Overview
About Kotsati Cave
Krem Kotsati is a limestone river cave at Lumshnong village in East Jaintia Hills, just off NH6. Its main entrance sits in the middle of the village and is reached through a deep pool, so visitors have to swim to get in. Inside are underground streams, narrow tunnels and wider chambers. The cave is part of the Kotsati-Umlawan system, which caving surveys list at about 21.5 km with 24 entrances, making it one of the longest cave systems in India after Krem Liat Prah. Krem Kotsati on its own has been recorded at about 3.65 km with eight entrances, and some sections can only be crossed by swimming or with an inflatable boat. This is not a show cave with lights or walkways. It is a wet, adventure cave best done with an experienced local guide, and the entrance is submerged in the monsoon. Lumshnong is also a base for other caves in the area, including Krem Umlawan.
On the day
What to expect at Kotsati Cave
Entrance: A deep pool in the village; you swim in, and villagers also use the spot for washing. Inside: Streams, wading sections, narrow passages and larger chambers; no lighting or railings. Gear: Swimwear, a headlamp with spare batteries, a helmet and shoes with grip. Non-swimmers should not attempt it. Guide: Hire an experienced local guide in Lumshnong. Safety: Do not enter after heavy rain; water levels can rise.
Before you go
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
November to March
Winter (December to February) is the safest time, with the lowest water levels in the cave. Post-monsoon (October to November) and spring (March to April) are also possible, but check water levels with a guide. In the monsoon (June to September) the entrance is submerged and the cave should not be entered. Go in the morning so you have daylight for the drive back.
Getting There
Lumshnong is about 120 to 130 km from Shillong, roughly 3.5 to 4 hours by road.
Lumshnong is about 120 to 130 km from Shillong, roughly 3.5 to 4 hours by road. Take NH6 east via Jowai and Khliehriat; Lumshnong lies on the highway beyond Khliehriat, and the cave entrance is in the village itself. Taxis can be hired from Jowai or Khliehriat. A private cab from Shillong can be booked with Tour Meghalaya. There is no long walk, but the final approach into the cave is a swim through the entrance pool.
Entry & Duration
A guided swim-and-wade trip into Krem Kotsati takes a few hours depending on how far you go; combined with the drive it is a full day from Shillong.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Krem Kotsati?
Krem Kotsati is at Lumshnong village in East Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya, on NH6 beyond Khliehriat.
How far is Krem Kotsati from Shillong?
It is about 120 to 130 km from Shillong, roughly 3.5 to 4 hours by road via Jowai and Khliehriat.
Do you need to swim in Krem Kotsati?
Yes. The main entrance is through a deep pool, and some sections inside need swimming or a small inflatable boat.
How long is Krem Kotsati?
Krem Kotsati alone has been recorded at about 3.65 km. It is part of the Kotsati-Umlawan system, surveyed at about 21.5 km.
Best time to visit Krem Kotsati?
November to March, when water levels are low. The entrance is submerged in the monsoon.
