Plunging from a height of 1115 feet, Nohkalikai Falls, in the Cherrapunji district of Meghalaya, is one of India’s most serene and picturesque waterfalls. Famed for being the world’s fourth tallest plunge waterfall, Nohkalikai Falls is the finest example of nature’s splendour and beauty in the northeastern region of India. Located between the evergreen forests of Khasi, it is one of Meghalaya’s most popular tourist destinations. Meghalaya, literally translating to The Abode of Clouds, is a heavenly state in the Indian subcontinent, famous for its scenic waterfalls, untouched beauty, and natural elements. From adventure enthusiasts to nature lovers, many tourists travel to Meghalaya to experience and marvel at the majestic Nohkalikai Falls and other sightseeing places in Meghalaya.
The Legend Of Nohkalikai Falls In Meghalaya
Image Credit: Kiran Kulkarni for Wikimedia Commons
Cherrapunji district in Meghalaya receives heavy rainfall in India and is one of the wettest places on Earth. Home to the tallest waterfalls in India, Nohkalikai Falls is a rain-fed waterfall and displays its true beauty during the monsoon season. Nohkalikai, which translates to the Jump of Ka Likai, has a legendary story. Widowed with a young daughter, Ka Likai was a woman who lived in the village of Rangjyrteh, upstream of the waterfall. Ka Likai remarried a man to give her daughter a fatherly figure. Ka Likai was attached and paid more attention to her daughter, making her husband envy her.
One day, while Ka Likai was off to work, her husband killed her daughter and chopped her into pieces, removing the bones and the head. He cooked her flesh but forgot one of her fingers in the kwai (betel nut basket). When Ka Likai was back, she noticed the absence of her daughter. However, as she was angry due to the day’s work, she first finished the curry prepared for her by her husband. Ka Likai went outside to look for her daughter but to her horror, she found her severed finger in the kwai basket, she realized that her husband had killed and cooked her daughter and she had eaten her child. Filled with remorse and anger, she went to the Nohkalikai Falls and jumped off from the edge of the fall.
Must Read: Places To Visit In Meghalaya
Overview Of The Waterfall
Image Credit: Prasanta Kr Dutta for Wikimedia Commons
One of the most incredible tourist destinations in Meghalaya and India, Nohkalikai Falls is the tallest plunge Waterfall in India, with a drop of about 340 m. A sight to behold, It plunges from a red cliff into a clear turquoise pool surrounded by evergreen Khasi Forests in Meghalaya. The pool changes its colour from blue to green during different seasons, and the changing hues mesmerize its visitors.
A paradise for nature lovers and a picturesque destination, Nohkalikai Falls is lovely and boasts verdant landscapes and the alluring beauty of the hills in Meghalaya. Besides its beauty, the drive to the Nohkalikai Falls is also ravishing. The breathtaking views of the Khasi Forests and the evergreen beauty of the trees make it an excellent site for travellers to capture stunning pictures of the fantastic viewpoints in Cherrapunji, Meghalaya. The changing colours of the pool from blue to green during the summer and monsoon season also enchants the visitors at the Nohkalikai Falls in Cherrapunji, Meghalaya.
What To Expect At The Nohkalikai Falls
Image Credit: Jyotishkardey for Wikimedia Commons
Nohkalikai Falls experiences a subtropical climate with heavy rainfall throughout the year. It is not just a waterfall but an iconic spot offering various adventurous activities for travellers. Trekking is the best way to explore the beauty of Nohkalikai Falls and its surroundings in Meghalaya. Several trekking trails take you to the edge of the waterfall in about 2 hours, and it is a lifetime experience for the tourists to explore and enjoy amidst the lush green cover of the surroundings in Meghalaya.
Camping is another option for wanderlusters who want to spend more time admiring the Beauty and tranquillity of the waterfall. Several sites offer a safe camping facility near the waterfall with basic amenities for travellers. Tourists can enjoy star gazing at the clear skies of the Khasi Forests, light up a bonfire with light music, or spend a quiet time immersing themselves in the charm of the verdant landscapes around the Nohkalikai Falls away from the dazzling streets and bustling cities.
Further Read: Meghalaya Travel Tips
Now that you have a complete guide to the famous tourist destination and the tallest waterfall in Meghalaya, Nohkalikai Falls, make sure you plan your next trip to Meghalaya to enjoy a unique blend of beauty and tranquillity in the Cherrapunji district of Meghalaya. Set out to explore some of the most exotic destinations and sightseeing places around Nohkalikai Falls for a stimulating and fun-filled vacation in India. Soak in the beauty of the verdant landscapes and warm hospitality, or admire the changing hues of the waters of Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya.
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Cover Image Source: Sujan Bandyopadhyay for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Nohkalikai Falls
Which is the nearest airport to Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya?
The nearest airport to Nohkalikai Falls, India is the Shillong Airport in Meghalaya, located at a distance of 80 km from the Falls. Tourists can take a bus or hire private cabs from the airport to Nohkalikai Falls which will take about 2 hours from the Airport.
How to reach Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya, India?
By car- The Nohkalilai Falls is 7.3 km from the Cherrapunji City Centre, a 20-minute drive from the City Centre will take you to the Nohkalikai Falls.
By bus- Take a bus from Cherrapunji Bus Station, located at a distance of 7 km from Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya.
Which is the best time to visit Nohkalikai Falls in India?
Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya is open to tourists throughout the year. The best time to visit Nohkalikai Falls in India is between May and October when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing and exploring the tourist destinations in Meghalaya. Avoid visiting during the Monsoon season from July to September as there are chances of heavy rainfalls and the visibility is also low. Plan your trip during the Sunrise and on weekdays to expect lesser crowds for the exotic and best views of the Nohkalikai Falls.
What are some nearby sightseeing places near Nohkalikai Falls in India?
Nohkalikai Falls in India is located close to major tourist attractions. Some nearby sightseeing destinations include Cherrapunji, Living Root Bridges, Mawsmai Cave, Seven Sisters Falls, Thangkharang Park, Khoh Ramhah, Mawlynnong Village, Dawki River, Elephant Falls, Don Bosco Museum, Umiam Lake, and more.
What are some budget-friendly and comfortable hotels and accommodations near Nohkalikai Falls, Meghalaya, India?
Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya boasts some exotic resorts and budget-friendly hotels for a pleasant and comfortable vacation experience for tourists. Here's the list.
- Polo Orchid Resort
- Saimika Resort
- Jiva Resort
- Sohra Plaza Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort
- San Nael La Resort
How many days are required for proper sightseeing in Meghalaya, India?
Nohkalikai Falls In Meghalaya, India requires approximately 1 day for proper sightseeing. Other nearby attractions near Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya can be covered in a span of another 2-3 days. A vast state like Meghalaya, famous for its exceptionally unique diversity, culture, and heritage, requires a tour of 7-10 days for proper hassle-free sightseeing and tour excursions.
What are the entry fees at Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya, India?
Tourists at Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya have to pay INR 20 per head to get a view of the Falls. People having cameras need to pay INR 20 extra as the Camera Fees.
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