Mystical Cherrapunji: A Tale Of Cloud And Rain

Sometimes, the almighty is generous. He/she bestows in abundance, and Sohra has been graced with everything mystically beautiful. From a verdant tapestry to majestic waterfalls to mystical caves, the exquisite beauty of Cherrapunji, every minute detail and every aspect is a breathtaking creation by the divine. Whether you are a traveller or a tourist, Cherrapunji’s beauty will turn you into an art connoisseur who is living inside a masterpiece.

A proposed district in the East Khasi Hills district in the Indian state of Meghalaya, Cherrapunji or Sohra, is the traditional capital of the Khasi tribal kingdom. Cherrapunji is truly abundant in terms of natural wonders. If you are in Cherrapunji and wondering what would be the best thing to do in Cherrapunji, it would be to unwind and enjoy nature. However, if you are looking for things to do in Cherrapunji to make your trip worthwhile, we can help.

Best Things To Do in Cherrapunji

There are many things to see in Cherrapunji or offbeat things to do in Cherrapunji. Here is a comprehensive list of things to explore in Cherrapunji: -

• Explore the Living Root Bridges
• Visit the Majestic Waterfalls
• Experience the Caves
• Trekking and Nature Walks
• Discover Local Culture and Cuisine

Explore the Living Root Bridges

One of the first things to do in Cherrapunji is to visit the living root bridges here. The living root bridges are your probably only opportunity to marvel at nature's remarkable architectural and bioengineering feats. These root bridges are living proofs of nature’s capability to form strong and stable structures. It is mind-blowing how these trees, on either side of a river, find each other to create such majestic root bridges. The Khasi and Jaintia tribes play a crucial role in this process, beginning with the careful selection and planting of young rubber fig trees on either side of a river. They then use hollowed bamboo trunks as channels to guide the roots towards each other. Over time, these roots grow and intertwine, gradually forming a mesh-like structure. This intricate weaving and continuous nurturing by the tribes resulted in the creation of strong and stable root bridges, a process that took several years to complete. So, exploring the living root bridges would be an enriching thing to do in Cherrapunji.

You Can Visit:

1. Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge in Nongriat village.
2. Ritymmen Root Bridge in Nongthymmai village.
3. Mawlynnong Root Bridge in Mawlynnong.
4. Umkar Root Bridge is in Siej, a village near Mawkyrnot.
5. Laitkynsew Root Bridge in the village of Laitkynsew

Best Time To Go

• The dry season, from October to May, is the best time to visit, as the trails are more accessible to navigate.

Tips For Visiting

• Hire a local guide
• Most of the bridges are accessible through hiking, so wear comfortable trekking shoes.

Visit the Majestic Waterfalls

Another thing to do in Cherrapunji is visit the waterfalls. The kind of rainfall that Cherrapunji receives bestows the waterfalls with an otherworldly majesty. Cascading from lofty heights, the water descends like millions of crystals gushing down, vanishing into the frothy basin below. With the misty air and rainbows scattered all around, the waterfalls in Cherrapunji look like a Bob Ross in the making. If you are in Cherrapunji and are visiting one of the waterfalls, expect the artistry of nature to unfold before your very eyes. In a nutshell, waterfalls are the best things to see in Cherrapunji.

You Can Visit:

1. Nohkalikai Falls, near Nohkalikai Road, is one of the tallest plunge waterfalls in India.
2. Dainthlen Falls near Dainthlen Road. Legend has it that the fall is named after a giant serpent, Thlen, who terrorised the villagers and was slain near the waterfall.
3. Seven Sisters Falls, near Nongkalikhai Road.

Tips For Visiting:

• Check the weather forecast to avoid visiting heavy rainfalls or unsafe weather conditions.
• Wear non-slippery shoes
• If you are hiking to the waterfall, do not go exploring the unknown. Stick to the trail.

Experience the Caves

This one is for the adventurous. Cherrapunji is home to many mystical caves. Creating an entire underground world, these are natural limestone caves sculpted over millennia by relentless water flows. Going cave exploring is amongst the fun activities in Cherrapunji that all visitors indulge in. You will witness the mesmerising formation of stalactites and stalagmites spread throughout the caves in intricate shapes and patterns, resembling sculptures crafted by a divine hand. And what makes them even more alluring is the Khasi folklore and legends associated with almost all caves. So, if you are interested in adventure activities in Cherrapunji, caves here can be amongst the best options for you.

You Can Visit:

• Mawsmai Cave
• Arwah Cave
• Krem Mawmluh Cave

Tips For Visiting:

• Ensure that you are physically fit for cave exploration, which may require climbing and crawling.
• Avoid if you have a fear of confined spaces.
• Get the right quality gear.
• Get a guide who knows the caves well and follow all the instructions.

Trekking and Nature Walks

Trekking and nature walks are ideal things to do in Cherrapunji because the beauty of the place can truly be explored and cherished when you are on your feet, walking and passing through the verdant green trails. Nothing can beat the slow nature walks where you can listen to the birdcalls, rustling of leaves, and flowing water of a nearby creek and experience nature at its best. When booking Cherrapunjee tour packages, ensure that your itinerary allows time for a relaxed nature walk or trek because admiring the beauty of nature cannot be rushed. Trekking is one of the adventure activities in Cherrapunji that allows you to unwind and admire nature.

You Can Visit:

• David Scott Trail
• Arwah Cave Trail
• Seven Sister Waterfall Viewpoint trail

Preparation Tips:

• Buy adequate and proper trekking and hiking equipment and gear.
• Stay hydrated.
• Pack light but essentials.
• Stick to the trail and follow signs and markers.

Discover Local Culture and Cuisine

One of the most important things to do in Cherrapunji and anywhere else is to explore the local culture and cuisine. You cannot expect to understand a place's culture and social customs without trying its traditional dishes and staple foods. Trekking, hiking, and clicking pictures with waterfalls are classic tourist activities when visiting a new place. However, immersing yourself in the local cuisine, savouring the unique flavours, and exploring the dietary traditions truly connect you to the culture and customs of the region. Meghalaya cuisine primarily uses a wide variety of meat, such as pork, fish, wild boar, etc. Secondarily, you may discover bamboo shoots, rice, etc., as staple inclusions.

You must try

• Jadoh: Jadoh is a savoury dish from Khasi cuisine made with rice and meat.
• Tungtap: Tungtap is a spicy chutney made from fermented fish mixed with onions and chilli peppers. It's eaten with rice and adds a tangy, pungent flavour to dishes.
• Dohneiiong: A classic Khasi pork curry is made with black sesame seeds, onions, ginger, garlic, and local spices.
• Pukhlein: Pukhlein is a popular sweet snack made from rice flour and jaggery (or sugar) and deep-fried until crispy and golden brown. It's often enjoyed during festivals or special occasions.

Where to Try

• Cafe Cherrapunjee in East Khasi Hills, Shillong Sohra Rd. Visit the official website for tariff information.
• Halari Restaurant at Saitsohpen Junction is ideal for dinner. Having their Jadoh can be one of the best things to do in Cherrapunji at night.

Cherrapunji is profoundly beautiful, boasting stunning caves, living root bridges, and magnificent waterfalls, all crafted over countless years. Its heritage is a testament to nature's enduring artistry. To truly savour the place, start by booking a stay in one of its charming homestays in Cherrapunji, immersing yourself in the local way of life. Engage a knowledgeable local guide to unveil the finest gems of Cherrapunji's natural wonders. Embrace the essence of Cherrapunji—its breathtaking landscapes, rich traditions, and vibrant customs. Let these experiences become cherished souvenirs, forever ingrained in your heart.