Waterfalls of Meghalaya: A Complete Travel Guide

Meghalaya is a land of clouds, green cliffs and roaring rivers. If you love nature, the Waterfalls of Meghalaya will feel like a dream — each fall has its own story, view and mood. In this guide I will walk you through the best Waterfalls of Meghalaya, how to reach them, when to go, where to stay, safety tips, and little local things that make the trip special. Read on and you should have everything you need to plan a calm, worry-free visit to the Waterfalls of Meghalaya.

Why people visit the Waterfalls of Meghalaya

People come to see the Waterfalls of Meghalaya for their raw power and quiet corners. Some falls drop from very high cliffs into bright, blue-green pools and look like a painting. Others, such as elephant falls in meghalaya, are near Shillong and are easy for a family visit. Together the falls give you a mix of easy walks, short treks and wide viewpoints — great for photographers, families, and anyone who loves being close to nature.

Must-see waterfalls (what makes each special)

Nohkalikai Falls (Cherrapunji / Sohra)

Nohkalikai falls is one of the most dramatic falls you can see. It is a tall plunge waterfall that drops straight down into a deep pool. The viewpoint gives a sweeping view across a deep canyon. This fall is fed mostly by rain, so it is strongest in and right after the monsoon.

Nohsngithiang / Seven Sisters Falls (Mawsmai area)

Often called the Seven Sisters, this fall splits into several ribbon-like streams that fall side by side from a long limestone cliff. When the rain is heavy, the seven streams look like silver curtains. It is a truly special sight during the rainy months. 

elephant falls in meghalaya (near Shillong)

This tiered fall is very easy to reach from Shillong and is one of the most visited. There are steps and viewing platforms, so it works well for families and short day trips. The name comes from a rock that once looked like an elephant. 

Krang Suri and Wei Sawdong (Jaintia / Cherrapunji areas)

Krang Suri is known for clear, calm pools where people sometimes dip their feet. Wei Sawdong is a multi-level terrace fall that looks beautiful from several viewpoints. Both need short walks through forest or village paths to reach the best views. 

Best time to visit

If you want the biggest and loudest flows, the monsoon (June–September) is when the Waterfalls of Meghalaya look their most powerful. But heavy rain brings slippery paths and occasional road issues, so many travelers prefer just after the monsoon (October–November) or winter months (December–February). These months give you strong flows but safer and clearer trails. Always check local weather before you go. 

How to reach the waterfalls

Most trips begin from Guwahati (the nearest major city with a big airport and train links) or Shillong (regional airport). The road from Guwahati to Shillong takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and weather, and from Shillong it is another short drive to places like Cherrapunji and the waterfalls around it. Hiring a local taxi or joining a small group tour are common and comfortable choices. 

Where to stay and eat

Shillong and Cherrapunji have places for every budget: guesthouses, hotels, and a few homestays. A homestay gives you a warm local welcome and simple home-cooked food. In remote areas, shops and food stalls may be scarce — carry water and light snacks for day trips. Try local Khasi dishes when you can; the food is fresh, often simple, and very satisfying after a day of walking.

Safety, permits and how to be kind to nature

• Wear good shoes with grip. Trails get slippery, especially during or after rain.

• Respect barriers and signboards — they are there for safety.

• Many falls do not need permits, but some protected areas or viewpoints may have small fees. Ask at the local tourism counter or your hotel.

• Don’t litter. Carry your trash back and leave the place as you found it. Locals take pride in their forests and rivers; being careful shows respect.

Photography and talking to locals

A small tripod and a polarizing filter will help you take better photos of water and reflections. But the best moments are often simple: a chat with a local, a small roadside tea stall, or watching clouds move over the cliffs. Khasi and Jaintia people are friendly and often happy to share stories about the place — a short talk can add deep meaning to your visit.

Tips for international travelers

If you are visiting from another country, check your travel documents early. Many visitors apply for an India Visa Online before their trip. If your travel plans include other countries,to check India Visa Requirements depending on your nationality and the length of your stay. Taking care of visas and paperwork before travel makes the holiday calm and easy.

Sample 4-day plan (easy pace)

Day 1: Arrive Shillong — explore local markets and visit elephant falls in meghalaya.
Day 2: Drive to Cherrapunji — visit Nohkalikai and nearby viewpoints.
Day 3: Visit Mawsmai, Seven Sisters and Wei Sawdong; enjoy short walks.
Day 4: Krang Suri in the morning, then return to Shillong or Guwahati.

Final words

The Waterfalls of Meghalaya are gentle and wild at the same time. Some give you a dramatic canyon view, others invite you to linger by a quiet pool. Whether you go for the tall drop at Nohkalikai, the ribbon-like Seven Sisters, or the easy family visit to elephant falls in meghalaya, you will go home with great photos and calm memories. If you want, I can make a printable one-page itinerary, or create a separate, deeper guide for Nohkalikai or Seven Sisters with exact timings, local contact numbers, and sample costs. Which one would you like next?