Cherrapunji, village, southern Meghalaya state, northeastern India. It is located on the Shillong Plateau about 35 miles (55 km) southwest of Shillong, the state capital. Cherrapunji is noted for having one of the world’s highest average annual precipitation levels, about 450 inches (11,430 mm). In addition, it had the greatest recorded total single-year rainfall, 1,042 inches (26,467 mm) from August 1860–to July 1861, and one of the greatest recorded one-month total rainfalls, 366 inches (9,296 mm) in July 1861. The heavy precipitation results from the village’s location on the plateau’s southern edge, at which point the saturated summer monsoon air rises up the southern slope and cools rapidly, releasing enormous quantities of condensed water.
The village serves as a trade center for the area’s agricultural products. The Cera coal mine is nearby. Cherrapunji was the capital of the independent Khasi states until it was succeeded by Shillong in 1864. It is still inhabited mainly by Khasi peoples, who are largely Christian and who have a matriarchal social system.
Unique wonders of Cherrapunji
The first thing to come to mind when we talk about Cherrapunji is rain, rain, and more rain. This high-altitude town in the northeast Indian state of Meghalaya is renowned for its unique living root bridges. The place receives 11777 mm of rainfall each year making it one of the wettest places on the earth. When it comes to Cherrapunji attractions, the place is a magical wonderland surrounded by verdant gorges, hills, waterfalls, caves, and forests.
Let’s explore some of the must-visit attractions of Cherrapunji:
Nohkalikai Falls
This one is also India’s third-highest waterfall dropping down from a height of 1120 ft. It is a must-visit Cherrapunji attraction, flowing right out of the pristine forests and because mostly it’s raining in the region, the waterfall keeps gushing and can be admired throughout the year.
Mawsynram Village
The village of Mawsynram is the wettest place on the whole Earth! This picturesque and peaceful village set in the lap of nature receives more than 11000 mm of rainfall every year. The houses in the village are intentionally covered with thick grass to lessen the sounds of heavy rainfall.
Seven Sisters Waterfalls
Northeast India, also known as the Seven Sisters state, is famous for its seven waterfalls, locally called Nohsngithiang Falls or Mawsmai Falls. Situated close to the village, the Seven Sisters Falls is the fourth highest waterfall in the country set in the East Khasi Hills District of Meghalaya. This is mainly a cluster of seven waterfalls, set next to each other.
Mawsmai Cave
For those who love going on little adventures, the underground cave is a perfect option. This is simple and one can easily manage to explore the inside without any local guide. Counted among the most popular places to visit in Cherrapunji, this cave is nearly 6 km from the main town.
Double Decker Living Root Bridge
Unique to Meghalaya, the Double Decker Living Root Bridge is one of its most-loved wonders of Cherrapunji. Set right in the middle of dark and dense green forest, the iconic living root bridge is simply stunning. Coming here and looking at it will feel like an otherworldly experience.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CHERRAPUNJI
Cherrapunji offers several options for accommodation. From guest houses with basic amenities, resorts that offer better facilities, cottages, to homestays… you will be spoilt for choice.
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN CHERRAPUNJI
Pork rice is a Khasi specialty that must be sampled in Cherrapunji. Eateries that sell pork and other red meat abound in the town. Sohra Pulao which is rice cooked with oil and vegetables but without spices should not be missed.
Cherrapunji also serves the typical fare that is influenced by north Indian and Assamese flavors since it hosts several tourists from Guwahati and Delhi.
