Have you ever wondered what it would be like to visit the wettest place on earth? If you are looking for a unique and adventurous travel experience, then you should consider Mawsynram as your next destination. Mawsynram is a village in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India, that holds the record for the highest average annual rainfall in the world.
According to the Guinness World Records, Mawsynram receives about 11,872 mm (467 in) of rain per year. That’s more than 10 times the average rainfall of London!
But Mawsynram is not just about rain. It is also a place of stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, thrilling adventure, vibrant culture, and delicious food. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Mawsynram and why you should visit it.
Why Visit Mawsynram?
Mawsynram is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here are some of the reasons why you should visit Mawsynram:
Caves:
Mawsynram is home to some of the most amazing caves in India. You can explore the Mawjymbuin Cave, which has a huge stalagmite shaped like a Shiva lingam, or the Krem Dam Cave, which is one of the longest caves in Meghalaya. You can also marvel at the limestone formations, fossils, and crystal clear pools inside these caves.
Waterfalls:
Mawsynram is blessed with numerous waterfalls that cascade down from the hills and create a soothing sound. You can visit the Khreng Khreng Waterfall, which is a hidden gem near the village, or the Nohkalikai Falls, which is the tallest plunge waterfall in India. You can also enjoy a picnic or a swim near these waterfalls.
Forests:
Mawsynram is surrounded by lush green forests that are home to a variety of flora and fauna. You can spot rare orchids, ferns, butterflies, birds, and animals in these forests. You can also walk across the Gnarly Root Bridge (Living Root Bridge), which is a natural bridge made of intertwined roots of rubber trees.
Lake:
Mawsynram has a beautiful lake called Umkhakoi Reservoir (Lake), which is formed by a dam across a stream. You can enjoy kayaking, zip-lining, trekking, or boating on this lake. You can also admire the scenic views of the hills and the sky from this lake.
Park:
Mawsynram has a unique park called Garden of Caves, which is a man-made park that showcases the natural beauty of caves. You can see different types of caves, such as dome caves, tunnel caves, and chamber caves, in this park. You can also learn about the history and culture of Meghalaya from this park.
Culture:
Mawsynram is inhabited by the Khasi tribe, which is one of the indigenous tribes of Meghalaya. You can experience their culture, traditions, and hospitality in Mawsynram. You can also witness their festivals, such as Shad Suk Mynsiem (Dance of Joyful Heart) and Nongkrem Dance (Thanksgiving Dance), which are celebrated with music, dance, and costumes.
Food:
Mawsynram offers a variety of delicious food options for visitors. You can try the local delicacies, such as Jadoh (a rice dish cooked with pork or chicken), Dohneiiong (a pork curry with sesame seeds), Tungrymbai (a fermented soybean dish), Pukhlein (a sweet bread made of rice flour and jaggery), and Pusaw with Shasaw tea (a snack made of rice flour and jaggery). You can also taste the local beverages, such as Kyat (a rice beer) and Sohiong (a blackberry wine).
What to See and Do in Mawsynram?
Mawsynram has a lot to offer for visitors who want to see and do something different. Here are some of the main attractions and activities that you can enjoy in Mawsynram:
Mawjymbuin Cave:
This is one of the most popular caves in Mawsynram. It is located about 4 km from the village and can be reached by a short walk or a taxi. The cave has a huge stalagmite that resembles a Shiva lingam, which is worshipped by the locals. The cave also has other stalagmites and stalactites that form various shapes and patterns. The cave is well-lit and has a concrete path for visitors.
Krem Dam Cave:
This is one of the longest caves in Meghalaya. It is located about 15 km from the village and can be reached by a taxi or a bike. The cave has a length of about 6 km and has several chambers and passages. The cave also has a stream that flows through it and creates pools and waterfalls. The cave is not well-lit and requires a guide and a torch for visitors.
Gnarly Root Bridge (Living Root Bridge):
This is a natural bridge made of intertwined roots of rubber trees. It is located about 10 km from the village and can be reached by a taxi or a bike. The bridge spans across a stream and connects two hills. The bridge is about 15 meters long and can support the weight of several people. The bridge is also surrounded by dense forests and offers a serene atmosphere.
Umkhakoi Reservoir (Lake):
This is a beautiful lake formed by a dam across a stream. It is located about 12 km from the village and can be reached by a taxi or a bike. The lake has clear blue water and offers various activities, such as kayaking, zip-lining, trekking, and boating. The lake also has stunning views of the hills and the sky.
Khreng Khreng Waterfall:
This is a hidden waterfall near the village. It is located about 2 km from the village and can be reached by a short walk or a taxi. The waterfall has crystal clear water that falls from a height of about 20 meters. The waterfall also has a pool at its base where visitors can swim or relax.
Nohkalikai Falls:
This is the tallest plunge waterfall in India. It is located about 50 km from the village and can be reached by a taxi or a bike. The waterfall has an impressive height of about 340 meters and creates a loud roar as it hits the ground. The waterfall also has a rainbow that forms on sunny days.
Garden of Caves:
This is a unique park that showcases the natural beauty of caves. It is located about 5 km from the village and can be reached by a taxi or a bike. The park has different types of caves, such as dome caves, tunnel caves, and chamber caves, that are artificially created using natural materials. The park also has information boards, statues, and models that depict the history and culture of Meghalaya.
What to Eat and Drink in Mawsynram?
Mawsynram offers a variety of delicious food options for visitors who want to taste the local cuisine. Here are some of the dishes and drinks that you can try in Mawsynram:
Pusaw with Shasaw tea:
This is a snack made of rice flour and jaggery that is deep-fried in oil. It is served with Shasaw tea, which is made of ginger, lemon grass, bay leaves, and sugar. This snack is popular among the locals and can be found in roadside stalls or shops.
Jadoh:
This is a rice dish cooked with pork or chicken, along with spices, onions, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and salt. It is served with Dohneiiong, Tungrymbai, or chutney. This dish is considered as one of the staple foods of the Khasi tribe.
Dohneiiong:
This is a pork curry with sesame seeds, along with spices, onions, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and salt. It is served with Jadoh or rice. This dish is known for its rich flavor and aroma.
Tungrymbai:
This is a fermented soybean dish that is cooked with pork or fish, along with spices, onions, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and salt. It is served with Jadoh or rice. This dish has a strong smell and taste that may not suit everyone’s palate.
Pukhlein:
This is a sweet bread made of rice flour and jaggery that is baked in an oven or fried in oil. It is served with tea or coffee. This bread is soft and fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Kyat:
This is a rice beer that is brewed by fermenting rice with yeast and water. It is served in bamboo mugs or bamboo tubes. This beer has a mild alcoholic content and a refreshing taste.
Sohiong:
This is a blackberry wine that is made by fermenting blackberries with sugar and water. It is served in bottles or glasses. This wine has a sweet and fruity flavor and a high alcoholic content.
How to Plan a Trip to Mawsynram?
Planning a trip to Mawsynram can be a rewarding and memorable experience if you follow some tips and advice. Here are some of the things that you should keep in mind while planning a trip to Mawsynram:
Book a cab from reliable service providers:
The best way to travel to Mawsynram is by road, as it offers the most flexibility and convenience. You can book a cab from any reliable service providers that offer comfortable and safe rides at affordable prices. You can also choose from different types of vehicles, such as sedans, SUVs, or tempo travellers, depending on your group size and budget.
Choose a suitable accommodation option:
Mawsynram has a range of accommodation options for visitors, such as homestays, guest houses, or resorts. You can choose an accommodation option that suits your preferences and needs. You can also book online or through phone in advance to avoid any hassle. Some of the popular accommodation options in Mawsynram are Mawjymbuin Homestay, Mawlyngbna Traveller’s Nest, Polo Orchid Resort, and Sohra Plaza.
Pack rain gear and warm clothes:
Mawsynram is known for its heavy rainfall and cold weather, especially during the monsoon season. You should pack rain gear, such as raincoats, umbrellas, waterproof shoes, and bags, to protect yourself from getting wet. You should also pack warm clothes, such as sweaters, jackets, scarves, and gloves, to keep yourself warm.
Carry cash and essential documents:
Mawsynram is a remote village that does not have many ATMs or banks. You should carry enough cash for your expenses, such as food, transportation, entry fees, and souvenirs. You should also carry essential documents, such as identity proofs, travel tickets, hotel bookings, and emergency contacts, to avoid any trouble.
Check the weather forecast and road conditions:
Mawsynram’s weather can be unpredictable and change rapidly. You should check the weather forecast before you travel to Mawsynram to plan your itinerary accordingly. You should also check the road conditions to avoid any delays or accidents due to landslides or floods.
Respect the local customs and culture:
Mawsynram is a place where the local people are friendly and hospitable. You should respect their customs and culture by following some basic etiquette rules, such as greeting them with a smile, asking for permission before taking photos or entering their homes, dressing modestly, avoiding littering or smoking in public places, and participating in their festivals or ceremonies if invited.
How to Reach Mawsynram?
Mawsynram can be reached by road, air, or rail from different cities in India. Here are some of the ways to reach Mawsynram:
By road:
The most convenient way to reach Mawsynram is by road, as it offers the most flexibility and convenience. You can book a cab from any reliable service providers that offer comfortable and safe rides at affordable prices. You can also drive your own car or bike if you have one. The distance and time required to reach Mawsynram by road from some of the major cities in India are as follows:
City Distance Time
Shillong 60 km 2 hours
Guwahati 140 km 4 hours
Kolkata 1100 km 22 hours
Delhi 2000 km 40 hours
By air:
The nearest airport to Mawsynram is Shillong Airport, which is located about 75 km from the village. You can take a flight from any of the major cities in India to Shillong Airport and then book a cab to reach Mawsynram. The flight time required to reach Shillong Airport from some of the major cities in India are as follows:
By rail:
The nearest railway station to Mawsynram is Guwahati Railway Station, which is located about 150 km from the village. You can take a train from any of the major cities in India to Guwahati Railway Station and then book a cab from Savaari or other reliable service providers to reach Mawsynram. The train time required to reach Guwahati Railway Station from some of the major cities in India are as follows:
When is the Best Time to Visit Mawsynram?
The best time to visit Mawsynram depends on your preferences and expectations. Here are some of the factors that you should consider while deciding the best time to visit Mawsynram:
Weather:
Mawsynram has a subtropical climate that is influenced by the monsoon winds. The weather in Mawsynram can be divided into four seasons: winter, summer, pre-monsoon, and monsoon.
The winter season lasts from December to February and is characterized by cold and dry weather. The average temperature ranges from 10°C to 15°C and the average rainfall is about 20 mm per month. The summer season lasts from March to May and is characterized by warm and humid weather.
The average temperature ranges from 20°C to 25°C and the average rainfall is about 200 mm per month. The pre-monsoon season lasts from June to July and is characterized by hot and wet weather. The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 30°C and the average rainfall is about 1000 mm per month.
The monsoon season lasts from August to November and is characterized by cool and rainy weather. The average temperature ranges from 15°C to 20°C and the average rainfall is about 2000 mm per month.
Rainfall:
Mawsynram is known for its heavy rainfall and holds the record for the highest average annual rainfall in the world. The rainfall in Mawsynram varies throughout the year and depends on the monsoon winds. The rainfall in Mawsynram can be divided into two periods: wet and dry.
The wet period lasts from June to November and is characterized by continuous and torrential rainfall. The average rainfall during this period is about 10,000 mm, which accounts for more than 80% of the annual rainfall. The dry period lasts from December to May and is characterized by occasional and moderate rainfall. The average rainfall during this period is about 2,000 mm, which accounts for less than 20% of the annual rainfall.
Activities:
Mawsynram offers a variety of activities for visitors who want to see and do something different. The activities in Mawsynram vary throughout the year and depend on the weather and rainfall conditions. The activities in Mawsynram can be divided into two categories: indoor and outdoor. The indoor activities are suitable for all seasons and include exploring caves, visiting parks, learning about culture, and tasting food. The outdoor activities are suitable for some seasons and include visiting waterfalls, walking across living root bridges, kayaking, zip-lining, trekking, and boating.
Based on these factors, the best time to visit Mawsynram is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant and the rainfall is moderate. This is the ideal time to enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities in Mawsynram without any hassle or inconvenience.
This is also the time when you can witness some of the festivals and ceremonies of the Khasi tribe, such as Shad Suk Mynsiem (Dance of Joyful Heart) in April and Nongkrem Dance (Thanksgiving Dance) in November.
Also check out: I Travelled to the World's Wettest Place During Monsoons and It Was Magical
Mawsynram is a village in Meghalaya, India, that holds the record for the highest average annual rainfall in the world. But Mawsynram is not just about rain. It is also a place of stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, thrilling adventure, vibrant culture, and delicious food. In this article, we have told you everything you need to know about Mawsynram and why you should visit it.
If you are looking for a unique and adventurous travel experience, then you should consider Mawsynram as your next destination.
It is a place where you can create unforgettable memories and stories. You can capture the beauty and diversity of Mawsynram in your camera or your mind. You can also share your experiences and impressions of Mawsynram with your friends and family.
You may also like to read: Meghalaya Waterfall Hopping: A 3 Day Guide To The Most Stunning Cascades In The Abode Of Clouds
Mawsynram is waiting for you. Are you ready to visit it? If yes, then book your cab from Savaari or other reliable service providers today and start your journey to the wettest place on earth. We hope you have a wonderful time in Mawsynram. Thank you for reading this article.