Speleology is the scientific study of caves and other karst features, as well as their composition, structure, physical properties, history, ecology, and the processes by which they form (speleogenesis) and change over time (speleomorphology). The term speleology is also sometimes applied to the recreational activity of exploring caves, but this is more properly known as caving, potholing, or spelunking. Speleology and caving are often connected, as the physical skills required for in situ study are the same.

गुफ़ा विज्ञान गुफ़ाओं और अन्य कार्स्ट स्थलाकृतियों के अध्ययन को कहते हैं। इसमें उनकी संरचना, ढांचे, भौतिक गुणों, इतिहास, निवासी जीवों, निर्माण प्रक्रियाओं और समय के साथ होने वाले बदलाव शामिल हैं।