bigtravelbuzzCherrapunji, also known as Sohra, is a town located in the Indian state of Meghalaya. It is famous for being one of the wettest places on Earth and offers a scenic view of hills, waterfalls, and valleys. Here are some things to know before visiting Cherrapunji:
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Cherrapunji is from September to May when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is less.
Places to visit: Cherrapunji has several tourist attractions such as the Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, Mawsmai Cave, and Eco Park. The Double Decker Living Root Bridge is a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts.
How to reach: The nearest airport to Cherrapunji is located in Guwahati, Assam, and the nearest railway station is located in Shillong, Meghalaya. One can hire a taxi or take a bus from Shillong to reach Cherrapunji.
Accommodation: Cherrapunji has several hotels, guesthouses, and homestays that offer comfortable accommodation options for travelers. One can choose from budget to luxury options.
Travel tips: It is advisable to carry warm clothes and rain gear as the weather can be unpredictable. It is also recommended to hire a local guide to explore the hidden gems of the town. Additionally, one should respect the local culture and traditions while traveling in Cherrapunji.
Places to Visit in Cherrapunji
Some of the must-visit places in Cherrapunji are:
Nohkalikai Falls – One of the tallest waterfalls in India, it is a popular tourist attraction known for its stunning view.
Mawsmai Cave – It is a natural limestone cave system located close to Cherrapunji and offers an exciting caving experience.
Double Decker Living Root Bridge – It is a unique bridge made of intertwined roots of trees and is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Cherrapunji.
Seven Sisters Falls – Also known as Nohsngithiang Falls, it is a group of seven waterfalls cascading down from a height of over 1,000 feet.
Eco Park – A popular picnic spot, Eco Park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, hills and waterfalls.
Thangkharang Park – This park is located on a cliff and offers a panoramic view of the Bangladesh plains and the Kynrem Falls.
Khasi Monoliths – These are ancient standing stones and are considered sacred by the local Khasi tribes. They are an important archaeological site in Cherrapunji.
Best Time To Visit Cherrapunji
The best time to visit Cherrapunji is between October and May when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is less.
Things to Do in Cherrapunji
Here are some things to do in Cherrapunji:
Visit the living root bridges: These are bridges made out of the roots of rubber trees that have grown across streams over centuries.
Explore Mawsmai Cave: These limestone caves are full of impressive stalagmites and stalactites formations.
Trek to Double Decker Living Root Bridge: A challenging trek that takes you through dense forests to a stunning double-decker root bridge.
Soak in the beauty of Nohkalikai Falls: This is one of the tallest waterfalls in India and a must-visit spot in Cherrapunji.
Visit the Khasi Heritage Village: Get a glimpse of the lifestyle and culture of the Khasi tribe, one of the indigenous communities in Meghalaya.
Try local cuisine: Taste the traditional Khasi cuisine, which includes dishes like Jadoh (rice cooked with meat), Tung-rymbai (fermented soybeans), and Doh-neiiong (pork cooked with black sesame seeds).
Enjoy the panoramic views: Take in the stunning views of the valleys and hills from various viewpoints like the Eco Park, Duwan Sing Syiem Bridge, and Laitlum Canyons.
How to get around in Cherrapunji
The best way to get around in Cherrapunji is by hiring a taxi or a private car. There are also shared taxis and buses available, but they may not be as convenient or comfortable. Walking is also a good option for exploring the town and its surroundings, as there are many scenic trails and viewpoints. However, be prepared for steep climbs and unpredictable weather.
Where to eat in Cherrapunji
As a popular tourist destination, Cherrapunji has several eateries that serve both local and international cuisines. Some of the popular places to eat in Cherrapunji are:
Orange Roots
Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort Restaurant
3 Little Pigs
Laimer Restaurant
Cafe Cherrapunjee
These eateries offer a range of food options including local Khasi cuisine, North Indian dishes, and international cuisine like Italian, Chinese, and continental.
Famous street stalls in Cherrapunji
As Cherrapunji is a small town, it does not have many street food options. However, visitors can try local snacks like Jadoh, Tungrymbai, and Dohneiiong at small eateries or restaurants. These dishes are a must-try for those who want to taste the local flavors of Meghalaya.
Where to stay in Cherrapunji
Luxury accommodation
Some of the luxury accommodation options in Cherrapunji are:
Polo Orchid Resort – This luxurious resort offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The rooms are well-equipped with modern amenities and there is a restaurant serving a range of cuisine.
Cherrapunji Resort – This eco-friendly resort is surrounded by lush greenery and offers comfortable accommodation. The resort has a restaurant serving local and international cuisine and a bar offering a variety of drinks.
Kutmadan Resort – This beautiful resort is located in the heart of Cherrapunji and offers stunning views of the mountains. The rooms are spacious and well-furnished and there is a restaurant serving delicious food.
La Kupar Inn – This boutique hotel is set in a picturesque location and offers comfortable and stylish accommodation. The hotel has a restaurant serving local and international cuisine and a bar offering a variety of drinks.
The Coniferous Resort – This luxurious resort is set amidst beautiful gardens and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. The rooms are well-appointed and there is a restaurant serving a range of cuisine.
Where to stay in Cherrapunji
Budget accommodation
There are several budget accommodation options in Cherrapunji, including guesthouses, homestays, and hostels. Here are some recommendations:
Kutmadan Resort: This budget-friendly resort offers comfortable rooms with beautiful mountain views. It also features a restaurant, bar, and outdoor seating area.
Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort: Located near several tourist attractions, this budget resort offers cozy rooms with modern amenities. It also has a restaurant and a garden.
Coniferous Resort: This budget-friendly resort offers comfortable rooms and a garden. It is located near several tourist attractions.
Serenity Resort: This budget resort is located in a peaceful area and offers basic amenities. It is a good option for travelers on a tight budget.
By the Way Cherrapunjee: This hostel offers dormitory and private rooms at an affordable price. It is located in the heart of Cherrapunji and is a good option for backpackers.
Travel Tips Cherrapunji
Here are some travel tips for visiting Cherrapunji:
Check the weather forecast before visiting as the area receives heavy rainfall throughout the year, especially during the monsoon season (June-September).
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for the weather, as most of the attractions involve walking and trekking.
Carry rain gear, umbrellas, and waterproof bags to protect your belongings from the rain.
It’s always better to hire a local guide to explore the area and get the best experience.
Try the local cuisine and tea, which are famous for their unique taste.
Respect the local culture and customs while visiting the villages and interacting with the locals.
Carry sufficient cash as ATMs are limited in the area.
Ensure that you carry all necessary permits and documents required for trekking and visiting restricted areas.