Cherrapunji-The Land of Living Root Bridges and Majestic Waterfalls
Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra, is a town located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India. It is famous for its exceptionally high rainfall, lush green landscapes, and breathtaking waterfalls. Cherrapunji holds the record for being one of the wettest places on Earth. It receives heavy rainfall throughout the year, especially during the monsoon season. The rainfall creates a unique ecosystem, with dense forests and thriving vegetation.
Cherrapunji is renowned for its scenic beauty. The region is covered with rolling hills, deep valleys, and picturesque landscapes. The abundant rainfall gives rise to numerous waterfalls, including Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, and Dainthlen Falls, which attract visitors from far and wide.
Cherrapunji Geography
Cherrapunji has an average elevation of 1,430 meters and sits on a plateau in the southern part of the Khasi Hills. The plateau rises 660 meters above the surrounding valleys. The valleys around Sohra, however, are covered with lush and very diverse vegetation, containing numerous endemic species of plants, including Meghalaya subtropical forests.
There are some interesting living root bridges in villages near Sohra like the Umshiang root bridge, Mawsaw root bridge, Ritymmen root bridge, and the Double Decker root bridge at Nongriat village. The Shillong Plateau is an uplifted horst-like feature, bounded by the E-W Main Boundary Thrust (MBT) to the North, the N–S Jamuna fault in the west, and the NW-SE Kopilli fracture zone in the east.
Cherrapunji weather
Cherrapunji experiences a unique and distinctive climate due to its location in the Meghalaya region of Northeast India.
Rainfall- Cherrapunji is famous for its high rainfall and holds the record for being one of the wettest places on Earth. It receives heavy rainfall throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of over 11,000 millimeters (430 inches). The monsoon season, from June to September, is particularly intense, with frequent downpours.
Monsoon Season (June to September): Cherrapunji experiences its peak rainfall during the monsoon season. The region receives heavy showers, often accompanied by thunderstorms. The rainfall contributes to the lush greenery and abundant vegetation in the area. It’s advisable to be prepared for wet conditions and carry appropriate rain gear if visiting during this time.
Post-Monsoon (October to November): After the monsoon season, Cherrapunji transitions into a period of reduced rainfall. The weather becomes relatively drier, and the frequency of showers decreases. Temperatures during this time range from mild to moderately warm.
Winter (December to February): Winters in Sohra are cool and pleasant. The temperature during this season ranges from around 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F). The weather remains dry with occasional light rainfall. It’s advisable to carry some warm clothing, especially for the evenings and early mornings.
Pre-Monsoon (March to May): The pre-monsoon season in Cherrapunji is characterized by increasing temperatures and humidity. The weather becomes warmer, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). Showers gradually start to increase towards the end of this period as the monsoon season approaches.
Also, read- A Hidden Secret-Garden of Caves and Laitmawsiang in Meghalaya
Places to visit in Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji, or Sohra, offers a plethora of natural wonders and scenic attractions to explore. Some of the top places to visit in Cherrapunji-
Mawsmai Cave
Explore the fascinating limestone caves of Mawsmai, known for their natural rock formations and stalactites. The caves are well-lit, making it easier to navigate through their intriguing passages.
Mawkdok Dympep Valley Viewpoint
This viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the deep gorges, steep cliffs, and the winding road below. The picturesque landscapes and the dramatic view make it a popular stop for visitors.
Krem Phyllut
Adventure enthusiasts can explore the Krem Phyllut cave system, one of the longest caves in the Indian subcontinent. It requires specialized equipment and guidance, but the experience of exploring these underground passages is truly remarkable
Meghalaya’s Cultural Hub
Sohra is a significant cultural hub in Meghalaya, home to the indigenous Khasi tribe. The region offers an opportunity to experience the rich Khasi culture, traditions, music, and festivals. The local people are known for their warm hospitality and unique customs.
Eco-Tourism and Adventure Activities
Cherrapunji is a paradise for eco-tourism enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can indulge in activities such as trekking, hiking, and exploring the caves, including Mawsmai Cave and Arwah Cave. The stunning landscapes and pleasant climate make it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Living Root Bridges
Cherrapunji is known for its living root bridges, which are unique natural wonders. These bridges are formed by training the roots of rubber trees to grow across streams, creating sturdy and functional bridges. The double-decker living root bridge in Nongriat village is a popular attraction in the area.
Mawsynram
Located in close proximity to Cherrapunji, Mawsynram holds the title for the highest annual rainfall in the world. It is often included in itineraries when visiting Cherrapunji, as both places offer similar natural beauty and attractions.
Cherrapunji waterfall
Cherrapunji, or Sohra, is renowned for its stunning waterfalls. Some of the notable waterfalls in Cherrapunji-
Nohkalikai Waterfalls
Nohkalikai Waterfalls is the tallest plunge waterfall in India and one of the most famous attractions in Cherrapunji. It plunges down from a height of approximately 340 meters (1,115 feet) and forms a beautiful pool at the bottom. The waterfall is particularly mesmerizing during the monsoon season when it is at its fullest.
Seven Sisters Waterfalls
Also known as Nohsngithiang Waterfalls, this waterfall is a sight to behold. It is a seven-tiered waterfall that flows down in full force, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The name “Seven Sisters Falls” originates from the seven separate streams that form the falls. During the monsoon season, the waterfall showcases its true magnificence.
Dainthlen Waterfalls
Dainthlen Waterfalls is another picturesque waterfall located near the Sohra market in Cherrapunji. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and offer a serene and tranquil atmosphere. The legend associated with the falls adds to its mystique. According to folklore, a giant snake was killed at this spot, and the waterfall is named after it.
Wei Sawdong Waterfalls
Located in the East Khasi Hills district, Wei Sawdong Falls is a hidden gem in Cherrapunji. It is a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by dense forests, making it a scenic and serene spot to visit. The falls are relatively less crowded, allowing visitors to enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Kynrem Waterfalls
Kynrem Waterfalls is a three-tiered waterfall cascading down from a height of approximately 305 meters (1,001 feet). It is one of the highest waterfalls in Meghalaya and provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscapes. The waterfall is located in Thangkharang Park, which also offers beautiful viewpoints to enjoy the scenery.
How To Reach Cherrapunji
The nearest major airport to Cherrapunji is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam. It is approximately 160 kilometers away from Cherrapunji. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Cherrapunji. The journey takes around 4-5 hours. The nearest railway station to Sohra is Guwahati Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities across India.
Cherrapunji is well-connected by road to Guwahati and other nearby towns. You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from Guwahati to Cherrapunji. The journey takes around 4-5 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, you can also take a private car or drive yourself to Cherrapunji.
Local buses also connect Cherrapunji with Guwahati and other nearby towns. However, the frequency of buses may be limited, and the journey may take longer due to multiple stops. It’s recommended to check the bus schedule and timings beforehand.
Shillong to Cherrapunji
The most common and convenient way to reach Cherrapunji from Shillong is by road. The distance between Shillong and Cherrapunji is around 54 kilometers, and the journey takes approximately 2 hours. You can hire a private taxi or take a shared taxi from Shillong to Cherrapunji. Shared taxis are available from Police Bazaar in Shillong and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
There are also local bus services available from Shillong to Cherrapunji. You can board a bus from the Police Bazaar area or the main bus stand in Shillong. The frequency of buses may vary, so it’s recommended to check the schedule in advance. The journey by bus may take slightly longer compared to a taxi or private vehicle.
Guwahati to Cherrapunji
The most convenient and popular way to reach Cherrapunji from Guwahati is by road. The distance between Guwahati and Sohra is approximately 160 kilometers, and the journey takes around 4-5 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
You can hire a private taxi or take a shared taxi from Guwahati to Sohra. Shared taxis are available at Paltan Bazaar or Khanapara area in Guwahati. There are also bus services available from Guwahati to Cherrapunji. You can find buses at the Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) in Guwahati. The journey by bus takes approximately 4-5 hours, depending on the route and stops.
