Unveiling the Mysteries of Syndai Cave

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

1. Timings:

Best Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM for exploring the cave safely during daylight.

Evening Visits: Avoid exploring late in the evening due to visibility and safety concerns.

2. Distance:

From Shillong: Approximately 120-130 km (3-4 hours by car).

From Dawki: Around 25-30 km (45 minutes to 1 hour).

3. Ideal Season:

Best Time: October to March when the weather is dry and cool.

Avoid Monsoon: June to September can make the area and caves slippery and difficult to navigate.

4. How to Get There:

By Car/Taxi: The most convenient option is to hire a taxi or drive from Shillong or Jowai.

By Public Transport: Shared taxis and buses operate to nearby areas like Dawki, from where you can hire a local taxi to reach Syndai Village.

5. Parking:

Available: Parking is usually available near Syndai Cave, managed by locals.

Fee: There may be a small parking fee.

6. Height and Area:

Syndai Cave Height: The cave has an average height of about 20-30 feet inside, making it easily accessible for exploration.

Syndai Cave covers an approximate area of 500-700 square meters inside, making it a moderately sized cave suitable for exploration.

7. Activities:

Cave Exploration: Discover the historical Syndai Cave, known for its intriguing rock formations and ancient history.

Photography: Capture the scenic village and cave interiors.

Hiking: Explore trails around the village that offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Cultural Interaction: Engage with the local community to learn about their history and traditions.

Historical Sites: Explore ancient carvings and megalithic structures around the village.

8. Food:

Limited Options: Syndai Village has basic eateries offering local snacks and simple meals.

Nearby Options: For more variety, you can visit Dawki or Jowai for local Khasi cuisine and other food options.

9. Stay:

Syndai Village:

Homestays – Simple accommodations offering local hospitality.

Jowai:

Hotels/Guesthouses – Variety of budget and mid-range options about 40-50 km away.

Dawki:

Riverside Camps/Guesthouses – Ideal for those looking for nature stays, around 25-30 km away.

10. Tips:

Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for trekking and cave exploration.

Carry Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and a flashlight for the cave visit.

Local Guide: Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience and provide more insight into the history of the area.

11. Nearby Attractions:

Dawki River: Known for its crystal-clear waters, perfect for boating (25-30 km).

Jowai: Explore this town, famous for its beautiful landscapes and lakes (40-50 km).

Shnongpdeng: A riverside village near Dawki, ideal for camping and adventure sports (30 km).

Krang Suri Falls: A picturesque waterfall near Jowai (50-60 km).

India-Bangladesh Border: A short trip to the border near Dawki for a unique experience (25 km).

12. Entry Fees:

Entry Fee: A small entry fee might be charged at the cave for maintenance purposes.

Permits: Generally, no special permits are required.