Explore the beauty in Garden of Cave

1. Timings:

• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• It’s best to visit during daylight hours to fully experience the beauty of the area.

2. Distance:

• From Shillong: Approximately 45 km, a 1.5 to 2-hour drive.

3. Ideal Season:

• Best Time to Visit: October to March (dry season) when the weather is pleasant, and the surroundings are lush but accessible. Monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall and makes the area more challenging to explore.

4. How to Get There:

• By Road: The Garden of Caves is accessible by road from Shillong. Private taxis and shared vehicles are available.
• By Public Transport: Local buses from Shillong can take you to Laitkynsew village, the nearest village. From there, a short walk leads to the Garden of Caves.

5. Parking:

• Parking Facility: Available near the entrance with space for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers.

6. Height:

• Altitude: Approximately 1,500 meters above sea level, offering a cool and pleasant climate.

7. Food:

• Onsite Options: Small local food stalls or shacks near the entrance offering snacks and tea.
• Nearby Options: For more food variety, you can head to Laitkynsew village, where simple eateries serve local Khasi cuisine such as Jadoh (rice with meat) and Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame).

8. Stay:

• Nearby Accommodation: You can find basic guesthouses and homestays in Laitkynsew village or head to Sohra (Cherrapunji), which offers more lodging options like resorts and hotels.
• Recommended Stays in Sohra: Cherrapunji Holiday Resort, Sa-I-Mika Park.

9. Activities:

• Exploring Caves: Discover the hidden caves and natural rock formations within the garden.
• Waterfalls: Enjoy the beautiful waterfalls scattered across the area.
• Nature Walks: The garden offers scenic trails for nature lovers, surrounded by lush greenery.
• Photography: The area is a photographer’s paradise, with its natural beauty and calm atmosphere.

10. Tips:

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The terrain is uneven and requires walking on rocky paths.
• Carry a Raincoat: Even in the dry season, occasional showers can occur.
• Avoid the Monsoon Season: The area can get slippery and challenging during heavy rainfall.
• Guide Availability: Local guides are available to show you around and provide information on the caves and waterfalls.

11. Nearby Attractions:

• Nohkalikai Falls: Located about 10 km away, it’s one of the tallest waterfalls in India.
• Mawsmai Cave: A popular limestone cave located in Sohra.
• Double-Decker Root Bridge: Located in Nongriat village, it’s one of the iconic living root bridges.
• Sohra (Cherrapunji): Known for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and caves.

12. Entry Charges:

• Entry Fee: Approximately ₹20-50 per person (subject to change).
• Camera Charges: There may be a small fee for using a camera for photography.