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Located in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, Cherrapunji, alias Sohra, is a destination of sublime beauty. Acclaimed as the wettest place on Earth at one point, places to visit in Cherrapunjee offer just the right blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and landscapes that can take one’s breath away. From misty valleys and thundering waterfalls to living root bridges and ancient caves, Cherrapunji has much to offer any wanderer. Whether you are an adventure-loving person, a nature enthusiast, or a cultural explorer, Cherrapunji will have something to bewitch your senses.
10 Best Places To Visit In Cherrapunji
Let’s explore some of the most captivating tourist attractions in Cherrapunji, each offering a distinct glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
1. Nohkalikai Falls
Photo: Jyotishkardey / Wikimedia Commons
Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India, is the best Cherrapunji tourist attraction. This majestic waterfall plummets from a height of 340 metres (1115 feet) into a turquoise pool below, creating an awe-inspiring and humbling spectacle. The waterfalls are shrouded in local legend, adding a touch of mystery to their natural beauty. During the monsoon season, the waterfall is at its fullest, creating a thunderous display of nature’s power. A viewing gallery offers panoramic vistas of the waterfalls and the lush green valley surrounding it.
Major Attractions: Tallest plunge waterfall in India, scenic viewpoints, lush surroundings
Best Time To Visit: June to September for maximum water flow
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), approximately 80 km away
Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Cherrapunji For An Amazing Vacation
2. Living Root Bridge
Photo: Chiranjeeb Baul / Wikimedia Commons
The Double Decker Living Root Bridge in the village of Nongriat is a testament to the ingenuity of the Khasi people. This unique bio-engineering marvel consists of two bridges stacked on each other, formed by guiding the roots of rubber trees across a river. The journey to the bridge involves a challenging trek of about 3,500 steps, but the reward is well worth the effort. The bridge, surrounded by lush rainforest, offers a surreal experience and a glimpse into the harmonious relationship between nature and human innovation.
Major Attractions: Unique living root bridge, trekking, pristine forest surroundings
Best Time To Visit: November to May (dry season for easier trekking)
Ideal Trip Duration: Full day (including trek)
Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), approximately 90 km away
3. Mawsmai Cave
Photo: ANKAN / Wikimedia Commons
Mawsmai Cave is a limestone cave system that offers an exciting underground adventure. The cave stretches for about 150 metres and is well-lit, making it accessible to most visitors. As you navigate through the narrow passages and chambers, you’ll encounter fascinating limestone formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. The cave’s cool interior provides a refreshing respite from the outside heat, while its unique ecosystem hosts various species of bats and other cave-dwelling creatures.
Major Attractions: Limestone formations, cave exploration, unique ecosystem
Best Time To Visit: Year-round, but avoid during heavy rains
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), approximately 75 km away
Suggested Read: Discover Top Places To Visit In Mawsynram
4. Seven Sisters Falls
Photo: Arindambasu2 / Wikimedia Commons
It is also called the Nohsngithiang Falls. The Seven Sisters Falls is a seven-segmented waterfall that cascades down a 315-metre tall cliff. This spectacular waterfall is most impressive during the monsoon season when all seven segments are flowing in full force. The waterfalls derive their name from the appearance of seven distinct streams flowing side by side. The best views of the waterfalls can be enjoyed from the nearby viewpoint, which also offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding Khasi Hills and the plains of Bangladesh in the distance.
Major Attractions: Seven-segmented waterfall, scenic viewpoints, photography opportunities
Best Time To Visit: June to September for maximum water flow
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), approximately 80 km away
5. Eco Park
Photo: Sujan Bandyopadhyay / Wikimedia Commons
The Eco Park, also known as Thangkharang Park, is a beautifully landscaped garden offering stunning views of the Bangladesh plains and the Kynrem Falls. The park features well-maintained walkways, exotic flowers, and several viewpoints. A notable attraction within the park is the Khoh Ramhah Rock, a distinctive rock formation resembling a giant cone. The park is the best tourist attraction in Cherrapunji for picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying the natural beauty of Cherrapunji.
Major Attractions: Panoramic views, landscaped gardens, Khoh Ramhah rock
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), approximately 80 km away
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Meghalaya In June
6. Mawkdok Dympep Valley
Photo: Sanjibroy56 / Wikimedia Commons
The Mawkdok Dympep Valley offers one of the most breathtaking views in Cherrapunji. Lush green hills surround this deep gorge and provide a panoramic vista of the valley below. The viewpoint here is a popular stop for travellers, providing an excellent opportunity for photography. For the adventurous, there’s a zip line that allows you to soar over the valley, offering an exhilarating experience and a unique perspective of the landscape.
Major Attractions: Scenic viewpoint, zip-lining, photography
Best Time To Visit: October to May for clear views
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), approximately 70 km away
7. Arwah Cave
Photo: Athena Sandrini / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Arwah Cave, located near Sohra, is a lesser-known but equally fascinating cave system in Cherrapunji. The cave is known for its impressive stalagmite and stalactite formations, as well as fossilised marine shells and fish embedded in its walls. A well-lit pathway leads visitors through the cave, revealing its geological wonders. The surrounding area is rich in biodiversity, making it an excellent spot for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Major Attractions: Cave exploration, fossil viewing, surrounding forest
Best Time To Visit: October to May (avoid during heavy rains)
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), approximately 75 km away
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Meghalaya
8. Dainthlen Falls
Photo: Pooja Borar / Wikimedia Commons
Dainthlen Falls, steeped in local folklore, is a wide waterfall that spreads across a rocky bed before plunging into the valley below. The falls are named after a mythical serpent said to have been slain here. During the dry season, visitors can walk along the rocky river bed above the falls, exploring the fascinating rock formations. The area around the falls offers excellent trekking opportunities and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Major Attractions: Wide waterfall, rock formations, trekking, local legends
Best Time To Visit: November to May for exploring the riverbed
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), approximately 85 km away
9. Mawsmai Village
Photo: David Bartus / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Mawsmai Village offers visitors a chance to experience the traditional lifestyle of the Khasi people. This quaint village is known for its cleanliness and the warm hospitality of its residents. Visitors can explore the town, interact with locals, and learn about Khasi culture and traditions. The village is also famous for its betel nut plantations and the unique way the nuts are harvested using bamboo poles.
Major Attractions: Traditional Khasi culture, betel nut plantations, village walks
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), approximately 75 km away
Suggested Read: Top Offbeat Places In Meghalaya That You Must Visit On Your Trip
10. Wei Sawdong Falls
Photo: Shreekanth Ramasamy / Wikimedia Commons
Wei Sawdong Falls is a hidden gem in Cherrapunji, offering a more secluded and adventurous experience. This three-tiered waterfall is accessed via a steep and sometimes challenging trek through dense forest. The effort is rewarded with stunning views of the crystal-clear water cascading down moss-covered rocks. The falls are surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a serene and picturesque setting. The trek to the falls offers opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
Major Attractions: Three-tiered waterfall, trekking, pristine natural setting
Best Time To Visit: October to May for easier trekking conditions
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours (including trek)
Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), approximately 85 km away
These places to visit in Cherrapunji showcase the diverse natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of this enchanting region. From the thundering waterfalls and mysterious caves to the living root bridges and traditional villages, Cherrapunji offers a unique blend of experiences for every type of traveller. So what are you waiting for? Plan your next trip to Cherrapuji with TripXL and participate in the unique celebrations.
Cover Photo: Souradip Halder / Shutterstock
