Cherrapunji is nestled in the heart of Meghalaya. It is a wonderland of natural beauty and unending rainfall. It is known as the “Land of Eternal Rain.“ This enchanting destination captivates travelers with its majestic waterfalls, unique living root bridges, and pristine rainforests.
An astounding rain scene you can ever see.
What a copious rain! This is a real example of, “raining cats and dogs”-isn’t it?
Do you like to see such torrential rain? Would you walk through such sheets of rain? Or, at least drive through the torrential rain?
This is not a monsoon rain; in fact, there is no exclusive monsoon period in this place to witness such a breathtaking downpour.
Will you visit if I reveal the name of the place?
It’s Cherrapenji, the world’s wettest place. It is located in the state of Meghalaya, India.
Wow! It is actually scary!
“Meghalaya’ means the “abode of clouds”. The city’s lush mountains, more than 10 waterfalls, terrific flora, tremendous viewpoints, make Cherrapunji, a dreamy tourist destination in India.
The city of rains is situated at 4,600 feet altitude. It is called ‘Sohra’ locally and in Assam state, and in Bangladesh country also.
Actually, you need not travel to remote corners in chase of waterfalls, as the water is raining everywhere.
How to go to Cherrapunji?
There is no international airport, but you can still reach quickly by flights from 3 nearby cities. They are:
- Guwahati 90 km
- Shillong –the capital of Meghalaya state at 55 km away
- Agartala 162 km
However, it is recommended you rent a taxi and drive the 100 km distance from Guwahati for a memorable scenery.
When is the rain at its pelting best in Cherrapunji?
May to October witness the wettest season. However, you can still see rains in the following months.
From November to March, the winter weather sets in.
Hotels in Cherrapunji:
You have a lot of choices to stay. Just about every hotel or resort, face inexplicably beautiful hills that are shrouded in clouds, most of the time.
The top-rated and the most expensive place to stay is Polo Orchid Resort. The hotel is perched on top of a mountain. From anywhere in the resort, the views are gasping.
The star attraction is the swimming pool that’s location seems as if it is hanging at the edge of the world. That’s the impression I got.
The second-best hotel is JMS Resort. It is also bracketed in the high-end category.
The cheapest is Sanika Resort that charges only $19 per night.
I am sure, accommodations are available to suit different wallet size.
What to eat in Meghalaya?
This is the land of momos, mate. It is more of a street food. After 5 pm, you can find numerous stalls on the streets, selling piping hot momos.
The yellow paste is a typical accompaniment in this part of India. It is made of sesame.
Momos are also known as ‘dumplings’.
JholMomo is a local specialty. It is a soup in which, you will see momos floating.
In this Cherrapunji specialty, the soup is tastier than the dumpling.
Another Tibetian dish that has now spread in Northeast Indian states is a soup made with the bones of beef. Sometimes, beef bones are replaced with pig bones.
Pumoloi is a dish that seems to be an alternative to south Indian idly and dosa. However, in Meghalaya, the dish is cooked in an earthenware.
Handia is a rice beer that you can try.
Spirited people-eh? Amazing invention!
Restaurants that are highly rated.
- Orange Roots is a place to eat 100% authentic Khasi cuisine.
- Halariis known for serving several varieties of local foods.
Places of Attraction to Visit in Cherrapunji:
There is not much to see except rains, and more rains. You go there to experience how the wettest place in the earth looks like.
Waterfalls are the extraordinary attractions here. There are 12 of them. I will just mention a few waterfalls whose beauty is simply captivating.
Nohkalikai Falls:
The water hits the mountain floor from a height of 1,100 feet! That’s quite a height and creates a big roar.
There is a heart aching story behind the name of the waterfalls.
- Seven Sisters Waterfalls (Nohsngithiang Waterfalls)
These 7 stunning waterfalls are located 6 km away from city.
Hiking:
There is no dearth of trails in the Khasi Hills, but you can hike only during the two months of dry period (December and January).
Mawsmai Caves:
The caves are interconnected and is lit by natural light through many openings. You need a guide to take along to enter caves and to safely exit.
Siju Bird Sanctuary:
With so many dense jungles around, there are bound to be exotic birds to spot and identify in and around Cherrapunji.
The best place is to visit the Siju Bird Sanctuary. It is known for spotting the rare Grey Hornbills, and the striking Spoonbills.
The abundant water means, plenty of prey for birds. Cherrapunji even attracts migratory birds from as far as Siberia.
Peacock Pheasant is another elusive bird that you can look out for.
One more beautiful bird that you can’t miss out is the Bluish-green Verditer Flycatcher.
Go, get wet buddy, in Cherrapunji rains. The experience cannot be put into words.
I am sure you will like what you see and eat here.
