Overview
About Krem Liat Prah Cave
Krem Liat Prah is a limestone cave on the Shnongrim ridge in East Jaintia Hills, near the villages of Shnongrim and Nongkhlieh. It is the longest known cave in India and is often described as the longest natural cave in South Asia. Surveyed length figures range from about 31 km to over 34 km, and the number keeps rising as cavers connect it with neighbouring caves. The ridge alone has about 150 known caves. The cave has been explored and mapped since the 1990s by the Meghalaya Adventurers' Association with international cavers under the Caving in the Abode of the Clouds project. Its best-known feature is the 'Aircraft Hangar', a very large trunk passage. Elsewhere there are stalactites, stalagmites, cold streams and tight sections that need wading and squeezing. It is also called the Cave of the Tiger, and local stories link it to tigers and spirits. Krem Liat Prah is not a tourist cave. There are no paths, lights or railings, and only short sections near the entrances are realistic for non-cavers, with an experienced local guide.
On the day
What to expect at Krem Liat Prah Cave
Access: No tourist infrastructure; entry is for experienced cavers or guided groups only. Aircraft Hangar: A huge trunk passage, the cave's best-known section, deep inside. Terrain: Wading, crawling and squeezing through narrow gaps on uneven rock. Gear: Helmet, two light sources, boots with grip and clothes that can get wet. Guide: Arrange an experienced local guide in Shnongrim or Nongkhlieh; do not enter alone. Surroundings: Forested ridge with many other caves.
Before you go
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
November to March
The dry season, roughly November to March, is the only sensible time for cave entry; expeditions to the ridge are usually run in February and March. October and April can work if there has been no recent rain. Avoid the monsoon (June to September), when sections flood quickly and the approach road becomes difficult. Begin early in the day and agree a return time with someone outside the cave.
Getting There
The Shnongrim ridge is about 120 km from Shillong, roughly 4 hours by road.
The Shnongrim ridge is about 120 km from Shillong, roughly 4 hours by road. Take NH6 east via Jowai towards Khliehriat, then turn off onto rural roads to Shnongrim; the last section is a rough rural road best done in an SUV in dry weather. From Nongkhlieh, the cave is a further 7 to 8 km on foot or by guided trek. A private cab from Shillong can be booked with Tour Meghalaya. Confirm the exact entrance and route with a local guide before setting out.
Entry & Duration
A guided visit to the entrance area takes half a day; deeper exploration is a multi-day expedition for trained cavers.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the longest cave in India?
Krem Liat Prah in East Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya, is the longest known cave in India, with surveyed lengths reported between about 31 km and over 34 km.
Where is Krem Liat Prah?
It is on the Shnongrim ridge in East Jaintia Hills, near Shnongrim and Nongkhlieh villages.
How far is Krem Liat Prah from Shillong?
The Shnongrim area is about 120 km from Shillong, roughly 4 hours by road via Jowai and NH6.
Can tourists go inside Krem Liat Prah?
It is not a developed tourist cave. Short guided visits near an entrance are possible for fit visitors, but deeper sections are for trained cavers.
Best time to visit Krem Liat Prah?
November to March, in the dry season. Avoid the monsoon, when passages can flood.
