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Cherrapunji!

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Population

12,000

schedule

Best Time

October to May

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Meghalaya map Northeast India 🏔️ Adventure cherrapunji meghalaya northeast india wettest place root bridges nohkalikai falls caves trekking

Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra, is a high-altitude town in Meghalaya, Northeast India. It's famed for its living root bridges, numerous waterfalls, and being one of the wettest places on Earth.

Cherrapunji offers stunning natural beauty, unique living root bridges, and a glimpse into Khasi culture. However, expect frequent rainfall and limited infrastructure, which can make travel challenging. The constant mist can sometimes obscure views, and the remote location adds to travel time.

Reaching Cherrapunji requires a drive from Guwahati, the nearest major airport and railway station. Allocate at least 2-3 days to fully experience the region, including the major waterfalls and some trekking. Be prepared for a rustic experience.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to May

15-25 degrees C

Pleasant weather with less rainfall. Clearer skies make it ideal for sightseeing and trekking.

Why Visit:

This is the dry season, offering the best conditions for exploring waterfalls and living root bridges. Trekking routes are safer and more accessible. The views are less likely to be obstructed by mist and rain.

Tip: This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. Book accommodations and transport in advance.

Shoulder Season

June and September

18-28 degrees C

Moderate rainfall, with occasional clear days. The landscape is lush and green.

Why Visit:

The waterfalls are at their fullest, creating a spectacular sight. There are fewer tourists compared to the peak season, offering a more peaceful experience.

Tip: Rain can still disrupt travel plans. Be prepared for slippery trekking conditions.

Avoid

July to August

20-30 degrees C

Extremely heavy rainfall, with potential for landslides. Visibility is often poor due to thick mist.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting during these months due to the incessant rainfall. Trekking is dangerous, and many outdoor activities are impossible.

Note: Some accommodations may be closed during this period. Travel can be severely disrupted.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Nohkalikai Falls

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners)

Nohkalikai Falls is one of the tallest plunge waterfalls in India, cascading from a height of over 340 meters. The water plunges into a lagoon of turq...

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Double Decker Living Root Bridge (Nongriat)

⏱ 5-6 hours Free

The Double Decker Living Root Bridge is a unique bio-engineering marvel created by the Khasi tribe. It's formed by training the roots of rubber trees ...

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Mawsmai Cave

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Mawsmai Cave is a well-maintained limestone cave with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. It's one of the most accessible caves in the re...

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Seven Sisters Falls (Nohsngithiang Falls)

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

The Seven Sisters Falls, also known as Nohsngithiang Falls, is a cluster of seven waterfalls cascading side by side. It's a spectacular sight during t...

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Thangkharang Park

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Thangkharang Park offers stunning views of the Bangladesh plains and the Khoh Ramhah rock formation. It's a well-maintained park with walking trails a...

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Wakaba Falls

⏱ 2 hours Free

Wakaba Falls is a lesser-known but beautiful waterfall near Cherrapunji. It offers a more secluded and peaceful experience than the more popular water...

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Dainthlen Falls

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Dainthlen Falls is known for its unique rock carvings and the legend associated with it. The waterfall itself is not as tall as Nohkalikai but is wide...

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Things To Do

attractions

Living Root Bridge Trekking

⏱ 1-3 days 💰 ₹500-2000 per person (including guide and accommodation)

Explore the various living root bridges in the area, including the Double Decker Living Root Bridge and the Rainbow Fall...

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attractions

Caving

⏱ 2-4 hours 💰 ₹500-1500 per person

Explore the various caves around Cherrapunji, such as Mawsmai Cave and Krem Mawmluh. These caves offer a glimpse into th...

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attractions

Waterfall Rappelling

⏱ 4-6 hours 💰 ₹2500-4000 per person

Rappel down one of the waterfalls in the area, such as the Wei Sawdong Falls. This activity requires specialized equipme...

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attractions

Nature Photography Tour

⏱ 6-8 hours 💰 ₹1000-3000 per person

Embark on a guided tour to capture the stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and living root bridges of Cherrapunji. Learn ab...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Khasi Cultural Show

1-2 hours | ₹300-500

Experience the traditional music, dance, and costumes of the Khasi tribe. These shows often feature ...

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celebration

Visit a Khasi Village

3-4 hours | ₹200-400 (donation to the village)

Visit a traditional Khasi village to learn about their way of life, customs, and traditions. Interac...

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celebration

Attend a Local Market

2-3 hours | Free

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a local market, where you can find fresh produce, local handicr...

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celebration

Learn about Khasi Matrilineal Society

1-2 hours | Free

The Khasi tribe follows a matrilineal system, where lineage and inheritance are traced through the m...

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celebration

Betel Nut Chewing Experience

0.5 hours | ₹50-100

Betel nut chewing is a common practice in Meghalaya and other parts of India. It involves chewing a ...

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celebration

Khasi Traditional Archery

1-2 hours | ₹100-200 per round

Khasi traditional archery is a popular sport and pastime in Meghalaya. It involves archers shooting ...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Jadoh
Jadoh

Rice cooked with pork blood and spices (try at local Khasi restaurants)

Dohkhlieh
Dohkhlieh

Pork salad with onions, chillies, and ginger

Nakham Bitchi
Nakham Bitchi

Dried fish soup

Pumaloi
Pumaloi

Steamed rice powder

Tungrymbai
Tungrymbai

Fermented soybeans with spices

Where to Eat

Orange Roots

Orange Roots

₹₹

Indian, Chinese

📍 Cherrapunji town

Offers decent food with a focus on Indian and Chinese cuisine. A popular choice for tourists.

Indian Thali

₹500-800 for two

Polo Orchid Restaurant

Polo Orchid Restaurant

₹₹₹

Multi-cuisine

📍 Polo Orchid Resort

Offers a wide range of dishes in a luxurious setting. Known for its excellent buffet spread.

Buffet

₹800-1200 for two

Street Food Spots

Sohra Market

Sohra Market

💰 Budget: ₹50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Try the local tea and snacks. Be mindful of hygiene.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Cherrapunji

More restaurants & dishes from Cherrapunji

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Cherrapunji Town

Convenient for accessing local markets and basic amenities. It can be crowded and noisy during peak season.

Best For: Budget travelers, those seeking convenience

Laitkynsew

Offers a peaceful environment away from the town center. Ideal for those seeking tranquility and scenic views.

Best For: Nature lovers, families

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1500/night

By The Way Homestay

📍 Cherrapunji town

Simple and clean rooms with basic amenities. Offers a comfortable stay at an affordable price.

₹800-1500/night

Coniferous Resort

📍 Near Sohra market

Provides decent rooms with essential facilities. A good option for budget-conscious travelers.

₹1000-2000/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹3000-5000/night

Cherrapunji Holiday Resort

📍 Laitkynsew

Offers comfortable rooms with scenic views. Has a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.

₹3000-5000/night

Polo Orchid Resort

📍 Sohra

Features well-appointed rooms with modern amenities. Offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.

₹4000-6000/night

Luxury

₹6000+/night

Sohra Plaza

📍 Near main market

Offers luxurious rooms with top-notch facilities. Known for excellent service and hospitality.

₹6000+/night

Jiva Resort

📍 Nongkroh

Provides a serene and luxurious stay amidst nature. Features spacious rooms and a range of amenities.

₹7000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Guwahati Airport (GAU), 181km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Guwahati Railway Station (GHY)

Nearest major railway station. Trains from all over India arrive here.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 24-30 hours (₹1500-4000)
  • From Mumbai: 36-48 hours (₹2000-5000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Guwahati ISBT
Routes:
  • From Guwahati: 5-6 hours (₹300-500)

Note: Trains more comfortable but buses are more frequent.

Getting Around

local_taxi

Taxi

💰 ₹1500-2500 per day

Best for: Sightseeing, reaching remote locations

Negotiate the price beforehand. Shared taxis are cheaper.

directions

Shared Jeep

💰 ₹100-300 per trip

Best for: Short distances, budget travelers

Crowded but economical. Check the route before boarding.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Pack light, quick-drying clothes. Carry rain gear, including a waterproof jacket and umbrella. Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: Limited availability. Carry sufficient cash.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred. Cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Expected in local markets and with taxi drivers.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and stalls. Avoid street food that looks unhygienic.

Common Issues: Altitude sickness, stomach upset. Carry necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio have good coverage. Buy a local SIM card at Guwahati Airport.

WiFi: Available in some hotels and restaurants.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English is widely spoken. Learning a few basic Khasi phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100

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