Meghalaya, aptly nicknamed the “Abode of Clouds”, is a veritable treasure trove of hidden waterfalls tucked away amidst its lush, mist-clad hills. While famous waterfalls like Nohkalikai and Seven Sisters attract many visitors, it is the lesser-known cascades and secret pools that reveal Meghalaya’s pristine natural beauty and untouched serenity.
Venture beyond the beaten path to discover places such as Krem Chympe, where an underground pool lies deep within one of the longest cave systems in the region, offering an adventurous swim surrounded by stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Trekking here requires some effort but rewards explorers with a unique blend of subterranean wonder and refreshing waters.
Near Cherrapunjee, Dainthlen Falls combines breathtaking scenery with rich local legend, said to be the site where a mythical giant serpent was defeated. This waterfall is wide and welcoming, flanked by picnic-friendly banks that make it ideal for families seeking both cultural depth and natural grandeur.
Krang Suri Falls in the Jaintia Hills is a tranquil jewel known for its crystal-clear blue waters. Accessible via a moderate forest trek, it promises swimmers and picnic-goers a peaceful escape from more crowded spots.
For those willing to undertake a moderately challenging trek, the Wei Sawdong Falls in Cherrapunjee showcases stunning three-tiered cascades feeding emerald pools—a scene often described as the most beautiful waterfall experience in Meghalaya.
Aside from these, Wah Kaba Falls offers solitude and panoramic valley views with a short but steep trek, and Lyngkhoi Falls is a hidden hilltop treasure that captivates with serene surroundings and quietude, perfect for contemplative moments amidst nature.
The best times to witness these spectacles are during and just after the monsoon season when the rains invigorate the waterfalls, transforming them into roaring torrents shrouded in ethereal mist. This wet season also promotes vibrant biodiversity — from bioluminescent mushrooms glowing softly in the forest undergrowth to an array of colourful butterflies dancing through the air.
Exploring Meghalaya’s hidden waterfalls is not only a visual feast but also a spiritual and adventurous journey into a land where clouds perpetually embrace rolling hills, and nature reigns supreme. Each waterfall tells a story, whether carved by legend or shaped by time, inviting travellers to immerse themselves in the magic of India’s enchanting northeast.