4.4 / 5

Nohkalikai Falls

📍 NohKaLikai Falls, MeghalayaView map ›

🗓 Best Time To Visit:September to May

⏰ Open Hours:24 hours

🏞 Things To Do:Trekking, Photography, Nature Walks

💰 Budget:No Entry Fee

🧳 Traveller Types:Nature Lovers, Adventure Seekers, Photographers

🔍 Known For:Tallest plunge waterfall in India, Spectacular Natural Beauty

📍 Distances:58.6km from Shillong, 161.9km from Guwahati Railway Station, 166km from Guwahati Airport

👟 Trek Difficulty:Moderate

🍲 Nearby Eateries:Local stalls available with traditional Khasi cuisine

🏨 Accommodation:Homestays and Guesthouses available in Cherrapunji

🎒 Tips:Carry water bottles and wear comfortable trekking shoes

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Nohkalikai Falls: A Complete Travel Guide to India’s Highest Waterfall

Are you looking for a destination that will take your breath away with its natural beauty and cultural diversity? If yes, then you should definitely visit Nohkalikai Falls, one of the most incredible attractions in Meghalaya and India. Nohkalikai Falls is the tallest plunge waterfall in India and among the highest waterfalls in the world, with a drop of about 340 m. It is located in Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on Earth, in the state of Meghalaya.

Nohkalikai Falls is a spectacular sight to behold, as it plunges from a red-rock cliff into a clear turquoise pool surrounded by lush green forest. The pool changes colors with time and season, creating a mesmerizing contrast with the waterfall. Nohkalikai Falls also has a tragic legend behind its name, which adds to its mystery and allure. Nohkalikai means “The Jump of Likai” in Khasi language, and it refers to a local woman who jumped off the cliff after discovering that her new husband had killed and cooked her daughter.

In this article, we will provide you with a complete travel guide to Nohkalikai Falls and its surroundings. We will tell you how to reach Nohkalikai Falls from different parts of India by air, rail, and road. We will also tell you the best time to visit Nohkalikai Falls and the weather conditions to expect. We will also tell you the things to do at Nohkalikai Falls, such as trekking, camping, sightseeing, photography, and swimming. We will also suggest some places to visit near Nohkalikai Falls, such as Cherrapunji, Living Root Bridges, Mawsmai Cave, Seven Sisters Falls, Mawlynnong Village, Dawki River, and Shillong.

We will also recommend some places to stay near Nohkalikai Falls, such as hotels and resorts that offer comfortable accommodation and scenic views of the waterfall and the valley. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to plan your trip to Nohkalikai Falls and Meghalaya and experience their natural beauty and cultural diversity.

How to Reach Nohkalikai Falls

Nohkalikai Falls is located in Cherrapunji, about 7.5 km from the town center, in Meghalaya. You can reach Nohkalikai Falls from different parts of India by air, rail, or road.

By Air

The nearest airport to Nohkalikai Falls is Shillong Airport, which is about 80 km away. There are flights from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Guwahati to Shillong Airport. You can book your flight tickets online through various platforms and websites.

From Shillong Airport, you can take a cab or a bus to Cherrapunji. The cab fare is around Rs. 2000-3000 and the bus fare is around Rs. 100-200. The journey from Shillong Airport to Cherrapunji takes about 2-3 hours.

By Rail

The nearest railhead to Nohkalikai Falls is Guwahati Railway Station, which is about 150 km away. There are trains from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore to Guwahati Railway Station.

From Guwahati Railway Station, you can take a cab or a bus to Cherrapunji. The cab fare is around Rs. 3000-4000 and the bus fare is around Rs. 200-300. The journey from Guwahati Railway Station to Cherrapunji takes about 4-5 hours.

By Road

Nohkalikai Falls is well connected by road to Shillong and other parts of Meghalaya. You can drive your own vehicle or rent a car or a bike to reach Nohkalikai Falls from Shillong or other nearby towns.

You can also take a cab or a bus from Shillong or other nearby towns to Cherrapunji. The cab fare is around Rs. 1500-2000 and the bus fare is around Rs. 100-200. The journey from Shillong to Cherrapunji takes about 1-2 hours.

Best Time to Visit Nohkalikai Falls

The best time to visit Nohkalikai Falls is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant and the waterfall is at its full glory. During this time, you can enjoy the clear views of the waterfall and the valley, and also indulge in various activities like trekking, camping, sightseeing, photography, and swimming.

You can also witness the changing colors of the pool and the waterfall, as they reflect the sunlight and the seasons.

Photo of Nohkalikai Falls 1/4 by

You should avoid visiting Nohkalikai Falls during monsoon season (June to September), as the rainfall is heavy and the visibility is low. During this time, you may not be able to see the waterfall clearly, and also face difficulties in reaching the waterfall and doing various activities. You may also face landslides and roadblocks on the way to Nohkalikai Falls.

Weather at Nohkalikai Falls

Nohkalikai Falls has a subtropical highland climate with heavy rainfall throughout the year, especially during monsoon season. The average annual rainfall at Nohkalikai Falls is about 12000 mm, making it one of the wettest places on Earth.

The temperature at Nohkalikai Falls ranges from 12°C to 30°C throughout the year, making it a pleasant destination for travelers. The humidity at Nohkalikai Falls is high, ranging from 70% to 90%. The wind speed at Nohkalikai Falls is moderate, ranging from 5 km/h to 15 km/h.

Things to do at Nohkalikai Falls

Nohkalikai Falls is not just a waterfall, but a destination that offers a variety of activities for travelers to enjoy. Here are some of the things you can do at Nohkalikai Falls:

Photo of Nohkalikai Falls 2/4 by
(c) Meghalaya Tourism

Trekking

Trekking is one of the best ways to explore Nohkalikai Falls and its surroundings. There are several trekking trails near the waterfall that offer stunning views of the valley and the forest. Some of the popular trekking trails are:

Nongriat Trek: This is a challenging but rewarding trek that takes you to the famous Double Decker Living Root Bridge, a natural bridge made by intertwining tree roots over centuries. The trek starts from Tyrna Village, about 20 km from Cherrapunji, and takes about 3-4 hours one way.

The trek involves descending and ascending about 3500 steps through steep slopes and narrow paths. The trek also passes through several small waterfalls and streams, where you can refresh yourself. The Double Decker Living Root Bridge is a marvel of nature and culture, as it showcases the ingenuity and harmony of the local people with their environment. You can also cross the bridge and explore the nearby villages and forests.

Nohsngithiang Trek: This is a moderate but scenic trek that takes you to another spectacular waterfall in Cherrapunji, called Nohsngithiang Falls or Seven Sisters Falls. The trek starts from Eco Park, about 5 km from Cherrapunji, and takes about 2-3 hours one way. The trek involves walking through grasslands and forests, where you can spot various birds and animals. The Nohsngithiang Falls is a cascade waterfall with seven segments falling from a height of about 315 m. The waterfall is best seen during monsoon season when it is at its full flow.

Mawmluh Trek: This is an easy but adventurous trek that takes you to one of the most popular and accessible caves in Cherrapunji, called Mawsmai Cave. The trek starts from Mawmluh Village, about 6 km from Cherrapunji, and takes about 1-2 hours one way. The trek involves walking through fields and hills, where you can enjoy the views of the countryside. The Mawsmai Cave is a limestone cave with stalactites and stalagmites formations. The cave has a length of about 150 m and a height of about 10 m. The cave has an entrance and an exit point, where you can enter and exit with ease.

Camping

Camping is another option for travelers who want to spend more time at Nohkalikai Falls and enjoy its beauty and tranquility. There are several camping sites near the waterfall that offer basic facilities and amenities for travelers to stay overnight or longer. Some of the popular camping sites are:

Eco Park: This is a well-maintained park near Nohkalikai Falls that offers camping facilities for travelers. The park has tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, toilets, showers, electricity, water, and security for campers. The park also has a restaurant, a souvenir shop, a playground, and a viewpoint for visitors. The park charges Rs. 500 per person per night for camping.

Halari Viewpoint: This is a secluded viewpoint near Nohkalikai Falls that offers camping facilities for travelers who want more privacy and peace. The viewpoint has tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, toilets, showers, electricity, water, and security for campers. The viewpoint also has a restaurant, a souvenir shop, a playground, and a viewpoint for visitors. The viewpoint charges Rs. 1000 per person per night for camping.

Tyrna Village: This is a quaint village near Nohkalikai Falls that offers camping facilities for travelers who want to experience the local culture and lifestyle. The village has homestays, cottages, huts, and camps for travelers to stay with the local families or on their own. The village also has toilets, showers, electricity, water, and security for campers. The village also has a market, a school, a church, and a community hall for visitors. The village charges Rs. 500-1000 per person per night for camping.

Sightseeing

Sightseeing is a must for travelers who want to witness the splendor of Nohkalikai Falls and its surroundings. There are several viewpoints near the waterfall that offer panoramic views of the waterfall and the valley. Some of the popular viewpoints are:

Nohkalikai Viewpoint: This is the main viewpoint near Nohkalikai Falls that offers the best views of the waterfall and the pool. The viewpoint is located about 1 km from the waterfall and can be reached by car or by foot. The viewpoint has a parking area, a ticket counter, a souvenir shop, and a restaurant for visitors. The viewpoint charges Rs. 10 per person for entry.

Thangkharang Park: This is another viewpoint near Nohkalikai Falls that offers stunning views of the waterfall and the valley. The park is located about 12 km from the waterfall and can be reached by car or by bus. The park has a garden, a playground, a watchtower, and a viewpoint for visitors. The park charges Rs. 20 per person for entry.

Khoh Ramhah: This is a unique viewpoint near Nohkalikai Falls that offers amazing views of the waterfall and the valley. Khoh Ramhah is a giant rock formation that resembles a basket or a cone. It is located about 15 km from the waterfall and can be reached by car or by bus. The rock formation has a parking area, a ticket counter, a souvenir shop, and a restaurant for visitors. The rock formation charges Rs. 10 per person for entry.

Photography

Photography is a great way to capture the memories of Nohkalikai Falls and its surroundings. Nohkalikai Falls is a photographer’s paradise as it offers various angles and perspectives to click amazing pictures of the waterfall and the valley. Some of the best times to take photos are sunrise, sunset, and cloudy days.

Sunrise: Sunrise is one of the best times to take photos of Nohkalikai Falls as it creates a magical effect on the waterfall and the pool. The sun rays illuminate the waterfall and the pool with golden hues and create a contrast with the dark cliffs and the green forest. The sunrise also creates a rainbow effect on the waterfall and the pool, adding more colors to the scene.

Sunset: Sunset is another best time to take photos of Nohkalikai Falls as it creates a dramatic effect on the waterfall and the pool. The sun rays cast shadows on the waterfall and the pool with orange hues and create a contrast with the blue sky and the green forest. The sunset also creates a silhouette effect on the waterfall and the pool, adding more depth to the scene.

Cloudy days: Cloudy days are also good times to take photos of Nohkalikai Falls as they create a mysterious effect on the waterfall and the pool. The clouds cover the sky and create a diffused light on the waterfall and the pool with gray hues and create a contrast with the red cliffs and the green forest. The clouds also create a misty effect on the waterfall and the pool, adding more texture to the scene.

Swimming

Swimming is a possible activity for travelers who want to experience the thrill of Nohkalikai Falls and its pool. However, swimming in the pool is not recommended as it is deep, cold, and dangerous. There have been cases of drowning and accidents in the pool, as the water is turbulent and unpredictable. Swimming in the pool is also prohibited by the local authorities and disrespectful to the local culture and legend. Therefore, travelers should avoid swimming in the pool and enjoy the waterfall from a safe distance.

Places to Visit Near Nohkalikai Falls

Nohkalikai Falls is not the only attraction in Meghalaya and Cherrapunji. There are many other places to visit near Nohkalikai Falls that showcase the natural beauty and cultural diversity of Meghalaya and North East India. Here are some of the places you can visit near Nohkalikai Falls:

Photo of Nohkalikai Falls 3/4 by

Cherrapunji

Cherrapunji is the town where Nohkalikai Falls is located and one of the wettest places on Earth. Cherrapunji has many other attractions that you can explore, such as waterfalls, caves, valleys, canyons, and viewpoints. Some of the popular attractions in Cherrapunji are:

Living Root Bridges: These are natural bridges made by intertwining tree roots over centuries. They are unique and fascinating examples of bioengineering and symbiosis between humans and nature. Some of the famous Living Root Bridges are Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Umshiang Living Root Bridge, and Ritymmen Living Root Bridge.

Mawsmai Cave: This is one of the most popular and accessible caves in Cherrapunji. It is a limestone cave with stalactites and stalagmites formations. The cave has a length of about 150 m and a height of about 10 m. The cave has an entrance and an exit point, where you can enter and exit with ease.

Seven Sisters Falls: This is another spectacular waterfall in Cherrapunji. It is a cascade waterfall with seven segments falling from a height of about 315 m. The waterfall is best seen during monsoon season when it is at its full flow.

Thangkharang Park: This is a well-maintained park near Nohkalikai Falls that offers stunning views of the waterfall and the valley. The park has a garden, a playground, a watchtower, and a viewpoint for visitors. The park charges Rs. 20 per person for entry.

Khoh Ramhah: This is a unique rock formation near Nohkalikai Falls that resembles a basket or a cone. It offers amazing views of the waterfall and the valley. The rock formation has a parking area, a ticket counter, a souvenir shop, and a restaurant for visitors. The rock formation charges Rs. 10 per person for entry.

You may also like to check out: Meghalaya Waterfall Hopping: A 3 Day Guide To The Most Stunning Cascades In The Abode Of Clouds

Mawlynnong Village

Mawlynnong Village is one of the most beautiful and cleanest villages in Meghalaya and India. It is located about 90 km from Cherrapunji and can be reached by car or by bus. Mawlynnong Village is known for its eco-friendly practices, community-based tourism, and living root bridges. Some of the attractions in Mawlynnong Village are:

Skywalk: This is a bamboo structure that offers a bird’s eye view of the village and the forest. It is located near the entrance of the village and can be accessed by paying Rs. 10 per person.

Living Root Bridge: This is another living root bridge in Mawlynnong Village that connects two hills across a stream. It is located about 2 km from the village center and can be reached by walking through a forest trail.

Balancing Rock: This is a natural phenomenon where a large boulder balances on a smaller one without any support. It is located about 3 km from the village center and can be reached by car or by foot.

Mawlynnong Waterfall: This is a small but beautiful waterfall near Mawlynnong Village that flows into a clear pool. It is located about 4 km from the village center and can be reached by car or by foot.

Dawki River

Dawki River is one of the most scenic and serene rivers in Meghalaya and India. It is located about 100 km from Cherrapunji and can be reached by car or by bus. Dawki River is famous for its crystal clear water, boating activities, and suspension bridge. Some of the attractions at Dawki River are:

Boating: This is one of the most popular activities at Dawki River as it allows you to enjoy the clear water and the green hills along the river. You can rent a boat or a kayak from various operators near the river bank and paddle along the river for about an hour or more. The boat or kayak rental charges are around Rs. 500-1000 per boat or kayak.

Suspension Bridge: This is a historic bridge that spans across the Dawki River and connects India and Bangladesh. It was built by the British in 1932 and is still in use today. It offers a great view of the river and the border. You can walk or drive across the bridge and see the flags and the customs of both countries.

Umngot River: This is a tributary of Dawki River that flows through a village called Shnongpdeng. It is also known for its clear water and boating activities. You can also enjoy other activities like fishing, camping, and zip-lining at Umngot River.

Shillong

Shillong is the capital city of Meghalaya and the nearest major city to Nohkalikai Falls. It is located about 53 km from Cherrapunji and can be reached by car or by bus. Shillong is a popular hill station with a pleasant climate and scenic views. It has many places to visit that cater to different interests and tastes. Some of the popular places to visit in Shillong are:

Umiam Lake: This is a large and beautiful lake that was created by damming the Umiam River in 1965. It is located about 15 km from Shillong and can be reached by car or by bus. Umiam Lake offers various activities like boating, kayaking, water skiing, and fishing. It also has a park, a garden, and a resort for visitors.

Elephant Falls: This is a three-tiered waterfall that is located about 12 km from Shillong and can be reached by car or by bus. Elephant Falls is named after an elephant-shaped rock that was destroyed by an earthquake in 1897. The waterfall offers a refreshing sight and sound for visitors.

Shillong Peak: This is the highest point in Shillong and offers a panoramic view of the city and the plains. It is located about 10 km from Shillong and can be reached by car or by bus. Shillong Peak also has a radar station, a temple, and a viewpoint for visitors.

Don Bosco Museum: This is a museum that showcases the culture, history, and lifestyle of the indigenous people of North East India. It is located in the heart of Shillong and can be reached by car or by bus. Don Bosco Museum has seven floors with different galleries, exhibits, artifacts, and models that depict the diversity and richness of North East India.

Ward’s Lake: This is an artificial lake that was built by Sir William Ward in 1894. It is located in the center of Shillong and can be reached by car or by foot. Ward’s Lake offers various activities like boating, walking, feeding fish, and relaxing. It also has a garden, a cafeteria, and a fountain for visitors.

Lady Hydari Park: This is a well-maintained park that was named after the wife of the first governor of Assam, Sir Akbar Hydari. It is located in the center of Shillong and can be reached by car or by foot. Lady Hydari Park has a garden, a zoo, a playground, and a museum for visitors.

Police Bazar: This is the main market and shopping area in Shillong. It is located in the center of Shillong and can be reached by car or by foot. Police Bazar has various shops, stalls, restaurants, cafes, hotels, and cinemas for visitors. You can find anything from clothes, accessories, handicrafts, souvenirs, books, electronics, to food, drinks, entertainment, and accommodation at Police Bazar.

Places to Stay Near Nohkalikai Falls

If you want to stay near Nohkalikai Falls and enjoy its beauty and charm for longer, you have many options to choose from. There are several hotels and resorts near Nohkalikai Falls that offer comfortable accommodation and scenic views of the waterfall and the valley. Some of the popular hotels and resorts near Nohkalikai Falls are:

Photo of Nohkalikai Falls 4/4 by

Polo Orchid Resort: This is a luxury resort that offers cozy rooms, modern amenities, friendly service, and stunning views of Nohkalikai Falls and the valley. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a pool, and a conference hall for guests. The resort charges Rs. 6000-8000 per night for a standard room.

Saimika Resort: This is a budget resort that offers spacious cottages, basic amenities, friendly service, and stunning views of Nohkalikai Falls and the valley. The resort also has a restaurant, a garden, a playground, and a bonfire area for guests. The resort charges Rs. 3000-4000 per night for a standard cottage.

Jiva Resort: This is a mid-range resort that offers comfortable rooms, modern amenities, friendly service, and stunning views of Nohkalikai Falls and the valley. The resort also has a restaurant, a cafe, a gym, a pool, and a library for guests. The resort charges Rs. 4000-5000 per night for a standard room.

Sohra Plaza: This is a cheap hotel that offers cozy rooms, basic amenities, friendly service, and decent views of Nohkalikai Falls and the valley. The hotel also has a restaurant, a lounge, and a parking area for guests. The hotel charges Rs. 2000-3000 per night for a standard room.

Also read: To the Top of the Tallest Plunge waterfall in India-Nohkalikai Falls

Nohkalikai Falls is one of the most incredible attractions in Meghalaya and India that you should not miss. It is a spectacular waterfall that offers stunning views, thrilling activities, and fascinating legends. It is also a great base to explore other attractions in Meghalaya and Northeast India that showcase the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the region. In this article, we have provided you with a complete travel guide to Nohkalikai Falls and its surroundings.

We hope that this article has helped you to plan your trip to Nohkalikai Falls and Meghalaya and experience their natural beauty and cultural diversity. If you have any questions, feedback, or suggestions, please feel free to leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you and help you with your travel queries. Thank you for reading and happy traveling!

Nohkalikai Falls Reviews

Nohkalikai Falls: This is one of the tallest waterfalls in Northeast India. Again access to the base of this fall is followed by a beautiful trek but that's completely optional. All you can do is click a few instagrammable photos and stories and then back to the roads again. Seven sisters Fall: This is another beautiful waterfall in Meghalaya. You can again click a few instagramable pictures and then hit the roads to go straight ahead to Mawsmai cave. Mawsmai cave: There is a network of underground caves which is full of beautiful and sometimes scary stalactites and stalagmites. There is a short trail through the forest to reach the main entrance of the cave. This hike takes you through some stunning views of the valley that is full of waterfalls during monsoons. There are a few food joints where you can have lunch and proceed to Mawsynram. Mawsynram: Mawsynram receives the highest rainfall in the world. You can expect the monsoon and gloomy weather with a little drizzle here. The fog and the cloud cover the entire region and better to carry a raincoat or umbrella while traveling to this place. Eco Park: This place is at the center of Cherrapunji with a pleasant scenic attribute and weather. You can stroll in the park and click a few good photos and spend a good time here alone or the partner you're traveling with. I would suggest visiting this place at the end because after the hustle-bustle you need a place to sit peacefully. By the end of the day, you can arrive at Cherrapunji for the night's stay. By the evening you can expect chilly weather in this town so pack your clothes accordingly. Day 4 Get up early in the morning and get geared up to hit the road for Dawki. In the entire trip on this road, you gonna pass through a scenic highway and experience a truly dreamy vibe. On the way, you'll pass through Mawkdok valley and Mawlynnong village. Mawkdok valley: En route Cherrapunji-Shillong highway you'll pass through the Mawkdok Dympep Valley, which is one of the most beautiful stretches of the valley in this region. You can experience zip lining across the valley. You can spend some time here and then hit the roads for Mawlynnong Village. Mawlynnong Village: This is one of the most beautiful villages in entire North-east India. Mawlynnong village is termed as "the cleanest village in Asia' and you'll get mesmerized by the cleanliness and waste management system by the tribe. You can have your lunch here and then head straight to Dawki. Dawki: Dawki is located at the border of Bangladesh and has the cleanest water from the Umngot river. The glass-like water is the center of attraction in this place. You can do fishing and kayaking on the Dawki river and spend a very good time in this place. There are a couple of homestays you can look out for, else you can head to Shnongpdeng which is approximately 10kms away, and opt for camping. Day 5 After breakfast, get geared up and hit the road for Shillong via Krang-Suri Waterfalls, Phe Phe falls, Tyrshi falls, and Elephant Falls. The entire stretch is about 125 km which is pretty much coverable easily before the sunset. Krangsuri Waterfalls: This is one of the most Instagramable places in Meghalaya. The water of this huge waterfall plugs down to a slight turquoise-colored natural pool. There is a cave on the back of the fall which is even more popular. To get access to the pool, you need to walk down a bit from the main road. Spend some time there and after a bunch of good photos get back to the roads for Phe Phe Falls. Phe Phe Falls: It is a beautiful yet under-rated waterfall in Meghalaya. You need to walk down for almost 10 minutes to get to the foot of this huge waterfall. Trust me, it is absolutely worth the trek. After spending some time, hit the road for Tyrshi falls in the outskirts of Jowai. Tyrshi falls: It is another wonderful yet under-rated waterfall in the state of Meghalaya. You need to walk downhill to reach the fall. After clicking a few photos, hit the road to Elephant falls. Elephant Falls: It is a two-tier waterfall situated on the outskirts of Shillong city. You have to walk for 10 minutes to get into the viewpoint. It is one of the most common tourist places in Shillong.After visiting the Elephant falls, head back to Shillong city and stay there at night. You can explore the local market a bit and experience a few cafes I have already mentioned. Day 6 Get geared up for heading back to Guwahati. After breakfast, you can visit St. Mary Cathedral and Wards lake. The Guwahati-Shillong road is one of the scenic roads in India I have already mentioned before.Take lunch breaks and pee breaks as per convenience. By late afternoon you gonna arrive at Guwahati. Explore the local market a bit and take a rest. Next morning you can opt for the flight or train to your nearest location. Trust me, Meghalaya has so much to offer to a traveler. Wish you a safe trip ahead! You can rent a bike from here : https://www.royalbrothers.com/guwahati/bike-rentals car rentals : https://www.zoomcar.com/guwahati Book hotel/homestay at Cherrapunji: https://www.agoda.com https://www.airbnb.co.in/ and many more.
(Oct 11) While having breakfast, the kids jumped around laughing and enjoying their naive selves looking into the camera, making funny faces that made for some great memories. Once done, I cleared the expenses and bid goodbye to Byron and his family. Such warm stay and great hosts!. Today I committed myself to reach Nohkalikai via the 4 hour hike route (a diversion on rainbow fall route); little did I know I’d be trampling through spider infested jungle in my polyester shorts. It took some time to figure out the narrow trail wedged between two big boulders. Actually I wasted one and a half hours, missing the diversion, thinking now it will come and ended up doing the rainbow fall trek again, returned only to realize it was there at the very start (root bridge). Incessant calling and assistance from Byron, helped me spot it. Anyhow, relieved and with renewed frenzy, I started thereafter. Trying to negotiate countless spinnerets on that steep ascent, I ended up squishing one that left orange squirts and a rash. Thankfully it was nothing major. With only a liter of water and some biscuits, it became a bit tiring and somewhat after 3 hours, I felt like taking a nap. That would've had been crazy. I pushed myself, slapping, talking to myself, repeating in my head “almost there” just to keep alive. In the wake of mistakes committed I was happy to make it to the top alone, a streak of self belief instilled within. The moment I spotted a stall, I ate cucumbers, guava, chips, sodas, practically anything I could lay my eyes on. Famished stomach felt some respite. The heavenly views of Nohkalikai Falls and the cool breeze wiped away all the emotional draining and tiredness I had endured. Along the walkway, I found a perfect spot to sit and spent a good one hour, enjoying the waterfalls, and listening to some soft music. Such vantage points are so relaxing. A cup of tea later I was cheerio to walk till Sohra which was four kms away. The beautiful landscape glistened in the waning sunlight. It’s sad to see such a beautiful place littered by packets of chips all along the road; I picked up a few and tucked between my backpack and raincover. Walking some distance, a truck stopped by and a boy waved at me, to hop in the back with him. I stood, swallowing wind, with Frankie smiling at my childlike gusto. Reaching the Sohra market, when I walked to the front of the truck to thank, turns out it was the same lady from the tea shop who had recognized me by my backpack. I may have earned some good karma perhaps. From there it was another 2 kms to 'By the way hostel', a popular budget hostel now turned into a hotel by the owner Heprit. He has closed the two floor hostel for he had bad experience with some hippie travelers creating chaos just in the name of cheap accommodation. Now, he has two classy wooden furnished rooms (he plans to increase in future) with wide array of novels for the bookworm. With a quick bath, beef curry and rice, I called it a day and drifted into a deep slumber.
Nohkalikai, one of the tallest plunge waterfalls with a magnificent panorama, is located 5km away from Cherrapunjee. Falling from an altitude of 1,115 ft, it mostly procures its ale from the clouds. The pool formed from the thrust with verdant and misty clouds above makes it sumptuous. But, this alluring landscape is affixed with an appalling story. The Khasi name "Nohkalikai" translates to "Leap of Likai". That's right, Likai is the leading character of the tragic story that I am about to unfold. And the story begins... Widowed at a very young age, Likai was the mother of a beautiful baby girl who needed her mother's attention. They lived in the village of Rangjyrteh, based nearby the waterfall. Her impoverished condition compelled her to become a porter, which was the job of her deceased husband. Due to which the baby girl couldn't receive her complete attention although she used to spend all her time with her daughter once she was home. This is when other women of the village started persuading her for a re-marriage. They insisted her saying the little girl needs attention and care of a father, to which Likai agreed and got married to a man. But this new husband was found to be trivial and jealous of all the attention that his wife drizzled on her baby when she was home. And this bitterness, resulted in the horrendous deed he executed. Like regular days, Likai returns home after a long day of work and finds her husband waiting with inviting food. She was glad to see a caring side of her husband, but little did she know it was momentary. She started looking around for her baby only to find her nowhere. She presumed for her baby to be in the neighborhoods and settled for the meal her husband cooked. After the hearty meal, she sat for her routine beetle leaves and nuts when she saw a tiny finger near the basket of beetle leaves and had realized what must have happened. Her new husband, who was supposed to take care of their daughter, had chopped the poor baby into pieces and fed his wife. Terror-stricken and furious Likai, without an accusation started running until she reached the edge and jumped off the waterfall to her own death. And, this was the legendary tale of the 4th highest waterfall in the world. When you visit this breath-taking site, you'll feel the agony and pain of Likai still lingering in its air. But, this miserable event should not prevent you from the nature that flourishes at its best.
Nohkhalikai Falls is the tallest plunge waterfall located in Cherrapunji of Meghalaya. It is certainly India's tallest plunge waterfall that falls from an altitude of 1,115 ft. There is a pool ofwaterthat gets formed from the falls and it appears to be greenish in colour. Surrounded by lush green and misty clouds, the waterfall is mostly rain fed. This mystic fall that makes every vistor admire it's beauty is sadly tagged with a tragic legend. It's name 'Nokhalikai' is basically a khasi word which means "Jump of Ka Likai". In the Khasi language, 'Ka' means female gender and 'Likai' is the protagonist of the horrifying story that you are just about to read. Story of Nohkalikai Falls: Story goes like this... There was once a young mother whose name was Likai and she used to stay in the village of Rangjyrteh, which is located near this waterfall. She became a widow at an early age and so she had to take up her husband's job in order to sustain. She had a little baby who she could not give her full attention to. Other women in the village suggested her to getmarriedas they thought the baby needed a father. Unfortunately, the man she got married to turned put to be an insecure man who did something absolutely horrendous. One day, as the wife entered the home, she found her husband had cooked a hearty meal for her. She ate her meal while she thought her baby was at their neighbourhood. Once she was done with her meal, she looked around for her daughter but couldn't find her at all. I hope you see where this tragic story is going. The man was so envious of the baby that he chopped her off and cooked her for the meal that he fed to Likai. The moment Likai came across the basket of leaves to eat her routine betel leaves and nuts after her meals, she saw a tiny finger that she knew belonged to her daughter. Petrified and enraged by realising what had happened, she ran and ran till she reached the edge of the falls and jumped to her own death. Due to this legend, it is named as Nohkalikai Falls. It is a sad, sad story and the origin of the name puts us in shock but you just cannot stop yourselves from visiting the falls since is it nature at its best. Northeast is blessed to have such amazing places that will only keep you mesmerized.
The next stop of this exciting trip was Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, it’s a school which consists of a museum where one can behold the beauty and diversity of the culture and traditions that prevails in the North-Eastern part of India, as the museum tells a historic tale about the lifestyle of the people of North-East. The Ashrama is situated on a hill top from where one can see the beauty of the place. After the tour of that beautifully made Ashrama we moved on to our next stop Nohkalikai Waterfalls. Again a waterfall but this time with a lots of water and sight to behold of mountains, a valley with blue and clear water flowing from it and countless trees which made it more beautiful, but a trip to places like this is incomplete without having some adventurous fun. So taking this in mind three of us went down on some stairs which were situated a little ahead of the waterfall viewing point, with a sign board that says "go down for extra adventure", so three of us went down expecting that we can go down to the blue water that was falling from above but after going down a few stairs we saw a dead end to our expectations. So yeah we were not able to go all the way down to the water but the stairs were a good spot for some pictures and having a little snack in peace with no people around. After going back upstairs we walked a few meters where there was another view point which displays the entire valley in a beautifully designed frame. So this was the most beautiful viewing point of the trip till this point. And after a few moments of admiration we were on the road again.
Photos of Nohkalikai Falls
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