Exploring the Mawsmai Caves, Meghalaya

"The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek." ~ Joseph Campbell

I have always wanted to go on a cave excursion to see what lies within the old caves. Being with Nature has always taught me something or the other. So, I could envision that an underground cave excursion would not only be an adventurous experience, but also a metaphorical journey. When I heard about Mawsmai Caves of Meghalaya, I was determined to explore the cave. And so was my father. So the next day, we both planned to explore the cave system of northeast India.  

Mawsmai Cave is located in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya, about 6km from the main town of Cherapunji. 

It is one of the most accessible caves in Meghalaya that travelers can explore even without a guide. However, a sane mind and a courageous heart are needed for the underground excursion. 

Before taking the staircase to reach the cave, we had to buy tickets from the ticket counter. There was a board on which instructions to the visitors were clearly given. The map of the Mawsmai cave was also included on the board. 

We had to take the staircase to reach the cave opening. Plenty of tourists were taking photographs outside the cave. Seeing the spacious opening of the cave, no one can tell that it would soon squeeze into a narrow lane.

If there were 50 people outside the cave, a maximum of 5 people went inside the cave to explore it. We were told that the Mawsmai cave is a one-way narrow road. Tourists need to enter from one end and keep walking until they reach the other end. 

Although the cave looked gigantic, I was determined to explore it. We were told that the cave is lit with electricity. Therefore, we do not need to carry candles with us. Moreover, it meant that we can observe the colors and patterns of each and every rock formation. 

The cave looked beautiful and inviting. I saw a few college-goers entering the cave with a lot of enthusiasm. My father and I followed them after taking a few pictures. We knew that as the light inside the cave would be minimal, it will perhaps not be possible to take many pictures.

The weather was quite pleasant as it was a sunny day in December. I was excited to embark on the thrilling adventure of my life. 

Once we entered the cave, we noticed that the pathway is getting narrower. At some places, we had to bend and squeeze our bodies in order to get through. 

I realized that obese people would have a hard time exploring the cave because some passages are too narrow. Fitness is an important criterion to get through the smaller openings of the cave, without getting hurt. We also had to climb a few rock formations in order to walk forward. 

A few rock formations looked like the gigantic feet of elephants. There was no option of going back. The only way was to move forward with hope and courage in the heart. 

The rock formations glinted beautifully in the light. We could find water dripping from the tips of the rocks. Mawsmai Caves helped me understand the powerful force of Nature that created such hard limestones. 

As the realization dawned on me, I surrendered to the beautiful, mystifying force of Nature. And once I surrendered to it, the rest of the journey became much easier. 

I was no longer being desperate to come outside the cave.  Rather, I observed each and every stone formation without the fear of being trapped inside the cave. Yes, I was able to overcome my fear with every step I took. 

Although the length of the cave is only 150 meter, it feels like a long journey due to the narrow passages and gigantic rock formations that do not allow a person to walk faster. 

Finally, we noticed a beam of sunlight that made us squeal with delight. Once we came outside the cave, we couldn't help celebrate our successful cave excursion. My father and I took a selfie with the cave. It was indeed an unforgettable experience, a metaphorical journey that taught me so many important life lessons. 

When we are trapped in a problematic situation (cave), we often feel that it will never change (never-ending journey). But if we walk forward with hope and courage in the heart, we will notice the ray of light at the end of the tunnel. At the same time, if we enjoy each and every scene that we come across without cribbing about the problem, we will have great stories to tell later. 

We explored the nearby forest after the cave excursion. I knew that this underground experience will always stay with me, making me a better, patient, courageous, and resilient human being. I have always believed that Nature has answers to all our questions. Exploring the Mawsmai Caves gave me not only a beautiful experience that I can talk about but also provided answers to the questions I was contemplating during that time. 

I hope you enjoyed reading about my cave excursion. In my next travel post, I will take you to another beautiful place in Meghalaya. You can also check out my photo essay on Laitlum, the Grand Canyon in Meghalaya. 

Have you ever gone for a cave excursion or embarked on any other adventure while traveling? 

Do you feel Nature is the best teacher?

Adventure to Mt. Kilimanjaro

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If you are an adventurous soul who seeks adventure constantly, the Mt. Kilimanjaro trek might be on your bucket list. Mt. Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa (19,340) that soars above the verdant tea plantations and the low hills of Tanzania. This once-in-a-lifetime trek will reward you with extraordinary views and breathtaking sunrises that you won’t be able to forget as long as you live.

Highlights of the Mt. Kilimanjaro Trek

Doesn’t it sound absolutely thrilling to climb the tallest mountain in the world once in your life? If you take the Mt. Kilimanjaro trek, you will be able to climb the world’s tallest mountain and sleep on its floor. You will be able to explore the beautiful rain forests, lava formations, heather moor and glaciers. You can also know about the unique fauna and flora of the mountain from the local guides.

Preparing for the trek

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro requires physical fitness. You need to be physically fit to climb the tallest mountain in the world. If you have a fit body, you can definitely withstand the stress of hiking and camping for days. If you have hiked before, it will be easier for you to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It is recommended by experts to train yourself for climbing the mountain at least two months before your departure. If you have never gone hiking, you can train yourself by going for brisk walks and taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

Planning your Mt. Kilimanjaro trek

Planning an adventure to Mount Kilimanjaro sounds like a daunting task, but Mojhi is there to solve all your problems. Once you decide to fulfill your dream of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, you need to send all your details to Mojhi and they will take care of the arrangements of Kilimanjaro climbing.

At first, you need to select the route that you have chosen for climbing the mountain. If you are unable to decide the route, Mojhi will suggest the best possible route after studying all your requirements. Next, you have to tell them how big your group is or if you are going single. Then, you have to mention the dates between which you can go for the trek. Finally, you need to drop your email ID and phone number so that they can contact you with the best quotes.Follow the Facebook Page of Mojhi for regular updates.

Live the adventure!

Your adventure to Mount Kilimanjaro will be perfect when you plan it with Mojhi. They will arrange everything for you in the best possible manner. They have an awesome customer service that is there to answer all your queries. Their quick and professional response will let you go on your dream trek without any hassle.

The snow-capped summit of Mount Kilimanjaro and the spectacular views will mesmerize you and make you see life from a fresh perspective. There is so much to see and explore while climbing the highest mountain in the world. Live the adventure and give wings to your dreams.

Kayaking becomes better with Madras Fun Tools

Kayaking is a water activity that is usually enjoyed by people when they are on a holiday. Some people also pursue kayaking as a hobby. It is a great water sport that can increase your flexibility, fitness and body strength. Kayak boats are used in kayaking to move gently across the water. The kayakers need to sit in the boat and paddle. Kayaking India can be done in lakes, rivers and seas.

The destination to buy kayaks

Kayaks are available in various designs. Some kayaks are suitable for racing and rough conditions, whereas some others are specifically designed for beginners. Madras Fun Tools is the only equipment store in India where you can find a large variety of kayaks. It is an eCommerce company that is dedicated to kayaking and stand-up paddling. 

Madras Fun Tools

You will find high quality stand-up paddle boards (SUP), recreational & whitewater kayaks and other various paddling equipment in Madras Fun Tools. Three dedicated kayakers have founded this company because of their love for the water sport. They want to see kayaking grow in India. You can find whitewater kayaking equipment of the highest quality. It is the ideal place to buy kayaks India. 

Benefits of kayaking

Kayaking is a great water sport for various reasons:

·        Kayaking for beginners doesn’t require a lot of training. You don’t need to take surfing and swimming lessons for it. You just need to know how to enter the kayak and exit it safely.

·        Kayaking is an easy sport. It is an activity that doesn’t require too much effort and can be done in a relaxed position. It can be enjoyed by everyone, including aged people and people suffering from heart ailments.

·        Kayaking is not scary unlike canoeing because all kayaks have a closed deck. Therefore, it is totally safe. Even if you are scared of water, you can try kayaking for fun.

·        Kayaking lets you bask in the beauty of nature. It is a relaxing activity where you can enjoy the nature. As you paddle through the water, your hands, legs and cardiac area also get enough exercise.

·        Kayaking is great for shedding excess weight. You will be able to burn calories as you paddle through the river or sea. The relaxing water, the soothing breeze and the beautiful sea will distract you from getting bored. It is a great form of exercise that will help you to stay in shape. 

You can buy SUP in India along with recreational kayaks from Madras Fun Tools. Kayaking becomes better and easier with Madras Fun Tools.

It is a great activity especially for people who love adventure. Have you ever tried Kayaking?

The adventurous Everest Base Camp Trek

“In every walk with Nature, one receives more than he seeks.” ~ John Muir

Nature is the most powerful healing force. There is an amazing sense of liberation, contentment and happiness when you spend time with Nature. Trekking is one of the best outdoor activities where you can spend ample amount of time with Nature. If you are an adventurous soul, you will surely enjoy trekking.

Benefits of Trekking

Trekking can improve both your physical health and mental health. Let’s look at some of the benefits of trekking:

1. Since you need to cover large distances in trekking, it increases your cardiovascular strength. Trekking is great for keeping your heart healthy.

2. Trekking is a great physical activity that can help you shed excess fat.

3. When you are trekking, you are able to inhale fresh, clean air that helps in cleansing your lungs.

4. Trekking also enhances your muscle strength and makes your bones stronger.

5. Trekking is one of the best ways to reduce stress as it releases endorphins which makes you feel happy. Moreover, it enhances focus and helps a person to stay calm during challenging times.

Everest Base Camp Trek

Trekking to the base camp of Everest is a great adventure. Everest is the world’s highest mountain and therefore, trekking to the foot of Everest will be a breathtaking experience for any trekking enthusiast.

In 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reached the rocky base of Everest. Since that time, enthusiastic trekkers have been trekking to the Everest Base Camp. 40,000 people have been trekking to this iconic base camp annually.

Trekking to the Everest Base Camp Trek is not for general weekend walkers. It is a difficult trek and therefore, it demands fitness and enthusiasm.

Your journey will start from the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu. You need to take a short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, from where your trek will begin.

The next 14 days of your life will be an unforgettable experience for you, as you will witness mesmerizing mountain scenery, learn about the cultures and traditions of the Sherpa, discover beautiful Nepalese tea-houses and follow the Dudh Khosi River. After five days, you will enter the Everest National Park and get a glimpse of the highest point of the world.

The most favorable time to go for this trek is September to December or March to May. If you love adventure, this will be the most rewarding experience of your life.

Mojhi

Mojhi is the largest online portal for adventure activities in the world. It allows its users to search and choose their type of adventure such as trekking, paragliding, rafting, scuba, snorkeling, etc. You can find complete details about any adventure that you choose to embark on. 

You can find all the details of the adventurous Everest Base Camp Trek on their website. Once you submit your details, they will send you offers from professional and verified trekking companies within twelve hours. So, are you ready to spice up your life with some adventure?

“Life is either a great adventure or nothing.” ~ Helen Keller

Note: All the pictures have been sourced from Mojhi.com