Meghalaya guide · 13 waterfalls

Best Waterfalls in Meghalaya

Discover the most stunning waterfalls in Meghalaya — from India's tallest plunge waterfall to hidden turquoise pools in the rainforest.

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Meghalaya — the wettest place on Earth — is home to some of India's most spectacular waterfalls. Below are 13 of the best waterfalls to add to your itinerary, each with a complete travel guide covering how to reach, the best time to visit, entry details and insider tips. Most are an easy day trip from Shillong, where XTSY Travellers Hostel in New Shillong Township makes a comfortable, well-connected base.

Near ShillongElephant FallsA scenic three-tiered waterfall 12 km from Shillong — one of the most accessible and most visited natural attractions in Meghalaya.

Cherrapunji & SohraNohkalikai FallsIndia's tallest plunge waterfall near Cherrapunji, plunging into a turquoise pool below dramatic cliffs.

Jaintia HillsKrang Suri FallsA stunning waterfall with vibrant turquoise pool in the Jaintia Hills — perfect for swimming.

Cherrapunji & SohraSeven Sisters FallsMultiple cascades flowing down dramatic cliffs near Cherrapunji — named after the seven NE states.

Cherrapunji & SohraWei Sawdong FallsA stunning three-tier waterfall with turquoise pools hidden in the forests near Cherrapunji.

Cherrapunji & SohraRainbow FallsA magical waterfall where rainbows form in the mist — accessible via the Nongriat trek.

Cherrapunji & SohraDainthlen FallsA legendary waterfall near Cherrapunji tied to the myth of the serpent Thlen.

Near ShillongSweet FallsA dramatic waterfall just 5 km from Shillong city center, plunging down steep cliffs.

Near ShillongBishop FallsOne of Meghalaya's tallest waterfalls, plunging 130 meters into a forested valley near Shillong.

Near ShillongSpread Eagle FallsA graceful waterfall near Shillong where water spreads across rocks like eagle wings.

Cherrapunji & SohraKynrem FallsA majestic three-tier waterfall within Thangkharang Park, one of the tallest in Meghalaya.

West Khasi HillsLangshiang FallsOne of India's tallest waterfalls in the remote West Khasi Hills — uncrowded and majestic.

Jaintia HillsPhe Phe FallsA hidden waterfall in the Jaintia Hills with a stunning turquoise pool amid dense forest.

Why Meghalaya has the best waterfalls in India

Meghalaya catches the full force of the Bay of Bengal monsoon, making it the wettest place on Earth — Mawsynram and Cherrapunji (Sohra) record over 11,000 mm of rain a year. All that water spills off the Khasi and Jaintia plateau in dramatic plunge waterfalls, including Nohkalikai Falls, India's tallest plunge waterfall at 340 metres. The result is a concentration of waterfalls unmatched anywhere else in the country, most of them within a two-hour drive of Shillong.

The most famous waterfalls in Meghalaya

Nohkalikai Falls near Cherrapunji is the headline act, plunging into a turquoise pool framed by sheer cliffs. Seven Sisters Falls (Nohsngithiang) fans out across the Sohra escarpment after rain, while Elephant Falls just outside Shillong offers an easy three-tiered walk perfect for first-timers. In the Jaintia Hills, Krang Suri Falls is famous for its swimmable blue water, and Wei Sawdong's three-tiered pools are a photographer's favourite. Dainthlen and Kynrem Falls round out a classic Meghalaya waterfall circuit.

Best time to visit Meghalaya waterfalls

For sheer power and mist-filled drama, visit during or just after the monsoon (June to September) when the falls are at full flow — but expect leeches, slippery trails and limited visibility on heavy-rain days. For swimmable pools, clear skies and safe trekking, plan your trip between October and March. Krang Suri and Wei Sawdong are best enjoyed in this drier window when the water runs clear and turquoise.

How to plan a waterfall trip from Shillong

Shillong is the natural base — most major waterfalls are an easy day trip. Pair Elephant Falls with Shillong Peak, then dedicate a full day to the Cherrapunji circuit (Nohkalikai, Seven Sisters, Dainthlen) and another to the Jaintia Hills (Krang Suri, Wei Sawdong). XTSY Travellers Hostel offers dorms from ₹399/night plus curated Meghalaya tours that bundle transport and a local guide so you cover the best waterfalls without renting a car.

Meghalaya Waterfalls — FAQs

How many waterfalls are there to visit in Meghalaya?

This guide covers 13 of the most popular waterfalls in Meghalaya, including Elephant Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Krang Suri Falls, Seven Sisters Falls. There are many more across the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo Hills, but these are the most rewarding and accessible for first-time visitors.

What is the best time to visit waterfalls in Meghalaya?

For full water flow and dramatic, mist-filled landscapes, visit during and just after the monsoon (June to September). For clear skies, comfortable trekking and the best views, plan your trip between October and March.

Where should I stay to explore Meghalaya's waterfalls?

Shillong is the ideal base — most waterfalls are within a day trip. XTSY Travellers Hostel offers dorms from ₹399/night, Experience by XTSY, and curated Meghalaya tours that cover the region's top waterfalls and viewpoints.

Can I cover Meghalaya's top waterfalls on a tour package?

Yes. XTSY's curated Meghalaya tour packages bundle transport, a local guide and the best waterfalls, waterfalls, living root bridges and viewpoints into a single trip — booking direct saves up to 30% versus marketplace prices.

Which is the tallest waterfall in Meghalaya?

Nohkalikai Falls near Cherrapunji is the tallest in Meghalaya and the tallest plunge waterfall in India, dropping around 340 metres into a turquoise plunge pool.

Which Meghalaya waterfalls can you swim in?

Krang Suri Falls in the Jaintia Hills is the most popular swimming spot, with clear blue water and a managed entry. Wei Sawdong's lower pools are also swimmable in the dry season — always check local conditions first.