Nohkalikai Falls, located in Cherrapunji at a height of 1115 feet, is the fourth-tallest plunge waterfall in the world. This natural splendour is just 7.5 km from the town and is a major tourist attraction. The falls are a spectacular sight to behold as the water plunges from a red-rock cliff into a clear pool surrounded by lush green forest. The waterfall's beauty intensifies as the pool's colour changes with the seasons, contrasting with the waterfall itself. What makes the waterfall mysterious and alluring is the tragic story behind its name, where Nohkalikai means “the jump of Likai” in local Khasi language. It refers to a local woman jumping off the cliff after discovering her new husband has killed her daughter. There are two treks to reach the Nohkalikai Falls—one that will take you to the bottom and one that will take you to the edge of the waterfall. This blog will provide you with a complete travel guide, including how to reach, when to visit, things to do, and where to stay.
How to Reach Nohkalikai Falls
Nohkalikai Falls, Meghalaya, is easily accessible by road, air, and rail from different parts of India.
By Road
The waterfall is easily accessible by road from Cherrapunji, Meghalaya. Nohkalikai Falls distance from Shillong is 90 km, and the drive is filled with misty mountains along winding roads that open out to beautiful, lush valleys. You can easily get a cab, take your own personal vehicle, or take a bus from Shillong or other nearby towns. It takes around 1.5–2 hours to reach Cherrapunji from Meghalaya.
By Air
The nearest airport to Nohkalikai Falls is Shillong Airport which is around 90 km away. The airport is well-connected with flights from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Guwahati. From Shillong airport, you can easily find cabs to reach Cherrapunji.
By Rail
You can reach Nohkalikai Falls by train, with Guwahati railway station being the nearest, approximately 150 km away. There are trains from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore. From the railway station, you can take a cab or bus to Cherrapunji, which is about 4-5 hours.
Best Time to Visit Nohkalikai Falls
Cherrapunji is the wettest place in the world, receiving the maximum amount of rainfall, resulting in the waterfall gushing with full might all year round. However, the best time to visit the waterfall is from October to December and March to May, when the weather is pleasant and you can enjoy the clear views of the waterfall and valley. Therefore, it is advisable to schedule your Meghalaya tour packages during these months, as the pleasant weather allows for the enjoyment of various activities such as trekking, camping, sightseeing, and swimming.
You should avoid visiting during monsoon as the visibility is low and you might not be able to see the waterfall clearly, and the Nohkalikai Falls trekking route is not ideal due to landslides.
Things to do at Nohkalikai Falls
The waterfall is a delight for nature lovers and adventure seekers and there are many popular things one can engage in. Here are some of the activities you can do at Nohkalikai Falls:
Trekking
There are various trekking routes that offer the best way to explore the falls and their surroundings. To reach Nohkalikai Falls, Meghalaya, you have to trek through dense forests, lush grassland, and clear streams. Other trekking trails too offer stunning views of the valley and forest. Several popular trekking routes are located near the waterfall.
- Nongriat Trek: This is a challenging but rewarding trekking route for the famous Double Decker Living Root Bridge. Over centuries, the intertwining tree roots have naturally created the bridge. The trek takes around 3-4 hours to complete.
- Nohsngithiang Trek: The trek takes you to another mesmerising waterfall, also known as Seven Sister Falls. Starting from Eco Park, the trek takes about 2-3 hours one way. Along the way, you can spot various birds and animals among the rolling grasslands and forests.
- Mawmluh Trek: It is relatively easy and takes you to Mawsami Cave, one of the popular nearby Nohkalikai Falls attractions. The trek starts from Mawmluh village and takes 1-2 hours to reach the cave.
Camping
Camping is a popular activity for adventure seekers and people who want to spend more time at Nohkalikai Falls. You can easily find various camping sites near the waterfall offering basic facilities and amenities. Eco Park is a well-maintained camping site near the waterfall, where campers can find tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, toilets, electricity, and security. Halari Viewpoint is another excellent camping spot near the waterfall. This is a secluded camping site that offers more privacy and peace. To experience the local lifestyle and culture, you should try camping at Tyrna village.
Sightseeing
Near the Nohkalikai Falls location, there are several viewpoints offering panoramic views of the waterfall and the valley. The main viewpoint near the waterfall, Nohkalikai viewpoint, is just 1 km away and can be reached by car or foot. Another fantastic Nohkalikai Falls viewpoint that provides breathtaking views of Thangkharang Park. The park, located 12 km away, has a watchtower and viewpoint where visitors can get a wonderful view of the waterfall and the verdant valley surrounding it.
Photography
Nohkalikai Falls is a photographer’s paradise, which offers various angles and perspectives to click amazing pictures of the waterfall and valley. While you can capture stunning heavenly shots at any time of the day, the best times to capture photos are during sunrise and sunset. Sunrise and sunset create a magical effect on the waterfall and the pool. The sun illuminates the waterfall and the pool with golden hues, creating a contrast with the green forest. During these times, the play of light and shadows enhances the waterfall's beauty, making it even more picturesque.
Places to Visit near Nohkalikai Falls
There are many attractions near Nohkalikai Falls that showcase the natural beauty and cultural diversity of Meghalaya. Here are some of the places you can visit:
Khoh Ramhah
Located in Cherrapunji, Khoh Ramhah is a unique rock formation that resembles a basket or a cone. It offers amazing views of the waterfall and the valley. The place is an ideal spot for a picnic, and the best time to visit is during the monsoon or just after it. The ascending cloud moving through the rocks amplifies the beauty of the place.
Mawlynnong Waterfall
A small but beautiful waterfall near Mawlynnong village flows into a clear pool. Mawlynnong village is 4 km away from the waterfall, accessible by car or foot. Thrusting its way through the dense, verdant greenery is a sight to behold.
Dainthlen Falls
This cascading beauty is one of the most powerful sights—a gushing waterfall that cuts through Sohra's hard rocks and high plateau. The waterfall is also a significant place for the Khasi tribe. The Dainthlen Falls has a viewpoint on either side of the falls, from which you can see the natural splendour up close. Nohkalikai Falls, located at a distance of 12 km from Dainthlen Falls, is a short detour just before you enter Cherrapunji.
Wah-Kaba Falls
Waha-Kaba waterfall is a seasonal waterfall located near Nohkalikai Falls, Meghalaya. The waterfall drops from a steep rocky slope and plunges hundreds of meters into a gorge. Situated right on the side of the road, the waterfall is easily accessible. The best time to visit the falls is during the rainy season.
Living Root Bridges
The living root bridges, created by the intertwining tree roots over centuries, are unique and fascinating attractions near Nohkalikai Falls. Some of the famous living root bridges are Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Umshiang Living Root Bridge, and Ritymmen Living Root Bridge located near Nohkalikai Falls, Meghalaya.
Dawki River
The Dawki River, one of the most scenic and serene rivers in Meghalaya and India, is located approximately 100 km from Cherrapunji. The river is famous for crystal-clear water, boating activities, and suspension bridges. Boating allows you to enjoy the clear water and green hills along the river and is one of the top things to do in Meghalaya. There is a suspension bridge across the Dawki River that connects India and Bangladesh.
Nohkalikai Falls is one of the most incredible attractions in Meghalaya and should not be missed. The spectacular waterfall offers stunning views and thrilling activities. The Nohkalikai Falls timing is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., as you will have a clear view of the waterfall during these hours. The Nohkalikai Falls location is a great base to explore other nearby attractions, which showcase the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the region.
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