Exploring the Spiritual Caves of Meghalaya
The state of Meghalaya, with its very particular climate and geography, has been able to create some distinct geological formations that today serve as major landmarks and tourist attractions. One such geological formation is caves, with there being many caves and cave formations that are not only famous for their beauty and unique structures, but also have spiritual significance for the local communities.
Many of these caves are open to the public for exploration, and they’re wonderful places to understand the complexity of nature and the natural environment.
The Krem Mawjymbuin Cave is located about half a kilometer away from Mawsynram village, which in its entrance chamber has a stalactite over a female stalagmite that together match the appearance of a Shiv Linga. This has made it a sacred site for Hindus, and many devotees and travelers visit it to pray.
Ka Bri Ki Synrang, or Garden of Caves, as it is alternatively known, is a natural cave system in Jaintia Hills with intricate rock formations. It is a popular spot for adventurous tourists, and has cultural and spiritual significance with the local community. One can visit it to learn about the legends and mythology surrounding the cave and see the beautiful interiors.
The Krem Mawmluh Cave is located near Cherrapunji, and is one of the more famous caves of Meghalaya. Its entrance can be found by following a river behind the Mawmluh Cherra Cement works, which runs for about two hundred metres downstream before disappearing underground. One is advised to be careful in the summer months, when the main sink of the cave turns into black quicksand, and research and take alternative routes to explore the place and its rock formations.
The Krem Liah Prat cave is the longest natural cave in India, part of the Shnongrim ridge in the Jaintia Hills district. This cave is currently being explored as part of an expedition project and has been confirmed to be at least twenty five kilometers long with more caves being connected as the expedition continues.
Krem Syndai is a cave that holds spiritual significance for Hindu sadhus, some of whom come all the way from Nepal to see it. There are stalagmite and stalactite formations all along this cave.
Nature lovers and adventure lovers alike are sure to love visiting these places, as the natural caves of Meghalaya are a testament to the power and abilities of the earth to create beautiful things, and man’s ability to find beauty and meaning in those things. Exploring these caves, when done with caution and reverence, is bound to be an unforgettable experience for anyone.
