.jpeg)
Among the numerous breathtaking natural wonders of Meghalaya, Nohkalikai Falls is one of the most iconic and beautiful waterfalls in India. Situated near Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on Earth, Nohkalikai Falls is a majestic cascade that presents an awe-inspiring spectacle of nature. Its unique history, incredible height, and the lush surrounding landscape make Nohkalikai Falls a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.
Introduction to Nohkalikai Falls
Nohkalikai Falls in the West Khasi Hills of Meghalaya is one of the tallest waterfalls in the northeastern region of India. From a height of around 1,100 feet (335 meters), it makes a perfect show of splashing into the lush green pool. This falls lies nearby the village Nohkalikai, approximately 5 kilometers from Cherrapunji (Sohra) town. Water is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the region, as it originates from heavy rainfall Cherrapunji receives, which attracts people from around the world.
The falls are very impressive in their sheer height, with the lush surrounding landscape and a color of water in the pool below, often greenish due to algae in the water. Nohkalikai Falls is a spectacle that offers a perfect blend of beauty and mystique, with an air of tranquility that makes it an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting.
The History and Myth of Nohkalikai Falls
The Nohkalikai Falls, like all other natural wonders, has an associated local legend that adds some mystique to the waterfall. The most widely known legend concerning the falls is a tragic story of love and sorrow, which explains the name "Nohkalikai."
The legend goes that a woman named Ka Likai lived happily with her husband and daughter in the village. However, after her husband's death, she remarried. One day, she went out to work, and her new husband, fearing that her daughter would interfere with his life, decided to kill the girl. He cooked the daughter's flesh and served it to Ka Likai, who unknowingly ate it. When she discovered the truth, Ka Likai was so shocked and distressed that she threw herself off the cliff, plunging into the waterfall below. The falls were thus named after her — Nohkalikai, meaning "The Jump of Ka Likai."
This myth not only adds emotional depth to the falls but also to the mystery and charm that envelops Nohkalikai Falls, which is so interesting to tourists when they visit this site knowing the tragic story while admiring the beauty of nature at this site.
Spectacle of Nohkalikai Waterfalls
Nohkalikai Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in India, given its great height and the dramatic way in which the water falls from the cliff. The waterfall falls into a small pool surrounded by rocks and dense vegetation. The sound of the water crashing against the rocks below creates a thunderous roar that can be heard from a distance, adding to the grandeur of the falls.
The falls can be seen from the Nohkalikai Falls Viewpoint, where one can enjoy the perfect view of the whole falls from the long distance it is coming from. The viewpoint is atop a hill and affords an eye-catching view of the surrounding landscape covered by greenery, the valleys below, as well as stretches of Khasi Hills. It is an ideal location for nature lovers and photographers to photograph the falls in their pristine setting.
The falls are most spectacular during the monsoon season, from June to September, when Cherrapunji receives heavy rainfall. During this time, the waterfall becomes even more powerful, and the water flow increases dramatically, making it a more dramatic and majestic sight. However, the falls are beautiful year-round, with the best time to visit being during the dry months of October to March, when the weather is pleasant, and the falls remain active.
Nohkalikai Falls Viewpoint
One of the best view points for Nohkalikai Falls would be its appreciation in all magnificence. The viewpoint of Nohkalikai is located within just a few miles of the waterfalls and therefore offers visitors the unhindered view of the waterfall along with all the landscapes it is set into. The viewpoints are kept spotless, well-crafted with an observation deck making it relatively simple for the tourist to capture their photographs of falls and valley down the gully.
You can see the surrounding hills and lush forests from the viewpoint, which really add to the beauty of the landscape. From here, this view is at its most glorious in the morning when the soft light of the sun falls on the mist surrounding the falls. Such a combination of the waterfall, greenery, and mist creates a really magical atmosphere difficult to find anywhere else.
If you visit the viewpoint during the rainy season, you might also see the mist rising from the waterfall's base, creating a mystical ambiance around the falls. The area around the viewpoint is also rich in vegetation, with numerous plant species and wildflowers blooming in the surrounding areas, further enhancing the scenic beauty.
Reaching Nohkalikai Falls
Nohkalikai Falls is easily accessible from Cherrapunji, which is about 53 kilometers from the state capital, Shillong. You can reach Cherrapunji by hiring a taxi or using local buses. From Cherrapunji, the falls are a short drive away — approximately 5 kilometers — and can be reached by road. The route to the falls is well-marked, and once you get closer to the location, you can follow the signs that lead to the viewpoint.
Going to the falls themselves can be done easily from the viewpoint, even though getting close to the base of the waterfall is not allowed because the terrain is rocky and the currents are swift. Still, going as close as one could be risky and dangerous, but going to the viewpoint itself would already make one experience firsthand just how beautiful it is.
Best Time to Visit Nohkalikai Falls
The best time to visit Nohkalikai Falls depends upon what kind of experience you're looking for.
Monsoon (June to September): This is when Nohkalikai Falls is at its most powerful, with the increased rainfall making the waterfall even more dramatic. The sight of the water crashing down is truly awe-inspiring, and the surrounding landscape looks lush and green. However, the monsoon season also brings heavy rain, which can make travel to the falls tricky, and the area can be slippery. Visitors should exercise caution during this time.
Autumn and Winter (October to March): The weather conditions are more stable during these months, with cooler temperatures and fewer rains. The falls are beautiful, and the weather is much more suitable for outdoor activities. This is the best time for sightseeing, photography, and enjoyment of the falls without the danger of getting caught in the monsoon rains.
Summer (April to June): Summer time is ideal for traveling in the region as it is warm but not hot. The waterfall may not be so furious as it is during the monsoon season since the water flow comes down significantly.
Things To Do Near Nohkalikai Falls
Except for the tour of the falls, there are lots of things you can do around Nohkalikai Falls:
Trekking and Nature Walks: The entire area around the waterfall is quite suitable for trekking and nature walks. Many trails are developed here that give visitors a closer look at the rich flora and fauna of this region. There are numerous options for trekking in the Khasi Hills, especially for the adventure-seekers who desire to get deeper into nature.
Photos of the falls together with the panoramic views of lands surrounding it or the unique veil of mist. It is not uncommon for its beauty to spur photographers to record the breathtaking aspect of the fall and the view of the entire valley.
Sightseeing: When in the vicinity, you can visit other nearby attractions in Cherrapunji, including Elephant Falls, Mawsmai Cave, and the Double Decker Living Root Bridge. All of these offer a different look at the beauty of Meghalaya.
Conclusion
Nohkalikai Falls is one of the most breathtaking and iconic natural attractions in Meghalaya. The stunning height, strong cascade, and the lush greenery surrounding it make it a must-visit destination for any traveler to Cherrapunji or Meghalaya. You can enjoy the falls from the viewpoint, hike around the trails, or simply appreciate the beauty of nature in Nohkalikai Falls. Its beauty, legend, and natural power have continued to enthrall visitors, making it a highlight of any trip to this enchanting part of India.
Comments