Have You Heard Of Krem Blang, The Limestone Caves Of Meghalaya?

Meghalaya is widely celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty, characterised by living root bridges, expansive lush green valleys, enchanting hills, spectacular waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes. This northeastern Indian state has become a magnet for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, as it offers a diverse landscape that is rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage.

One of the state's standout features is its impressive network of caves, which has earned Meghalaya the right to boast of having the largest number of caves in India. These caves, formed from limestone and sandstone, present a fascinating subterranean world ripe for exploration. Among caving enthusiasts, Meghalaya is considered a premier destination, offering unique experiences that cater to both seasoned spelunkers and curious beginners.

About Krem Blang

A highlight among these caves is Krem Blang, nestled in the picturesque Jaintia Hills. This limestone cave is renowned for its stunning geological formations, which have evolved over thousands of years into a captivating display of stalactites and stalagmites. Krem Blang promises adventurers not only an exhilarating journey into the depths of the earth, but also an opportunity to appreciate the raw beauty of nature.

Krem Blang is 272.93 m long and has a single large passage that traverses beneath a slope. The cave's interior largely maintains a consistent profile, with a width of seven meters and a height of nine meters, which provides ample space for exploration. As one ventures approximately 50 m into the cave, one will encounter a notable feature: a short but navigable squeeze created by calcite formations. This section requires careful manoeuvring, but it is manageable for most explorers.

Once this squeeze is successfully navigated, the passage transitions with a gentle curve, revealing a straight gallery extending for an impressive 200 m. The gallery offers an exhilarating sense of space, showcasing the cave's unique geological features and providing a captivating experience for adventurers and caving enthusiasts alike.

The approach to the cave itself is rewarding; visitors are treated to scenic treks through verdant landscapes that enhance the overall experience. Inside, a large passage reveals the cave's expansive interior, showcasing the awe-inspiring natural wonders sculpted by time, water, and minerals. This combination of stunning outdoor adventures and unique geological phenomena makes the cave a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the adventure and beauty of the state's natural wonders.

Preserved In Philately

The cultural and geological significance of the caves has been recognised and celebrated through philately. In August 2017, India Post released a captivating set of four stamps dedicated to some remarkable caves in Meghalaya. Each stamp highlights the unique features of four distinct caves: Krem Blang, known for its impressive limestone formations, stalactites and stalagmites; Krem Lymput, renowned for its stunning underground chambers; Krem Sydai, which boasts intricate rock formations; and Krem Khung, celebrated for its rich biodiversity and archaeological importance. This philatelic tribute not only showcases the natural beauty of these caves, but also aims to raise awareness about the geological heritage of Meghalaya and promote the region's ecotourism potential.

Meghalaya boasts an extensive subterranean ecosystem, containing some of the longest and deepest caves in India. Out of the ten longest caves in the country, nine are located in this northeastern state. The remarkable Krem Puri, for instance, is the world's longest-known sandstone cave at 24.5 kms.

Then there are the Mawmluh Caves located in the East Khasi Hills district. In 2022, these caves made it to the first 100 geological heritage sites listed under the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) by UNESCO. 

The Krem Chympe, which stretches for 20.4 kms, ranks as the fifth-longest cave in the Jaintia Hills. Its complex passages, unique limestone formations, and rich biodiversity make it a natural wonder, making it an ideal destination for anyone interested in spelunking. Read more about it here.

Pro Tip

For those planning to visit Krem Blang, it is highly advisable to hire a knowledgeable guide to navigate the cave's intricate passages safely, as some sections are narrow and could pose challenges to the unprepared.

Getting There

The nearest airport to Jaintia Hills (specifically Jowai) is Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), located in Umroi, near Umiam lake. While Guwahati's Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) is also nearby, Shillong Airport is generally considered the closest. 

The nearest railway station is Guwahati Railway Station located in Assam. It is about 182 km away from the Head Quarter of East Jaintia Hills District.