NohKaLikai Falls, Meghalaya

The Nohkalikai Waterfall is India’s tallest plunge waterfall, dropping 340 metres into the emerald-green pool. It is the fourth-largest waterfall in the world and remains a wonder to watch. This waterfall is located in the East Khasi Hills district near Sohra in Cherrapunji, Meghalaya.

As Cherrapunji is the wettest place on Earth, this wonderful waterfall is fed all through the year by rainwater collected in the small plateau, painting a perfect picture for the eyes. The waterfall is surrounded by cloudy cliffs and lush greenery that creates a stunning exhibition that invites travellers from far places.

Despite this wonderful marvel of a beauty surrounding the waterfall, NohKaLikai Falls carries a tragic legend, about a young mother named Ka Likai who jumped from this waterfall after knowing that her only child was killed by her second husband. This adds a mystery to the waterfall’s allure.

What travellers can experience near NohKaLikai Falls?

This tiring 45-minute hike leads you through a lush forest filled with steep mountain paths, each step bringing you closer to the stunning perspective. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with the breathtaking scenery of the waterfall. You will also get the amazing views of lush valleys that stretch out from one corner to another.

As you wander through the woods, you’ll be delighted by the melodious chirping of diverse bird species. Every moment spent here feels like a page out of an adventure novel, inviting you to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty and wonder.

What is the best time to visit NohKaLikai Falls?

The waterfall is open to visitors daily from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM, and the best time to visit is between 09:00 AM and 03:30 PM.

The following are the months divided into sections so that the travellers can choose the time according to their best interest:

June to September- Heavy falling Monsoons:

In monsoons, the waterfall is at its most ferocious. The place looks magnificent with the rainfall as it turns the valley into lush green, and the waterfall is at its majestic peak. During this time, you may not be able to see the waterfall clearly due to thick fog. You may also face landslides and roadblocks on the way to Nohkalikai Falls.

October to May- The best time for the visit:

During these months, the monsoon has ended. As the rains have ended, this makes the landscape turn lush green. The waterfall has a strong, striking flow. The skies are clear enough for epic activities like trekking, camping, sightseeing, photography, and swimming. These months are excellent for clear, uninterrupted valley views.

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

How can you reach NohKaLikai Falls?

By Air

The nearest airport to Nohkalikai Falls is Shillong Airport, which is about 80 km away.

From Shillong Airport, you can take a cab or a bus to Cherrapunji, and the journey from Shillong Airport to Cherrapunji takes about 2-3 hours.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to Nohkalikai Falls is Guwahati Railway Station, which is about 150 km away.

From Guwahati Railway Station, you can take a cab or a bus to Cherrapunji. The journey 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, rent a car or a bike to reach Nohkalikai Falls from Shillong or other nearby towns.

The journey from Shillong to Cherrapunji takes about 1-2 hours.