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Cherrapunji (Meghalaya)

• Known for being one of the wettest places on Earth, with living root bridges and waterfalls.

Cherrapunji Travel Guide – The Land of Living Root Bridges & Waterfalls

Cherrapunji (Sohra), located in Meghalaya, is one of the wettest places on Earth, known for its breathtaking waterfalls, lush green valleys, caves, and the unique living root bridges. Nestled in the Khasi Hills, this serene hill station offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and culture.

 Top Tourist Attractions in Cherrapunji

 Majestic Waterfalls

1. Nohkalikai Falls  (Tallest Plunge Waterfall in India – 340m)
   • Offers stunning panoramic views of the mist-covered valley.
   • Best time to visit: Post-monsoon (October – March) for clear views.
2. Seven Sisters Falls (Nohsngithiang Falls)
   • A seven-segmented waterfall, best viewed after the monsoon.
   • Best time to visit: July – September.
3. Dainthlen Falls
   • A wide waterfall surrounded by cliffs, named after a legendary Khasi dragon.
4. Wei Sawdong Falls (Hidden Gem!)
   • A three-tiered waterfall with emerald-green water pools.
   • Trek required: 15-20 minutes downhill.

 Unique Living Root Bridges & Nature Trails

1. Double Decker Living Root Bridge (Nongriat Village – 3,000 Steps Trek)
   • A UNESCO-listed natural wonder, built by Khasi tribes over centuries.
   • Trek Duration: 3-4 hours (one way) from Tyrna village.
   • Best time to visit: Winter & spring (October – April).
2. Mawsmai Cave (Limestone Cave with Stunning Formations)
   • Features stalactites, stalagmites & narrow passages.
   • Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
3. Arwah Cave (Less Crowded & Scenic Limestone Cave)
   • A serene cave with ancient fossils & rock formations.
   • Requires a short jungle trek.

 Scenic Valleys & Viewpoints

1. Eco Park
   • Offers a breathtaking view of the Sylhet plains of Bangladesh.
   • Best for photography & relaxation.
2. Mawkdok Dympep Valley Viewpoint
   • A stunning viewpoint on the way to Cherrapunji, perfect for a zip-lining adventure.
3. Thangkharang Park

• A cliffside park with views of Bangladesh plains & Kynrem Falls.

 Unique Cultural & Historical Attractions

1. Nohkalikai Viewpoint & Khasi Monoliths

• Offers a historical insight into Khasi tribal culture & legends.

1. Dawki (Umngot River) (80 km from Cherrapunji – Crystal Clear Water)

• A stunning river where boats appear to float on glass.
• Best time: November – March (winter).

 How to Reach Cherrapunji

By Air (Nearest Airport – Shillong Airport (SHL))

• Distance: 70 km from Cherrapunji.
• Flights available from: Kolkata, Delhi, Bangalore (limited).
• Alternative Airport: Guwahati Airport (GAU) – 170 km from Cherrapunji.
• From Airport to Cherrapunji:
  • Taxi from Shillong Airport: ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 (2-hour drive).
  • Taxi from Guwahati Airport: ₹4,500 – ₹6,000 (4-hour drive).

 By Train (Nearest Railway Station – Guwahati Railway Station (GHY))

• Distance: 150 km from Cherrapunji.
• Major Trains:
  • Saraighat Express (Delhi – Guwahati) – 27h.
  • Kamakhya Express (Kolkata – Guwahati) – 18h.
• From Guwahati Station:
  • Take a taxi (₹5,000) or a shared cab to Shillong, then another taxi to Cherrapunji.

 By Road (Bus, Car, Taxi)

• From Shillong: 55 km (2-hour drive).
• From Guwahati: 150 km (4-hour drive).
• From Dawki: 80 km (2.5-hour drive).
• Bus Services: Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) operates buses from Shillong.

 Best Time to Visit Cherrapunji

Special Events & Festivals:

• Behdienkhlam Festival (July) – A major Khasi tribal festival.
• Nongkrem Dance Festival (November) – Traditional Khasi dance & rituals.

 Entry Fees & Timings (Major Attractions)

 Must-Try Foods in Cherrapunji

✔ Jadoh – Khasi-style biryani with pork or chicken.
✔ Dohneiiong – Pork cooked with black sesame seeds.
✔ Tungrymbai – Fermented soybeans with local spices.
✔ Pumaloi – Traditional Khasi rice cake.
✔ Kyat – Local rice beer.

Best Places to Eat:

• Orange Roots Restaurant – Best for vegetarian & Khasi meals.
• Halari Restaurant – Great for local & North Indian dishes.
• Café Cherrapunji – Cozy café with international cuisine.
• 5-Star Jadoh Stall (Shillong Road) – Best place to try Jadoh.

 Best Shopping Places in Cherrapunji

✔ Sohra Market – Local handicrafts, honey, bamboo products.
✔ Khasi Handloom Emporium – Traditional Khasi shawls & clothing.
✔ Police Bazaar (Shillong) – Best for shopping souvenirs, jewelry, and tribal artifacts.

 Travel Tips & Guidelines

✔ Carry Rain Gear – It rains frequently, even in winter.
✔ Wear Trekking Shoes – Many attractions require hiking.
✔ Start Early for Double Decker Bridge – The trek takes 5-6 hours round trip.
✔ Cash is Preferred – Limited ATMs in remote areas.
✔ Respect Local Culture – Khasi people are warm & welcoming, so interact politely.

Cherrapunji is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts. Whether you're trekking to a living root bridge, standing at the edge of Nohkalikai Falls, or sipping a cup of tea with stunning valley views, this misty land of clouds offers an unforgettable experience!

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