How about holidaying like never before? Without mountains or beaches, water sports or even a gondola ride. Instead, how about plunging into the heart of darkness and winding your way through mysterious networks of caves?

If you are game for a little adventure and are willing to put on your walking shoes you could head off to exotic corners of the world — think Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand or even Turkey. In Malaysia you can trek along the long and exotic Mulu Caves known for their archaeological finds and numerous underground rivers.

If you are headed to New Zealand, the magnificent Waitomo Caves in Rotorua may cast a spell on you. Also Australia’s Jenolan Caves about 175km west of Sydney with underground rivers could be your exciting holiday retreat. Or perhaps you could visit Turkey’s chimney-like caves in Cappadocia — famous for the soft rock formations created by arid climate and slow erosion.

Malaysia

You must have visited the Petronas Twin Towers and Genting Highlands but you haven’t explored Malaysia yet if you haven’t been to the famous caves in Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak, declared a World Heritage site in 2001.Almost 200km of the caves in Mulu have been surveyed — but you have to go in with a guide, of course.

Another attraction at the site is the 151 km Clearwater Cave, the 10th longest in the world. With its subterranean river, it is Southeast Asia’s longest cave passage and can be reached by a longboat. Another popular destination is the Niah Caves famous for their prehistoric paintings and rock formations. This is Malaysia’s oldest archaeological site.

Hot ticket!

TRAC: A three night and four day package to Mulu Caves inclusive of return airfare with taxes on Singapore Airlines, airport transfers, accommodation in three or four star hotel with breakfast, and half-day city sightseeing costs Rs 28,999 along with a chance to visit Penang.

New Zealand

Try and imagine a boat trip where you travel through caves with millions of glow worms emitting spots of light from all around. A trip to Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Rotorua in New Zealand promises just that. And you get to do an adventurous rafting trip too. Another must visit is the Aranui Cave just 3km or a short five-minute drive from the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, known for its beautiful limestone and cave coral formations.

Hot ticket!

Cox & Kings: A seven-day and six-night trip to Bay of Islands, Rotorua and Auckland will cost you Rs 56,500. This includes return airfare, three-star accommodation, airport transfers, transport by self-driven rental vehicle with standard vehicle insurance and pick-up fees. The only additional cost is airline tax/airport tax of Rs 22,500 per person.

Australia

Ideal for a day trip, Jenolan Caves are located 182km west of Sydney. There are nine caves open to the public with spectacular lighting, underground rivers and cave formations. Jenolan Caves also offer adventure tours, picnic facilities and bush walking tracks.

There are two large caverns here — the Devil’s Coach House which is about 49m high while the other is called the Grand Archway which is 137m long. Another interesting feature here is the large window-like cave remnant called Carlotta Arch looking out high above the Devil’s Coach House.

Hot ticket!

Jenolan Caves House: Day tour per couple will cost Rs 64,366. This includes limousine service, scenic railway, morning tea, lunch, wine and cave tour. An addition of cave house dinner, bed and breakfast will cost Rs 81,000.

Turkey

Cappadocia in Turkey and is famous for its rock formations. The Cappadocia Caves are known for their moon-like landscape, underground cities, cave churches and even houses carved in the rocks. There are also a number of cave hotels.

Another major attraction in Turkey is Pamukkale if you want to find yourself holidaying amidst spectacular white cascades. Water deposited on white terrace-like plateau is said to have healing effect on the eyes and skin. You can also visit the resort town Kusadasi which has a number of restaurants and good markets, or even head for Canakkale known for its great archaeological museum.

Hot ticket!

Cox & Kings: A seven day and six night stay and visit to Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Kusadasi and Canakkale will cost Rs 53,999 per person (exit Mumbai). This includes return airfare, accommodation, overseas Mediclaim policy, meals, coach tours, airport transfers, entrance fees, sightseeing and a guided tour.