Archibald Hill once said, “The pursuit of natural knowledge, the investigation of the world-mental and material- in which we live, is not a dull and spiritless affair; rather it is a voyage of adventure of the human mind, a holiday for reckless and imaginative souls.”
The human mind loves mysteries and caves are one of them. Caves are natural underground spaces, large enough for humans to enter. In prehistoric times, caves were used as shelters. Today, caves are more of an adventure for men. It is also something that helps them connect to the past and know about the earth. Exploring caves, apart from a profession is seen as a fun and adventurous activity. Some of these caves are so mystical and magical that humans are naturally attracted to them. Below is a list of 7 caves that one should try and visit at least once in a lifetime. Happy exploring!
# Phraya Nakhon Cave, ThailandOne of Thailand’s most beautiful caves is Phraya Nakhon Cave. This impressive cave is located inside Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park. The cave has two chambers, both are open, allowing sunlight, rain and plenty of air. This allows many trees and plants to grow here. This mystical cave has a pavilion inside, built in the 19th century.
# The Cave of Three Bridges, LebanonThe cave of three bridges is a sight to behold! This cave has been around since the times of the dinosaurs. After winters, the snow on mount Lebanon melts creating a waterfall through these limestones. Throughout the years the water has given the walls of the cave a beautiful shape, giving the waterfall its characteristic features.
# Glowworm Cave, New ZealandThis cave glows! Located on the north island of New Zealand, this cave is known for its population of a glowworm species found exclusively in New Zealand. The tours in this cave are in three levels. The third level goes down into the cathedral. The cathedral is an enclosed area with rough surfaces and amazing acoustics. Many famous singers like Dame Kiri Te Kanawa have performed here. The trip concludes with a boat ride through the glowworm grotto, where the only light coming, is from the glowworms. It’s magical!
# Fingal’s Cave, ScotlandIt is a sea cave located on an uninhabited island of Staffa, Scotland. Very well known for its acoustics, and the sounds made when the waves hit the beach, it is a great tourist spot.
# Cave of the Swallows, MexicoCave of the Swallows is an open-air pit cave in Mexico. It got its name owing to the various birds that live in the holes on the walls of the cave. It is perhaps the 11th deepest cave pit and the largest known cave shaft in the world. The cave is a popular vertical caving destination. Other sports like rappelling and BASE jumping are also popular here.
# Blue Grotto Cave, ItalyThe Blue Grotto is a natural sea cave located on the coast of the island of Capri, Italy. The cave is exactly as you see in the picture above, the water azure blue in color with silver reflections. The water is like this because of the sunlight that shines throughout the water. The cave is accessible through a small opening. Unfortunately, on windy days or during high-tides the mouth in inaccessible, so one needs to carefully look at the weather and decide. This place is definitely worth a visit!
# Cave of Crystals, MexicoCave of crystals or Giant crystal cave is located in Chihuahua, Mexico. It is a paradise of crystals. The crystals are formed due to highly concentrated calcium sulphate. The caves have not been explored enough due to flooding and extreme heat and fumes.