CAVES IN THE ABODE OF CLOUDS

Abstract

Meghalaya, as the name suggests it is ‘Adobe of Clouds’ and one of the heaviest rainfall areas. The continuous dripping actually hollowed out even mountains and Meghalaya is house for many famous caves too. Out of which, the Mawsimai cave (Krem Mawmluh) is the eighth longest cave of Meghalaya with a length of 7194 meter but only 150 meter is open for tourist. This paper is focused on these wonderful geological formations due to dissolved solution by water seeping in. A pre-visit research on calcareous caves of Yamaguchi, Japan made a strong visual impact. While going through series of photographs and a literature study focused on Yamaguchi Caves of Japan, it was visually experienced how a cave could be a non-haunting place rather a mesmerizing beauty!! But a practical experience in the Mawsimai cave of Meghalaya, India was completely different from what image was already set in mind. This paper deals with the comparison of what was thought to be experienced and what was actually experienced in the cave. It also incorporates some ideas and suggestions to improve the image of Indian caves among the future tourist and attempts to increase the footfall by incorporating simple changes. The geological formations have taken over decades to attain such rare and extraordinary forms. The entire cave is full of such beautiful marvels and just need a little attention for admiration.