Nohkalikai Falls: The Tallest Plunge
No waterfall tour in Meghalaya is complete without witnessing Nohkalikai Falls, India's tallest plunge waterfall. During the monsoon months from June to September, it is a formidable sight, dropping 340 metres from a clifftop near Cherrapunji (Sohra).
Fed entirely by rainwater, the falls are at their most powerful now, plunging into a deep pool that turns a milky green colour. The viewpoint is easily accessible by road, requiring only a short walk from the parking area. However, be warned: at the peak of the monsoon, the viewpoint can be completely shrouded in clouds, so an early start is recommended for a clearer view.
Nohsngithiang Falls: The Seven Sisters
Also known as the Seven Sisters Falls, this magnificent segmented waterfall is a purely monsoon-fed spectacle. Seven separate streams cascade down a wide limestone cliff face, representing the seven sister states of Northeast India. Located in Mawsmai village near Cherrapunji, the falls are best viewed between July and September when all seven streams flow with full force. During the dry season, the streams often dry up completely. The best viewpoints are from the Sohra Eco Park, which offers a panoramic vista of the falls and the surrounding valleys, especially at sunset when the cliffs can glow orange and gold.
Krang Suri Falls: The Turquoise Gem
Often called the most beautiful waterfall in Meghalaya, Krang Suri is located in the Jaintia Hills, about a three-hour drive from Shillong. It’s famous for its crystal-clear, turquoise-blue pool at the base. While the iconic blue colour is most vivid post-monsoon, visiting during the rains offers a view of the falls in their most powerful state. A short, well-maintained trek with steps leads down to the falls. Swimming is a popular activity here, but it's strictly regulated for safety, and wearing a life jacket is mandatory. During heavy rains, swimming may be prohibited due to strong currents, so it's always best to follow local guides' instructions.
Dainthlen Falls: A Cascade of Legends
Dainthlen Falls, located near Cherrapunji, is as famous for its dramatic beauty as it is for the Khasi legend associated with it. The name comes from a story about a giant serpent, or 'Thlen', that was slain at this spot. Unlike the tall plunge of Nohkalikai, Dainthlen is a wider, more expansive cascade that flows over a rocky plateau before dropping into a gorge. This makes it accessible, allowing visitors to walk along the riverbed during drier spells. In the monsoon, the river swells, creating a powerful, thundering waterfall that is a sight to behold from the nearby bridge and viewpoints.
Elephant Falls: The Three-Tiered Wonder
Located just 12 km from Shillong, Elephant Falls is one of the most accessible and popular waterfalls in the state. Known locally as 'Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew' or 'The Three Step Waterfalls', it consists of three distinct tiers. Well-maintained walkways and stairs allow visitors to explore each level up close, feeling the cool spray of the water. The falls were named after an elephant-shaped rock at their base, which was destroyed in an earthquake in 1897. During the monsoon, all three tiers flow with impressive force, surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect half-day trip from the capital.
Essential Monsoon Travel Tips
Travelling in Meghalaya during the monsoon requires some preparation. Roads can be slippery, and landslides are a possibility, so check conditions before you travel and consider hiring an experienced local driver. Waterproofing is non-negotiable; pack a good quality rain jacket or poncho, waterproof footwear with excellent grip, and a waterproof bag for your electronics. Start your sightseeing early in the day, as mist and fog often roll in by the afternoon, obscuring views. Finally, always respect safety barriers and local advice, especially when it comes to swimming or trekking near powerful waterfalls.
