Cherrapunji

Nestled atop the East Khasi Hills, Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra is a legendary hill town located in Meghalaya. Famed for being one of the wettest places on Earth, Cherrapunji is renowned for its lush greenery, dramatic waterfalls, living root bridges, and misty landscapes. The town offers travelers an unforgettable experience of nature in its rawest and most magical form, with rolling hills, deep valleys, and abundant flora and fauna.

Cherrapunji is not just about rainfall, but it is a cultural and ecological hub. It’s home to the Khasi tribe, whose traditions, festivals, and crafts enrich the visitor experience. With its caves, forests, and panoramic viewpoints, Cherrapunji is a must-visit destination for ecotourism, trekking, and adventure travel in Northeast India.

Best time to visit Cherrapunji

Top Attractions in Cherrapunji

Nohkalikai Falls:
One of India’s tallest waterfalls, plunging over 340 meters. The viewpoint offers a breathtaking panorama of the waterfall and surrounding valley.

Mawsmai Cave:
A limestone cave system with stalactites, stalagmites, and narrow passageways, ideal for adventurous exploration.

Double Decker Living Root Bridge (Umshiang):
A natural marvel, these root bridges are crafted over centuries by the Khasi tribe using living tree roots. Trekking to them is an unforgettable experience.

Seven Sisters Falls (Nohsngithiang Falls):
A spectacular waterfall with seven distinct streams, best viewed during post-monsoon months.

Eco Parks and Gardens:
The area surrounding Cherrapunji is rich in biodiversity, with gardens, viewpoints, and eco-trails perfect for birdwatching and photography.

Local Villages:
Visiting Khasi villages allows travelers to experience traditional lifestyle, crafts, and local hospitality.

Mawsynram (Nearby):
Known as the wettest place on Earth, a short drive from Cherrapunji offers unique experiences of rain-soaked landscapes and lush green valleys.

Culture and Festivals

Cherrapunji is predominantly inhabited by the Khasi tribe, whose culture is reflected in festivals, crafts, and daily life:

Behdienkhlam Festival: A traditional festival to drive away diseases and invoke blessings for good harvests, celebrated with rituals, dances, and community feasts.

Shad Suk Mynsiem: A spring dance festival celebrating fertility and the natural cycle.

Local Handicrafts: Weaving, bamboo crafts, and stone carving are integral to the region’s culture.

Local Cuisine

The cuisine of Cherrapunji is simple, flavorful, and largely tribal:

Rice-based Meals: Often served with local vegetables, bamboo shoots, and smoked fish.

Dohneiiong: Pork curry prepared with black sesame seeds, a Khasi specialty.

Tungtap: Bamboo shoot and pork curry enjoyed in local households.

Traditional Drinks: Rice beer and herbal beverages during festivals and social gatherings.

Where to Stay

Eco-Resorts and Hotels: Many eco-friendly resorts and hotels offer panoramic views, comfortable stays, and guided treks.

Guesthouses: Family-run guesthouses provide affordable accommodation with local hospitality.

Homestays: For immersive cultural experiences with the Khasi community.