Manjanggul Cave

The magnificence of Manjanggul Cave has singled it out for classification as a UNESCO world heritage site. A visit to this vast natural edifice is one of the highlights of any visit to Jeju Island. Take a walk through the cathedral-like tunnels to view spectacular rock formations and unique wildlife.

The cave was formed between 200,000 and 300,000 years ago when molten lava burst through the earth’s crust, creating a giant lava tunnel which is one of the largest in the world. Many lava tunnels are barely big enough to accommodate a single person, but the Manjanggul Cave reaches heights of 30 metres and widths of 23 metres in places. The network of tunnels measures over 13 kilometres in total, although only one kilometre is open to visitors.

The cave mouth is accessed via a steep wooden staircase, after which you will be guided along a well-lit walkway. Despite the lighting, it may take you a little while to adjust to the intense darkness of the cave, so visitors are advised to bring a torch with them as well. Many of the most dramatic rock formations are illuminated with coloured lights, lending a theatrical flourish to the scene.

Take time to admire the weird and wonderful shapes of the stalagmites and stalactites that have remained virtually unchanged for millennia. Highlights include the Turtle Rock, whose turtle-like shape is said to resemble Jeju Island itself, as well as the world’s largest known lava column, ascending to an astonishing height of 7.6 metres and dwarfing its neighbours.

The geological importance of Manjanggul Cave is mirrored by its unique wildlife, providing a home to almost forty different types of cave creature. Look out for the country’s largest colony of bats, numbering well over 30,000, as well as the prolific Jeju cave spider.

The walking tour takes around 45 minutes and there is a charge for entry. Conditions inside the cave can be cool and damp, so an extra layer of clothing is recommended. The bus ride from Jeju City takes around 30 minutes and the caves are open daily, with shorter opening hours during the winter months.