Mawjymbuin Cave Mawsynram
Discover Mawjymbuin Cave in Mawsynram, home to a naturally formed Shivling and stunning geological formations, nestled in the wettest place on Earth.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Greener landscapes, less rain
Mawjymbuin Cave Mawsynram
Best Time
Greener landscapes, less rain
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Mawjymbuin Cave in Mawsynram, home to a naturally formed Shivling and stunning geological formations, nestled in the wettest place on Earth.
"A must-visit if you are devout worshipper of Shiva, water keeps on dripping in the Shivling from above."
waterproof gear is a must! :umbrella:
Always carry raincoats and waterproof bags, as Mawsynram receives heavy rainfall year-round.
Respect the sacred site :pray:
While the cave is open for tourism, religious rituals are restricted. Observe with reverence.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Natural Shivling
Inside Mawjymbuin Cave
Witness a magnificent stalagmite formation resembling a Shivling, with water naturally dripping from the cave ceiling.
Stalactite and Stalagmite Formations
Throughout Mawjymbuin Cave
Marvel at the intricate and diverse rock formations sculpted by nature over millennia within the cave.
Mawsynram's Lush Surroundings
Around Mawsynram village
Experience the verdant beauty of Meghalaya, known for its stunning landscapes and the title of the wettest place on Earth.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Rain
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
waterproof gear is a must! :umbrella:
Always carry raincoats and waterproof bags, as Mawsynram receives heavy rainfall year-round.
Respect the sacred site :pray:
While the cave is open for tourism, religious rituals are restricted. Observe with reverence.
Wear comfortable shoes :athletic_shoe:
The path to the cave involves a few steps. Sturdy footwear will make your exploration easier.
Capture the natural beauty :camera_with_flash:
The cave's formations and the surrounding greenery offer great photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
waterproof gear is a must! :umbrella:
Always carry raincoats and waterproof bags, as Mawsynram receives heavy rainfall year-round.
Respect the sacred site :pray:
While the cave is open for tourism, religious rituals are restricted. Observe with reverence.
Wear comfortable shoes :athletic_shoe:
The path to the cave involves a few steps. Sturdy footwear will make your exploration easier.
Capture the natural beauty :camera_with_flash:
The cave's formations and the surrounding greenery offer great photo opportunities.
Check entry fees :ticket:
There's a small entry and parking fee. Keep some cash handy for these.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the natural Shivling formation in Mawjymbuin Cave, often describing it as a blessed and amazing experience due to the naturally dripping water. While the cave is a significant religious site for many, current restrictions on rituals are noted. The natural beauty of the cave and its surroundings are consistently praised.
"Naturally Shiva Linga has been formed inside the cave, true faith of hinduism 🕉️
Feeling blessed to visit this place"
Saurav Das
"Beautiful cave of Mahadev. There’s a shivling here where drop by drop water falls from the ceiling
But unfortunately we can’t do abhishek or offer milk or water"
Gurpreet
"Really a great place... Feels amazing... Even though pouring water or milk is not allowed, water keeps on dripping in the Shivling from above. A must visit if you are devout worshipper of Shiva."
Himan Raj
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mawjymbuin Cave is located in Mawsynram, about a 60 km drive from Shillong. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus. The journey offers scenic views of Meghalaya's lush landscapes.
Yes, GPS navigation systems will typically guide you to the correct spot. There is also ample parking available near the cave entrance.
Hiring a local taxi for the day is a convenient way to explore Mawsynram and its attractions, including Mawjymbuin Cave.
Local buses run from Shillong to Mawsynram, but they can be crowded and less frequent. Taxis offer more flexibility.
Mawsynram is renowned as the wettest place on Earth, receiving the highest average annual rainfall.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cave is generally open from 9 AM to 4 PM. It's advisable to confirm timings locally as they can sometimes vary.
Yes, there is a nominal entry fee for adults, typically around Rs 50, along with a parking fee.
Currently, religious rituals like abhishek or offering milk/water are not permitted inside the cave. The cave is accessible for tourism.
Advance booking is generally not required for Mawjymbuin Cave. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance.
The cave involves a short descent with a few steps. Visitors with mobility issues might find it challenging.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The primary attraction is the naturally formed Shivling, a stalagmite that has water dripping onto it from the cave ceiling, creating a sacred ambiance. 
A visit to the cave itself is quite short, usually taking around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how long you spend admiring the formations.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces and a few steps. Waterproof clothing is highly recommended due to Mawsynram's climate.
Basic facilities might be available, but it's always a good idea to use restrooms before arriving at the cave site.
The natural dripping of water from the cave ceiling onto the Shivling is considered a divine 'dhara' by devotees, adding to the spiritual aura of the site.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the cave, but it's always best to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography that might disturb the natural environment or other visitors.
Focus on capturing the unique stalactite and stalagmite formations, especially the natural Shivling with the water drip. The interplay of light and shadow can create dramatic shots.
A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the cave's expanse. Given the potentially low light, a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod might be beneficial, though tripods may be cumbersome.
While generally permitted, be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially if other visitors are praying or meditating.
The surrounding landscapes of Mawsynram are incredibly picturesque, especially after rain. Capture the rolling hills and mist for stunning travel photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Given Mawsynram's status as the wettest place on Earth, ensure kids are dressed in waterproof clothing and wear sturdy, non-slip shoes. The surrounding areas also offer beautiful, albeit often wet, natural scenery that families can enjoy. Pack snacks and water, as facilities might be limited.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Visitors are encouraged to approach the site with reverence and respect for its sacred significance. The journey to Mawsynram itself, through the verdant hills of Meghalaya, can also be a spiritual experience for those seeking peace and connection with nature.
🚶 Adventure & Nature Enthusiasts
+1Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding lush landscapes of Mawsynram, the wettest place on Earth. Be prepared for the elements by packing appropriate gear, and embrace the adventure that comes with exploring such a unique natural environment. The drive to Mawsynram itself offers stunning vistas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Mawjymbuin Cave
The constant dripping of water, rich in dissolved minerals like calcium carbonate, leads to the formation of stalactites (hanging from the ceiling) and stalagmites (rising from the floor). The most famous formation, the Shivling, is a stalagmite that has been shaped by this geological process. The unique environment within the cave, with its consistent moisture and mineral-rich water, is what allows these intricate formations to develop and persist. +1This natural sculpting creates a breathtaking underground landscape. Visitors can observe a variety of shapes and sizes of rock formations, each telling a story of geological time. The cave's formation is a testament to the powerful, yet slow, forces of nature. Understanding the geological processes involved enhances the appreciation of the cave's natural artistry and its significance as a natural wonder.
Spiritual Significance and Current Access
However, it's important to note that while the cave is accessible for tourism, the local village council (Dorbar Shnong) has imposed a ban on religious rituals within the cave. This decision, aimed at managing the site and potentially addressing disputes concerning religious practices, means that activities like abhishek or offering milk and water are not permitted. The cave remains open for visitors to appreciate its natural beauty and spiritual aura from a respectful distance.
Mawsynram: The Wettest Place on Earth
This abundant rainfall contributes to the lush, verdant landscapes that surround Mawsynram and Meghalaya. The constant moisture is also instrumental in the formation of caves like Mawjymbuin, as water plays a crucial role in eroding limestone and creating intricate geological structures. While the rain is a defining characteristic of Mawsynram, it also means visitors should always be prepared for wet weather.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit