About Mawsmai Cave
Mawsmai Cave (Krem Mawsmai) is a limestone cave in Mawsmai village near Sohra, East Khasi Hills, and the most accessible show cave in Meghalaya. Unlike most caves in the state, which need a guide and caving gear, Mawsmai has a fixed route with electric lighting, so ordinary visitors can walk through it in normal clothes. The cave system is longer than the public section, but visitors follow a marked passage of about 150 metres. Inside, water has shaped the limestone into stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone and fossil-like formations. Some chambers are tall and open, while other stretches are narrow and low enough that you need to stoop or squeeze sideways. It is a regular stop on a Sohra day trip from Shillong and pairs well with nearby Nohkalikai Falls, the Mawsmai Eco Park and Nohsngithiang (Seven Sisters) Falls, which are all within a short drive.
What to expect at Mawsmai Cave
Walk-through: A one-way lit route of about 150 m, entering at one end and exiting at the other. Conditions: Damp, uneven floor with water in places; a few tight squeezes and low ceilings. Not ideal for anyone uncomfortable in confined spaces. Facilities: Ticket counter, parking and small snack and souvenir stalls near the entrance. Local guides are available at the gate but not required. Tips: Wear shoes with grip, and keep a small torch for darker corners.
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
October to May
Monsoon (June–September): Sohra is among the wettest places in India; the cave can be very wet and slippery, and parts may close after heavy rain. Post-monsoon (October–November): Drier cave and green surroundings; a good time. Winter (December–February): Driest and most comfortable for walking through. Spring (March–May): Generally fine before the rains build. Go in the morning, ideally by 10 am, to avoid queues in the narrow passages.
Getting There
Mawsmai Cave is about 6 km from Sohra (Cherrapunji) market and roughly 55–58 km from Shillong, a drive of about 2 hours on the Shillong–Sohra road.
Mawsmai Cave is about 6 km from Sohra (Cherrapunji) market and roughly 55–58 km from Shillong, a drive of about 2 hours on the Shillong–Sohra road. The turn-off for Mawsmai village is signposted from the main road near Sohra, and cars park close to the cave entrance, leaving only a short walk. From Guwahati it is about 150 km, so it is best visited from a base in Shillong or Sohra. A private cab from Shillong can be booked with Tour Meghalaya, usually as part of a Sohra day trip.
Entry & Duration
Entry Fee: About ₹20–50 per person; camera charged extra
The walk through the lit section takes 20–30 minutes; allow 45 minutes to an hour including queues and the stalls outside.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the entry fee for Mawsmai Cave?
Recent sources quote roughly ₹20–50 per adult, with a small extra charge for cameras. Carry cash, as payment at the gate is usually cash only.
How far is Mawsmai Cave from Shillong?
About 55–58 km, roughly 2 hours by road via Sohra. It is about 6 km from Sohra market.
What are the Mawsmai Cave timings?
Most sources list about 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. Last entry may be earlier, so arrive before 5 pm.
Is Mawsmai Cave safe for children and older people?
The route is lit and short, but the floor is wet and uneven with some narrow, low sections. Children and older visitors usually manage with care; it is not suitable for those with claustrophobia or limited mobility.
How long is Mawsmai Cave?
The section open to visitors is about 150 metres long and takes 20–30 minutes to walk through.
What is the best time to visit Mawsmai Cave?
October to May, when the cave is drier. Avoid the heaviest monsoon weeks, when the passages are slippery.
