Mahakal Cave
মহাকাল গুহা
A limestone cave on the upper Jayanti River, whose stalactites are revered by devotees as an incarnation of Shiva. The route follows the riverbed on foot.
Mahakal Cave is a limestone cave in the mountains on the Bhutan border, north of Jayanti village. Local Hindus regard its stalactites and stalagmites as manifestations of Shiva (Mahakal), and large numbers of pilgrims come during Shivaratri. From Jayanti village, walk about 6 km along the pebbly riverbed, then climb steep stone steps to the cave entrance. The round trip takes 5–6 hours and passes streams, forest and plenty of butterflies. A protected-area permit and a local guide are required. Visits are banned during the monsoon and when the river is high. The cave floor is slippery, so bring a headlamp.
Opening hours
Daytime (dry season)
Nearby sights
- Pokhri Hill
- Jayanti River Valley
- Buxa Fort
- Lepchakha
- Buxa Tiger Reserve Jungle Safari
- Raimatang
- Rajabhatkhawa Nature Interpretation Centre
- Chilapata Forest