10 things to do in Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

Cherrapunji, located in the northeastern state of India—Meghalaya, was once famed as the wettest place on earth. That said, it’s not just the rains that attract tourists to this awesome location. Let us go through some of the selected things to do in Cherrapunji so that you have your own checklist as you plan your travel to this exotic destination in North East India.

Mawkdok for valley views

This is a scenic viewpoint located at the starting of Sohra tourist circuit. Tourists take a stop at this wonderful location to marvel at the beauty that lies ahead of them. This is the place where you catch the first glimpse of the magnificence of Cherrapunji. Some adventure activities like zip lines are also in store for those who are not satisfied with mundane things.

Visit Umiam Lake for splendid views

Umiam Lake, the beautiful man-made lake, is one of the best places to visit in Shillong city. Crystal clear waters surrounded by abundant greenery is stunningly beautiful. For water lovers, there are activities galore, like kayaking, boating and water cycling.

Eco Park for unspoilt nature

A trip to the government maintained Eco-Tourism Park could be one of the selected things to do in Cherrapunji. This park has been designed in the most eco-friendly manner, keeping nature intact. Walk along the bridge to enjoy panoramic views of green canyons and waterfalls. There is also an array of exotic orchids to feast your eyes on.

Mawsmai falls for breathtaking beauty

Another prominent one among the Cherrapunji waterfalls, Mawsmai Falls is an unforgettable sight. Fragmented into seven segments by beautiful limestone cliffs, the waterfall also goes by the name, Seven Sisters Falls. The water taking on dazzling hues as the sun rays play with it, too magical for words! One of the best places to visit in Cherrapunji, make sure to include this in your list.

A sneak peek from the Shillong peak

Shillong Peak, the highest peak in Meghalaya, is one of the finest places to visit. Just a stone’s throw from the city, this is the place to be to get a magnificent panoramic view of the entire city. A trek to the top is highly recommended for travellers with an eye for photography. Through thick fog might block your views at times, the trip is really worth a shot. Capture the beauty of Shillong or ‘the abode of clouds’.

Nohkalikai, the tall fall

A trip to Nohkalikai waterfall is not to be missed when you are in Cherrapunji. The tallest plunge waterfall in India, falling from a height of 340 meters is the best among the Cherrapunji waterfalls. It is a brilliant sight to watch the waters racing down from the tall Khasi hills to the blue lagoons beneath.

Trip to one of the cleanest villages on Earth

Mawlynnong near Shillong is a rustic charm noted for its cleanliness. One of the selected things to do in Cherrapunji is to pay a visit to this village which has bagged the title of being the cleanest village in Asia. The cobbled roads and alleys with gardens on both sides are spotlessly clean. Villagers have themselves shouldered the responsibility of keeping the place as can be seen from bamboo baskets placed in every corner. Something to learn from the rural folks. Spend a day in a pretty house with a thatched roof, you will cherish it.

Think of cave exploration

Caves are an important part of Cherrapunji’s landscape. A visit to some of them has to be there on your itinerary.

Mawsmai caves:

One of the best places to visit in Cherrapunji, this cave looks like a setting for a horror movie. Though well-lit and roomy, a walk in the ankle-deep waters is spooky, yet spellbinding!

Arwah caves:

This one is for adventure-crazy tourists. A descent to the caves is like stepping into a dark world. With just torch lights to guide you, watch out for the amazing stalagmites and fossils preserved on the walls!

Walk on a living bridge

One of the selected things to do in Cherrapunji is something unique, a walk on the living root bridge. This bridge is located over Umshiang River and is made up of tangled roots of the Indian rubber tree. A fine example of how natural elements can be used without destroying their beauty. Walk fearlessly over the bridge, the sturdy roots can hold enough weight.

Get soaked to the skin

Obvious enough, every traveller trotting to the land of rains will have this as the top priority. This is one place where you can enjoy the rains almost throughout the year. Though incessant rains can play spoilsport at times, it is simply amazing to visit the place where every day brings you fresh raindrops. So you can almost say, there is no such thing as ‘best season to visit Cherrapunji’, that’s if you love rains.