22/08/2025
Tharon Cave
Location & Name Variations
Located about 27 km from Tamenglong town in Manipur’s Tamenglong District .
Also referred to as Thaeuluan Cave, Thalon, or locally as Kalemki (“house of bats”) .
Geological Features
A karst cave system formed in sandstone of the Barail formation .
Approximately 655 m long, with five exits and 34 interconnected joints or compartments .
Layout & Accessibility
A map of the cave—engraved and painted on stone—welcomes visitors at the entrance, helping guide navigation through the complex passages .
Historical & Archaeological Importance
Evidence suggests usage as a shelter by prehistoric communities for thousands of years .
Excavations revealed Hoabinhian‑affinity tools—such as edge‑ground pebble tools, scrapers, proto-handaxes, and grinders—indicating prehistoric cultural links to Southeast Asia .
Cultural & Local Significance
Kalemki is sacred among the Liangmei Naga people, used for rituals, songs, and performances across generations .
Archaeological research traces fossilized cultural transitions from Early to Late Hoabinhian phases, showing tool refinement over time .
Environmental & Tourist Appeal
The cave is naturally ventilated, with multiple exits ensuring airflow .
Known as the abode of fruit bats, adding to its mystique .
The surrounding landscape offers adventure and natural beauty—scenic treks, streams, forests, and opportunities for exploration .
Visiting Tips
Best time to visit: January–April, when the weather is cool and pleasant .
Entry: Free of cost .
Access: Reachable from Imphal via Tulihal Airport (~152 km) or Jiribam Railway Station (~146 km), then by road—NH‑37—on to Tamenglong town .
Guided exploration: Recommended—cave is dark, with narrow passages; headlamp, helmet, and guided assistance are advisable .
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Quick Summary Table
Feature Details
Length & Structure ~655 m with 5 exits and 34 interconnected chambers
Map Availability Engraved stone map at entrance
Historical Value Hoabinhian artifacts; Deep cultural significance
Accessibility Free entry; Best visited Jan–Apr; Reachable via Imphal and Tamenglong
Visitor Tips Use headlamp; guide recommended; expect bats and narrow pathways
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Why Visit Tharon Cave?
Whether you're an avid explorer, cultural enthusiast, or nature admirer, Tharon Cave offers a rare blend of archaeological depth, tribal heritage, and raw natural allure. Its subterranean passages are more than geological formations—they tell the story of human resilience, artistry, and tradition woven through time.
Interested in trekking routes, local guides, or nearby attractions like Dzukou Valley or Buning Meadow? I’d love to help plan your visit—or dive deeper into any of the cave’s fascinating aspects!
