Arwah Cave
"An Eocene limestone cave housing ancient marine fossils."
Arwah Cave is a large karst limestone cave system located in Sohra, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, at 1,300 meters above sea level. Renowned for its fossil deposits and limestone formations, the cave features a main gallery running over 300 meters underground.
The Fossils of the Eocene Sea
The defining feature of Arwah is the abundance of fossils embedded in its walls. Approximately 50 million years ago, during the Eocene epoch, this entire region was covered by the shallow waters of the ancient Tethys Ocean. Visitors can easily see the fossilized spiral shells of gastropods and coin-like shells of Nummulites preserved in the limestone.
Underground Rivers and Calcite Formations
The cave is an active karst system carved by the chemical dissolution of calcium carbonate by groundwater. Stalactites, stalagmites, and delicate calcite curtains hang from the ceiling. A freshwater stream runs through the lower levels, continuing to carve the cave floor.
Access and Eco-friendly Lighting
The approach from the parking lot is a scenic concrete walkway built along the edge of the cliff, winding through subtropical forest. Inside, a wooden boardwalk protects the cave floor from footprints. The cave is lit with low-intensity, low-heat LED lights to prevent the growth of harmful algae (lampenflora) on the limestone.
See this cave on our Offbeat Meghalaya Explorer Tour.
Insider Tips
- Bring a powerful flashlight: Although the main pathway is lit, a personal flashlight or phone light is extremely useful for highlighting fossil shells embedded in the walls.
- Hire a local guide: Local guides are inexpensive (around ₹200-₹300) and will show you the exact spots of the Eocene fossils (marine snails and clams) that you might otherwise walk right past.
- Walk the cliff-edge path: The 15-minute walkway from the parking area to the cave entrance offers spectacular views of the forested gorges and seatings along the way.
7-Day Meghalaya Tour Package: Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki & Mawphlang
Highlands, Living Root Bridges & Clear Waters
Visitor & Booking Protocol
Permit & Entry Check
No special state permit required for Indian citizens. Keep government photo ID ready at entrance.
Tickets & Cash Protocol
Entry desk is managed on-site. Carry small cash denominations (₹20, ₹50, ₹100) for entry and parking.
Certified Guide Desk
Authorized village community guides can be hired at the entry registration desk. Certified guide rates range between ₹800–₹1,500 depending on circuit and trail duration.
Timing & Departure Cutoff
Arrive during early morning hours (08:00–10:30 AM). Mountain trails, caves, and viewpoints generally stop inbound entry by 15:30 to ensure safe return before mountain dark.
Safety & Rules
- • Do not touch or scrape the fossils: The Eocene marine fossils are fragile and legally protected; do not damage the cave walls.
- • Do not litter inside the cave: Keep the fragile karst environment clean; carry all garbage back outside.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Seven Sisters Falls
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Best Time to Visit
Best time of day: Morning
Visitor Specs
How to Reach
Altitude & Terrain
Sohra Cliffs
7-Day Meghalaya Tour Package: Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki & Mawphlang
Highlands, Living Root Bridges & Clear Waters
Location
Lng: 91.712000
Plan Your Trip to Cherrapunji with Nezo
Combine Arwah Cave with living tribal heritage, scenic mountain vistas, and handpicked local stays on a private guided journey.