Seven sister falls!!
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Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters Falls Cherrapunji

4.7
·735 reviews·Cherrapunji, India

Witness India's tallest plunge waterfall, Nohkalikai, and the majestic Seven Sisters Falls in Cherrapunji, a land of clouds and legends.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Monsoon (June-September)

Waterfalls at their peak power

CrowdMedium
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Seven sister falls!!

Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters Falls Cherrapunji

Best Time

Monsoon (June-September)

Waterfalls at their peak power

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness India's tallest plunge waterfall, Nohkalikai, and the majestic Seven Sisters Falls in Cherrapunji, a land of clouds and legends.

4.7
(735 reviews)

"The waterfalls are truly beautiful and a sight to behold, especially during monsoons."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack for Mist & Rain

Waterproofs are essential year-round due to Cherrapunji's high rainfall and mist. :umbrella:

Respect Local Legends

Nohkalikai Falls has a tragic story; be mindful of its cultural significance. :pray:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nohkalikai Falls

Nohkalikai Falls

Cherrapunji

India's tallest plunge waterfall, a breathtaking cascade with a haunting local legend.

Seven Sisters Falls

Seven Sisters Falls

Cherrapunji

A majestic seven-stream waterfall, offering spectacular views, especially during monsoon.

Mawsmai Caves

Mawsmai Caves

Cherrapunji

Explore ancient caves with stunning rock formations and fossils.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Cherrapunji's Falls

Cherrapunji's waterfalls, especially Nohkalikai and Seven Sisters, are most spectacular during the monsoon season (June to September) when they are at their fullest. However, this also means clouds can obscure views. Visiting just after the monsoon offers clear skies and powerful falls. Be prepared for mist and rain year-round.

Respect the Legends and the Landscape

Nohkalikai Falls carries a poignant local legend, adding a layer of cultural depth to its natural beauty.TikTokInstagram While the views are breathtaking, some visitors note issues with litter, urging responsible tourism to preserve these stunning natural sites.Reddit

Best Times

When
Monsoon (June-September)
Why
Waterfalls at their peak power
Crowd
Medium
When
Post-Monsoon (October-November)
Why
Clear skies, powerful falls
Crowd
Low
When
Sunrise/Sunset
Why
Mesmerizing light and views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Terror en las cataratas más altas de la India - La perturbadora leyenda de NohKalikai #historiadeterror #leyendadeterror #nohkalikaifalls #indianhorror #leyendaurbana #mombai #gilaparicio
@gil.aparicio
65.9K likes • 349.7K views

Pack for Mist & Rain

Waterproofs are essential year-round due to Cherrapunji's high rainfall and mist. :umbrella: Instagram

Respect Local Legends

Nohkalikai Falls has a tragic story; be mindful of its cultural significance. :pray: TikTokInstagram

* NohKaliKai Falls is located in Sohra (Cherrapunji) in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India 🇮🇳. * The waterfall is approximately 5 kilometers from the town of Cherrapunji and is accessible by road. * The waterfall is approximately 335 meters high and is one of the tallest waterfalls in India. * The best time to visit NohKaliKai Falls is during the monsoon season, from June to Septemb...
wanderlustwithamit
814 likes • 15.7K views
This 340-meter giant waterfall of Meghalaya (Cherrapunji) has its own haunting story🥹👇🏻 . Exploring Meghalaya with @goridez 🚘 . The 📍Nohkalikai Falls story is a tragic local legend about a Khasi woman named Likai who, unaware, ate her own murdered daughter, cooked by her evil step-father. Overwhelmed by grief and horror, Likai then jumped from the top of the waterfall 💔, which has since been named...
mallu_nomad
2.7K likes • 47.9K views

Responsible Tourism

Help keep the area clean by not littering. Carry your trash with you. :recycle: Reddit

Capture the Views

Best photo ops are during sunrise/sunset, but be ready for mist. :camerawithflash: Reddit

The "Seven Sisters Waterfalls" . refers to two distinct, yet similarly named, waterfalls: one in Meghalaya, India, and another in Geirangerfjorden, Norway. The Meghalaya waterfall, also known as Nohsngithiang Falls or Mawsmai Falls, is a spectacular cascade of seven streams falling from a cliffside. The Norwegian waterfall, known as the Seven Sisters, is a group of seven waterfalls cascading into ...
___assam__g.p_
45.1K likes • 422.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack for Mist & Rain

Waterproofs are essential year-round due to Cherrapunji's high rainfall and mist. :umbrella: Instagram

Respect Local Legends

Nohkalikai Falls has a tragic story; be mindful of its cultural significance. :pray: TikTokInstagram

Responsible Tourism

Help keep the area clean by not littering. Carry your trash with you. :recycle: Reddit

Capture the Views

Best photo ops are during sunrise/sunset, but be ready for mist. :camerawithflash: Reddit

Easy Access Spots

Nohkalikai and Seven Sisters Falls are accessible with minimal walking from parking. :walking: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(735 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty and sheer scale of Nohkalikai and Seven Sisters Falls, calling them spectacular and mesmerizing, especially during monsoon. The tragic legend of Nohkalikai adds a unique cultural depth. However, some reviewers express disappointment with litter, urging for better waste management and responsible tourism to preserve these natural wonders.

"During the season time, this place is covered with clouds and inside the clouds. You can see a waterfall which is a very spectacular view for mountain lovers. This place is well bounded by boundaries so safety measures are already been looked upon. You would love to click picture with the mountains then this is the place you have to surely visit rather visiting Shillong. You can visit this place nearby this waterfall. There are a lot of good guesthouse and hotels available with affordable stay and I would suggest you to visit during the sunset or the sunrise at that time only you will get a very great video or photo"

Subhodeep K

"Nohkalikai waterfalls as a serene beauty: it also has folklore story and from the story, it derived its name.

Jump of Kha Likai

Untouched Dazzle"

Saradh Kumar

"The waterfalls are truly beautiful and a sight to behold. Unfortunately, the area is being spoiled by tourists throwing trash around. Better waste management and responsible tourism are urgently needed to preserve the natural beauty."

Rahul LR

What People Like

Spectacular waterfall views
Mesmerizing monsoon power
Haunting local legends

What People Dislike

Litter and waste management

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters Falls from Shillong is by hiring a taxi or a private car. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, covering about 50-60 kilometers. Many tour packages from Shillong include these waterfalls as part of a day trip.Instagram

While direct public buses to the specific waterfall viewpoints are rare, you can take a bus from Shillong to Cherrapunji town (Sohra). From there, you'll likely need to hire a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters Falls, which are a few kilometers outside the main town.Instagram

Yes, it's possible to visit Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters Falls as a long day trip from Guwahati, Assam. However, it's a substantial journey (around 5-6 hours one way). Many travelers opt for an overnight stay in Cherrapunji or Shillong to make the most of their visit.Instagram

These two major waterfalls are relatively close to each other in Cherrapunji. If you have hired a taxi for the day, your driver will easily take you between them. They are typically visited in conjunction with other Cherrapunji attractions like Mawsmai Caves.

No, both Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters Falls are easily accessible from the road with short, easy walks to the viewpoints. They are not considered treks, making them suitable for most visitors, including families.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is an entry fee for Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters Falls. The exact amount can vary, but it's generally a nominal fee per person. Keep some cash handy for these entrance tickets.Instagram

These waterfalls are typically open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's advisable to check the latest timings locally, but generally, they are accessible during daylight hours. Aim to visit before sunset for the best light.Reddit

Currently, there isn't a widely advertised online booking system for these specific waterfall entry tickets. It's best to purchase them upon arrival at the site.

While generally open year-round, extreme weather conditions during heavy monsoons might occasionally affect accessibility or visibility. It's always good to check local conditions if you're traveling during peak monsoon.

Often, the entry fee covers access to the viewpoint area for Seven Sisters Falls, which is usually located near other Cherrapunji attractions. Sometimes, combined tickets might be available if you're visiting multiple sites.

📸 📸 Photography

The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. However, be prepared for mist, which can add a mystical quality to your shots. Mid-day can be harsh, but the sheer scale of the falls is still impressive.Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the falls and the surrounding landscape. A tripod can be useful for long exposures, especially in misty conditions or low light. A waterproof camera or a good rain cover for your gear is highly recommended due to the constant mist and rain.Instagram

Yes, there are designated viewpoints at both Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters Falls that offer panoramic vistas. Look for the platforms and marked areas. Be cautious of slippery surfaces when moving around for the best shots.Instagram

Drone usage regulations can be strict in India, especially near natural attractions and potentially sensitive areas. It's advisable to check with local authorities or tour operators before flying a drone to avoid any issues.

The primary challenge is the persistent mist and rain, which can obscure views and make equipment management difficult. Also, the sheer scale means capturing the entire waterfall in one frame can be tricky without a wide-angle lens.Instagram

🎫 🌿 Nature & Environment

The monsoon season (June to September) is when the waterfalls are at their most powerful and impressive, with water volumes at their peak.Instagram However, the post-monsoon months (October to November) offer a good balance of strong falls and clearer skies.

The areas around the falls are generally well-fenced for safety. However, always be mindful of slippery surfaces, especially during and after rain. Stay within designated viewing areas and do not venture too close to the edges.Reddit

Unfortunately, littering by some tourists is an issue, impacting the natural beauty. Responsible tourism practices, such as carrying out all waste, are crucial for preserving these pristine locations.Reddit

The region is known for its lush green, subtropical vegetation, especially during and after the monsoon. You'll see dense forests and a variety of plant life. Wildlife sightings are less common at the immediate viewpoints but are present in the surrounding hills.

Cherrapunji is famous for its rain and mist. During heavy monsoon, clouds can completely engulf the falls, making them invisible. Post-monsoon offers better visibility, but mist can still roll in unexpectedly, adding to the atmosphere.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cherrapunji's waterfalls, including Nohkalikai and Seven Sisters, are excellent destinations for families. The main viewpoints are easily accessible with short, flat walks, making them suitable for children of all ages. There are safety barriers in place, providing peace of mind for parents.Reddit Pack rain gear for everyone, as Cherrapunji is famously wet, and kids often enjoy the misty atmosphere. Consider visiting during the post-monsoon season for better visibility and less intense rain, which can make the experience more comfortable for younger travelers.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Cherrapunji offers dramatic landscapes and powerful waterfalls. Nohkalikai Falls, with its immense height, and the multi-stream Seven Sisters Falls provide stunning subjects. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the scale and a tripod for misty conditions or low light. Protect your gear from the constant rain and mist with waterproof covers. The best light is often during sunrise and sunset, but be prepared for clouds that can add a unique, ethereal quality to your shots.Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Adventure Seekers

While the main waterfalls themselves are easily accessible, the surrounding Cherrapunji region offers more adventurous pursuits. For those looking to trek, exploring the living root bridges, particularly the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat, is a must-do. These natural wonders require a significant trek but are incredibly rewarding. For a less strenuous adventure, consider exploring the Mawsmai and Arwah Caves, which offer a glimpse into subterranean wonders.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of Nohkalikai Falls

Nohkalikai Falls is not just a natural wonder; it's steeped in a tragic local legend that gives it its name. The story tells of a woman named Likai who was remarried to a man who disliked her daughter. In a horrific act, the stepfather murdered Likai's daughter and, to conceal his crime, cooked her flesh and served it to Likai. When Likai discovered the truth, she was overcome with grief and horror and ran to the edge of the cliff, jumping to her death. The waterfall is said to be named after her, symbolizing her sorrow and despair.TikTokInstagram This folklore adds a profound, albeit somber, dimension to the visitor experience.

This legend is a significant part of the cultural heritage of the Khasi people in Meghalaya. While the natural beauty of the falls is undeniable, understanding the story behind it can offer a deeper appreciation for the site. Many visitors are moved by the tale, which is often shared by local guides or information boards at the location. It serves as a reminder of the rich oral traditions and historical narratives embedded within the landscape.Instagram

Cherrapunji's Waterfalls: A Monsoon Spectacle

Cherrapunji, often called the 'abode of the clouds,' is renowned for its abundant rainfall and spectacular waterfalls. Nohkalikai Falls, India's tallest plunge waterfall, and the Seven Sisters Falls are the crown jewels of this region. During the monsoon season, from June to September, these falls are at their most powerful, thundering down with immense force. The sheer volume of water creates a dramatic spectacle, with mist rising high into the air, often shrouding the surrounding hills in a mystical veil.Instagram

While the monsoon offers the most dramatic views, it also presents challenges. Heavy clouds and fog can sometimes obscure the falls entirely, leading to disappointment for some visitors. For those seeking clearer views of the powerful cascades, the period immediately following the monsoon, from October to November, is often ideal. You can still witness the impressive water flow, but with a higher chance of clear skies and unobstructed vistas.Instagram Regardless of when you visit, the raw power and beauty of Cherrapunji's waterfalls are an unforgettable experience, showcasing nature's grandeur in its most potent form.Instagram

Navigating Cherrapunji's Tourist Circuit

Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters Falls are typically part of a broader tourist circuit in Cherrapunji, often including other natural and historical attractions. Many visitors combine their waterfall visits with explorations of the Mawsmai Caves and Arwah Caves, known for their impressive stalactites and fossils.Instagram The region also boasts unique living root bridges, though reaching some of these may involve moderate treks.Instagram

When planning your visit, consider grouping attractions geographically. For instance, Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, and the Mawsmai Caves are relatively close to each other, making them convenient to visit in a single day. Many local tour operators offer packages that cover these key sites, often including transportation from Shillong or Guwahati.Instagram This can simplify logistics, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area. Remember to allocate ample time, as Cherrapunji's weather can be unpredictable, and you might want to linger at viewpoints to capture the best moments.Instagram