Awhum Cave is nestled in the peaceful hills of Awhum, near Nsukka in Enugu State. It’s a spiritual and natural wonder that merges the dramatic beauty of limestone rock formations, cool cave chambers, and a sacred waterfall flowing right from the heart of stone.
Often described as a place of divine presence, Awhum Cave is more than just a tourist site, it’s a site of pilgrimage, meditation, and natural healing that draws thousands of visitors every year, especially Christians seeking spiritual renewal.
History & Religious Significance
The Awhum Cave and its adjoining waterfall are located on land owned by the Our Lady of Mount Calvary Monastery, a Catholic spiritual retreat center. The monks believe the cave is a gift of nature from God, and the waterfall that cascades from the rocks is considered holy water, with stories of miraculous healings and answered prayers.
Pilgrims from across Nigeria and beyond visit the site for fasting, prayer retreats, and spiritual breakthroughs.
Structure & Features
The cave is carved naturally into the surrounding granite rock formations, with a narrow entrance leading to:
- A dark, cool chamber with smooth rocky walls
- The Awhum Waterfall, flowing out of the cave’s mouth like a sacred veil
- A pool of clean, chilly water collected from the falls
- Moss-covered stones and lush greenery lining the pathway
The combination of cave and waterfall makes the site visually stunning and spiritually profound.
Pilgrimage & Tourist Experience
While the site is managed by monks, visitors are welcome to:
- Take part in guided pilgrimages and religious activities
- Trek through the forest paths leading to the cave
- Meditate or pray quietly inside the chambers
- Bathe or collect water from the sacred waterfall
Modesty is required, and silence is encouraged within the cave.
Location & Access
- State: Enugu
- LGA: Udi
- Nearest Town: Awhum (also spelled Ohum)
- Geopolitical Zone: South East
- Access Route: Enugu → Ninth Mile → Awhum Town
From the monastery entrance, it takes about 45 minutes of hiking through forest trails to reach the cave.
Best Time to Visit
- November to March (Dry Season): Ideal for hiking and spiritual retreats
- Avoid peak rainy season when the trails may be slippery
Fun Fact
Visitors say that whispers echo differently in the cave, and the cool air and trickling sound of water make it feel like stepping into another dimension, peaceful, powerful, and spiritually energizing.
