Nestled in the lush hills of Meghalaya, Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This charming town is renowned for its astonishing beauty, abundant rainfall, and fascinating living root bridges. In this travel blog, we will take you on a journey to explore the myriad wonders of Cherrapunji, including the must-visit places, how to get there, the best time to visit, and a heartfelt conclusion.
Cherrapunji (also known as Sohra) is the wettest place on the earth and Meghalaya’s lush green beauty is a paradise of earth. Cherrapunji is situated in Meghalaya’s, East Khasi District. The hill station received the highest rainfall around the year. Cherrapunji or Sohra, holds the Guinness World Record for the highest rainfall in a single year (August 1860 to July 1861) and single month (July 1861).
Places to Explore in Cherrapunji
Double Decker Living Root Bridges
The Double Decker Living Root Bridges in the dense forest is famous for its uniqueness. The 20 meters long Rubber Trees whose roots are linked have nature wonder and human engineering. It is believed that the bridge is approx. 150 years old and can weigh around 40 people. Beneath the Double Decker Living Root Bridge the river flows pleasantly amidst the dense forest. If you love trekking, then you can trek in the dense forest and reach at amazing Double Decker Living Root Bridges, or else can drive from Cherrapunji for 20-30 minutes.
Nohkalikai Waterfalls
Nohkalikaji is the famous and one of the tallest waterfall in India which is only 7km away from the Cherrapunji. The waterfall is situated in the lush green forest at the height of 1115 ft. where the flow of water is huge and the large amount of water enters into the pool. The colour of pool turns blue in winters and green in summer. You can hire a cab from Shillong to reach here, the prices are nominal, only Rs. 20/- and the waterfall is open till 6 PM.
Seven Sister Falls
The tallest waterfall also known as Nohsngithiang Falls and Mawsmai Falls, which is located in Mawsmai Village. The name Seven Sister Waterfalls resembles the seven states of the northeast. The pleasant and serene view amazed you, which can viewed from Eco Park and Mawsmai Village viewpoint.
Dainthlen Waterfall
The famous tourist place of Cherrapunji, Dainthlen Waterfall is a natural wonder, the carvings on the rocks are surreal. The crystal clear waterfall is eye-soothing, for the tourist an iron rod railing has been placed from where you can watch the crimping of birds and waterfall in the lush green forest.
Mawsynram Village
Image Credit: Google
The Mawsynram Village is famous for its serene beauty and records the highest rainfall in the world. You can visit this local village, connect with the local villagers, and enjoy the serene landscape. The village is known for its heavy rainfall throughout the year, thus, known as the wettest village of Cherrapunji.
Eco Park
Image Credit: Google
Cherrapunji’s Eco Park is a natural paradise, the lush green forest, beautiful flowers, and a panoramic view mesmerized you. The place is very famous from a tourist perspective which gives you unforgettable memories. Eco Park is 57km from Cherrapunji City, you can take a taxi or cab or if you have your own vehicle you can take a ride and enjoy the beauty of Cherrapunji.
Mawlynnong Village
The Mawlynnong Village is Asia’s Cleanest Village and in the year 2003, the village bagged the award of the cleanest village. The cleanliness of this village is the responsibility of all villagers, and children also play a vital role, they help in cleaning during school holidays. The greenery, gardens, and bamboo brides make this village a paradise. The Government promotes Mawlynnong Village for tourism as ‘God’s Own Garden’.
Mawsmai Cave
Cherrapunji’s Mawsmai Cave showcases the longest cave system of India where you explore the limestone formations. When you enter the cave, the entrance is quite huge, but when you pave the way inside the cave you will experience the narrow caves, stones, water from the roof, and the unbelievable adventure.
Mawkdok Dympep Valley View
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A valley with a panoramic view of lush green hills, Mawkdok Dympep is situated around 30km from Shillong and 27km from Cheerapunji. The valley has a natural beauty and you can enjoy this from the famous bridge ‘Duwan Singh Syiem Bridge’.
Wakaba Falls
Cherrapunji’s hidden gem, Wakaba Falls, is in the dense forest, a red sandstone cliff with pleasant weather. If you love trekking, take a short trek with your friends and experience the beauty of Wakaba Falls. You can also take a taxi to Wakaba Falls which is located between Cherrapunji and Shillong, then take a walk towards the Wakaba Falls.
Dawki
A town at India’s border which is famous for the crystal clear water of Umngot River where you can take a boat ride. The bridge created over the water is a famous spot, you can take a walk and enjoy the serene beauty of Cherrapunji’s Dawki.
Khasi Monoliths
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Khasi Monoliths, a straight long stone which stands to pay tribute to the Khasi Culture and the member of the tribe who died. Khasi Monoliths the history of North East is close to Mawsmai Falls.
Kynrem Falls
Thangkharang Park, the lush greenery and amidst this natural beauty, the surreal Kynrem Fall is situated. The Kynrem Falls, 7th highest waterfall of India is only 12km from Cherrapunji. The dense forest, greenery all around, and the sound of the waterfall is a natural therapy to cure your hustle and bustle life.
Thangkharang Park
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The park situated in the land of 10 acres and near to Khoh Ramhah Rock is a famous tourist spot. In this park you will experience the waterfalls, greenery, and the bridge from where you can visit the plains of Bangladesh. The park is taken care of by the State Forest Department of Meghalaya and offers the perfect point for relaxation.
Arwah Cave
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The fourth longest cave of India, located in the Khasi District of Cherrapunji gives you unforgettable memories. If you love adventure, then visit this cave and enjoy the huge pool at the front of the cave, the narrow lanes, and the variety of stones.
Krem Mawmluh
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A massive stone placed in a unique style and the shape of this rock is not man-made which makes this Pillar Rock a thrilling place for the tourist. The stones are placed in such a manner that make way for the waterfall in the lush green forest.
Wei Sawdong Falls
The water falls from the huge cave stone which is square in shape and has layers, each situated like a stair with a distance of 100 meters. To reach this place, a tough trekking is needed, the waterfall is situated in the dense forest, and while on the way you will feel the difficulty. So, I would advice if you have any health issues then avoid this hidden place.
Mawphlang Sacred Forest
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The forest is situated in the land of 80 acres and has variety of medicinal plants, trees and other spices. You can take a guide to understand the importance of this tribe, the Heritage Village along-with the guide who will charge approx. Rs. 300/-
How to Reach Cherrapunji
- Nearest Airport: Umroi Airport, Shillong
- Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station
- Nearest Bus Station: You can take a ride from Shillong to Cherrapunji which is only 2 hours away.
Best Season to Visit Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji is the wettest place and is famous for its heavy rainfall. You can plan a trip from October to May, to enjoy the pleasant weather of Cherrapunji.
Final Thought
Cherrapunji is the natural beauty of the North-east region where you will explore nature’s beauty in the form of massive stones, waterfalls, caves, bridges, and classic villages. Take time off from your hustle-bustle life and a gateway from the city traffic. If you are from Delhi-NCR, then I guess you deadly need the pure air which you can get in this beautiful place, Cherrapunji….
Pack your bag and explore the unexplored places with Hema.