Lying so close to the wettest place on earth, the city of Shillong is no stranger to being warped in water. But there’s a method to the madness as the city is home to a number of alluring waterfalls. The plentiful hills and valleys of Shillong come to life as waterfalls race down the jungles. Here are our picks of the waterfalls in Shillong that you are sure to fall for.

1. Elephant Falls

A combination of 3 rivers, the Elephant Falls are a wonder not to be missed. Even though the rock resembling an elephant, which the falls are named after, is no more, its beauty is still something to be marvelled at. A waterfall consisting of three steps of rocks in succession, it is a treat to the eyes. A unique waterfall, located close to the mighty Shillong Peak, it is a must visit!

Location | Upper Shillong

2. Sweet Falls

Simultaneously referred to as the most beautiful and most dangerous waterfall in Shillong, the Sweet Falls have a mystic allure. One of the steepest falls in India, the Sweet Falls offer a view like no other. An uninterrupted, long stream of water gushes down the steep slopes of Shillong, making for a breathtaking experience. Check out the Sweet Falls, located near the beautifully named Happy Valley, just remember to be careful!

Location | East Khasi Hills

3. Kynrem Falls

A three-tiered fall, Kynrem lies close to the Bangladesh border. The waterfall can be seen in its full glory during the monsoon season, when the water spouts down the steep slopes forming a cloud of mist for the stupefied spectators. The ideal retreat for nature lovers, Kynrem Falls form a picturesque setting for you to spend hours basking in its splendor.

Location | Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya

4. Crinoline Falls

Picture Credits: Devendra Abbigeri

A waterfall located in the heart of the city is enough reason in itself to take a jaunt to the Crinoline Falls one fine morning. The falls culminate with a large pool at the bottom surrounded by orchids. This makes for not just a wonder of nature but also gives the tourists an opportunity to take a dip in the icy cold water. Flowing near the Lady Hydari Park, the Crinoline Falls are not to be missed.

Location | East Khasi Hills District

5. Mawsmai Falls

Picture Credits: insectatorious

Locally known as the Nohsngithiang Falls, they are a unique seven-segmented waterfall. The 4th highest waterfall in the country, Mawsmai Falls are sure to imprint an indelible impression in your memory. Traversing the treachery of the Khasi Falls, the Mawsmai Falls lights up the already luxuriant environs of Meghalaya. The pride of the Northeast, the falls are also known as the Seven Sisters’ Falls.

Location | East Khasi Hills District

6. Nohkalikai Falls

The tallest plunging waterfall in India, the name of the falls has a gory story behind it. Literally translating into the jump of Ka Likai, it tells the story of a tragic quarrel between a Khasi woman and her second husband. The erstwhile chilling tale of the past is contrasted with the thrilling view in the present. A majestic waterfall, Nohkalikai shines bright amidst its verdant surroundings.

Location | East Khasi Hills

7. Rengthiam Falls

Picture Credits: Priti Singh

A pristine waterfall to feast your eyes on, Rengthiam Falls have a sense of tranquility like nowhere else. Untouched, unspoilt, unaware of earthly being, these falls seem to have an aura of their own. Located on the Shillong - Jowai highway, prepare for a substantial halt during your journey as these falls capture your eyes and enrapture your heart.

Location | Mawlyngad

8. Mawlynnong Waterfall

Picture Credits: Biswajit Bhairav

Perched in the cleanest village in Asia, the Mawlynnong Waterfall is a sight to behold. Thrusting through the lush greens of the steep hills, the mere sight of the waterfall rejuvenates the soul. The sheer volume of the waterfall creates a bellow that is music to the ears of every passerby. Spectacular is too less of a word to describe the breathtaking beauty that is the Mawlynnong Waterfall.

Location | Mawlynnong Village

9. Bishop Falls and Beadon Falls

What if a waterfall had a twin! These two separate falls, both visible in one shot from a specific vantage point, capture the natural beauty of the wonder that is Shillong. The Bishop Falls which have a continuous flow complements the Beadon Falls perfectly which seem disjointed owing to the large number of rocks. Together, they make for a photo frame for the ages!

Location | East Khasi Hills District

It is easy to fall in love with the waterfalls of Shillong but it is equally difficult to let them go. A sea of green as far as the eye can see with a crystal clear stream of water shining bright right in the middle, the hills of Shillong have a story to tell!

Shillong Explorer