Meghalaya, which literally means the abode of clouds, is best known for its lush greenery, heavy rainfall, splendid waterfalls, deep valleys and untouched nature. There is an unmatched sense of serenity and calm that this land offers. 

Along with the beautiful hills there are a number of crystal clear lakes, rivers and some majestic and famous waterfalls in Meghalaya. You can also enjoy a peaceful picnic day or go for a trek on a bright sunny day.

Out of all the natural beauties that this place has to offer, the main attractions are the waterfalls. In this blog we will take you on a virtual tour of some of the best waterfalls in Meghalaya, some of which are still hidden from the eyes of most people.

So let's take a look!

1. Elephant Falls

Out of all the famous things in Meghalaya, Elephant Falls is the most famous waterfall in Shillong. It is a three-tiered waterfall which is known as the 'Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew’ (three step falls) by locals. 

The Elephant falls are snuck deep into forest areas situated close to the Shillong Peak and are one of the major tourist attractions, especially in the monsoon season which is in the months October-December. 

The waterfall was named as such by the British due to the huge piece of mammoth rock at the foot of the falls that looks like an elephant. This tourist attraction is just 12 kilometers away from the city and is always brimming with adventurous and inquisitive tourists.

To reach this nature's beauty, you can either hire a taxi from  MTDC bus stand or you can also travel in a public bus. There are various fun activities to do at this location such as trekking, clicking beautiful pictures of the scenery, enjoying shopping from nearby shops, etc.

2. Seven Sisters Falls

The Seven Sisters Falls, also commonly known as the Mawsmai Falls or Nohsngithiang Falls, are an incredible sight to behold. It is, without any doubt, one of the most gorgeous and beautiful waterfalls of Meghalaya. 

Falling onto the Khasi Hills, it is also one of the tallest waterfalls in the country, at a height of 1033 feet. The best time to visit these falls is during the months of July-December as during this time it is at its full and voluminous flow. 

The waterfall, as the name suggests, falls down in 7 beautiful streams, onto cliffs made of limestone. It is encompassed by lush green forests and is a peaceful sight to behold.

To reach the falls, you can hire a taxi from Police Bazar in Shillong or from Paltan Bazaar in Guwahati. However, it is closer to Shillong and is only 2 hours away. The location is perfect for a picnic day with your family and lots for fun pictures for happy memories. 

3. Kynrem Falls

Another breathtaking beauty, tucked away from the noisy city, is the Kynrem waterfall, located inside Thangkharang Park, near Cherrapunji. It is one of the highest falls in all of Meghalaya. Falling from a height of a stunning 1003 feet, it is a 3 tier waterfall and the 7th largest one in India. 

The Kynrem Falls is buried deep within the lush greenery of the Khasi Hills and the best time to visit this splendid location is during the winter season or the monsoons. Kynrem Falls, one of the best waterfalls in Meghalaya, offers a unique attraction for tourists which is a huge rock that sits just beside the water stream. This rock is known as the Shiva Rock but the locals may also refer to it as Mothorp or Khoh Ramhah. You can enjoy a majestic view of Meghalaya from this rock.

Reaching the Kynrem Falls is not all that easy, however it is absolutely worth all the effort. At a distance of 12 kms from the city, you can hire a cab or take a local bus and then will have to hike for about 3 or 5 minutes downhill to reach your destination. 

There are various fun activities to enjoy at the waterfall such as bird watching, wildlife photography, trekking through the lush forests, etc.

4. Bishop And Beadon Falls

The Bishop and Beadon falls, also famously known as the twin brother falls, are a spectacular site for tourists and nature lovers. Located in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, the Bishop is a 3 tier stream that falls from a high altitude of 443 feet. 

The Beadon is hidden deep within the natural wildlife and greenery and offers a breathtaking view of the forests around it. The water in the Beadon waterfall appears milk or foamy as it passes through a rocky path and then falls below steeply. The Bishop and Beadon Falls then fall down and merge together in the river Umiam that flows through the Suna Valley.

Reaching these locations is not all that complicated, as all you have to do is drive up to Mawprem or Mawlai from Shillong. From there it is just a 5 minute trek to the waterfall and offers you a stunning view of the greenery around.

There is so much to do at the Bishop and Beadon falls such as having a picnic with your family on the river side, taking a refreshing swim in the pools. If you are in luck, you can also spot wildlife such as wild cats, leopards, etc.

5. Tyrshi Falls

Located on the Shillong-Jowai Road, the Tyrshi falls are often compared to Shillong’s jewel, the Elephant falls. The waterfall, falling off of a cliff, exudes serenity and peace from each drop. 

The surrounding area offers a calm and peaceful view of the lush greenery and paddy fields. The milky white water gushes down aggressively. Tucked amidst paddy fields, this waterfall is a major attraction for photographers as it offers a scenic view of the raw and untouched nature present all around it. 

There is an arch bridge that connects the paddy fields to the Tyrshi falls and it is the perfect place to take in the phenomenal scenery of the Pynthor Nein. 

Located at a distance of just 5 kms from Jowai, the Tyrshi falls are situated around 70 kms from the Shillong city. There are various cabs and taxis that you can hire to visit the waterfall. You can enjoy photography of the nature and scenery of the surroundings and can also go for a trek.

6. Imil-Chang-Dare Falls

The incredibly beautiful and stunning Imil-Chang-Dare Falls are located nearby the Tura-Chokpot Road which falls under the West Garo Hills district region. 

One of the most famous waterfalls in Meghalaya, Imil-Chang-Dare flows through a narrow bed of rocks and flows out as a broad stream. This waterfall brims with crystal clear and glistening water, which when falls from such heights, the water seems to become a milky white color when it touches the ground below.

This nature’s fountain is the perfect spot for that summery dip to cool off from all the heat. It is also a fun idea to plan a family picnic amongst the lush greenery and do some fishing.

To get to the Imil-Chang-Dare Falls you will need to hire a taxi or a cab from Shillong (approximately 300 kms away). You can enjoy a number of activities here such as wildlife photography, picnics, swimmings, fishing, etc.

Final Thoughts

India’s northeastern regions offer a wide range of beautiful and majestic waterfalls located snugly among the lush green surroundings.

Explore these wonders of nature with Yes Tourism India, plan and book a trip to Meghalaya today!