Many of those who travel to the North-East region of India visit popular destinations like the national parks in Assam, Tawang monastery or even the rain-soaked Cherrapunji. Now, travellers have even begun caving in Meghalaya. But few know that Manipur has a hidden treasure at Khangkhui Mangsor.
Located just about 16 km from the Manipuri district of Ukhrul, this place is a surreal travel destination. Khangkhui is a village inhabitated by the Tangkhul Naga tribe of India. The village is known for its limestone caves.
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Locally going by the name Khangkhui Mangsor, the cave system is one that of Cretaceous limestone. Tracing back to as far as the Paleolithic period, Khangkhui Mangsor cave is one of the oldest of its kind in India.
Caving here is an enthralling experience. The caves are dark and deep, and the limestone pillars glisten in this darkness. It is a magical experience.
And to add to the awe and wonder, legend has it that a king built a palace in this cave. A king named Mangsorwung built a chamber inside the cave for his two wives and sons. The chief attraction of Khangkhui Mangsor is the huge hall in the middle of the cave, known as the Durbar, or the Throne Room, of the Devil King. Filled with sheer darkness, the northern hall is believed to the royal bedroom where he lived with his two wives.
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There is even a secret tunnel that local folklore suggests leads to the Loktak lake, but no one had dared to search for it. Another mystery here is that there have been excavations of kettles and cutlery, similar to the one belonging in Chinese civilisation.
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Caving here does not need special training. It is best to take a guide from the tribal community, as they accompany the trail with local folklore and legends, which make caving here a surreal and enchanting experience.
So, pack your bags, and head to Khangkhui Mangsor for an amazing journey into the depths of the earth.
