About Mawsmai Cave
Mawsmai Cave is a well-known limestone cave located near Mawsmai village in Sohra (Cherrapunji), East Khasi Hills district, Meghalaya. Situated about 6 km from Sohra town, it is one of the most accessible caves in Meghalaya. The cave is noted for its illuminated interior featuring stalactites, stalagmites and natural limestone formations, narrow passages and spacious chambers formed over millions of years, making it a popular tourist attraction.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a 150-metre long illuminated limestone cave with narrow entry and exit points, low ceilings and uneven rocky floors. Inside, there are spacious chambers and tight passages adorned with stalactites, stalagmites and calcite formations in varied shapes. The cave is artificially lit for tourists, surrounded by forested landscape near Sohra, and requires bending and careful walking in sections. Local guides are available at the entrance.
Key highlights
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One of the most accessible and illuminated caves in Meghalaya for general tourists
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Natural limestone formations including stalactites and stalagmites
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Narrow passages and spacious chambers inside a 150-metre long cave system
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Located close to Sohra town near other waterfalls and viewpoints
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Well-maintained tourist cave with artificial lighting and guided entry
History of Mawsmai Cave
Mawsmai Cave is a natural limestone cave formed over millions of years through dissolution of limestone and karst processes in the Khasi Hills. It is part of Meghalaya's extensive cave system, one of the longest in India, and is among the few caves developed and illuminated for tourism, showcasing the geological heritage of the region.
Culture & Context
Located in the Khasi Hills, the cave is part of the natural heritage and tourism identity of Sohra (Cherrapunji). Caves hold importance in the landscape of Meghalaya and are associated with the natural and ecological heritage of the Khasi community.
Route
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