally between 8 AM to 4 PM.
- Entry Fee: No standard fee, but hiring a guide (approx. INR 1500) is necessary for safe exploration.
- How to Reach: Located in Jaintia Hills, about an hour’s drive from Shillong.
6. Mawjymbuin Cave: Meghalaya’s Subterranean Spirituality
Nestled in the scenic East Khasi Hills, Mawjymbuin Cave is a 209-meter-long natural limestone formation that holds great spiritual significance. Its most famous feature is a stalagmite that, over millennia, has taken the shape of a Shiva Lingam.
Visitors also marvel at the cave’s stunning stalactites and stalagmites that have been sculpted by nature into intriguing shapes and forms. A perfect blend of natural grandeur and cultural reverence, Mawjymbuin Cave is a must-visit location in Meghalaya.
- What to See: Remarkable stalagmite formation resembling a Shiva Lingam, intricate cave structures.
- Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM daily.
- Entry Fee: INR 10 per person.
- How to Reach: Mawjymbuin is about 56 km from Shillong. Local transport like buses and taxis are available from Shillong.
7. Krem Umshyrpi: Majestic Underworld of Meghalaya
Named after the Umshyrpi River that flows nearby, Krem Umshyrpi is a magnificent cave system filled with stalactite and stalagmite formations of every shape and size. Its passages, broad and tall, take you through an underground fantasy landscape.
The chambers sometimes open into wide halls with pools that catch the light in shimmering patterns. For those looking for an enchanting spelunking experience, Krem Umshyrpi will not disappoint.
- What to See: Large and spacious passages, majestic stalactite and stalagmite formations, and glistening pool areas.
- Timings: Daylight hours for safety, usually between 8 AM to 4 PM.
- Entry Fee: No standard fee, but hiring a guide (approx. INR 1500) is advisable.
- How to Reach: Located in the East Khasi Hills, about 10 km from Shillong. Buses or taxis can take you to the location.
8. Marai Cave: Unveiling Meghalaya’s Mythical Depths
Marai Cave, also known as Katta Duolithi, holds a special place in the hearts of locals due to its association with folklore and myths. The cave is filled with stalagmite formations and a subterranean pool, believed by locals to be sacred.
As you navigate the cave, you’ll find yourself immersed not just in a physical journey but also in a cultural and spiritual one, making Marai Cave a unique experience on your Meghalayan exploration.
- What to See: Subterranean water pool, stalagmite formations, and local folklore associated with the cave.
- Timings: Daylight hours for safety, usually between 8 AM to 4 PM.
- Entry Fee: No standard fee, but hiring a guide (approx. INR 1500) is recommended.
- How to Reach: Marai Cave is located in Garo Hills, about 40 km from Tura. Public transport like buses and shared taxis are available from Tura.
9. Krem Chympe: Meghalaya’s Biodiversity Beneath the Surface
Situated in the East Jaintia Hills, Krem Chympe is known for its impressive biodiversity and mesmerizing limestone formations. The cave teems with bats and insects, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s ecosystem.
It also boasts vast chambers and small pools of water that glisten like jewels in the torchlight. Krem Chympe offers a thrilling exploration filled with both biological and geological wonders.
- What to See: The cave is home to a large number of bats and insects. It also has beautiful limestone formations, vast chambers, and small water pools.
- Timings: Daylight hours for safety, generally between 8 AM to 4 PM.
- Entry Fee: No standard fee, but hiring a guide (approx. INR 1500) is advisable.
- How to Reach: Located in the East Jaintia Hills, about 60 km from Jowai. You can reach there by local buses or taxis from Jowai.
Our journey through the magnificent seven caves of Meghalaya has been an exploration of hidden realms and secret narratives. These geological masterpieces serve as a testament to the ceaseless creativity of nature and a reminder that beneath the surface, there lies a world far removed from the sunshine and the rain, where stone and water collaborate to create art, and darkness opens the gateway to enlightenment.
Further Reading:
- 8 Places to See in Meghalaya in April 2024
- Meghalaya 8 Destinations to Visit in March 2024
- 8 Popular Trekking Destinations in Meghalaya
- Travel Guide Nohkalikai Falls Meghalaya
- Meghalaya 8 Most Beautiful Hill Stations
- 7 Popular Historical Places in Meghalaya
- Meghalaya 5 Popular Wildlife National Parks
- India’s Living Root ‘Bridges’ Meghalaya – Complete Travel Guide
FAQs about the Caves in Meghalaya:
Q1: What is the best time to visit these caves in Meghalaya?
A1: The best time to visit these caves is during the dry months from October to May. The monsoon season, which runs from June to September, often leads to flooding in these caves, making them unsafe for exploration.
Q2: Do I need special equipment to explore these caves?
A2: Yes, it is highly recommended to have a helmet, headlamp, and suitable footwear for cave exploration. Some caves may require additional equipment such as ropes and harnesses, especially for more complex cave systems.
Q3: Can I explore the caves by myself?
A3: It is not advisable to explore the caves alone due to safety concerns. It’s better to hire a guide or go with a group under the supervision of experienced cave explorers.
Q4: Is there any wildlife in these caves?
A4: Yes, many of these caves are home to a variety of bats and insects. The Siju Cave, in particular, is known for its population of bats.
Q5: Are these caves safe for children and senior citizens?
A5: While some caves like the Mawsmai Cave can be safely explored by people of all age groups, others with more challenging terrain might not be suitable for children and senior citizens.
Q6: Can I take photos inside the caves?
A6: Yes, you can generally take photos inside the caves, but it’s crucial to avoid using flash around bats and other wildlife to avoid disturbing them.
Q7: What should I wear while exploring these caves?
A7: It’s best to wear comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty. Good grip shoes, preferably waterproof, are also recommended. And don’t forget a warm jacket, as caves can often be cooler than outside temperatures.
Q8: What if I get lost in the caves?
A8: This is why it’s always advisable to have a guide or experienced caver with you. In the unlikely event that you get lost, stay where you are to conserve energy and make it easier for rescuers to find you.
Q9: Is there any place to eat near the caves?
A9: There are small eateries near popular tourist caves like Mawsmai. However, for remote caves, carrying your food and plenty of water is advisable.
Q10: How much time does it take to explore a cave?
A10: The time can vary greatly depending on the cave. A short cave-like Mawsmai can be explored in about an hour, while complex systems like Krem Liat Prah might require several hours or even multiple days.
