Meghalaya in northeastern India boasts of misty hills, valleys, sparkling lakes and rivers, and more notably gorgeous waterfalls. Getting its name from Sanskrit meaning the abode of clouds, it is a must-visit for any avid traveller. The Best serene waterfalls in Meghalaya are all a treat to visit and experience.
Meghalaya is richly endowed with natural beauty. Everywhere in Meghalaya you go, you will seldom cease to be amazed and awestruck by the superb charm that the state has to offer. Be it from the serene waterfalls to the luscious green forests to deep prehistoric caves and mesmerizingly good culture and tradition. Also a big kudos to the hospitable and friendly people.
The monsoon season is from mid-June to September. Hundreds of waterfalls flow out of the mountains and flow down gushing gorges. A blanket of clouds hangs over the hills and meadows of intense green grass envelopes the entire landscape during this season. This is eye candy for any traveller.
The dry season is from November to June and offers landscapes painted with autumn hues. Some waterfalls go dry but the clear sunny weather of this season allows us to visit some places that are otherwise immersed in mist and fog during the monsoon. Thus Meghalaya can be visited during both seasons ideally.
Meghalaya is one of those states in India where tribal people make up the majority of the population. The three main tribes are Khasis, Garos and Jaintias. The respective tribes are called hill tribes by the people as they reside in the hills of Khasi, Garo and Jaintia in Meghalaya.
Also read: Best time to visit Meghalaya
Here are the most scenic waterfalls of Meghalaya,
Elephant Falls is a three-tier spectacular cascade. Located close to Shillong Peak, this fall is referred to as ‘Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew’ by the local people, which means ‘three-step waterfalls’. It is situated amongst the thick and dense forests in Shillong and is gorgeous and torrential, after the monsoon season, most notably from October to December. It was named so due to the mammoth rock lying at the foot of the waterfall, that resembles an elephant. However, the rock is currently not there, since it was destroyed in an earthquake. Located 12 km from Shillong city, this place is regularly visited by tourists and locals, particularly on weekends.
The seven-step cascade and one of the mesmerizing waterfalls of Meghalaya, Seven Sisters Falls cascades down over limestone cliffs of Khasi Hills, from 1033 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in India. To witness the full flow of the brooks, one should visit this waterfall between July and September. Surrounded by lush green forests, the beauty of the waterfall, dropping in seven streams, will surely leave you in awe and amazement.
Located near Cherrapunji this is one of the highest waterfalls of Meghalaya. With a height of about 1003 feet, Kynrem falls is counted as the 7th highest waterfall in India. It flaunts its fascinating beauty in post-monsoon and winter season. One of the major attractions here is Pillar Rock or Shiva Rock. It is famously known as Khoh Ramhah or Mothorp and is a huge rock located just beside the falls which offer an amazing view of the plains of Meghalaya.
Also read: Cherrapunji Waterfalls
Nohkalikai Falls is located at a distance of 7 km from Cherrapunji. It is renowned to be the highest plunge waterfall in India. The water cascades down from a huge height, forming a deep plunge pool, which looks spectacular. There is also a viewing gallery at the top of the falls and one can climb up to enjoy the bird’s eye view of the waterfall and the plunge pool.
Dainthlen Falls is one of the most photographed waterfalls which is located at Sohra, near Cherrapunji, best known for its gorgeous vista. As per mythology, the waterfall got its name from a huge serpent, who used to live in a nearby cave. The locals killed this huge snake due to the harm it was causing the villagers. The sight of the water gushing down in all its force is the most serene and majestic sight to behold that one can experience.
The river Kynshi goes down the West Khasi Hills to form the Langshiang Falls. It is one of the most huge cascades in Meghalaya, located amid the forests of Sangriang, near Nongstoin . A refreshing beauty, this waterfall is referred to as ‘kshaid Ur-Nar’ by the locals and offers the beauty of the green hills and surrounding hamlets.
Bishop and Beadon are the twin falls in Meghalaya. Bishop falls is a three-level stream, rolling down from an altitude of 446 feet. The view from Beadon falls of the surroundings and rocky hills drenched in mist and fog while the foamy water of Bishop fall gushes down to form a deep plunge. Both the Falls, drop down to a deep gorge of Umiam River and flow through stunning Suna Valley.
Also read: Waterfalls in Meghalaya
Sweet Falls is a cascading beauty of nature, located near Happy Valley. It considered the perfect place to relax and enjoy the serenity. Sweet Falls is notoriously reputable as one of the most dangerous waterfalls in Meghalaya as it is covered by slippery rocks all over the place. The tourism department has denied entry to travellers to the bottom of the falls but you can definitely enjoy the beauty from Happy valley.
Also read: Things to do in Meghalaya
The reasons are compelling for you to kick-start your bookings to the amazing city of Meghalaya. It is going to be a delightful experience for you filled with adventure and amazing experiences. At Pickyourtrail, we want our travellers to enjoy and experience all that Meghalaya has to offer. So, start planning your trip to Meghalaya to experience the beauty of nature.
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