Mawmluh Cave- The 4th largest cave in India

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

1. Timings:

Visiting Hours: Typically open from 9 AM to 4 PM. It’s best to confirm timings locally as they may vary.

Duration of Exploration: Takes around 2-3 hours to explore depending on the group and conditions.

2. Distance:

From Shillong: Approximately 57 km.

From Cherrapunji (Sohra): About 3 km from the main town.

3. Ideal Season:

Best Time to Visit: The ideal season is during the dry months (October to April). During the monsoon, the cave may flood and be inaccessible.

Avoid visiting in the peak monsoon (June to September) due to waterlogging and slippery terrain inside.

4. How to Get There:

By Road: You can take a cab, private car, or bus from Shillong to Cherrapunji, and from there, it’s a short drive to the cave.

By Air: The nearest airport is Shillong Airport (Umroi), about 70 km away.

By Train: The nearest railway station is in Guwahati, about 150 km from Cherrapunji.

Local Transportation: From Cherrapunji town, taxis and local guides are available to reach the cave.

5. Parking:

Parking Facility: Parking is available near the entrance of the cave for private vehicles.

6. Height:

Elevation: The entrance is around 4,500 feet above sea level.

Cave Length: Mawmluh Cave is approximately 7 km long, though only certain sections are open for exploration.

7. Activities:

Caving: Exploring the limestone formations, stalactites, and stalagmites inside the cave.

Adventure: Navigating narrow passages and underground rivers. It’s a thrilling experience for adventurers.

Photography: Capture the fascinating rock formations, but ensure your camera gear is water-resistant.

8. Food:

Local Eateries: You can find small restaurants and cafes in Cherrapunji serving local Khasi cuisine.

Popular Dishes: Try Khasi rice, pork dishes, and bamboo shoot-based dishes.

It’s advisable to carry snacks and water, as there are no food outlets near the cave.

9. Stay:

Accommodations in Cherrapunji:

Homestays: There are several cozy homestays offering local hospitality.

Resorts: Mid-range and luxury resorts are available with views of the scenic landscape.

Budget Hotels: Affordable guesthouses and small hotels are scattered across the town.

10. Tips:

Lighting: Carry a powerful headlamp or torch as the cave is dark inside.

Footwear: Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes, as the cave can be slippery.

Guides: Hire a local guide to help you navigate the challenging terrain inside.

Clothing: Wear light but protective clothing, and be prepared to get wet as there are pools inside.

Physical Fitness: It’s a physically demanding cave, so ensure you are fit for climbing, crawling, and wading through water.

Check Weather: Always check local weather conditions before visiting.

11. Nearby Attractions:

Nohkalikai Falls: One of the tallest waterfalls in India, located around 10 km away.

Mawsmai Cave: Another popular cave located around 7 km from Mawmluh.

Seven Sisters Falls: A stunning series of waterfalls located around 5 km from the cave.

Eco Park: Offers beautiful views of the valley and is located near Cherrapunji.

12. Entry Charges:

Entry Fee: Typically around INR 50-100 per person.

Guide Fee: It’s advisable to hire a local guide, and fees range from INR 200-500 depending on the duration of the exploration.