Meghalaya, in Sanskrit, means “abode of the clouds” and is one of the most visited Northeastern states of India. Besides being endowed with spectacular natural beauty, the state is also blessed with numerous waterfalls which is a must-visit for any avid traveler.
Here are some of the most beautiful waterfalls of Meghalaya that will be a treat for any traveler visiting the state and the list is no particular order.
1. Elephant Falls
Elephant Falls, located on the outskirts of the state capital, Shillong is a three layers waterfall before plunging into the pool at the bottom of the falls. The name originated during the British era when they spotted a huge rock near the fall that was shaped like an elephant. From the head of the water, there is a railed walkway that continues to the bottom which ensures that you not only get to have close look at the magnificent falls but also get to feel the spray of cool water and hear the thunderous sound. This spectacular fall is known as Kshaid-Lai-Pateng in the Khasi language. This fall is perhaps the most visited fall in the entire Northeast.
2. Nohsngithiang Falls
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More popularly known as Seven Sisters Waterfall, is a seven-segmented waterfall through its course as it comes down. The waterfall from a height of 315 metres and has an average width of 70 metres making it one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Nohsngithiang Falls is located about 4 km from Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on earth. The major highlight of the place is the spectacular view during the sunset when the rays fall on it creating a beautiful rainbow around it.
3. Kynrem Falls
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Kynrem Falls is a three-tiered waterfall located 12 kilometers from Cherrapunji (Sohra). This awe-inspiring fall is the 7th highest waterfall in India. During the rainy season, the fall of the huge volume of water is spectacular as it cascades down the jagged rocks. A good view of the neighboring Bangladesh plains can be seen when the sky is clear.
4. Nohkalikai Falls
Nohkalikai Falls is the tallest plunge waterfall in India. The view of the falls is mesmerizing from a distance but it can get foggy obstructing the view.
According to legends, a widow named Ka Likai had a daughter and she remarries so that her daughter can have the love of a father. But the new husband hated the daughter. One day when Ka Likai was away for work, the man kills the girl and cooks her flesh as meal. When Ka Likai returned from work she was surprised to not see her daughter around and she later found her daughter’s fingers in a basket. Filled with sadness Ka Likai threw herself down from a cliff and so the fall was named Nohkalikai after her.
5. Wei Sawdong Falls
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Wei Saw dong or the three-tiered cascade waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Meghalaya. It is located in Cherrapunji about 56 km from the capital city of Shillong. The trek to the falls is a flight of bamboo stairs which is quite an enjoyable experience in itself.
6. Phe Phe Falls
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Phe Phe Falls is a two-tiered waterfall located in the West Jaintia Hills District in Meghalaya. Phe Phe translates to paradise in the Jaintia language. Set against the backdrop of the blue sky, this fall is hidden from the hustling and bustling human life and is one of the best places to find solitude with nature. Some of the activities that you can go for at Phe Phe Falls are hiking, boating, swimming and a bonfire by the river.
7. Krang Suri Falls
Krang Suri Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls of Meghalaya. Nestled within the mountains, this enchanting waterfall is blessed with shimmering blue waters under the golden sunlight. Surrounded by greenery and big rocks, it is an ideal spot for one to take a dip in its cool waters.
8. Sweet Falls
Located just outside of Shillong, Sweet Falls is one of the steepest yet mesmerizing falls in Meghalaya. Sweet Falls consists of a single-tiered fall unlike the other falls in the state, it is often considered the “most beautiful” yet “most dangerous” waterfall in Meghalaya. The thick gush of water dropping from the great height makes it impossible to stand or take a bath beneath the falls.
9. Dainthlen Falls
Dainthlen Falls is a magnificent waterfall located in Cherrapunji, Meghalaya. The gushing waters from the falls cut through the high mountains of Cherrapunjee before making its way into the lush green forest. According to the local folktale, a huge demonic python called Thlen was filled with greed and power. So, some brave men from the village destroyed its hood with a huge rock near the fall and the marks on the stone are those of the violent struggle of the snake.
10. Langshiang Falls
Langshiang Falls located near the village of Sangriang, in West Khasi Hills on the Kynshi river is a perennial fall due to heavy rainfall in the region. It is formed as a result of the river splitting into two as it falls deep inside the forest of West Khasi Hills. This amazing waterfall. It is one of the highest falls in India and it offers a panoramic view of the hills all around perfect for trekking and hiking activities.
11. Bishop Falls and Beadon Falls
Bishop Falls and Beadon Falls are two tall falls, located about 5 km from Shillong, and is the 22nd highest waterfalls in India. Bishop Falls and Beadon Falls are regarded as twin brothers both drops down the same steep slope. The waterfall is surrounded by green forest with rock formations and is a popular picnic spot for both locals and tourists alike.
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