Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, also known as Sohra, was once the wettest region on Earth and is now noted for its double-decker living root bridge. This sub-divisional town, around 50 kilometers from Shillong, is known for its abundant flora and natural attractions. Despite the fact that Mawsynram is currently the wettest place on the planet, Cherrapunji still maintains the record for the maximum annual rainfall. Other natural features include cave...
Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, also known as Sohra, was once the wettest region on Earth and is now noted for its double-decker living root bridge. This sub-divisional town, around 50 kilometers from Shillong, is known for its abundant flora and natural attractions. Despite the fact that Mawsynram is currently the wettest place on the planet, Cherrapunji still maintains the record for the maximum annual rainfall. Other natural features include cave formations such as the Mawsmai Caves and Krem Phyllut, in addition to the famed living root bridge. Mawlynnong, Asia's cleanest hamlet, is another popular tourist attraction here, where tourists can live in the community and learn about its food and culture. A long drive through Cherrapunji is perfect for individuals who enjoy road trips due to the foggy valleys and waterfalls in the area. During the sunny winter days, enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of the valley and waterfalls, including the famous Nohkalikai Waterfalls. In the winter, the village of Dawki, near the Bangladesh border, offers a magnificent clearwater boating experience for anyone with a little extra time on their hands.
Past of Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji's rainy land was formerly known as Sohra, which the British mispronounced as 'Churra.' Cherrapunji, which means 'land of oranges,' was later given to it by tourists from all around the country. The Khasi tribe that lives in this area has a long history that dates back to the 16th century. In the Khasi hills, the Systems of Khyriem ruled over the Cherrapunji inhabitants. Tirot Sing was the area's last significant Syiem, who was eventually recognised by the British in 1883. Many people visit Cherrapunji to see the memorial to David Scott, a British administrator in North Eastern India from 1802 to 1831. Cherrapunji makes two Guinness World Records, one for the most rainfall in a single year (26,471 mm/1,042.2 in) between August 1860 and July 1861, and the other for the most rainfall in a single year (26,471 mm/1,042.2 in). It also holds the record for the most rain in a single month, with 9,300 mm (370 in) in July 1861.
Culture of Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji's two most important festivals are Nongkrem Dance and Shad-Suk Mynsiem. Nongkrem Dance is an annual dance festival held in the months of October and November and lasts for five days. The Nongkrem dance is performed with pomp and vigor by the tribes of Cherrapunji. The performers don traditional clothing and pray for peace and prosperity. Shad-Suk Mynsiem is a dance celebration in which the Khasi people express their gratitude to the Almighty for the past year. Khasis pray for God's blessings in the coming years in this manner. Cherrapunji's basic meal consists of rice supplemented with spicy fish and pork. Locals also enjoy bamboo shoots.
Things to do when in Cherrapunji
- Boating in Dawki River - Boating on the world-famous Dawki River is a once-in-a-lifetime experience . The river is tranquil and has beautiful waters. This river's crystal clear, crystalline water will grab the darkest recesses of your heart. This is one of those places that you won't want to leave. Because the river's water is so pure, you can plainly view the aquatic life that thrives there.
- River Canoeing - This is an activity that all thrill seekers should participate in. It will appeal to those who seek for new experiences. This involves a variety of difficult tasks like crossing a river, boulder climbing, river trekking, and more. This is a difficult activity, and you need mentally ready to accept the challenge, as it will put your willpower and strength to the test on several occasions.
- Go For Picnic at Nohkalikai Falls - The Nohkalikai waterfall is not just one of the most beautiful in Meghalaya, but also in India. It is the fourth highest waterfall in the country. At 1,115 feet in height, this waterfall is impressive. This is the place to go if you want to observe nature at its most natural state. Seeing this amazing mastery of nature will refresh both your head and your soul.
- Zip lining at Mandowk - When two enjoyable hobbies are combined, the result is a great package. Ziplining at Mandowk is one such ideal package that allows you to enjoy the adrenaline rush of a thrill ride while also taking in the gorgeous scenery of Mandowk. It's such a pleasant game that locals and visitors alike keep returning to try it.
- Spelunking at KremLiatPrah Caves - If you are a seeker, caving is an activity that you should attempt, and Cherrapunji should be on your list of places to visit if you want to go caving. Cherrapunji contains some of India's largest caves. Cherrapunji is known for its natural caves, which make it a popular tourist destination for archaeology enthusiasts. Mandowk's natural beauty It's such a wonderful activity that residents and visitors alike keep returning to participate.
- Strolling through the living root bridges - The living root bridges constructed from the entwined roots of rubber fig trees are one of the most spectacular sights in Cherrapunji. These are spontaneously occurring bridges that are engineering marvels of nature. These naturally occurring bridges can be found deep within Cherrapunji's dense trees. The Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge is the most popular of these live root bridges.
Places to visit in Cherrapunji
- Nohkalikai Falls - Nohkalikai Falls in Cherrapunji is the country's third-highest waterfall, plunging from a breathtaking height of 1,120 feet. It is located around 5 kilometers from the town and is probably one of Cherrapunji's most famous tourist attractions. It flowed down from the lush forests of a hillside and formed a puddle. The monsoons are ideal for bringing the falls into full bloom, but the magnificence of Nohkalikai Falls may be appreciated all year.
- Double Decker Root Bridges - One of Cherrapunji's most famous wonders is the Double Decker Living Root Bridge. The renowned Double Decker Living Root Bridge, nestled in the dense green forests of Meghalaya, receives rain for most of the year. It is one of Meghalaya's most beautiful partially man-made structures, developed in part by the Khasi tribe, who conditioned the roots to grow in a certain way. The roots entwine to form a dual canopy of bridges that span a flowing river, one on top of the other.
- Mawsmai Caves - Mawsmai Cave, one of Cherrapunji's many caverns, is a gateway to the world of underground adventure. It's simple enough to travel that you won't need a map. Mawsmai Cave, one of Cherrapunji's most prominent tourist attractions, lies around 6 kilometers from the town. The cave greets you with a cavernous opening and tapers down a bit further ahead, shaded by a thick canopy of trees.
- Mawsynram Village - Mawsynram is a lovely little community situated in the East Khasi Hill area, around 15 kilometers from Cherrapunji, and is known as the wettest place on Earth. Every year, it receives about 11,000 mm of rain, turning the area a lush green. To muffle the tremendous noises of rain, the village cottages are covered in lush grass. Despite the increase in tourists, Cherrapunji remains pleasantly shaded from the majority of the crowds, making it ideal for those seeking quiet and reprieve from the hectic pace of life.
- Eco Park - The Meghalaya government built the Eco Park atop a high plateau for tourism purposes. The summit provides stunning views of the Sohra valley and the green slopes crisscrossed by waterfalls. A sparkling blue brook runs through the area as well. The panoramic vistas of the lush valleys of Sohra and the sprawling Sylhet Plains of Bangladesh are opened up by a stunning crossover bridge.
How to reach?
- By Air - Guwahati International Airport is the closest airport to Cherrapunji (5 hours drive). Taxis can be hired at th1 kilometers away, however it only accepts low-frequency domestic flights.
- By Rail - The nearest rail station to Cherrapunji is Guwahati Railway Station. Taxis are available at the railway station.
- By Road - Cherrapunji is 58 kilometers from Shillong, Meghalaya's capital. Cherrapunji is reached through a steep motorable road that is virtually always shrouded in mist as it rises upwards on the last lap. From Shillong, buses and taxis run to Cherrapunji.