Manjanggul Cave
Jeju-teukbyeoljachido
Manjanggul Cave, located on Jeju Island in South Korea, is the largest known lava tube in the world, stretching approximately 7.4 kilometers in length. This natural cave was formed by flowing lava from a cinder cone volcano, creating a vast underground passage with a main tunnel up to 18 meters wide and 23 meters high. Designated as Korea's first Natural Monument in 1962, Manjanggul is notable for its exceptional preservation of lava cave structures including stalactites, stalagmites, lava flowstones, and flowlines. Visitors can explore about 1 kilometer of the cave via the second entrance, experiencing unique formations such as the world's tallest lava column, standing 7.6 meters high. The cave's topography and geological features hold significant academic and conservation value. Its discovery and exploration were notably advanced in the mid-20th century by a local schoolteacher and students who mapped the cave using simple tools. Manjanggul Cave is part of the Geomunoreum Lava Tube System, a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting its global importance as a natural geological phenomenon.
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Tip: The best time to visit Manjanggul Cave is during the warmer months when the cave's cool interior offers relief from summer heat. Visitors should consider purchasing tickets in advance due to limited daily access and to avoid long queues. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the cave floor can be uneven. Guided tours provide educational insights into the cave's geological features. Discounts may be available for children, seniors, and groups. Note that only about 1 kilometer of the cave is open to the public for safety and conservation reasons.
Interesting facts
- •Manjanggul Cave is the largest known lava tube in the world, measuring approximately 7.4 kilometers in total length.
- •The main tunnel of Manjanggul reaches up to 18 meters in width and 23 meters in height, making it one of the most spacious lava tubes globally.
- •The cave contains the tallest lava column in the world, standing 7.6 meters high.
- •The cave has three entrances, but tourists are only allowed access through the second entrance and can explore about 1 kilometer inside.
- •The cave was first explored in 1946 by a schoolteacher and his students using only torches and a 2-meter rope to measure its length.
History
Manjanggul Cave was officially designated as a Natural Monument of South Korea in 1962, recognizing its geological significance.
The cave was first extensively explored in 1946-1947 by a local schoolteacher, Jonghyu Bu, and his students who mapped its passages using basic equipment.
Over time, the cave has been studied for its well-preserved lava formations and its role in understanding volcanic activity on Jeju Island.
It is part of the Geomunoreum Lava Tube System, which was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, emphasizing its importance in natural history and conservation.
Place Guide
Second Entrance and Tourist Path
The main access point for visitors, this entrance leads to a 1-kilometer path into the cave where various lava formations can be observed safely.
Lava Column
A remarkable lava column inside the cave, standing 7.6 meters tall, recognized as the highest lava column in the world.
Lava Formations
Throughout the accessible section of the cave, visitors can see lava stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, flowlines, and rafts, showcasing the dynamic volcanic processes that formed the cave.
Contact
Phone: 064-710-7903
