Exploring Nohkalikai Falls: A Majestic Wonder in Meghalaya

Located in the serene and scenic state of Meghalaya, Nohkalikai Falls is one of India’s tallest and most stunning waterfalls. Nestled in the lush hills of Cherrapunji, Nohkalikai is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone in search of natural beauty. With its breathtaking views, dramatic drop, and the fascinating story behind its name, this waterfall offers a mesmerizing experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Nohkalikai Falls, including its features, the best time to visit, how to reach it, and why it should be on your travel list when visiting Meghalaya.

What is Nohkalikai Falls?

Nohkalikai Falls is the tallest waterfall in India, standing at an impressive height of 1115 feet (340 meters). The waterfall is located near the town of Cherrapunji, which is known for its heavy rainfall and lush green landscapes. Nohkalikai is a tiered waterfall, meaning that it cascades in multiple stages down the hills, creating a stunning visual effect as the water drops down into the deep pool below.

The waterfall is surrounded by steep cliffs, dense forests, and green valleys, making it a perfect spot for photography and nature walks. The area around Nohkalikai Falls is rich in biodiversity, with a variety of plants, trees, and wildlife. The falls themselves are a beautiful sight, with water gushing down in a forceful, yet graceful, flow.

Why is it Called Nohkalikai Falls?

The name “Nohkalikai” has a tragic legend attached to it. According to local Khasi folklore, the waterfall was named after a woman named Ka Likai, who was a widow living in the area. One day, after a long day’s work, Ka Likai returned home to find that her daughter had been killed by her husband. In her grief and shock, she threw herself off the cliff, and her body was carried by the river to the base of the waterfall.

The waterfall’s name, Nohkalikai, is believed to be a combination of the Khasi words “Noh”, meaning “fall,” and “Kalikai”, the name of the woman, to commemorate this sad and sorrowful event. This tragic story adds an emotional dimension to the beauty of the waterfall, making it even more significant to the locals.

Features of Nohkalikai Falls

Height and Drop: As mentioned earlier, Nohkalikai Falls stands at a towering height of 1115 feet (340 meters), making it one of the tallest waterfalls in India. The sheer height of the falls is awe-inspiring and adds to the beauty and drama of the surroundings. The water cascades from a great height, creating a cloud of mist and making the atmosphere around the falls even more magical.

Multi-Tiered Cascade: Nohkalikai is a tiered waterfall, meaning that it has multiple stages as the water flows down. This creates an impressive sight, especially when viewed from the viewpoint near the falls.

Color of the Water: The water at the base of the waterfall is a striking greenish-blue color. This unique color is due to the algae in the pool, which gives the water a surreal and beautiful look.

Surrounding Environment: Nohkalikai Falls is located in the midst of the lush forests and hills of Cherrapunji. The surrounding landscape is dotted with greenery, deep valleys, and cliffs, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting for the waterfall. The air is fresh, and the natural environment adds to the overall tranquility of the place.

Seasonal Variation: The appearance of Nohkalikai Falls changes with the seasons. During the monsoon season (June to September), the water flow is at its peak, and the waterfall is at its most powerful and dramatic. In the dry months, the water flow may decrease slightly, but the falls are still a beautiful sight to behold.

Best Time to Visit Nohkalikai Falls

The best time to visit Nohkalikai Falls is during the monsoon season (June to September) when the waterfall is in full flow, and the landscape is lush and vibrant. The heavy rains during this period make the waterfall more powerful, and the surrounding forests are at their greenest.

However, while the monsoon season offers the most spectacular views of the falls, it’s also important to note that the region experiences heavy rainfall during this time, which can make the roads slippery and difficult to navigate. Therefore, if you plan to visit during the monsoon, be prepared for the weather conditions and make sure to check the forecast before heading out.

If you prefer a quieter and drier experience, the winter months (October to March) are also a good time to visit. The weather is cooler and more pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and trekking around the falls. The landscape may not be as lush as during the monsoon, but the falls are still a beautiful sight to behold.

How to Reach Nohkalikai Falls

Nohkalikai Falls is located near Cherrapunji, which is about 53 kilometers from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. Here’s how you can reach the falls:

By Road: The most convenient way to reach Nohkalikai Falls is by road. From Shillong, you can take a taxi or hire a private car to reach Cherrapunji. The drive to Cherrapunji is scenic, with winding roads and lush green landscapes. Once you reach Cherrapunji, the falls are about a 5-6 kilometer drive from the town center. You can easily find signboards that will guide you to the waterfall.

By Air: The nearest airport to Cherrapunji is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, located around 150 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Shillong and then proceed to Cherrapunji.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Guwahati Railway Station, located about 150 kilometers away from Cherrapunji. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Shillong and then proceed to the waterfall.

Things to Do at Nohkalikai Falls

Photography: Nohkalikai Falls is a photographer’s paradise. The waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, deep valleys, and dramatic cliffs, makes for a beautiful subject. The view from the viewpoint is perfect for capturing the grandeur of the waterfall.

Trekking: The area around Nohkalikai Falls offers various trekking opportunities. You can explore the nearby hills, valleys, and forests while enjoying the natural beauty of the region. It’s an ideal place for nature walks and photography.

Picnicking: The surrounding environment of Nohkalikai Falls is peaceful and serene, making it an ideal spot for a picnic. You can relax, enjoy the fresh air, and have a peaceful time with family or friends while taking in the view of the falls.

Visit the Local Villages: The area around Cherrapunji is home to the indigenous Khasi people, and visiting the nearby villages will give you an insight into their unique culture, lifestyle, and traditions.

Nearby Attractions

While Nohkalikai Falls is the primary attraction in the area, there are several other natural wonders you can explore near Cherrapunji:

Mawsmai Cave: A limestone cave located near Cherrapunji, famous for its unique formations and crystal-clear stalactites and stalagmites.

Living Root Bridges: Meghalaya is famous for its unique living root bridges, and the region around Cherrapunji has several of them, including the famous Double Decker Living Root Bridge.

Elephant Falls: Located near Shillong, this multi-tiered waterfall is another popular tourist spot in the region.

Conclusion

Nohkalikai Falls is a mesmerizing natural wonder in Meghalaya that offers both beauty and history. With its stunning height, tiered cascades, and unique surroundings, it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in India. The legend behind its name adds an emotional depth to the experience, making it a significant spot for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re interested in photography, nature walks, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Nohkalikai Falls should be on your travel list when visiting Meghalaya.