AdventureKayaking on the Umngot
Paddle on one of India's clearest rivers with a local guide.
WhereMawsmai village, near Sohra
From SohraAbout 6 km
RouteAbout 150 m, lit
Time20 to 40 minutes
Best monthsOctober to April
ParentsSome effort, tight spots
Check before you go: Timings, fees and access can change with the season, festivals and weather. Check the latest timings before you go; on our trips we confirm them for you.
Mawsmai Cave is a limestone cave about 6 km from Sohra (Cherrapunji) in Meghalaya. Visitors follow a lit route of about 150 metres, which takes 20 to 40 minutes. It is the easiest cave in the area, though a few narrow spots need stooping, so it suits most visitors but not everyone.
Inside the Mawsmai caves
Mawsmai is a limestone cave shaped over a very long time by water. The open part runs about 150 metres and is lit throughout, so you can see the rock formations, ripples and small chambers without a torch.
The cave continues further, but visitors stay on the marked route.
Is it okay for parents?
Some effortStepsSome uneven steps
WalkingShort, with a few narrow spots where you bend
ToiletsNear the parking
Fine for most parents. Floors can be wet, so wear shoes with good grip.
How tight is the cave?
Most of the route is easy, but in a few places the passage narrows and you need to stoop or edge sideways. The floor is damp and can be slippery.
- Good for: most adults and older children.
- Skip it if: you dislike tight spaces, have knee or back trouble, or are travelling with very young children.
- Wear: shoes with good grip.
Visiting the Sohra limestone cave
The cave is a short drive from Sohra market and fits easily between Nohkalikai Falls and other Sohra stops. A small entry fee is collected at the gate. After the monsoon is the nicest time, when the forest around is green and the cave is drier inside.
Veg and Jain food
Vegetarian food is available in Cherrapunji town.
Experiences nearby
Do more with locals
Adventure
Must doWalk to the Riwai living root bridge
A short, easy walk to a bridge grown from living tree roots. A good choice for parents.
Food & peopleKhasi home lunch in Mawlynnong
Sit down for a home-cooked Khasi lunch with a family in one of the cleanest villages in India.
AdventureFAQ
Mawsmai Caves: your questions
How long does the Mawsmai caves walk take?
About 20 to 40 minutes for the lit route, plus a few minutes from the parking.
Is Mawsmai cave suitable for kids and elders?
Older children and fit adults manage well. Very young kids, elders with knee trouble and anyone claustrophobic should skip it.
Do I need a guide for the Mawsmai caves?
No. The route is marked and lit, so you can walk it on your own.
Is Mawsmai open in the monsoon?
Usually yes, but it is wetter and more slippery inside. Wear shoes with good grip.
Which is better, Mawsmai or Arwah cave in Cherrapunji?
Mawsmai is shorter and easier. Arwah is larger with fossils and a longer forest walk; we visit Arwah on Day 2 of our trip.
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