The Garden of Caves, located in Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya, in the Northeastern region, is a beautiful natural phenomenon that must be added to your bucket list. It is in a park surrounded by a green forest that boasts gorgeous scenery, allowing tourists to have an amazing natural experience. The park has impressive sites, such as caves and mesmerizing waterfalls. You cannot miss visiting this place on your trip to Meghalaya.
About The Garden Of Caves
Image Credit:Jaarvis 1997 for Wikimedia Commons
The Garden of Caves is a secret gem hidden away in the verdant hills of Cherrapunjee, commonly known as Sohra. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a nature lover, this place is a must-visit. Its unspoiled natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere provide the ideal balance of adventure and tranquillity.
It is often called Ka Bri Synrang and is a singular natural wonderland surrounded by amazing caves, tumbling waterfalls, and lush greenery. The local community looks after this picturesque location, ensuring its raw beauty is preserved and available to everyone.
Also Read: Caves In Cherrapunji
Places To Visit In The Garden Of Caves
The Garden of Caves, located in Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya, in the Northeastern region, is a beautiful, natural phenomenon that has to be added to your bucket list. It is situated in a park that is surrounded by green forest that boasts of beautiful scenery that allows tourists to have a fantastic experience in nature
1. Sum Syiem Falls
This place is in the park, also known as the Garden of Caves. It has a history of chiefs from ancient tribes who used to come to bathe in this waterfall. It is a unique structure as it has a huge rock known as the Maw Rain Briew that acts as a huge structure, hiding the bathing place and allowing the chiefs privacy.
Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 6 pm
Nearby attractions: Umiam Lake
2. Ka Synrang Syiem
Image Credit: Kartikeya Agarwal for Wikimedia Commons
Also known as the ‘King’s Cave’. The name comes from the fact that ancient kings or chief clans used to rest in these caves, which had rocks in the form of bed structures that provided the perfect spot to get some much-needed rest. This place has a rich history to learn and unique geological aspects; as you can see, many stalactites and stalagmites formed due to natural erosion from limestone occurring through thousands of years.
Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 6 pm
Nearby attractions: Dainthenal Falls
Related Post: Reasons To Visit Cherrapunji
3. U Mawdohnud
Image Credit: Ashwin Kumar for Wikimedia Commons
The name ‘U Mawdohnud’ translates to ‘Heart-shaped Stone’. This geographical wonder, located in the middle of the Garden of Caves in Cherrapunjee, attracts people all year round because of its heart-shaped shape. It is one of the most popular places in the park.
Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 6 pm
Nearby attractions: Agnigarh Hills
4. Arsdad Falls
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This is a beautiful waterfall in the Garden of Cave in Meghalaya. It is located on the southern side of the park. The name ‘Arsdad’ means ‘confluence’. The waterfall was named after this as the stream comprises two other streams, Dam Um and Um Lwai. This aspect adds charm to the already beautiful waterfall.
Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 6 pm
Nearby attractions: Bhairabi Temple
Related Post: Worlds Longest Sandstone Cave Discovered In Meghalaya
How To Reach The Garden Of Caves
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- By Air
The nearest airport is in Shillong, 52 km away. However, due to constant bad weather conditions, flights are often delayed. Moreover, these flights are only available to and from Kolkata. The best action plan would be to go to Guwahati Airport, as it is well-connected by flights from all major cities in India.
- By Rail
The closest railway station is in Guwahati, 180 km away. You can use a state bus or hire a taxi to reach Shillong.
- By Road
The best way to reach the Garden of Caves is by road. You can enjoy a lovely time with your friends and family on the road. Well-maintained and well-connected roads connect all major cities to Shillong, providing a smooth road to your destination.
Travelling Tips To Visit Garden Of Caves
- The entry fee for Garden of Caves is INR 20, so tourists are advised to come prepared.
- There is a lot to cover when you visit, so wearing comfortable shoes with a firm grip is necessary. The slopes can be slippery, as a few waterfalls in this park dampen the ground slightly.
- Always wear suitable clothes, according to the day’s weather. Wearing comfortable clothes will allow you to enjoy your day.
- The park’s staff works hard to keep it neat and clean. Therefore, tourists are expected not to litter the place to maintain its hygiene and beauty.
- If you want to spend more time on the road, travelling from Cherranpunjee is better than taking the route from Shillong. Taking the route from Shillong will result in spending more time on the road than in the park.
- The best time to visit the park is during the afternoon when you can catch the sunset and see its beautiful effect on the caves.
- Tourists using cameras must pay an extra INR 100.
- The caves are a place of calm and solitude, so maintaining silence is essential.
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Now that you have all the critical information you require for your trip to Meghalaya, it is time to book a trip to Meghalaya for a magical vacation with your loved ones. Explore the caves of Meghalaya and immerse yourself in their culture and lifestyle.
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Cover Image Credit: Sam Wilson for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Garden Of Caves
Can you swim in the waterfalls in the Garden of Caves?
Yes, it is allowed for tourists to swim in the waterfalls. It is safe.
When is the best time to visit the Garden of Caves?
Plan your travels so that you reach around the afternoon so that you can catch the sunset and watch the amazing view from the caves.
How is the weather in Shillong?
Usually, Shillong is on the colder side as it receives rainfall for the majority of the year, especially in July.
What kind of clothes should you carry to Shillong?
You should carry warm clothes such as long sleeves and a light jacket to shield yourself from the chilly weather. Always carry raincoats or an umbrella in case it starts raining.
When is the best time to visit Meghalaya?
The most amazing part of visiting the Garden of Caves is that you can visit it throughout the year. Though the monsoons are here from mid-June to September, that only makes the greenery of Shillong even more charming and beautiful.
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