Places To Visit in Cherrapunji

Cherrapunji is a land where there are valleys having clouds which float through them and waterfalls falling into green abysses below. This picturesque town was once famous for being the wettest place on earth and it is ideal for both peace-loving tourists as well those who wish to take part in adventures. From Double Decker Living Root Bridge, an enchanting sight to behold, to imposing Nohkalikai Waterfalls, Cherrapunji has all it takes to be called a natural wonderland. Now let us explore the places to visit in Cherrapunji that altogether reveal this enchanting town’s beauty and mystery.

It is a unique attraction worldwide since the Double Decker Living Root Bridge acts as a monument of bioengineering that pulls visitors globally. Constructed with the roots of Indian rubber trees that have been woven together over centuries into one solid structure, this living bridge stands above a river in Nongriat village. The trek down to this bridge itself, which involves over 3,500 steps amidst dense forests, presents breathtaking viewpoints making one go through an unforgettable experience too. This building spans approximately twenty meters long and can accommodate about fifty people at any given time. It is made possible by allowing roots, when they grow, observing their preferred direction hence creating an eco-friendly structure blending so naturally with its surroundings. Besides these attractions, while on your way towards the bridge you will also come across various flora and fauna common among many nature lovers or adventure enthusiasts.

The highest waterfall plunge in India at 1,115 feet is **Nohkalikai Waterfalls**, and it is worth seeing for sure. This fall forms a wonderful pool of turquoise as it falls down from rain, especially during monsoon. The tragic myth surrounding the waterfall adds an aura of mystery to it, which is why no visitor should miss it when in Cherrapunji. In the local Khasi language, Nohkalikai means “the leap of Likai”, which signifies a gut-wrenching legend about a woman by that name who threw herself into the abyss. There is also a viewing gallery at its summit that provides panoramic views of the surroundings, whereas it is additionally popular for trekking, bird watching or photography, among many other activities. 

The best time to visit this place is between October and December and March to May because this period offers the most incredible sight of the fall. An entrance fee applies for tourists. Visitors usually have to pay Rs 10-20 per head as entrance charges while taking photographs may attract additional costs

Mawlynnong, tagged as Asia’s Cleanest Village, provides insights into how a sustainable society operates within the Khasi community. Besides being clean, the picturesque village has living root bridges, splendid orchids and breathtaking views of Bangladesh. It feels refreshing to visit Mawlynnong as you will be exposed to a kind of human-nature rapport that seems almost perfect here. To ensure its tidiness remains intact, there are bamboo dustbins scattered all over the village hence serving as an example for eco-tourism anywhere else on earth one might think about going in future. Among other attractions here is Sky Walk, made entirely out of bamboo, offering enchanting vistas over the surrounding landscape and Balancing Rock, where a huge boulder precariously sits on another small rock naturally occurring. As an eco-conscious traveller, you will find Mawlynnong one of your preferred destinations owing to its cleanliness goals and practices.

Wah-Kaba Falls, a hidden gem, albeit less known as compared to other falls in Cherrapunji, is another beautiful water fall. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for picnics and relaxation. The serene atmosphere plus the sound of its water are enough for one to enjoy their escape from the city hustle and bustle. It descends from a high rock face down through approximately 170-190 meters into a gorge. It is best to visit this area during the rainy season when there is more water falling over the falls. There are also many local legends about the place, which adds some mystery to its beauty.

Also known as Nohsngithiang Falls, the Seven Sisters Falls is a seven-segmented waterfall that cascades down the limestone cliffs of the Khasi Hills. The season when monsoons are heavy and they give a magnificent view if you come here at that time. This period attracts a huge number of visitors who flock here just to witness this natural phenomenon. They stand for the unity of Northeast India’s Seven Sister states and thus have cultural significance besides being attractive on their own naturally. The distance from which they drop is 1,033 feet, such that even those afar can spot them as they pose for photos and sightseeing. There are several viewpoints around where you can take in some splendid vistas of valleys filled with greenery beneath them.

To thrill-seekers, adventure at MawkdokDympep Valley Zipline provides an exhilarating experience. Glide above Cherrapunji’s luxuriant valleys with unimaginable beauty that drops miles below on ziplines. This adventure sport not only requires bravery but also helps one see Cherrapunji differently from its beauty point of view. The distance covered by the zip-line is 2,600 ft. and the speeds reached are up to 50 km per hour. This only ensures that adventure enthusiasts have their fill of what they come here for. All participants are under strict safety measures which makes it possible to enjoy the activity without any incidences. MawkdokDympep Valley itself is a picturesque place whose rolling hills and greenery make it an ideal venue for nature lovers.

If you visit Cherrapunji, make sure you go on a trip to Dawki and Umngot River. It is located in a town called Dawki which lies near the Bangladesh border and is famous for the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River. This river provides an opportunity to be on its boat with transparent water such that one sees through its bottom while floating above it. The annual boat race held every March is very festive with visitors from far and wide coming over as well as locals participating en-masse. With peaceful surroundings, fishing or picnicking can take place anywhere along the river’s length where one wants some quiet time out of all pressures. For example, in Shnongpdeng village, located not far away where kayaking, snorkelling or cliff jumping can be done and attractions there also include various other adventures that enthral seekers of thrill.

For history enthusiasts who love adventure and exploration, Arwah Cave is an epic place to be. It consists of limestone formations, fossils and narrow passages that provide a window towards understanding the geological past of this region. An adventure into Arwah Cave will make you stumble upon hidden chambers with the geological past of the region. It stretches about 300 metres through several chambers that have unique rock formations and fossils dating back millions of years ago. Also, there are different species of bats among other wild animals found inside which increase its attraction to lovers of wildlife. Guided tours bring out the history and geology aspects of this cave.

Finally, Dainthlen Waterfall stands out as an isolated point amidst the more crowded attractions in Cherrapunji. A local legend surrounds this waterfall thus giving it a mystical flavour added to its natural beauty. The fact that Dainthlen Waterfall has not been commercialized makes it ideal for those needing peace and solitude amongst themselves while enjoying natural serenity. The name “Thlen” refers to an imaginary serpent which was killed here at this particular spot by people long time back. The area around provides several viewpoints as well as picnic spots making it favourite among families’ tourists or those who love experiencing nature. It is most spectacular during the monsoon.

Cherrapunji, with its dense forests, waterfalls and hanging root bridges, is a perfect haven for environmentalists and explorers. Every one of these places to visit in Cherrapunji has an individual way of making a holiday memorable, from thrilling adventure activities to serene natural wonders. When you come here, let the magnificence of Cherrapunji fill your soul and ensure that you have memories lasting forever.