Kotsati Cave- 4th longest cave of India

Distance:

• From Jowai: About 20 km
• From Shillong: Approximately 75 km

Timings:

• Cave Visit Hours: Open during daylight hours (typically 8 AM to 5 PM)
• Best to Confirm Locally: As timings might vary depending on local rules.

Ideal Season:

• Best Time to Visit: October to March (dry season)
• Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) as water levels rise, making cave exploration difficult.

How to Get There:

• By Air: Nearest airport is Shillong Airport (80 km).
• By Train: Guwahati Railway Station (180 km) is the nearest major railway station.
• By Road: You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Shillong or Jowai. The roads are in decent condition, and local transport options are available from Jowai.

Parking:

• Parking Availability: Limited parking space near the cave entrance; park at a distance and walk to the cave.

Cave Height:

• The cave’s height varies, but some sections are as tall as 20 meters, while others are narrow, requiring you to crouch or crawl.

Food:

• No Food Stalls at the Cave: Carry your own snacks and water.
• Nearby Options: Jowai has local eateries offering traditional Khasi cuisine like pork with bamboo shoots, Jadoh (rice with meat), and Tungrymbai (fermented soybean dish).

Stay:

• Jowai Town: Offers basic guesthouses, homestays, and a few hotels.
• Shillong: For more comfortable and luxurious stays, you can find better accommodation options in Shillong, around 2 hours away.

Activities:

• Caving: The main activity is exploring Kotsati Cave, which involves climbing, crawling, and passing through water-filled chambers.
• Photography: Capture the unique rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites.

Tips:

• Safety Gear: Carry a reliable headlamp, and wear sturdy shoes.
• Guided Tours: It’s advisable to take a local guide for safety and to better understand the cave layout.
• Be Physically Prepared: Some areas require physical effort and crawling, so be ready for an adventure.
• Avoid during Monsoons: Flooding can occur inside the cave, making it dangerous.

Nearby Attractions:

• Liat Prah Cave: Another famous cave in the same region, known for being one of the longest in India.
• Nartiang Monoliths: A site featuring ancient megaliths, about 30 km from Jowai.
• Krang Suri Waterfall: A picturesque waterfall near Jowai, perfect for a refreshing break.

Entry Charges:

• Nominal Fee: Expect a small entry fee at the site or through local tourism authorities.