Caves India 2nd time:Layout 1 01/11/13 7:19 PM Page 8
M E G H A LA Y A
CAVERS’ PARADISE
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Six
kilometers from Sohra lies the Mawsmai Cave, a limestone cave known for its stalactites and stalagmites covered with bright crystals. The cave has impressive formations of large passages and chambers, and is large enough to facilitate easy movement
(Clockwise from top) Cavers in Siju Cave and the inside views of Mawsmai Cave
PHOTOS: INDIAPICTURE
eghalaya is another Indian state blessed with pristine caves. Over 700 natural caves—including subcontinent’s longest cave system (22 km in length)—are located throughout its East Khasi, Jaintia and the South Garo Hills. The prime caves are Mawsmai, Krem Dam, Krem Liat Prah, Siju, Krem Um-Lawan and Krem Umshangktat. The attractions of the Khasi Hills are Krem Mawmluh, Krem Dam, Krem Lymput, Krem Mawjymbuin and Mawsmai caves. Six kilometers from Sohra lies the Mawsmai Cave, a limestone cave known for its stalactites and stalagmites covered with bright crystals. The cave has impressive formations of large passages and chambers. Krem Liat Prah, located in the Jaintia Hills, is the longest natural cave in India. The cave is one of approximately 150 known caves in the Shnongrim Ridge of the district. Its foremost feature is its enormous trunk passage, the Aircraft Hangar. Another amazing cave is Krem Chympe, situated at a walking distance from the village of Khaddum to Sielkan. A river cave, Krem Chympe would require swimming over a series of large and deep lakes, formed by the existence of over 50 natural dams. The cave is also known for a large colony of bats and possibly cave-adapted fish. The Garo Hills has Tetengkol Balwakol, a delight for spelunkers. Located north of Nengkhong village are two adjacent circular entrances that lead to a 5-km-long dendritic river cave blessed with a maze of stooping to walking size passages. A sizeable cave existing behind a small entrance surprises just anyone getting in! Siju Cave, located on the bank of the Simsang River, is another cave famous for impressive limestone formation and bats.
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