Caving · Meghalaya
Caving in Meghalaya
From easy show caves at Mawsmai to serious expeditions in India's longest cave systems.
At a glance
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 30 minutes (show cave) to full day (adventure caving)
- Best season
- November – April
- Base
- Sohra / Khliehriat (East Khasi Hills & East Jaintia Hills)
- Permits
- No permit needed. Village entry and activity fees apply. Wild caves only with registered guides.
About this experience
Meghalaya's limestone hills contain the longest and deepest caves in South Asia, explored over decades by international expeditions working with Meghalaya Adventurers' Association. Krem Liat Prah in the Jaintia Hills has been surveyed to more than 30 km, making it the longest natural cave on the subcontinent.
For most visitors, caving starts at Mawsmai Cave near Sohra, a short lit show cave with stalactites and a few squeezes, or the Arwah Cave, with fossilised marine remains in its rock. Adventurous travellers can join guided caving trips into wild caves such as Krem Mawmluh near Sohra or Krem Chympe and other Jaintia Hills systems, involving wading, crawling and scrambling with helmets and headlamps.
Serious caving requires experienced guides, proper equipment and good fitness. Caves can flood in rain, so trips run only in the dry season. We arrange both easy family-friendly visits and half-day adventure caving with trained local guides.
Where to do it
MeghalayaMawsmai CaveAn easy, lit limestone cave near Sohra, with stalactites and narrow squeezes.
MeghalayaSohraLegendary rain capital on the edge of the Khasi plateau, ringed by gorges, waterfalls and caves.
MeghalayaSeven Sisters FallsA wide multi-segmented waterfall plunging off limestone cliffs near Mawsmai, best in the monsoon.
Tours with this activity
Caving in Meghalaya FAQs
What is the longest cave in Meghalaya?
Krem Liat Prah in the Jaintia Hills, surveyed to more than 30 km.
Is Mawsmai Cave suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is a short, lit show cave suitable for families.
Can I do adventure caving?
Yes, with experienced local guides in the dry season; expect to get wet and muddy.
More in Meghalaya
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EasyUmngot River Boating & KayakingGlide over glass-clear water at Dawki and Shnongpdeng in wooden boats or kayaks.
ModerateCliff Jumping & Camping at ShnongpdengRiverside tents, snorkelling and leaps into the clear green Umngot at Shnongpdeng.
EasyZiplining at Mawkdok Dympep ValleyFly across a deep green valley on the Shillong–Sohra road on one of Northeast India's longest ziplines.