What happens when huge deposits of limestones are buried in the caves for million years? They form into Caverns. Meramec caverns which are also termed as buried treasure of Missouri. It was a hot sunny afternoon when we reached this popular destination after covering 60 miles. The beginning was billboards welcoming the visitors reminding me of bill boards in shimla. Moving further, a huge, well manicured jungle lay ahead where people were vacationing along with their families. The jungle which looked more civilized and less wild had innumerable tents and people were lazing around..( woow...!!! a perfect getaway). The initial impression looked promising. as we drove down further, we found the ultimate destination- Meramec caverns - which houses 6, 000 caves.
The moment you enter the cave, you feel a slight coolness on your skin and wonder if there is AC inside the cave and then conclude that caves are colder. A friendly guide leads a group of visitors telling patiently about significance of the caves and guiding us inside the caves.As we move on, we discover well-lit caves with a thin stream of gurgling water flowing parallel to the direction we are moving. All of a sudden, the stream disappears and the passage becomes slightly narrow and temperature drops down a little as you begin to wonder why. Just then you notice these small cone shaped formations like huge icicles of rock. The rise from ground (stalagmites) and move down from the ceiling (stalactites). You find that the ice blankets these rock-like formation of minerals and suddenly you know why the temperature is low. The efficient guide now guides the group to wine room which houses the world’s rarest cave formation. The rocks here resemble a bunch of grapes, perhaps thats why it is known as wine room. Ice has such an effect on these rocks that they look as though they are freshly painted with natural colours and also obtain a lusture. Now we move onto the natural creations beautified by man :) - the "stage curtain" which is also used for displaying the spectacular light and sound show called "Greatest Show Under the Earth". This truly leaves you spell bound. I could not capture the light show properly since I was too engrossed marvelling and regretted later for my stupidity.
Oki...I did not really feel too hungry so just ended up having an ice-cream. Believe me...they have varieties and you take ages to gulp down that huge scoop. While coming out, we noticed the stream..which was Meramec river. You can spoil yourself by either renting a boat which you can row on your own which you rent or driving a motor boat on your own. And if none of the ideas are appealing enough, you have a ride in a huge boat alongwith te group and a guide who takes you across the river. And slowly, as the sun sets down and so does the high spirits as it is time to go back home as all good things come to an end. But then, the beautiful memory always remians with you in the form of photographs which are ready to refresh yourspirits anytime.
The photos have been uploaded and you can have a look at them.