Discover 6 Hidden Caves And Geological Wonders Near Shillong

Shillong, known as the “Scotland of the East,” is famous for its caves, rocks, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty. Tourists flocking the region are bound to admire the beautiful city which serves as a hub for those looking to escape to a relaxing getaway. But this region does offer several other marvelous treasures waiting to be explored. If you’re someone who loves to explore untouched nature, here are seven unexplored caves and geological wonders near Shillong that will spark your adventurous self.

1. Sohpetbneng Cave

This cave situated in the Sohpetbneng hill range offers significance that is often missed by the majority of tourists. To the local Khasi people, this cave features some important mythology. Local tells say that this was the spot where the earth and sky were fused together. The hill itself houses a cave that, while not very big, acts as a distinctive setting showcase that portrays the process of earth’s formation through the stalactites and stalagmites. The peaceful surroundings complement this region and help create an area sought after by those looking to escape the tragic world.

  • Location: Roughly 18 kilometers from Shillong.
  • Best Time to Visit: November to April.
  • Significance: The relevance this holds for the Khasi Tribe is deeply religious and historical.

2. Liat Prah Cave

This cave is one of the biggest within the Mawsmai region of Meghalaya. It is perhaps famous among ardent speleologists, but not many casual tourists know of it. This cave is famous for its great length of 450 meters and marvelous limestone formations. The innermost portions of the cave also contain narrow tunnels and enormous chambers filled with beautifully calcified stalagmites and stalactites. The experience of exploring Liat Prah Cave is like going to another world.

  • Location: Mawsmai – 55 km from Shillong
  • Best Time to Visit: October to May
  • Interesting Fact: The cave is a part of the limestone formations of East Khasi Hills District.

3. Mawsmai Cave

Meghalaya offers a treasure unlike any other- Mawsmai Cave. Mawsmai Cave is unique for its winding passageways and large chambers. Even though it is relatively accessible, the cave remains unexplored. Tourists love the variety of shapes that the stalactites take, which change from waterfalls to mythical beasts and animals. The cave is located near the city of Cherrapunji and goes deep into the hill, yet a larger portion of the cave still passes unnoticed.

  • Location: Near Cherrapunji, about 60 kilometers from Shillong
  • Best Time to Visit: October to April
  • Highlight: Limestone formations, stalactites and stalagmites

4. Siju Caves

Siju caves, located in the southern area of Garo Hills, is a hidden gem of Meghalaya. For explorers, these caves that are located along the banks of Simsang river are a paradise. The site is rich with ancient carvings, rare formations of stalagmites and stalactites, as well as a fauna that consists of a variety of bats. Wildlife enthusiasts and history buffs are sure to fall in love with the diverse ecosystem the area entails.

  • Location: 130 kilometers from Shillong
  • Best Time to Visit: November to February.
  • Known For: Bat populations and fossilized formations.

5. Sohra Caves

Sohra or Cherrapunji is well known for its delightful sceneries but is also a resting place of several caves that remain to be explored. The Sohra caves, particularly the ones which are a little away from the town, are a wonder of nature. Untouched beauty of the landscapes alone is enough to delight any traveler. The caves are located deep into the woods which involves a bit of trekking to get to it. When you enter the caves, you will marvel at the formations which have remained untouched for centuries. These marvelous caves are guaranteed to impress cave enthusiasts due to the amazing size and geological structures. 

  • Location: In and around Cherrapunji. 
  • Best Time To Visit: October to April. 
  • Unique Feature: Pristine and untouched environment. 

Final Thoughts

While all the caves near Shillong have been thoroughly studied, there still are several unexplored caves and Meghalaya’s caves and other geological phenomena surely do serve as wonders of the world. For cave enthusiasts seeking adventure, this region proudly flaunts its untouched pieces of beauty. From the seasoned spelunker to someone just looking for a new place to visit, these caves will without a doubt leave a lasting impression.

 

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