Are you looking for a destination that will take your breath away with its natural beauty and cultural diversity? If yes, then you should definitely visit Nohkalikai Falls, one of the most incredible attractions in Meghalaya and India. Nohkalikai Falls is the tallest plunge waterfall in India and among the highest waterfalls in the world, with a drop of about 340 m. It is located in Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on Earth, in the state of Meghalaya.
Nohkalikai Falls is a spectacular sight to behold, as it plunges from a red-rock cliff into a clear turquoise pool surrounded by lush green forest. The pool changes colors with time and season, creating a mesmerizing contrast with the waterfall. Nohkalikai Falls also has a tragic legend behind its name, which adds to its mystery and allure. Nohkalikai means “The Jump of Likai” in Khasi language, and it refers to a local woman who jumped off the cliff after discovering that her new husband had killed and cooked her daughter.
In this article, we will provide you with a complete travel guide to Nohkalikai Falls and its surroundings. We will tell you how to reach Nohkalikai Falls from different parts of India by air, rail, and road. We will also tell you the best time to visit Nohkalikai Falls and the weather conditions to expect. We will also tell you the things to do at Nohkalikai Falls, such as trekking, camping, sightseeing, photography, and swimming. We will also suggest some places to visit near Nohkalikai Falls, such as Cherrapunji, Living Root Bridges, Mawsmai Cave, Seven Sisters Falls, Mawlynnong Village, Dawki River, and Shillong.
We will also recommend some places to stay near Nohkalikai Falls, such as hotels and resorts that offer comfortable accommodation and scenic views of the waterfall and the valley. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to plan your trip to Nohkalikai Falls and Meghalaya and experience their natural beauty and cultural diversity.
How to Reach Nohkalikai Falls
Nohkalikai Falls is located in Cherrapunji, about 7.5 km from the town center, in Meghalaya. You can reach Nohkalikai Falls from different parts of India by air, rail, or road.
By Air
The nearest airport to Nohkalikai Falls is Shillong Airport, which is about 80 km away. There are flights from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Guwahati to Shillong Airport. You can book your flight tickets online through various platforms and websites.
From Shillong Airport, you can take a cab or a bus to Cherrapunji. The cab fare is around Rs. 2000-3000 and the bus fare is around Rs. 100-200. The journey from Shillong Airport to Cherrapunji takes about 2-3 hours.
By Rail
The nearest railhead to Nohkalikai Falls is Guwahati Railway Station, which is about 150 km away. There are trains from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore to Guwahati Railway Station.
From Guwahati Railway Station, you can take a cab or a bus to Cherrapunji. The cab fare is around Rs. 3000-4000 and the bus fare is around Rs. 200-300. The journey from Guwahati Railway Station to Cherrapunji takes about 4-5 hours.
By Road
Nohkalikai Falls is well connected by road to Shillong and other parts of Meghalaya. You can drive your own vehicle or rent a car or a bike to reach Nohkalikai Falls from Shillong or other nearby towns.
You can also take a cab or a bus from Shillong or other nearby towns to Cherrapunji. The cab fare is around Rs. 1500-2000 and the bus fare is around Rs. 100-200. The journey from Shillong to Cherrapunji takes about 1-2 hours.
Best Time to Visit Nohkalikai Falls
The best time to visit Nohkalikai Falls is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant and the waterfall is at its full glory. During this time, you can enjoy the clear views of the waterfall and the valley, and also indulge in various activities like trekking, camping, sightseeing, photography, and swimming.
You can also witness the changing colors of the pool and the waterfall, as they reflect the sunlight and the seasons.
You should avoid visiting Nohkalikai Falls during monsoon season (June to September), as the rainfall is heavy and the visibility is low. During this time, you may not be able to see the waterfall clearly, and also face difficulties in reaching the waterfall and doing various activities. You may also face landslides and roadblocks on the way to Nohkalikai Falls.
Weather at Nohkalikai Falls
Nohkalikai Falls has a subtropical highland climate with heavy rainfall throughout the year, especially during monsoon season. The average annual rainfall at Nohkalikai Falls is about 12000 mm, making it one of the wettest places on Earth.
The temperature at Nohkalikai Falls ranges from 12°C to 30°C throughout the year, making it a pleasant destination for travelers. The humidity at Nohkalikai Falls is high, ranging from 70% to 90%. The wind speed at Nohkalikai Falls is moderate, ranging from 5 km/h to 15 km/h.
Things to do at Nohkalikai Falls
Nohkalikai Falls is not just a waterfall, but a destination that offers a variety of activities for travelers to enjoy. Here are some of the things you can do at Nohkalikai Falls:
Trekking
Trekking is one of the best ways to explore Nohkalikai Falls and its surroundings. There are several trekking trails near the waterfall that offer stunning views of the valley and the forest. Some of the popular trekking trails are:
Nongriat Trek: This is a challenging but rewarding trek that takes you to the famous Double Decker Living Root Bridge, a natural bridge made by intertwining tree roots over centuries. The trek starts from Tyrna Village, about 20 km from Cherrapunji, and takes about 3-4 hours one way.
The trek involves descending and ascending about 3500 steps through steep slopes and narrow paths. The trek also passes through several small waterfalls and streams, where you can refresh yourself. The Double Decker Living Root Bridge is a marvel of nature and culture, as it showcases the ingenuity and harmony of the local people with their environment. You can also cross the bridge and explore the nearby villages and forests.
Nohsngithiang Trek: This is a moderate but scenic trek that takes you to another spectacular waterfall in Cherrapunji, called Nohsngithiang Falls or Seven Sisters Falls. The trek starts from Eco Park, about 5 km from Cherrapunji, and takes about 2-3 hours one way. The trek involves walking through grasslands and forests, where you can spot various birds and animals. The Nohsngithiang Falls is a cascade waterfall with seven segments falling from a height of about 315 m. The waterfall is best seen during monsoon season when it is at its full flow.
Mawmluh Trek: This is an easy but adventurous trek that takes you to one of the most popular and accessible caves in Cherrapunji, called Mawsmai Cave. The trek starts from Mawmluh Village, about 6 km from Cherrapunji, and takes about 1-2 hours one way. The trek involves walking through fields and hills, where you can enjoy the views of the countryside. The Mawsmai Cave is a limestone cave with stalactites and stalagmites formations. The cave has a length of about 150 m and a height of about 10 m. The cave has an entrance and an exit point, where you can enter and exit with ease.
Camping
Camping is another option for travelers who want to spend more time at Nohkalikai Falls and enjoy its beauty and tranquility. There are several camping sites near the waterfall that offer basic facilities and amenities for travelers to stay overnight or longer. Some of the popular camping sites are:
Eco Park: This is a well-maintained park near Nohkalikai Falls that offers camping facilities for travelers. The park has tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, toilets, showers, electricity, water, and security for campers. The park also has a restaurant, a souvenir shop, a playground, and a viewpoint for visitors. The park charges Rs. 500 per person per night for camping.
Halari Viewpoint: This is a secluded viewpoint near Nohkalikai Falls that offers camping facilities for travelers who want more privacy and peace. The viewpoint has tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, toilets, showers, electricity, water, and security for campers. The viewpoint also has a restaurant, a souvenir shop, a playground, and a viewpoint for visitors. The viewpoint charges Rs. 1000 per person per night for camping.
Tyrna Village: This is a quaint village near Nohkalikai Falls that offers camping facilities for travelers who want to experience the local culture and lifestyle. The village has homestays, cottages, huts, and camps for travelers to stay with the local families or on their own. The village also has toilets, showers, electricity, water, and security for campers. The village also has a market, a school, a church, and a community hall for visitors. The village charges Rs. 500-1000 per person per night for camping.
Sightseeing
Sightseeing is a must for travelers who want to witness the splendor of Nohkalikai Falls and its surroundings. There are several viewpoints near the waterfall that offer panoramic views of the waterfall and the valley. Some of the popular viewpoints are:
Nohkalikai Viewpoint: This is the main viewpoint near Nohkalikai Falls that offers the best views of the waterfall and the pool. The viewpoint is located about 1 km from the waterfall and can be reached by car or by foot. The viewpoint has a parking area, a ticket counter, a souvenir shop, and a restaurant for visitors. The viewpoint charges Rs. 10 per person for entry.
Thangkharang Park: This is another viewpoint near Nohkalikai Falls that offers stunning views of the waterfall and the valley. The park is located about 12 km from the waterfall and can be reached by car or by bus. The park has a garden, a playground, a watchtower, and a viewpoint for visitors. The park charges Rs. 20 per person for entry.
Khoh Ramhah: This is a unique viewpoint near Nohkalikai Falls that offers amazing views of the waterfall and the valley. Khoh Ramhah is a giant rock formation that resembles a basket or a cone. It is located about 15 km from the waterfall and can be reached by car or by bus. The rock formation has a parking area, a ticket counter, a souvenir shop, and a restaurant for visitors. The rock formation charges Rs. 10 per person for entry.
Photography
Photography is a great way to capture the memories of Nohkalikai Falls and its surroundings. Nohkalikai Falls is a photographer’s paradise as it offers various angles and perspectives to click amazing pictures of the waterfall and the valley. Some of the best times to take photos are sunrise, sunset, and cloudy days.
Sunrise: Sunrise is one of the best times to take photos of Nohkalikai Falls as it creates a magical effect on the waterfall and the pool. The sun rays illuminate the waterfall and the pool with golden hues and create a contrast with the dark cliffs and the green forest. The sunrise also creates a rainbow effect on the waterfall and the pool, adding more colors to the scene.
Sunset: Sunset is another best time to take photos of Nohkalikai Falls as it creates a dramatic effect on the waterfall and the pool. The sun rays cast shadows on the waterfall and the pool with orange hues and create a contrast with the blue sky and the green forest. The sunset also creates a silhouette effect on the waterfall and the pool, adding more depth to the scene.
Cloudy days: Cloudy days are also good times to take photos of Nohkalikai Falls as they create a mysterious effect on the waterfall and the pool. The clouds cover the sky and create a diffused light on the waterfall and the pool with gray hues and create a contrast with the red cliffs and the green forest. The clouds also create a misty effect on the waterfall and the pool, adding more texture to the scene.
Swimming
Swimming is a possible activity for travelers who want to experience the thrill of Nohkalikai Falls and its pool. However, swimming in the pool is not recommended as it is deep, cold, and dangerous. There have been cases of drowning and accidents in the pool, as the water is turbulent and unpredictable. Swimming in the pool is also prohibited by the local authorities and disrespectful to the local culture and legend. Therefore, travelers should avoid swimming in the pool and enjoy the waterfall from a safe distance.
Places to Visit Near Nohkalikai Falls
Nohkalikai Falls is not the only attraction in Meghalaya and Cherrapunji. There are many other places to visit near Nohkalikai Falls that showcase the natural beauty and cultural diversity of Meghalaya and North East India. Here are some of the places you can visit near Nohkalikai Falls:
Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji is the town where Nohkalikai Falls is located and one of the wettest places on Earth. Cherrapunji has many other attractions that you can explore, such as waterfalls, caves, valleys, canyons, and viewpoints. Some of the popular attractions in Cherrapunji are:
Living Root Bridges: These are natural bridges made by intertwining tree roots over centuries. They are unique and fascinating examples of bioengineering and symbiosis between humans and nature. Some of the famous Living Root Bridges are Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Umshiang Living Root Bridge, and Ritymmen Living Root Bridge.
Mawsmai Cave: This is one of the most popular and accessible caves in Cherrapunji. It is a limestone cave with stalactites and stalagmites formations. The cave has a length of about 150 m and a height of about 10 m. The cave has an entrance and an exit point, where you can enter and exit with ease.
Seven Sisters Falls: This is another spectacular waterfall in Cherrapunji. It is a cascade waterfall with seven segments falling from a height of about 315 m. The waterfall is best seen during monsoon season when it is at its full flow.
Thangkharang Park: This is a well-maintained park near Nohkalikai Falls that offers stunning views of the waterfall and the valley. The park has a garden, a playground, a watchtower, and a viewpoint for visitors. The park charges Rs. 20 per person for entry.
Khoh Ramhah: This is a unique rock formation near Nohkalikai Falls that resembles a basket or a cone. It offers amazing views of the waterfall and the valley. The rock formation has a parking area, a ticket counter, a souvenir shop, and a restaurant for visitors. The rock formation charges Rs. 10 per person for entry.
You may also like to check out: Meghalaya Waterfall Hopping: A 3 Day Guide To The Most Stunning Cascades In The Abode Of Clouds
Mawlynnong Village
Mawlynnong Village is one of the most beautiful and cleanest villages in Meghalaya and India. It is located about 90 km from Cherrapunji and can be reached by car or by bus. Mawlynnong Village is known for its eco-friendly practices, community-based tourism, and living root bridges. Some of the attractions in Mawlynnong Village are:
Skywalk: This is a bamboo structure that offers a bird’s eye view of the village and the forest. It is located near the entrance of the village and can be accessed by paying Rs. 10 per person.
Living Root Bridge: This is another living root bridge in Mawlynnong Village that connects two hills across a stream. It is located about 2 km from the village center and can be reached by walking through a forest trail.
Balancing Rock: This is a natural phenomenon where a large boulder balances on a smaller one without any support. It is located about 3 km from the village center and can be reached by car or by foot.
Mawlynnong Waterfall: This is a small but beautiful waterfall near Mawlynnong Village that flows into a clear pool. It is located about 4 km from the village center and can be reached by car or by foot.
Dawki River
Dawki River is one of the most scenic and serene rivers in Meghalaya and India. It is located about 100 km from Cherrapunji and can be reached by car or by bus. Dawki River is famous for its crystal clear water, boating activities, and suspension bridge. Some of the attractions at Dawki River are:
Boating: This is one of the most popular activities at Dawki River as it allows you to enjoy the clear water and the green hills along the river. You can rent a boat or a kayak from various operators near the river bank and paddle along the river for about an hour or more. The boat or kayak rental charges are around Rs. 500-1000 per boat or kayak.
Suspension Bridge: This is a historic bridge that spans across the Dawki River and connects India and Bangladesh. It was built by the British in 1932 and is still in use today. It offers a great view of the river and the border. You can walk or drive across the bridge and see the flags and the customs of both countries.
Umngot River: This is a tributary of Dawki River that flows through a village called Shnongpdeng. It is also known for its clear water and boating activities. You can also enjoy other activities like fishing, camping, and zip-lining at Umngot River.
Shillong
Shillong is the capital city of Meghalaya and the nearest major city to Nohkalikai Falls. It is located about 53 km from Cherrapunji and can be reached by car or by bus. Shillong is a popular hill station with a pleasant climate and scenic views. It has many places to visit that cater to different interests and tastes. Some of the popular places to visit in Shillong are:
Umiam Lake: This is a large and beautiful lake that was created by damming the Umiam River in 1965. It is located about 15 km from Shillong and can be reached by car or by bus. Umiam Lake offers various activities like boating, kayaking, water skiing, and fishing. It also has a park, a garden, and a resort for visitors.
Elephant Falls: This is a three-tiered waterfall that is located about 12 km from Shillong and can be reached by car or by bus. Elephant Falls is named after an elephant-shaped rock that was destroyed by an earthquake in 1897. The waterfall offers a refreshing sight and sound for visitors.
Shillong Peak: This is the highest point in Shillong and offers a panoramic view of the city and the plains. It is located about 10 km from Shillong and can be reached by car or by bus. Shillong Peak also has a radar station, a temple, and a viewpoint for visitors.
Don Bosco Museum: This is a museum that showcases the culture, history, and lifestyle of the indigenous people of North East India. It is located in the heart of Shillong and can be reached by car or by bus. Don Bosco Museum has seven floors with different galleries, exhibits, artifacts, and models that depict the diversity and richness of North East India.
Ward’s Lake: This is an artificial lake that was built by Sir William Ward in 1894. It is located in the center of Shillong and can be reached by car or by foot. Ward’s Lake offers various activities like boating, walking, feeding fish, and relaxing. It also has a garden, a cafeteria, and a fountain for visitors.
Lady Hydari Park: This is a well-maintained park that was named after the wife of the first governor of Assam, Sir Akbar Hydari. It is located in the center of Shillong and can be reached by car or by foot. Lady Hydari Park has a garden, a zoo, a playground, and a museum for visitors.
Police Bazar: This is the main market and shopping area in Shillong. It is located in the center of Shillong and can be reached by car or by foot. Police Bazar has various shops, stalls, restaurants, cafes, hotels, and cinemas for visitors. You can find anything from clothes, accessories, handicrafts, souvenirs, books, electronics, to food, drinks, entertainment, and accommodation at Police Bazar.
Places to Stay Near Nohkalikai Falls
If you want to stay near Nohkalikai Falls and enjoy its beauty and charm for longer, you have many options to choose from. There are several hotels and resorts near Nohkalikai Falls that offer comfortable accommodation and scenic views of the waterfall and the valley. Some of the popular hotels and resorts near Nohkalikai Falls are:
Polo Orchid Resort: This is a luxury resort that offers cozy rooms, modern amenities, friendly service, and stunning views of Nohkalikai Falls and the valley. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a pool, and a conference hall for guests. The resort charges Rs. 6000-8000 per night for a standard room.
Saimika Resort: This is a budget resort that offers spacious cottages, basic amenities, friendly service, and stunning views of Nohkalikai Falls and the valley. The resort also has a restaurant, a garden, a playground, and a bonfire area for guests. The resort charges Rs. 3000-4000 per night for a standard cottage.
Jiva Resort: This is a mid-range resort that offers comfortable rooms, modern amenities, friendly service, and stunning views of Nohkalikai Falls and the valley. The resort also has a restaurant, a cafe, a gym, a pool, and a library for guests. The resort charges Rs. 4000-5000 per night for a standard room.
Sohra Plaza: This is a cheap hotel that offers cozy rooms, basic amenities, friendly service, and decent views of Nohkalikai Falls and the valley. The hotel also has a restaurant, a lounge, and a parking area for guests. The hotel charges Rs. 2000-3000 per night for a standard room.
Also read: To the Top of the Tallest Plunge waterfall in India-Nohkalikai Falls
Nohkalikai Falls is one of the most incredible attractions in Meghalaya and India that you should not miss. It is a spectacular waterfall that offers stunning views, thrilling activities, and fascinating legends. It is also a great base to explore other attractions in Meghalaya and Northeast India that showcase the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the region. In this article, we have provided you with a complete travel guide to Nohkalikai Falls and its surroundings.
We hope that this article has helped you to plan your trip to Nohkalikai Falls and Meghalaya and experience their natural beauty and cultural diversity. If you have any questions, feedback, or suggestions, please feel free to leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you and help you with your travel queries. Thank you for reading and happy traveling!
