Places to Visit in Cherrapunji – An Ultimate Cherrapunji, Meghalaya Tourism Guide

Nestled in the mesmerising hills of Meghalaya, India, Cherrapunji is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and lush greenery. It is one of the wettest places on Earth and offers an array of natural wonders.

This picturesque destination is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. On this trip to Cherrapunji, Meghalaya tourist places, you can witness the beauty of several cascading waterfalls to unique living root bridges.

In this blog, we will explore ten must-visit places in and around Cherrapunji. Each offers a unique glimpse into the beauty and charm of this enchanting region. If you’re planning a trip this guide will help you discover the top places to visit in Cherrapunji.

1. Nohkalikai Falls

Plunging from a height of 1,115ft, this waterfall creates a magnificent spectacle as it crashes into the pool below. It is framed as the fourth-tallest plunge waterfall in India and a magnificent sight to behold.

The name “Nohkalikai” means “the leap of Likai” and has an intriguing legend associated with it. Ka Likai was a young widow mother, who remarried and stayed with her daughter and husband at the nearby village. When Ka Likai was at work, her husband killed the daughter and cooked her flesh. When Ka Likai returned home and couldn’t find her daughter but discovered a child’s finger on a basket of betel leaves, she plunged to death from the falls. Thus, owing to its name.

The best time to visit is during the monsoon season. The waterfall is in its full glory and surrounded by lush greenery. You can enjoy panoramic views from the viewing gallery and capture stunning photographs of this natural wonder.

You can also trek to the base of the falls and take a closer look at the cascading waters and the surrounding landscape. Beyond the sheer beauty of this place, the area around it offers serene walking trails and viewpoints.

Moreover, the mist from the falls and the cool breeze creates a refreshing ambience. It is also a perfect spot for a picnic or a peaceful retreat. As you stand at the edge of the cliff, overlooking the majestic waterfall, you’ll be captivated by the raw power and beauty of nature.

2. Double Decker Living Root Bridge

Located in the beautiful village of Nongriat, this living root bridge is a testament to the ingenuity of the Khasi tribe. This unique bridge is made from the roots of the Indian rubber tree (Ficus elastica) and has two levels.

This bridge is over 150 years old and still stands strong. Moreover, it is self-sustaining and eco-friendly which shows the masterpiece of the indigenous people.

The trek to this bridge is challenging, involving a descent of about 3,000 steps. But its enchanting atmosphere, cascading streams, and dense forest make the experience worthwhile.

It is also used as a natural pathway for the villagers and the intricate network of roots makes it sturdy. The area under the bridge is perfect for a short rest before continuing the trek to explore the nearby waterfalls and natural pools.

This living root bridge is not just a functional structure but also a symbol of harmony between humans and nature. It is also a highlight of any visit to Cherrapunji, Meghalaya tourist places that shows how humans and nature coexist without disrupting each other.

3. Mawsmai Cave

This is one of the most intriguing Cherrapunji, Meghalaya tourist places that is located just a few kilometres from the city. It is a fascinating limestone cave that offers an exciting adventure for visitors.

This cave is well-lit and easily accessible and a popular attraction for tourists visiting Cherrapunji and Shillong. As you venture inside, you’ll be greeted by a maze of stalactites and stalagmites that formed over thousands of years through the slow deposition of minerals.

The narrow passages and intricate formations create a breathtaking atmosphere and a thrilling experience for spelunkers and nature enthusiasts.

The journey through this cave is a sensory delight. The cool, damp air and the echoes of dripping water create a mystical ambience. Moreover, the cave’s natural formations resemble various shapes and figures, some of them sparking imagination and adding to the sense of wonder to the visitors.

Despite being relatively short, it offers a unique glimpse into the geological processes that have shaped the region. This cave is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the hidden treasures of Cherrapunji and experience the thrill of caving.

4. Seven Sisters Falls

Surrounded by lush green landscapes and rolling hills, this is a spectacular waterfall that cascades down the limestone cliffs of the Khasi Hills. This is a must-visit tourist destination for travellers looking to unwind in Cherrapunji or Shillong.

This majestic waterfall is divided into seven distinct segments and the falls plunge from a height of approximately 1,033 feet. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in India and is best viewed during the monsoon season when all seven segments are in full flow.

You can enjoy panoramic views of the falls from the nearby viewing platform, which offers a stunning vantage point to capture the beauty of this natural wonder. The area around these falls is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with friends and family.

This enchanting destination is a testament to the natural splendour of Cherrapunji and Shillong tourist places and a must-visit for any travellers looking forward to soaking in its serene atmosphere.

5. Thangkharang Park

Located about 12 kilometres from Cherrapunji, Meghalaya, this beautiful park offers a panoramic view of the plains of Bangladesh and the stunning Kynrem Falls. It is maintained by the State Forest Department and is home to a variety of flora and fauna.

It has well-maintained pathways and viewing platforms that provide easy access to the park’s attractions. Also, the impressive rock formations and the picturesque waterfalls appear mesmerising as the surrounding landscape further beautifies it.

This park is also home to a unique and sacred rock, which is believed to have spiritual significance for the local Khasi people. You can enjoy leisurely walks through the park and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the diverse plant life that this place hosts.

Furthermore, the park’s strategic location offers stunning vistas of the distant plains and the majestic Kynrem Falls creates a perfect backdrop for photography. It is one of the must-visit destinations for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and tranquillity of Cherrapunji, Meghalaya tourist places.

6. Dainthlen Falls

Named after a gigantic serpent, Thlen, it is a picturesque waterfall and a place steeped in local legend and folklore. It is one of the most intriguing sites among the Cherrapunji, Meghalaya tourist places with gushing waterfalls that cascade down into verdant forests.

According to Khasi mythology, Thlen, who was an embodiment of evil, was slain here by the locals to rid their community of its terror. The rock carvings near the falls depict this legendary battle, adding a cultural and historical dimension to the natural beauty of the site.

The waterfall cascades down a height of about 300 feet, creating a mesmerising sight, especially during the monsoon season when it is in full flow.

The area around this fall is perfect for a leisurely picnic or a peaceful retreat among its lush greenery and serene ambience. The sound of the cascading water and the cool breeze create a soothing atmosphere that is ideal for relaxation.

You can also explore the nearby trails and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the natural and cultural richness of Cherrapunji, Meghalaya tourism.

7. Mawkdok Dympep Valley

Located at Cherrapunji-Shillong Road, this valley offers a breathtaking view of the deep gorges and verdant hills that characterise the landscape of this place. It is easily accessible for travellers to enjoy the panoramic vistas of the valley. This viewpoint is also a popular spot for adventure activities such as zip-lining, providing a thrilling way to experience the beauty of the valley. Moreover, its undulating hills and lush greenery create a perfect setting for photography and nature appreciation.

This valley is especially enchanting during the monsoon season. The hills are covered in a blanket of greenery and the mist adds a mystical touch to the landscape. It is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the natural wonders of Cherrapunji, Meghalaya tourist places.

8. Arwah Cave

Located near Laitryngew village, it is a relatively lesser-known attraction that offers a unique caving experience. This cave is known for its impressive limestone formations and fossilised shells and marine life, which date back millions of years.

The cave’s passages are narrow and winding which creates an adventurous atmosphere for visitors. The journey through this cave is a fascinating exploration of the region’s geological history and natural beauty and a must-visit destination for Cherrapunji-Shillong travellers.

The cool, damp air and the echoing sounds of dripping water add to the mystical ambience of the cave. As a visitor, you can marvel at the intricate patterns and shapes formed by the limestone deposits, each telling a story of the natural processes that have shaped the cave over millennia.

The cave’s remote location and relatively untouched environment provide a sense of discovery and adventure. It is a perfect destination for those looking to explore the hidden treasures of Cherrapunji, Meghalaya tourist places and the region’s rich geological heritage and natural beauty.

9. Khasi Monoliths

Perched in the Mawmluh village near Cherrapunji, these are ancient stone structures that serve as a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage. These monoliths were erected by the Khasi tribe and are believed to be memorial stones commemorating the ancestors and significant events of the community.

The monoliths vary in size and shape, with some standing tall and slender while others are shorter and more robust. This site offers a glimpse into the traditional practices and beliefs of the Khasi people and is a fascinating destination for history and culture enthusiasts.

You must explore the area and learn about the significance of these ancient stones from local guides and community members. Moreover, the serene environment and the historical significance of the site create a unique and enriching experience.

These monoliths are more than just a cultural landmark. They are also a symbol of the enduring legacy of the Khasi tribe. This destination is a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich cultural history of the places to visit in Shillong and Cherrapunji, Meghalaya and the traditions of the indigenous people.

10. Eco Park

Home to a variety of plant species, this park was developed by the Meghalaya Tourism Department. It is a popular attraction site for people visiting Cherrapunji or Shillong that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the distant plains of Bangladesh.

It is a haven for nature enthusiasts and botanists. You can find rare orchids and endemic flora as well as the picturesque waterfalls and the scenic vistas of the valley below.

The serene environment and the lush greenery make this place a perfect spot for a relaxing day out. You can enjoy leisurely walks through the park and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the diverse plant life.

The park’s strategic location offers stunning vistas of the distant plains and the majestic Kynrem Falls, creating a perfect backdrop for photography. As a traveller, you must visit this place to experience the natural beauty and tranquillity of Cherrapunji, Meghalaya tourist places.