19 Best Waterfalls in Meghalaya
Meghalaya, famously known as 'the abode of clouds', is a lovely mountain gateway. It enchants you with its captivating landscape as misty hills, green valleys, and sparkling lakes turn this place into heaven. Besides, this location has some gorgeous waterfalls gushing down the hills, making them look absolutely stunning on a sunny day.
Navigate through this article to learn more about the waterfalls in Meghalaya.
List of Beautiful Waterfalls in and Around Meghalaya
To make your vacation memorable, explore the beautiful tourist spots near the waterfalls besides visiting the waterfalls. Below are the waterfalls that you must add to your must-visit list when planning a trip to Meghalaya:
1. Elephant Falls, Shillong
One of the famous waterfalls in Meghalaya, this waterbody is a three-tier cascade, also referred to as 'Ka Kshaid Lai Patang Khohsiew' by locals. Resting amidst dense forests, the Elephant Falls in Shillong is torrential, especially after the monsoon season.
There is a mammoth rock lying at the foot of this waterfall that resembles an elephant from which it got its name.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 42 ft.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timing: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via private buses or hire a cab or taxi
- Best Time to Visit: October to December
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, photography, shopping from the local stores, etc.
- Ideal Trip Duration: 45 minutes - 1 hour
2. Bishop and Beadon Falls, Shillong
Bishop and Beadon Falls are one of the most charming twin waterfalls in Meghalaya. The Beadon Falls cascade through the slippery cliffs as the waters of Bishop Falls form a deep pool beneath. Bishop Falls is a three-tier stream that plunges down the East Khasi Hills.
Both these waterfalls together form a stunning landscape, ideal for photography lovers. Besides, Bishop and Beadon Falls witness the deep gorge of the Umiam River and visit the charming Suna Valley.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 443 ft.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timing: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via cars and public buses
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, swimming in the plunge pool, day picnics, spotting wildlife like leopards, wild cats and langurs, etc.
- Ideal Trip Duration: 3 - 4 hours
3. Seven Sisters Falls, Mawsmai
Nohsngithiang Falls, or the Seven Sisters Falls, is a seven-step waterfall that roars over the limestone rocks in Khasi Hills. Also known as Mawsmai Falls, this stunning waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in India.
If you want to witness the voluminous flow of the brooks, visit this waterfall during monsoons. Seven Sisters Waterfalls has seven beautiful waterfalls lying side by side on a rugged cliff, justifying its name.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 1033 ft.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timing: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via private cars and local buses
- Best Time to Visit: July and September
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking and shopping from nearby local stores, etc.
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1 - 2 hours
4. Kynrem Falls, East Khasi Hills
Located in the East Khasi Hill region, Kynrem Falls is counted as the seventh-highest waterfall in India. Only 17 km from Cherrapunji, this waterbody is kindled between the lush green forests of Khasi Hills.
The best time to view the waterfall's beauty is after the end of the monsoon. Another major attraction of this place that you must not miss out on is the Pillar Rock or Shiva Rock, which ensures an amazing view of the waterfall.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 1001 ft.
- Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
- Timing: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
- How to Reach: One can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach the park
- Best Time to Visit: September to January
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, rock climbing, hiking, etc.
- Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 3.5 hours
5. Nohkalikai Waterfall, Cherrapunji
Nohkalikai Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Meghalaya, resting at a distance of approximately 7 km from Cherrapunji. Additionally, it is not only the highest waterfall in Meghalaya, but it is also the highest plunge waterfall in the whole of India.
The water roars down from an impressive height to form a deep plunge pool at its base. The unique aspect here is that the water remains blue during winter and turns green during summer.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 1115 ft.
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
- Timing: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via private cars and local buses
- Best Time to Visit: October to December and March to May
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, photography, angling, birdwatching, swimming, etc.
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1 - 2 hours
6. Wei Sawdong Waterfall, Cherrapunji
This famous waterbody in Meghalaya is a three-tier waterfall and is also referred to as Sohra. It takes approximately 1.30 hours to travel 58 kilometres from Shillong to Wei Sawdong. Wei and Sawdong refer to square shapes, giving the area its name.
Besides, it resembles a pool and is distinctive due to its emerald colour and sparkling water. It is best to travel to this location during the winter season.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 167 ft.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timing: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via private cars and public buses
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, picnicking, photography, etc.
- Ideal Trip Duration: 3 - 4 hours
7. Rainbow Falls, East Khasi Hills
Rainbow Waterfalls is a gorgeous waterfall that gets its name from the rainbow that is often visible above the plunging waterfall. To reach Rainbow Waterfalls, you must trek for about 2 km from the nearby village of Nongriat.
Ensure to carry your camera to click some stunning pictures of the landscape that you will witness during your trek to this location.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 80 ft.
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
- Timing: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via private cars and public buses
- Best Time to Visit: October to January
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, hiking, fishing, swimming, rock climbing, picnicking, photography, and exploring the landscape around
- Ideal Trip Duration: 5 - 6 hours
8. Dainthlen Waterfalls, Sohra
Dainthlen Waterfalls is one of the stunning tourist spots in Sohra, famous for its marvellous vista. One of the best things you will witness here is that the water gushes not from below but from above.
Located between the lush green mountains, the view of the water roaring down in full force is a lovely experience you can have when you view it from the gallery. If you are lucky, you can view a rainbow at the waterfall.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 295 ft.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timing: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via private vehicles and public buses
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, photography, birdwatching, etc.
- Ideal Trip Duration: 3 - 4 hours
9. Langshiang Falls, Nongstoin
A location less explored, Langshiang Falls is formed from River Kynshi, which rolls down the west Khasi Hills to form this waterbody. Resting amidst the dense thickets and forests of Sangriang, near Nongstoin, this waterfall is endowed with refreshing beauty.
Locals refer to it as 'Kshaid Ur-Nar', which promises the mesmeric beauty of the green hills and surrounding quaint hamlets. Langshiang Falls is clearly visible from Mawpon village.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 1106 ft.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via private cars or hire a cab
- Best Time to Visit: July to September
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, bathing in the hot springs near this waterfall, picnicking with friends and family and visiting the other tourist spots nearby
- Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 2.5 hours
10. Sweet Falls, Happy Valley
Resting amidst beautiful Khasi Hills, this location is ideal for adventure seekers as they can relax and enjoy the serenity around them. The landscape near Sweet Falls is filled with pine forests encircling this place. However, due to several accidents happening in this place, it has been marked a danger zone by the local government.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 315 ft.
- Entry Fee: Free (for vehicles ₹70)
- Timing: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via private cars or hire a local taxi
- Best Time to Visit: October to January
- Things to Do: Indulge in photography and enjoy the surroundings. Visit the mini zoo and butterfly museum nearby
- Ideal Trip Duration: 4 – 4.5 hours
11. Bophill Falls, Dwaki
One of the secluded falls in Meghalaya, Bophill Falls, is located near Dawki at the Indo-Bangladesh border and is still unknown to many. It is an extremely beautiful waterfall in Meghalaya and is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The roaring stream highlights its grace and majesty during the monsoon.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: NA
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timing: Throughout the year
- How to Reach: Drive your own car or hire a cab
- Best Time to Visit: August and October
- Things to Do: Indulge in photography, swimming and boating at the Umngot River
- Ideal Trip Duration: 4 - 5 hours
12. Mawphlang Falls, Mawphlang
Located amidst the Mawphlang Sacred Forests, this waterfall is one of the most stunning waterfalls in this state. This serene waterfall is a must-visit location for adventure enthusiasts plunging through multiple tiers from an impressive height.
This waterfall plunges into a small plunge pool, making it a perfect place to relax, rejuvenate and enjoy quality time amidst the tranquil nature.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: NA
- Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
- Timing: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via private cars
- Best Time to Visit: October to January
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, dipping in the waters of the waterfall, enjoying local festivities
- Ideal Trip Duration: 2 - 3 hours
13. Imil-Chang-Dare Falls, Chokpot
Located near Tura-Chokpot Road in the west Garo Hills district, this beautiful waterfall adds to the eclectic beauty of the landscape. The shimmering waters gush down through a narrow but deep winding bed of rugged cliffs and form a wide opening.
The refreshing plunge pool that forms underneath serves as a refreshing spot for you to take a dip in!
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 100 ft.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timing: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via private cars and public buses
- Best Time to Visit: September to October
- Things to Do: Indulge in Swimming in the plunge pool, day picnic, photography
- Ideal Trip Duration: 5 hours
14. Tyrshi Falls, Shillong-Jowai Road
Often compared to the Elephant Falls of Shillong, this waterbody has a lovely arch bridge that connects the falls to the paddy fields. These falls exude gorgeousness from every drop that falls off the slippery rock.
Besides, you can also view the panoramic landscape that consists of lush green paddy fields and dense flora and fauna. The views of the Pynthor Nein are the cherry on top of this incredible experience.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: NA
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timing: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm
- How to Reach: Via private cars and public buses
- Best Time to Visit: June to December
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, rock climbing and photography, etc.
- Ideal Trip Duration: 4 – 4.5 hours
15. Pelga Falls, Tura
Adding to the list of famous waterfalls in Meghalaya is the Pelga Falls, which offers a tranquil environment. A place less explored, this waterbody is one of the favourites for those who wish to get closer to nature.
The best thing about Pelga Waterfalls is the traditional-style bamboo bridge that sits over the river Ganool.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 340 ft.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timing: Throughout the day
- How to Reach: Via private cars and public buses
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, enjoy picnics with your friends and family, photography, etc.
- Ideal Trip Duration: 6 - 7 hours
16. Krang Suri Falls, Jaintia Hills
Resting in the mountains of the Jaintia Hills district in Meghalaya, the Krang Suri Waterfalls are one of the most beautiful natural attractions in India. Due to its mesmerising beauty, this waterfall has been featured in several Bollywood movies.
However, since this waterfall is situated in a remote location, away from usual tourist places, there is not much development near the waterfall area.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 100 ft.
- Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
- Timing: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via private vehicles and public buses
- Best Time to Visit: April to June
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, swimming, photography etc.
- Ideal Trip Duration: 4 - 5 hours
17. Thum Falls, Dilerim
Rejuvenate yourself by planning a lovely weekend trip to Thum Falls. Located in Nongkhnum, Thum Falls is beautiful and magical in its true sense. These 60 metres high waterfalls are nestled amidst the lush greens and boast a scenic view offering therapeutic vibes.
You will find a small pool that is surrounded on three sides by hard cliffs and is idyllic for a day picnic. However, you have to trek around 300 metres to reach this location.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 196 ft.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timing: Throughout the year
- How to Reach: Hire a cab or travel via your public vehicle
- Best Time to Visit: June to December
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, swimming, picnicking with family and friends, photography, etc.
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1 - 2 hours
18. Thlumuwi Falls, Jowai-Jaintia Hills
The Thlumuwi waterfalls in Meghalaya exude refreshing vibes as it cascades from a height. This waterfall has a footpath with gravelling stones that serves as a viewpoint for many. In addition, it overlooks a grand stone bridge located on the banks of the Thl Umuwi Stream, offering a panoramic and breathtaking view. People call it an ideal gateway for nature lovers.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: NA
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timing: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via private cabs and public buses
- Best Time to Visit: September to May
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, picnicking with friends and family, photography, etc.
- Ideal Trip Duration: 55 minutes - 1 hour
19. Weinia Falls, Nongkhnum Road
Weinia Falls is that majestic waterbody you will love exploring as it carries a magical charm. The vapours rising from the waterbody and forming colours of a rainbow will profoundly affect your mind, body and soul.
A lovely walk to the falls is so refreshing and rejuvenating that you will fall in love with the place. However, visit the fall during the monsoons to experience its full beauty.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 1000 ft.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timing: Throughout the Day
- How to Reach: Via private vehicles and public buses
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Things to Do: Indulge in trekking, rock climbing, birdwatching, photography, etc.
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1 - 2 hours
FAQs About Waterfalls in Meghalaya
What are some popular tourist attractions near Nohkalikai Falls in Cherrapunji?
Some of the popular tourist attractions near Nohkalikai Falls are – Rainbow Falls, Wah-Kaba Falls, Mawsmai Cave, Arwah Cave, Cherrapunji ViewPoint, Thangkharang Park, Garden of Caves, Wei Sawdong Waterfall, Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Seven Sisters Falls, and Dainthlen Falls.
What are some tips to keep in mind when visiting Krang Suri Waterfalls?
When visiting this waterfall, avoid speeding vehicles, as the road is rugged and slippery. If you are planning to swim, carry adequate clothes. Wear good quality trek shoes while going to and from the waterfalls since the route is quite rugged. If you are not an expert in trekking, avoid travelling to the waterfalls during the monsoons.
What are some exciting tourist attractions in and around Seven Sisters Falls in Cherrapunji?
Located near the Seven Sisters Falls is the amazing Nohkalikai Falls. This waterfall is famous for its large green plunge pool. Another interesting option for adventure lovers here is to explore the caves of Arwah and Mawsmai. This is an experience you will cherish for a lifetime.