Cherrapunjee (Cherrapunji), also called Sohra, is a town in the hills of Meghalaya, in northeast India. It is famous for its living root bridges, which are made by guiding the roots of rubber trees to grow into strong, natural walkways. Not far from the town, the Mawkdok Dympep Valley View Point offers amazing views of green valleys and deep gorges. The area is also home to stunning waterfalls like Noh-Kalikai, Dain-Thlen, and Kynrem, which fall from the forest-covered cliffs. Just south of Cherrapunjee, you can explore Mawsmai Cave, where lights highlight the beautiful rock formations inside, including stalagmites. This place is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
places to visit in Cherrapunji
Nohkalikai Falls
Nohkalikai Falls is the tallest plunge waterfall in India, dropping from a height of 1,115 feet. It is located close to Cherrapunji, one of the rainiest places in the world. The waterfall flows down from a high cliff into a clear pool below. The sight is breathtaking, especially during the rainy season. Mist often rises from the falling water, adding to its beauty. There is a viewpoint where visitors can admire the falls. It’s one of the top attractions in Meghalaya.
Mawsmai Cave
Mawsmai Cave is a natural limestone cave near Cherrapunji. The cave is narrow and dark in places, with low ceilings and uneven floors. It is partly lit to help visitors see the stunning rock formations inside. Stalactites and stalagmites can be seen throughout the cave. Nearby is Mawmluh Cave, about half a kilometer away, which is one of India’s longest caves. Mawmluh stretches to a height of 4,503 meters. These caves are great for those who enjoy exploring nature underground.
Krem Phyllut Cave
Krem Phyllut Cave is a popular cave near Cherrapunji, visited by both locals and tourists. It has three separate entrances, making it easy to explore. Inside, there are two underground river passages, adding to the adventure. The cave is known for its fascinating rock formations. It’s not too difficult to walk through, so even beginners can enjoy it. The natural beauty inside makes it worth visiting. It’s a peaceful place to explore away from the crowds.
Dain-Thlen Falls
Dain-Thlen Falls is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by green hills and open land. It is also a favorite picnic spot for visitors. The area is peaceful and great for relaxing with friends or family. The falls drop over a wide cliff, creating a scenic view. Local legends add mystery to the place, making it more interesting. There are viewpoints and benches around for people to enjoy the view. It’s perfect for a calm day in nature.
Kynrem Falls
Kynrem Falls is located about 12 kilometers from Cherrapunji in the East Khasi Hills. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in India, ranked as the 7th highest. The waterfall is inside Thangkharang Park, a beautiful natural area. It falls in three stages down a steep cliff. Visitors can see it best during or just after the rainy season. The lush greenery around adds to its charm. It’s a great place for photography and sightseeing.
Nohsngithiang Falls
Nohsngithiang Falls, also called the Seven Sisters Falls, is made up of seven side-by-side streams of water. It is located just 1 kilometer south of Mawsmai village. The falls drop from a height of 315 meters and are around 70 meters wide. The waterfall looks especially beautiful during the monsoon when all seven streams are flowing. The view is stunning from a distance. It’s one of the most photographed places in Meghalaya. The falls are best visited on a clear day.
Eco Park
Eco Park in Cherrapunji is a nature park developed by the Meghalaya government. It offers wide green spaces and lovely views of the nearby canyons and waterfalls. The park is perfect for walking, relaxing, and enjoying the fresh air. There are small gardens and viewpoints throughout the area. It is family-friendly and good for a day out. The landscape is especially lush during and after the rains. Visitors can also see the waterfalls from the park’s edge.
Thangkharang Park
Thangkharang Park is a scenic spot located near Cherrapunji. It features a garden, greenhouse, and a central fountain. The park also offers panoramic views of nearby valleys and cliffs. It is a peaceful place where visitors can enjoy the fresh air and nature. On clear days, you can see the plains of Bangladesh from the viewpoint. It’s a great spot for taking photos and spending time outdoors. The park is well maintained and full of greenery.
Khoh Ramhah (Basket of the Giant)
Khoh Ramhah is a giant rock shaped like an upside-down basket, giving rise to its nickname, “Basket of the Giant.” According to local legends, it once belonged to a giant. The rock stands tall in a wide open area surrounded by hills. From the viewpoint, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a peaceful and unique location to visit near Cherrapunji. The shape and story behind the rock make it an interesting stop. Nature and folklore come together here beautifully.
Best Time to Visit Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji gets a lot of rain all year round, but the best time to visit is from October to May. During these months, the weather is cool, pleasant, and better for sightseeing. Summer begins in March and ends in May, with some rain, especially in May, which is the wettest summer month and best to avoid. The monsoon season starts in June and lasts till September, bringing heavy rain and cooler temperatures (12°C to 16°C), making travel difficult. Winter begins in November and ends in February, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C but usually staying near 15°C. Winter is a good time for visiting waterfalls, caves, and enjoying the natural beauty of Cherrapunji.
| Season | Months | Weather Description | Temperature Range | Travel Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | March – May | Warm with light rain, May is quite wet | 15°C – 25°C | Good (Avoid May if possible) |
| Monsoon | June – September | Heavy rain, slippery roads, cloudy skies | 12°C – 16°C | Not recommended |
| Winter | November – February | Cold with light rain, great for sightseeing | 5°C – 15°C | Best time to visit |
| Ideal Months | October – April | Pleasant weather, clear views, less rain | 12°C – 22°C | Highly recommended |
