The Legend Of Dainthlen Falls Cherrapunji: Best Travel Guide!

One such waterfall is the Dainthlen Waterfall, known for its breathtaking beauty and fascinating local legend. In this blog, we will dive into the myth of the giant serpent, Thlen, which adds a mysterious charm to the falls. We’ll also guide you on how to reach Dainthlen Falls, share tips on the best time to visit, and suggest things to do around the area, including sightseeing and adventure activities. 

Whether you’re a nature lover or a history enthusiast, Dainthlen Falls Cherrapunji offers something special for every visitor.

Practical Information for Tourists

• Timings: 6 AM to 5 PM
• Entry Fees: There is no entry cost to visit the waterfall, but you will have to pay ₹20 as parking fees for your vehicle.

The Legend of Dainthlen Falls Cherrapunji

This created great fear among the villagers, who were desperate to end the serpent’s cruelty but didn’t know how. Then, a brave man named U Suidnoh, from the village of Laitryngew (7 km before Cherrapunji), stepped forward to face Thlen. He lived in an area that is still called Law Suidnoh, which is now protected as a sacred place. U Suidnoh had a clever plan. He brought goats and fed Thlen over time to gain its trust. Soon, whenever U Suidnoh called out to the serpent, it would crawl up from its cave, opening its mouth wide, expecting a feast of goat meat.

One day, U Suidnoh heated a large piece of iron in a furnace until it glowed red-hot-like meat. He called out to Thlen, who came up with its mouth wide open, ready to eat. U Suidnoh threw the hot iron lump into the serpent’s mouth, and Thlen swallowed it. The iron burned inside the serpent, causing it terrible pain. The ground shook like an earthquake as the serpent writhed in agony. Finally, Thlen died, ending its reign of terror.

The villagers, now free from Thlen’s tyranny, gathered and pulled the serpent’s body out of the cave. They cut it into pieces at the dry riverbed, and the place became known as Dainthlen, which means “the place where Thlen was cut.” The rocky bed of the river, which looks like pieces of chopped meat, still reminds people of the serpent’s defeat.

There are many versions of the legend of Dainthlen falls Sohra. In many versions the story ends here, concluding the victory of good over evil.

But there is more in another version as follows…

After the villagers killed the serpent, they feasted on its meat to ensure that no part of it was left, as they believed Thlen could come back to life if any piece was spared. However, an old woman took a piece of the meat home to give to her son, but she forgot. That piece of Thlen’s flesh came back to life, demanding Khasi blood.

This serpent spirit would later live in the old woman’s house, turning her into the first of the “Thlen keepers.” These keepers had to feed Thlen human blood to avoid misfortune. To do this, they would hire a nongshohnoh, someone who would kill the victim with a wooden club (since Thlen was killed by iron, it demanded that no iron be used). The nongshohnoh would bring the blood to the Thlen, and the spirit would grant wealth to its keeper.

This dark part of the legend serves as a reminder that even though Thlen was defeated, greed and evil still lurk. Today, the story of Dainthlen Falls Sohra adds mystery to its stunning beauty just like the tragic story of Nohkalikai Falls.

5 Best Things To Do At Dainthlen Falls 

• Waterfall Exploration: One of the best things to do in Cherrapunji is exploring Dainthlen Falls itself. The water flows over wide rocks before plunging into a narrow, jungle-covered gorge. You can walk around and get close to the falls to enjoy the fresh mist and the roaring sound of water. It’s a great way to connect with nature and feel the power of the falls.
• Explore the Rock Formations: Watching the rocks around Dainthlen Falls is one of the top things to do in Meghalaya as they are unique and tell an interesting story. According to local legend, the giant serpent Thlen was killed here, and the marks left on the rocks resemble pieces of chopped meat. Exploring these rock formations adds a sense of mystery and adventure to your visit. The rocks also create a beautiful contrast with the flowing water, making the area even more magical.
• Learning About the Local Legend: Dainthlen Falls Sohra is not just a natural wonder but also a place filled with local folklore. The famous legend of Thlen, the giant serpent that once terrorized the area, adds depth to the beauty of the falls. You can ask locals or guides to tell you more about the story of how the serpent was defeated. This adds a fun and educational aspect to your trip, helping you appreciate the cultural history of the area.
• Photography: Dainthlen Falls offers incredible opportunities for photography as it is one of the top places to visit in Cherrapunji. The wide spread of water, unique rock formations, and lush greenery create the perfect setting for stunning photos. Whether you’re using a smartphone or a camera, you can capture some beautiful shots of the waterfall, the surrounding landscape, and even wildlife if you’re lucky. Don’t forget to take some pictures with your family and friends to remember your visit.
• Picnic by the Waterfall: Dainthlen Falls is also a great spot for a relaxing picnic. The open areas near the falls offer a peaceful atmosphere where you can sit down, enjoy your meal, and take in the beauty of nature. The sound of the waterfall adds a calming effect to your picnic, making it a wonderful way to spend time with family or friends. Just be sure to clean up afterward and keep the place tidy.

These five activities will ensure that your trip to Dainthlen Falls is both fun and memorable.

How To Reach Dainthlen Falls 

• By Airways: The nearest airport is Shillong Airport, about 80 km from Cherrapunji. From Shillong, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the falls. Another option is to fly into Guwahati Airport as it better flight connectivity from other major Indian cities, which is around 170 km from Cherrapunji, and then travel by road.

• By Railways: The closest railway station is in Guwahati, about 150 km away. After arriving at Guwahati, you can take a taxi or bus to Shillong, and then head to Cherrapunji. It’s a scenic drive, offering great views of the hills and valleys along the way
• By Roadways: Cherrapunji is well connected by road to Shillong, which is around 54 km away. You can take a bus or taxi from Shillong to reach the falls, located about 5 km from Cherrapunji town. The drive is beautiful, passing through lush green landscapes and hills.

Best Time To Visit Dainthlen Falls 

However, if you prefer clear skies and easier travel conditions, you can visit between October and February, when the weather is cooler and drier. Avoid visiting in the summer months, as the falls might have less water due to the dry conditions.

Conclusion

The unique rock formations and vibrant greenery add to the charm of this place. With easy access and the best time to visit during the monsoon, Dainthlen Falls promises a memorable experience. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure in one of Meghalaya’s most beautiful spots!