Cherrapunji, Meghalaya, (Northeast India)
Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra, is a town in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India. It holds the record for being one of the wettest places on Earth and is famous for its abundant rainfall and stunning waterfalls.
Unlock the beauty of Cherrapunji with our comprehensive guide to the best things to do and places to visit in this mesmerizing region. From nature's marvels to cultural gems, Cherrapunji has it all
Experiences
This cave is the third longest in the Indian subcontinent and a must for adventure enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: January - April, November - December
Timings: 07:00-16:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 20.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Wear appropriate shoes for slippery surfaces, not recommended for claustrophobic individuals
Experiences
Although this is a bit far from Cherrapunji, a day trip to Dawki is highly recommended. The crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River are a sight to behold.
Best Time to Visit: January - April, November - December
Timings: 09:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 600.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Experiences
These natural bridges are made from the roots of the Ficus elastica tree. The Double Decker Living Root Bridge and the Rainbow Falls are a must-visit.
Best Time to Visit: January - April, November - December
Timings: 06:00-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 50.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Requires moderate physical fitness
Wildlife
Designed and maintained by the Meghalaya government, this park offers stunning views of the 'Green Canyons’ of Sohra as well as of the plains of Bangladesh.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 09:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 20.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water
Experiences
A recently discovered cave which is less strenuous to explore than the Mawsmai Caves, but equally beautiful.
Best Time to Visit: January - April, November - December
Timings: 09:30-17:30
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 20.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Wear appropriate shoes for slippery surfaces
Waterfalls
This is the tallest plunge waterfall in India. The water falling from a height and creating a pool with unusual green colored water is a sight to behold.
Best Time to Visit: June - September
Timings: 09:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 20.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Best viewed after monsoon
Experiences
These limestone caves are a major attraction, with their intricate formations, narrow passages and caverns.
Best Time to Visit: January - April, November - December
Timings: 09:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 20.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Wear appropriate shoes for slippery surfaces, not recommended for claustrophobic individuals
Waterfalls
Also known as Nohsngithiang Falls, this is a seven-segmented waterfall which becomes spectacular during the monsoon season.
Best Time to Visit: June - September
Timings: 08:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Best viewed during monsoon
Sightseeing
It's an impressive single rock formation in the shape of a giant cone.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 06:00-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 20.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Can be slippery during/after rain, use caution
Trekking
Enjoy a serene and beautiful trek from Dawki to Shnongpdeng.
Best Time to Visit: January - April, November - December
Timings: 06:00-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 1400.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Requires moderate to high physical fitness as it's 8 KM long trek
Travel Guidelines for Cherrapunji, Meghalaya (Northeast India) For Indian Travellers Only
1. Place Information
Cherrapunji, often credited as the wettest place on Earth, is a stunning hill station located in Meghalaya. Renowned for its record-breaking rainfall, Cherrapunji boasts lush green landscapes, mesmerizing waterfalls, and unique living root bridges. It offers a refreshing ambiance and picturesque views of the plains of Bangladesh on clear days.
2. Travel Related Information
By Road: Cherrapunji is well-connected by road to major cities in Northeast India, especially Shillong, which is about 55 km away.
By Air: The nearest airport is Shillong Airport, though it has limited connectivity. A more accessible airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, which is around 148 km away.
By Railway: The nearest railway station is in Guwahati, which connects the region to other significant cities in India.
3. Visa Related Information
Indian citizens don't require a visa to travel within India. However, some parts of Northeast India, including Meghalaya, may require special permits for foreign tourists. For Indian travelers, no special permits are typically needed, but it's always good to check current regulations. The Ministry of Home Affairs website provides the latest guidelines.
4. SIM Card/Network Related Information
Major telecom providers in Cherrapunji include Jio, Airtel, and BSNL. Network connectivity can be sporadic in certain remote areas, but the main town and popular tourist spots generally have good coverage.
5. Govt Safety Guidelines
Cherrapunji is a favored tourist destination and is considered safe for visitors. However, tourists should stay updated about the local situation, given the region's history. Always follow advisories issued by the Meghalaya Police website.
6. Internal Transport Related Information
Local taxis are the primary mode of transportation in Cherrapunji. Shared taxis and local buses are also available for travel to nearby areas and sightseeing spots.
7. Special Mentions
Living Root Bridges: These are unique bridges made out of intertwined living roots, with the Double Decker Root Bridge being the most famous.
Nohkalikai Falls: India's highest waterfall, it offers a breathtaking view, especially during the monsoon season.
Mawsmai Cave: A limestone cave that tourists can explore to see impressive stalactites and stalagmites formations.
Dainthlen Falls: Known for its legend and the beautiful view it offers.
Seven Sisters Falls: A seven-segmented waterfall which becomes particularly impressive during the rains.
Eco Park: Offers a panoramic view of the Green Canyons and the waterfalls.