If there is one place on earth where water defines the landscape , it is Meghalaya. Planning a trip here without experiencing the waterfalls in Meghalaya is like visiting Agra and skipping the Taj Mahal; it’s simply an incomplete journey.
Meghalaya, India’s "Abode of Clouds," is home to some of the world’s highest and most diverse cascades, including Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in the country at 340 meters (1,115 ft).
Geographically distributed across the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo Hills, these waterfalls in Meghalaya are powered by the highest rainfall on Earth in regions like Mawsynram and Sohra (Cherrapunji).
From the tiered turquoise pools of Wei Sawdong to the photogenic blue waters of Krang Suri, the best time for a Meghalaya trip to see waterfalls is between October and November for peak clarity or June to September for maximum volume.
Let’s dive into the most beautiful and best waterfalls to visit in Meghalaya with route details.
Top Spectacular Waterfalls In Meghalaya
Here is a region-wise waterfalls in Meghalaya list for you to discover some of the most stunning natural wonders of the state.
Best Waterfalls In Shillong & Nearby
Shillong is one of the easiest places to see waterfalls in Meghalaya, with several scenic cascades located just a short drive from the city.
Named by the British after a rock that resembled an elephant, Elephant Falls is the most popular waterfall in Meghalaya. It features three distinct tiers that you can explore by walking down a well-maintained flight of stone stairs.
The middle tier is often the most serene, while the bottom tier offers the grandest view of the gushing water. It’s one of the must-visit waterfalls in Shillong for friends and families alike.
- Location: Upper Shillong; 12 km from city center. Reachable by local taxi or private car via NH106.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person (plus ₹20 for cameras)
- Things to do: Tier-by-tier photography, Khasi traditional dress photoshoot, shopping for local handicrafts at the entrance.
Tucked away in the Happy Valley area, Sweet Falls is often called the "most beautiful yet most dangerous" waterfall in Shillong. It is a stunning, unbroken vertical plunge that drops from a height of about 315 feet. Due to its extreme force and steep cliffs, visitors are restricted to a viewpoint and are strictly prohibited from going near the base.
- Location: Happy Valley; 13 km from Shillong Bus Stand. Take a local cab towards the Gorkha training center area.
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹70 for vehicles (entry is usually free/nominal)
- Things to do: Valley viewing, landscape photography, bird watching
Bishop and Beadon Falls are twin waterfalls located in the same deep gorge, often viewed together from across the valley. Bishop Falls is a magnificent three-tiered cascade falling from 135 meters, while Beadon Falls is its narrower, hidden "brother." The sight of these two white ribbons cutting through the dense green forest of Suna Valley is truly majestic.
- Location: Mawlai; 5 km from Shillong city. Best viewed from the Beadon-Bishop Viewpoint at Mawlai Nongkwar.
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Things to do: Panoramic photography, nature walks, spotting local hill birds.
Located right in the heart of the city, Crinoline Falls offers a quick escape into nature without leaving Shillong. This gentle, 13-meter cascade flows into a large, man-made swimming pool surrounded by orchids and pine trees. It is a peaceful spot favored by locals for weekend picnics and leisurely evening hangouts.
- Location: Laban; near Lady Hydari Park. Within walking distance from the city center/Police Bazaar.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹30 per person (approx. ₹100 extra for swimming)
- Things to do: Swimming in the natural pool, poolside dining, visiting the adjacent mini-zoo at Lady Hydari Park.
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Famous Waterfalls In Cherrapunji (Sohra)
Cherrapunji, locally known as Sohra, is the heart of Meghalaya’s waterfall country. This high-altitude plateau receives some of the world's heaviest rainfall, creating record-breaking plunges that are at their most powerful during the monsoon.
Standing as India’s tallest plunge waterfall, Nohkalikai is a majestic sight that drops 340 meters into a brilliant turquoise pool. It is one of the best waterfalls in Meghalaya, known for its haunting legend of a woman named Likai and offers a breathtaking panoramic view from the plateau rim. In the dry season, the water turns a deep emerald, while the monsoon transforms it into a thundering white curtain. It’s a must-add to your waterfall itinerary in Meghalaya for 3 to 5 days.
- Location: Near Sohra town; 7 km from the main market. Reachable via a well-paved road by private cab or local taxi.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person (plus ₹20 for camera)
- Things to do: Viewpoint photography, trekking to the edge, shopping for local honey and cinnamon at the stalls.
Wei Sawdong Falls is a three-tiered waterfall is a hidden masterpiece tucked away in a deep forest. Known for its unique "stairway" structure and crystal-clear emerald pools, it’s one of the best waterfalls in Meghalaya for photography.
It requires a short but steep trek down bamboo ladders and rocky steps. The view from the top tier looking down into the perfectly round pools is one of the most photographed spots in Meghalaya.
- Location: Near Dainthlen Falls; 13 km from Sohra. Access involves a 15-minute downhill trek from the parking area.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
- Things to do: Nature trekking, pool-side relaxation, landscape photography.
7. Seven Sisters Falls (Nohsngithiang Falls)
Representing the seven states of Northeast India, Nohsngithiang Falls is a massive waterfall featuring seven distinct streams gushing down a 315-meter limestone cliff. It is a seasonal wonder that is best viewed during the monsoon; in the winter, it may reduce to a trickle. The viewpoint is right on the main road, offering an easy but spectacular view of the Bangladesh plains in the distance.
- Location: Mawsmai Village; 4 km from Sohra. Viewable directly from the roadside viewpoint on the way to Mawsmai Cave.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Best viewed in daylight)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Things to do: Sunset viewing, valley photography, bird watching.
Dainthlen Falls is one of the powerful and famous waterfalls in Meghalaya in November that cascades over a rocky riverbed before plunging into a deep gorge. It is steeped in Khasi mythology, named after a giant serpent that was defeated here by the locals. The area is unique because you can walk right up to the edge of the falls on the flat, pot-holed rock surface.
- Location: Near the road to Wei Sawdong; 11 km from Sohra town. Easily accessible by car with no trekking required.
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free (Nominal parking fee of ₹20)
- Things to do: Exploring the rocky riverbed, picnicking, learning about local folklore.
Wah Kaba Falls is a seasonal waterfall that drops from a sheer rocky cliff into a lush, deep valley. The trail to the falls is a short 10-minute walk through a scenic mountain path that offers some of the best canyon views in the region. Local legends say that two fairies reside here, and the misty atmosphere during a light drizzle makes the place feel truly magical.
- Location: On the Shillong-Sohra road; 6 km before reaching Sohra town. A short walk from the main highway.
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
- Things to do: Short nature hike, valley viewing, photography.
Located inside the lush Thangkharang Park, Kynrem Falls is a massive three-tiered waterfall that drops from a height of 305 meters. It is the 7th highest waterfall in India and is unique because the road actually crosses a bridge right in front of the falls, giving you a close-up view of the water's power as it flows toward Bangladesh. It’s one of the best waterfalls in Meghalaya for photography for its natural beauty during monsoon season.
- Location: Inside Thangkharang Park; 12 km from Sohra. Best reached by hiring a private cab for the day.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person (Park entry fee)
- Things to do: Viewing the Indo-Bangladesh border from the park, botanical walks, photography.
Mawsawa Falls is one of the serene, multi-tiered waterfalls in Meghalaya that flows into several clear, swimmable pools. It is much quieter than the more famous waterfalls in Meghalaya, Sohra, making it perfect for those looking to avoid crowds. The easy 10-minute downhill trail leads you to a sandy "beach" area by the water, ideal for a peaceful afternoon.
- Location: Near Lad Mawphlang; 15 km from Sohra town. Follow the road toward Mawsynram to find the entry.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
- Things to do: Swimming in natural pools, picnicking, nature photography.
12. Garden of Caves (Sum Syiem & Arsdad Falls)
The Garden of Caves is a natural park filled with caves, rock formations, and several hidden cascades like Sum Syiem and Arsdad. The area is beautifully maintained with bamboo bridges and stone paths, allowing you to walk directly under the waterfalls and explore the cool, mossy caverns behind the water.
- Location: Laitryngew; 12 km from Sohra. A short diversion from the main Shillong-Sohra highway.
- Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹50 per person (plus ₹20 for camera)
- Things to do: Cave exploration, walking under waterfalls, photography
Best Waterfalls In Jowai & Jaintia Hills
The Jaintia Hills circuit is world-famous for its crystal-clear blue waters and offbeat charm. Unlike the plunging drops of Sohra, the falls here often flow into stunning turquoise lagoons, making them the best spots in Meghalaya for swimming and photography.
Krang Suri is arguably the most beautiful waterfall in India, known for its sparkling blue pool and a "hidden" path that lets you walk behind the curtain of water. Surrounded by golden-hued rocks and lush greenery, the water maintains a magical turquoise color during the dry months. It is one of the best waterfalls in Meghalaya for photography, featuring stone paths that make it look like a scene from a fantasy movie.
- Location: Amlarem; 30 km from Jowai. Reachable via a 20-minute downhill walk on well-paved stone stairs from the parking area.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹50 per person (Life jackets for swimming: ₹100)
- Things to do: Swimming in the blue lagoon, boating, zip-lining over the falls, walking behind the water curtain.
Known as "Paradise Falls," Phe Phe Falls is one of the spectacular two-tiered waterfalls in Meghalaya in December hidden in a quiet valley. The trek to reach it is as beautiful as the destination, involving a short kayak or boat ride across a small river followed by a walk through open meadows. Its secluded location and towering rock walls give it a peaceful, untouched vibe that most tourists miss.
- Location: Near Jarain; 20 km from Jowai. Accessible via a 30-minute trek starting from the Paradise Adventure Camp.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
- Things to do: Kayaking in the upper stream, swimming in the blue pool, camping near the falls, landscape photography.
Often compared to the Elephant Falls but much larger, Tyrshi Falls is one of the famous waterfalls in Meghalaya cascading down in wide, beautiful steps through lush vegetation. To reach the base, you walk through scenic rice fields before descending a flight of stairs that offers a panoramic view of the Pynthor Nein valley. It is a quiet retreat that feels much more connected to the local countryside than the bigger tourist spots.
- Location: Along Jowai-Shillong Highway; 5 km from Jowai. A short 15-minute walk from the main road.
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹30 – ₹50 per person
- Things to do: Valley viewing from the top, trekking to the base, nature walks through rice fields.
16. Thlu Amwi Falls (Thlumuwi Falls)
Thlu Amwi Falls is a historic waterfall, located right next to an ancient stone bridge built by Jaintia warriors over 500 years ago. The site offers a unique combination of natural beauty and Khasi-Jaintia heritage. The water flows over rocky ledges into a wide stream, providing a perfect backdrop for those interested in the history of the old kings' trade routes.
- Location: Jowai-Amlarem Road; 16 km from Jowai town center. Easily accessible via a graveled path from the road.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free (or nominal village fee)
- Things to do: Exploring the 500-year-old stone bridge, riverside angling, historical photography.
Moopun Falls is a multi-tiered hidden gem that touches a crystal-clear "beach" at its bottom from a height of about 110 feet. It is famous for the rare pitcher plants that grow naturally on the rocks around the water. A historic stone bridge at the top and a natural swimming pool below make it a versatile spot for both adventure and relaxation.
- Location: Mutong Village; 25 km from Jowai. A 5-minute walk from the parking area to the bottom of the falls.
- Timings: Open during daylight (officially 24 hrs)
- Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
- Things to do: Swimming in the natural pool, spotting rare pitcher plants, walking across the ancient stone bridge, and picnicking.
18. Bophill Falls (Borhill Falls)
Bophill Falls is unique because it sits right on the edge of the international border. The massive white stream originates in India’s Jaintia Hills and flows gracefully into the plains of Bangladesh. Standing on the bridge over the falls, you can feel the powerful spray and look down into the Sylhet border region, making it a geographical marvel.
- Location: On Dawki-Riwai Road; 9 km from Dawki. Viewable directly from the road bridge on the way to Mawlynnong.
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free (Nominal parking fee may apply)
- Things to do: Cross-border viewing, bridge photography, bird watching near the wooded hills.
Waterfalls In The West Khasi & Garo Hills
The western part of Meghalaya is the state’s wilder, less-explored frontier. Here, the waterfalls are massive and powerful, often set within deep gorges and ancient river islands where the crowds disappear and raw nature takes over.
Reaching over 337 meters, Langshiang Falls is one of India's highest waterfalls and a true giant of the West Khasi Hills. It is formed by the Kynshi River gushing into a massive green gorge, creating a thundering sound that can be heard from miles away. The view from the Mawpon village viewpoint is legendary, offering a perspective of the water dropping into a seemingly bottomless valley.
- Location: Near Mawpon Village; 24 km from Mawkyrwat. Drive from Nongstoin and take a short hike from the road.
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Things to do: Landscape photography, canyon viewing, visiting the nearby Nongkhnum River Island.
Located on the same Kynshi River as Langshiang, Weinia Falls is one of the wide, powerful waterfalls in Meghalaya that resembles a mini Niagara. The water drops vertically into a deep, rocky pool surrounded by dramatic cliffs and boulders. It is a raw and thundering spectacle, especially during the monsoon, and remains one of the most underrated massive falls in the entire state.
- Location: Near Nongkhnum River Island; 15 km from Nongstoin. Easily reached via a short walk from the parking area.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹100 per person (plus ₹100 for parking)
- Things to do: Picnic by the riverside, photography, exploring the river island grasslands.
21. Shadthum Falls (Thum Falls)
This picturesque waterfall is part of the scenic cluster near Nongkhnum Island. It is characterized by its wide, tiered flow that looks like a white staircase carved into the forest. The area around the falls is incredibly peaceful, offering a perfect spot for those who want to experience Meghalaya's river culture without the tourist buzz.
- Location: Near Nongkhnum Island; West Khasi Hills. About 5-6 hours drive from Shillong via Nongstoin.
- Timings: Open during daylight
- Entry Fee: Free
- Things to do: Riverside walking, nature photography, fishing with locals.
Pelga Falls is a serene escape located just outside Tura, the main town of the Garo Hills. It is famous for its traditional Garo bamboo bridge that spans the river near the falls, offering a perfect blend of culture and nature. The water cascades into a natural pool that is popular among local anglers and families for weekend getaways.
- Location: Near Tura; 7 km from the town center. Reachable by local auto-rickshaw or taxi.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹10 – ₹20 per person
- Things to do: Angling, crossing the traditional bamboo bridge, photography
23. Imil-Chang-Dare Falls
Hidden deep in the South Garo Hills, this broad waterfall drops from a tapered cleft into a vast, breath-taking pool. The pool is filled with colorful fishes and is a favorite swimming spot for those who make the journey. Its remote location ensures that you will often have the entire jungle-surrounded paradise to yourself.
- Location: Near Tura-Chokpot Road; 35 km from Tura. Requires a 20-minute walk from the motorable road.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Things to do: Swimming in the natural pool, fish watching, wilderness trekking.
Hidden Waterfalls In Meghalaya
For those who want to escape the tourist maps, these unexplored waterfalls in Meghalaya offer the most raw and intimate experiences.
Deep in the valley beyond the famous Double Decker Root Bridge, Rainbow Falls is a dazzling sight where the water plunges into a deep turquoise pool. True to its name, the mist often creates a brilliant rainbow on sunny days. The trek is challenging, over 3,000 stone steps, but the sight of the thundering white water against the limestone rocks is the ultimate reward.
- Location: Nongriat Village; 1.5-hour trek beyond the Double Decker Root Bridge (starting from Tyrna)
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Start your trek by 7 AM)
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person (Guide recommended: ₹1,000 – ₹1,500)
- Things to do: Jungle trekking, cliff jumping, swimming in the turquoise pool, photography.
Prut Waterfall is a misty, secluded marvel that remains largely off the tourist radar. The waterfall features a wide, curtain-like drop over mossy rocks, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. A short but adventurous trek through lush betel nut plantations leads you to this hidden paradise, where you can often enjoy the cool breeze and the sound of falling water in complete silence.
- Location: Laitduh Village; near Sohra. Accessible via a 15-minute downhill hike from the village entry.
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
- Things to do: Nature walks, photography, peaceful meditation, picnic.
Mawsawdong is among the top stunning tiered and unexplored waterfalls in Meghalaya located very close to the popular Wei Sawdong but visited by far fewer people. It features crystal-clear, multi-layered pools and a wide rock face that looks like a natural staircase. The trail is moderate, and the reward is a tranquil, scenic spot that feels like your own private sanctuary in the Khasi Hills. It’s one of the must-visit waterfalls in Cherrapunji.
- Location: Near Wei Sawdong; 13 km from Sohra. A short 10-minute trek from the roadside.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
- Things to do: Swimming, rock hopping, landscape photography
Tucked away in the heart of a dense forest, Janailar is one of the hidden waterfalls in Meghalaya known for its untouched surroundings and clear water. It is a peaceful escape for nature enthusiasts who want to avoid the "commercial" feel of bigger waterfalls. The sound of the wind through the tall trees and the gentle cascade make it one of the most relaxing hidden spots in the state.
- Location: Near Sohra-Mawsynram road; requires a local guide from the nearby villages.
- Timings: Daylight hours (Best before 4 PM)
- Entry Fee: Nominal village fee (varies)
- Things to do: Bird watching, nature photography, light trekking
Lyngngai is a tranquil, lesser-known waterfall surrounded by thick foliage and rocky outcrops. It offers a gentle, cascading flow that is perfect for those who enjoy the "quiet" side of nature. Because it isn't well-advertised, the paths remain rugged and the atmosphere stays authentically wild, providing a true sense of discovery for every traveler who finds it.
- Location: East Khasi Hills; near the Sohra rim. Best reached by asking locals for the trail entry point.
- Timings: Open during daylight
- Entry Fee: Free
- Things to do: Solitude seeking, nature sketches, photography, forest hiking
Tucked away in the East Jaintia Hills, Labon Falls is a well-guarded secret known for its striking sky-blue water. This isn't your average tourist stop; it’s a raw adventure involving a 1-hour jungle trek and a descent down "branch stairs" built by local villagers. The reward is a pristine, turquoise paradise that feels completely disconnected from the modern world.
- Location: Sakhain Area, Saipung (East Jaintia Hills). Reachable via private 4x4 from Khliehriat.
- Timings: Daylight hours (Start trek before noon)
- Entry Fee: Nominal village fee (varies)
- Things to do: Adventure trekking, drone photography, exploring the Sakhain forest
Best Time To See Waterfalls In Meghalaya
The best time to see waterfalls in Meghalaya is the monsoon season from June to September. This is when the waterfalls are at their most powerful. The state turns vibrant green, and the sound of falling water is everywhere. However, expect heavy rain, fog, and slippery trails.
Here is a short breakdown of if you’re visiting in other seasons:
- Post-Monsoon (October to November): The "Sweet Spot." The rain stops, but the waterfalls still have plenty of volume. The skies are clear, making it the best time for photography and long treks like Rainbow Falls.
- Winter (December to February): Best for adventure sports in Meghalaya and swimming. The water turns a stunning turquoise blue (especially at Krang Suri). While some falls (like Seven Sisters) may dry up, others remain perfect for a dip.
- Summer (March to May): A great time for trekking in Meghalaya before the heavy rains start. The weather is pleasant for exploring the hidden caves near the falls, but the flow remains low.
Final Thoughts On Chasing Waterfalls In Meghalaya
Meghalaya is more than just a destination; it is a symphony of falling water and emerald landscapes. From the thunderous height of Nohkalikai to the quiet, turquoise magic of Krang Suri, these waterfalls in Meghalaya offer a rare glimpse into nature’s raw, untouched beauty.
Whether you are trekking through deep forests or enjoying a quiet moment by a roadside cascade, the "Abode of Clouds" promises an experience that stays with you long after the mist clears.
Ready to start your adventure? Connect with the WanderOn team today and let us take you to the heart of the hills!
