Krem Puri Cave Survival: Myths, Risks, and How to Prepare

5 minutes read

They say no one truly conquers Krem Puri. You don’t explore this cave, you survive it.

If you’re a traveller with an appetite for mystery and adventure, or you’re a history nerd wanting to link rocks to eras, maybe you’re a nature lover drawn to hidden ecosystems, or like one of those geology buffs searching for something rare, then the name Krem Puri cave should definitely be on your radar.

Interestingly, the name “Krem Puri” itself means “cave of the fairies” in the local Khasi language — a fitting title given its mysterious, otherworldly aura. Locals believe that spirits or ancient guardians protect the cave, adding a touch of legend to its scientific allure.

KREM PURI CAVE: THE WORLD’S LONGEST SANDSTONE CAVE

Imagine stepping into a world where you will find dinosaur fossils, wildlife that thrives in the dark, rivers, hikes, cliffs, ledges, suicide point (?!), a maze of boulders where sometimes you will have to crawl between narrow passages. Imagine being a witness to something that’s been shaped for millions of years and still holds so many secrets. Plus– a very major point for gatekeepers– not many people are daring to take on this adventure so major points to you! 

In the East Khasi Hills of Mawsynram, Meghalaya, lies this gorgeous geographical marvel at an altitude of 4,025ft (1227m) above sea level and stretching for over 24 km. Krem Puri Cave is proclaimed to be the world’s longest sandstone cave – a sandstone-cave, not the usual limestone variety ( they are less common, and like, not-so-hospitable to large cave-systems cus of harder mechanical constraints, less dissolution), any extensive sandstone cave becomes very special. The exceedingly complex inner workings of the cave have fascinated spaceologists and have drawn visitors from all over the world.

In this blog, we will walk you through what makes the Krem Puri cave so interesting to the world, to you as a traveler and explorer and how you can go about exploring it. Stick till the end and make yourself more educated than you were yesterday.

KREM PURI CAVE: WHAT’S SO INTERESTING ABOUT IT?

Well, let’s just say that after reading this, if you DON’T find it interesting, then YOU are the one who is absolutely boring and should probably consider having a character development.

This is no ordinary cave system. Discovered in 2016, the significance is two-fold: one, for India and the Northeast region, it adds a globally unique geological record; two, for world speleology (cave science)  as sandstone caves of this scale are extremely rare, so this becomes a reference point.

In 2018, after extensive mapping and surveying, MAA (Meghalaya Adventurers’ Association) announced something groundbreaking — Krem Puri Cave had surpassed all known records, officially becoming the world’s longest sandstone cave, stretching 24,583 meters. 

To put it in perspective, it’s even longer than the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave in Belize and more extensive than the famous Krem Liat Prah, another record-breaking cave in Meghalaya. Some say that the mapping is so complex that the cave might be even bigger than what’s mapped currently.

So what lies inside Krem Puri Cave?

• Dino Remains, anyone? Researchers have discovered fossils of marine animals, including ancient fish and crustaceans, proving that this region was once submerged under a vast ocean. Fossils of Mosasaurus from 66-67 million years ago have also been found, which got paleontologists around the world go crazy!
• But that’s not all. Explorers have reported unique cave fauna that thrives in the dark recesses- from albino spiders and crickets to rare species of bats.
• Stalactites, stalagmites and flowstones- formations on the caves that really excite geography nerds. 
• A damn beach inside the cave! It is the world’s longest sandstone cave and of course, there lies a beach inside it!
• Inside the architectural formation is crazy. You’ll find huge boulders, narrow squeezes, crawl passages, and large corridors. It’s not smooth-walled. For instance, near the entrance, you must crawl on your belly, hands and knees. Explorers say getting lost is a real risk and one of the initial explorers, Brian D Kharpran, says that “If you get lost inside, you may never be able to find your way out.”.
• Scientists think it is not possible that the cave was used as a place of inhabitation because of how rainy Meghalaya is but there is evidence that there were human activities involved here, probably military shelter, burial grounds and hunting camps. 
• So for geology enthusiasts: this is a textbook (or field-trip) example of how intense rainfall + sandstone + time = something spectacular. For adventurers: the fact that the cave system is complex means the “explore” part is real, not tame.

Exploring Krem Puri Cave- The Largest Sandstone Cave in the World

• Getting there: Road transport from Shillong. Krem Puri location falls near Laitsohum village, about 30 kilometers from Mawsynram town. 
• From Shillong, travelers can join guided expeditions organized by local adventure groups like the Meghalaya Adventurers’ Association and others. It is almost mandatory to take a guide with you because there are real dangers involved. 
• Don’t visit during monsoon season as it can get complicated for you. Carry proper gear- you are not on a tourist site but an expedition– good headlamp, helmet, waterproof jacket, gloves, sturdy boots and other things that the guide requests you to. 
• Expect to crawl, climb, and wade through streams. It’s physically demanding, but the reward — seeing rock patterns that date back millions of years — is damn unforgettable. This cave is not for first, third, or tenth timers. It’s for pros. 
• Consider staying overnight in a nearby village or homestay to fully appreciate the region rather than rushing a day trip as it can take more than half a day to even remotely explore the krem puri cave properly. 
• Respect the environment: leave no litter, don’t mark walls, don’t disturb fossils or wildlife. In short, don’t be a goddamn jackass to your world. For real, like, what have you accomplished in life if you can’t have basic civic sense? Don’t mind my language. I live in Delhi and things are shitty here. 

What You Can Do Around Krem Puri?

If you’re planning a trip to Krem Puri Cave, combine it with other attractions in the region. Meghalaya is known for its living root bridges, limestone caves, and waterfalls — all within driving distance.

• Mawsmai Cave: Located near Cherrapunjee, this limestone cave offers a more accessible introduction to Meghalaya’s cave systems.
• Mawlynnong Village: Known as Asia’s cleanest village, it’s a perfect stopover for travelers heading back toward Shillong.
• Living Root Bridges of Nongriat: These natural marvels, made from tangled aerial roots of rubber trees, are among Meghalaya’s most iconic sights.
• Nohkalikai Falls: The tallest plunge waterfall in India, located just a short drive away from Mawsynram.
• For those with more time, local homestays in Mawsynram or Laitsohum offer a chance to experience Khasi hospitality, traditional cuisine, and the slow pace of village life.

Why Krem Puri Cave Matters?

Beyond its physical size and geological beauty, Krem Puri Cave holds cultural and scientific significance. It represents the unexplored potential of India’s natural heritage and the dedication of local explorers who continue to map and protect these underground worlds.

Each new expedition adds to our understanding of Earth’s history — and reminds us of how much remains hidden beneath our feet. In an age of satellites and smartphones, Krem Puri is proof that there are still frontiers left to discover.

So, now that you’re through with it, dare to explore the dark, deep and dangerous Krem Puri cave?

FAQs About Krem Puri Cave