12 Best Waterfalls in Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji, located in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, is renowned for being the wettest place on earth. Upon visiting the landscape of this evergreen terrain, one will experience a splendid spread of flora and fauna, waterfalls, and lush greenery, etc.
If you have dedicated your upcoming vacation to exploring a wide set of astounding waterfalls in Cherrapunji, this article highlights the most famous ones.
List of Beautiful Waterfalls in and Around Cherrapunji
Here is the list of top breath-taking waterfalls in Cherrapunji that can be ideal for spending some quality time with your family:
1. Nohkalikai Falls
The magnificent Nohkalikai Falls is considered one of the tallest waterfalls in India, offering spectacular views and an ethereal ambience for tourists. Adorned by the rolling landscape and cloud-covered mountains, Nohakalikai Falls stands among the most popular waterfalls in Cherrapunji.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 1100 ft
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person (Additional charges for the camera will be ₹20)
- Timing: 9 A.M. to 5 P.M.
- How to Reach: By taxi or bus from Cherrapunji
- Best Time to Visit: July to March
- Things to Do: Nature exploration, bird watching, sightseeing, and photography
- Ideal trip duration: 4 to 5 hours, depending on the weather condition and speed
- Distance: 5 km from Cherrapunji
2. Nohsngithiang Falls
One of the stunning waterfalls near Cherrapunji, Nohsngthiang Falls is located in close proximity to the Mawsmai village. This waterfall is also known as "Seven Sister Falls ', being composed of seven different streams flowing down the cliffs.
Not only this, this waterfall serves a huge significance as it stands as a symbol of the unity of the seven North-Eastern states of India.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 1035 ft
- Entry Fee: No entry fees; Rent for binoculars will be ₹10
- Timing: Open 24x7
- How to Reach: By bus or other four-wheelers from Cherrapunji
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Things to Do: Trekking, swimming, photography, nearby cave exploration, etc.
- Ideal trip duration: 13 to 30 minutes
- Distance: 4.3 km from Cherrapunuji
3. Dainthlen Falls
The captivating sight of Dainthlen Falls in Cherrapunji has attracted tourists from all over India and outside and offered a breathtaking view of the "Sohra” landscape. The earthy and mystical atmosphere around this waterfall makes the tourist witness its splendour and lets them peek through its interesting legends.
Some of the nearby attractions of the Dainthlen Falls are Mawsmai Cave, Noh Ka Likai Falls, and Nongriat.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 280 ft
- Entry Fee: No entry fees; Parking charges are ₹20
- Timing: 9 A.M. to 5 P.M.
- How to Reach: By taxi or personal four-wheelers from Cherrapunji
- Best Time to Visit: June to November
- Things to Do: Nature and culture exploration, sightseeing, photography
- Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 hours; depending on the weather
- Distance: 2 km from Cherrapunji
4. Wah Kaba Falls
Wah Kaba Falls in Cherrapunji is among the seasonal waterfalls and serves mesmerising beauty of clear water plunging into the gorge. This waterfall is rain-fed, and monsoon is the ideal time to explore the lush greenery and splendour of this place.
Some of the trending nearby attractions of Wah Kaba Falls are Duwan Sing Syiem view point, Air Force Museum, and Shillong Viewpoint.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 620 ft
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
- Timing: 6 A.M. to 5 P.M.
- How to Reach: By bus or taxi from Cherrapunji
- Best Time to Visit: June to October
- Things to Do: Sightseeing, photography, birth watching, etc.
- Ideal trip duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Distance: 10 km from Cherrapunji
5. Kynrem Falls
One of the popular waterfalls in Cherrapunji, Kynrem Falls is nestled in the heart of the hilly Meghalaya, showcasing the iconic beauty of this serene landscape. This is one of the most famous three-tiered waterfalls and is ideal for a quick getaway with family and friends.
Being located in Thangkharang Park, the tranquillity of crystal clear water flowing down from the cliff will rejuvenate your mind and soul.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 1000 ft
- Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
- Timing: 6 A.M. to 6 P.M.
- How to Reach: By taxi or other four-wheelers from Cherrapunji
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Things to Do: Nature exploration, photography, hiking, and visiting the nearby attractions
- Ideal trip duration: 1 hour
- Distance: 17 km from Cherrapunji
6. Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls, situated in East Khasi hill district is an astounding gift of nature in the heart of Meghalaya. Tourists can reach the spot by taking a splendid trek from the Double Decker Living Root Bridge which will let them encounter the serenity of the greenery.
Furthermore, the sight of sudden peaks of rainbows near the waterfall at different times, adds the cherry on the cake’s top of the journey.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 1955 ft
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person; Additional ₹200 is being charged for hiring a guide
- Timing: 6 A.M. to 5 P.M.
- How to Reach: By taxi or other four-wheelers from Cherrapunji
- Best Time to Visit: June to October
- Things to Do: Trekking, sightseeing, museum and nature exploration, bird watching, etc.
- Ideal trip duration: 2 to 2.5 hours
- Distance: 18 km from Cherrapunji
List of 6 Famous Waterfalls Near Cherrapunji
Here are some of the notable waterfalls that one can explore on their way to Cherrapunji:
7. Elephant Falls
Elephant Falls, a well-known waterfall near Cherrapunji offering magnificent viewpoints for tourists. These three layers of the waterfalls serve as a tourist hotspot and are an ideal location for relaxing amidst the cacophony of the business.
Elephant Falls is mostly visited during the summer or monsoon times to witness the serenity of the cascading water flowing over the rocks.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 30 meters
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Timing: 10 A.M to 6 P.M; Closed on Sunday
- How to Reach: By auto rickshaw or cab from the Shillong
- Best Time to Visit: June to October
- Things to Do: Hiking, sightseeing, nature exploration, photography, etc.
- Ideal trip duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Distance: 43 km from Cherrapunji
8. Bishop Falls
Bishop Falls, located near Mawprem is considered to be one of the most-visited waterfalls near Cherrapunji among the travellers. Beadon Falls, cascading alongside Bishop Falls, commonly known as "Twin Brothers" is popular for being the three-tiered and highest waterfall in Shillong.
The astounding view around Bishop Falls makes it ideal for a picnic spot or vacation to spend with family or friends.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 443 ft
- Entry Fee: No entry fees
- Timing: 9 A.M. to 4 P.M.
- How to Reach: By taking a bus or taxi from the Shillong bus stop
- Best Time to Visit: June to September(rainy season)
- Things to Do: Nature exploration, sightseeing, nearby museum visit, etc.
- Ideal trip duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Distance: 52 km from Cherrapunji
9. Wei Sawdong Falls
The name Wei Sawdong Falls near Cherrapunji comes from the combination of two different words which are – “Wei” which means “Square” whereas “Sawdong” which means “Pool”. The glistening water of this three-tiered waterfall has created a breathtaking sight.
Tourists visiting these waterfalls in Cherrapunji will experience the surreal view of nature amidst never-ending greenery, soothing the eyes and rejuvenating the soul.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 167 ft
- Entry Fee: ₹15 per person
- Timing: 8 A.M. to 5 P.M.
- How to Reach: By taxi or trek to reach the spot from Cherrapunji
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Things to Do: Sightseeing, mountain exploration, photography, etc.
- Ideal trip duration: 1.5 hours to 2 hours
- Distance: 13 km from Cherrapunji
10. Krang Suri Falls
Krang Suri Falls, being among the top tourist attractions, comes under the realm of Cherrapunji waterfalls for its scenic beauty and serene landscapes. The spectacular view of the plunge pool where the waterfall rolls down consists of vibrant shades of deep and copper-sulfate blue.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 40 ft
- Entry Fee: ₹50 per person; Additional charges of ₹50 per person are required for swimming in the pool.
- Timing: Open 24x7
- How to Reach: By taxi or four-wheeler from the Shillong bus stop and then 20 minutes walk
- Best Time to Visit: March to May
- Things to Do: Swimming, nature exploration, photography, visiting nearby caves and other spots
- Ideal trip duration: 3 to 3.5 hours
- Distance: 123.5 km from Cherrapunji
11. Langshiang Falls
The Langshiang Falls, situated near the pretty village of Sangriang in West Khasi Hill district is considered to be in the third position in the country in terms of height. Being among the spectacular waterfalls near Cherrapunji, Langshiang offers the breathtaking sight of clear water splitting into halves and rolling deep into the gorge.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 1106 ft
- Entry Fee: No Entry Fees
- Timing: 6 A.M to 6 P.M.
- How to Reach: By hired cab or four-wheeler from Cherrapunji or by trekking
- Best Time to Visit: During monsoons
- Things to Do: Nature exploration, sightseeing, photography, trekking
- Ideal trip duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Distance: 128 km from Cherrapunji
12. Sweet Falls
Sweet Falls or Kshaid Weitdan is located close to the Happy Valley in Shillong and is a hotspot for tourists for capturing the scenic beauty of this place. Upon visiting Sweet Falls, you will be able to experience the mesmerising serendipity of these falls and their lush green vegetation.
This waterfall cascades down from the hundreds of feet of cliff forming a misty white stream fading seamlessly amidst the greenery.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 315 ft
- Entry Fee: No Entry Fee; Additional charges ₹70 for vehicle entry
- Timing: 10 A.M. to 5 P.M.
- How to Reach: By local taxi or other four-wheelers from the Police bazaar in Shillong
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Things to Do: Sightseeing, trekking, nature exploration, etc.
- Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Distance: 7 km from Cherrapunji
Besides exploring the waterfalls in Cherrapunji, this city is astounding for trekking or hiking to experience the mystical lush green mountains of Northeastern India. Upon visiting Cherrapunji, one will be able to find ample suitable accommodation options consisting of hotels and homestays.
FAQs About Best Waterfalls in Cherrapunji
What are the popular nearby attractions of Nohkalikai Falls?
Some of the popular tourist attractions of Nohkalikai Falls are Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Mawsmai Cave, Wei Sawdong Falls, Sweet Falls, Garden of Caves, Mawlynnong, etc.
What are the trekking essentials required to be carried near Rainbow Falls?
Tourists need to start their trek to the Rainbow Falls from the Nongriat Double Decker Bridge which requires a walk through the sloppy and rocky land. Hence, it is important to wear comfortable shoes, with cotton socks and carry essentials like a torch, batteries, mosquito repellant, energy bars, dry fruits, raincoats, and rain cover.
What is the top tourist attraction near Kynrem Falls?
Tourists while visiting the Kynrem Falls can explore some of the popular nearby tourist attractions which include Mawsmai caves, Living Root Bridge of Cherrapunji, Mawkdok Dympep Valley, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Bishop and Beadon Falls, Butterfly Museum, Lady Hydari Park, etc.