What is the story about?
Tucked away in the South Garo Hills, far from any busy tourist spots, there’s a stretch of river that feels like it belongs in a fantasy movie. It is called
Wari Chora. Imagine a narrow canyon, turquoise water flowing quietly between sheer cliffs, mossy rocks underfoot, and silent forests all around. That’s Wari Chora—one of the few places in Meghalaya that still feels untouched.
What Makes Wari Chora Special
The Rongdik River carved out this hidden canyon, winding its way between high stone walls and thick green forest. Watch the water as it shifts from deep blue to emerald green, depending on how the light hits it. Since hardly anyone knew about Wari Chora for years, it still feels wild and pure. The only sounds you’ll hear are the river, a few birds, and the whisper of leaves. Even getting there—walking through bamboo forests and then gliding across the calm river—feels like you’re stepping into a secret world.
How to Reach Wari Chora
Getting here isn’t exactly easy, but that’s half the fun. Most people start out in Shillong or Guwahati, then drive all the way down to Baghmara, the biggest town nearby. It’s about 285 kilometers from Shillong. From Baghmara, you still have a two-hour drive, usually in a bumpy off-road vehicle, since the roads get rough and muddy. After that, there’s a short trek through bamboo groves before you finally reach the canyon. It’s a good idea to hire a local guide—they know the trails, and they’ll help with the language, too.Best Time to Visit
October to May is the sweet spot for visiting. The weather’s pleasant, the river’s clear, and it’s safe to explore the canyon. Winter and early spring are especially nice, with blue skies and comfortable temperatures—perfect for hiking and canoeing. Skip the monsoon months, though. From June to September, the rains turn the trails slippery and the river risky.Things to Experience
The boat or kayak ride through the canyon is the real prize. You drift along the still water, cliffs rising up on both sides, sunlight slipping through the trees and dancing on the surface. Sometimes the river narrows, and the whole place feels otherworldly. Bring a camera—there’s plenty to shoot, from the reflections to the dramatic rocks jutting out of the water. If you like exploring, there are short hikes nearby with little viewpoints looking out over the valley and river.
Nearby Attractions
South Garo Hills has a lot more to offer other than just Wari Chora. Not far away, you’ll find the famous Siju Caves. The caves feature wild limestone shapes and bats hanging from the ceiling. The Siju Wildlife Sanctuary is close too. It is great for spotting rare birds or just soaking in the quiet of the forest. The Simsang River, winding through the area, is perfect if you need a peaceful spot to rest. And if you’re curious about Garo culture, don’t miss Emangre village. It’s close to the canyon and gives you a real taste of local life.
