The rushing water, the misty fog, the serene atmosphere, and the birds singing in the distance. That is how you feel when you hear about Rainbow Falls. Rainbow Falls is quiet and not packed with people since it is hidden deep in the green hills of Meghalaya. It is quiet, strong, and magical yet very peaceful. The trip to this fall is as beautiful as the waterfall itself. There are stone steps, living root bridges, forests and running streams that walk with you on the whole way.
At the right moment, as the sun hits the falling water, a soft rainbow is created, floating like in a dream. This guide will help you plan a perfect trip by providing you with details about when to go, how to get there, the difficulty of the hike and why Rainbow Falls is one of the most unique natural marvels the Northeast has to offer.
Best Time to Visit The Rainbow Falls, Cherrapunji
It is essential to choose the right time when visiting Rainbow Waterfall, as it changes its mood with each season. It is most favourable between October and April when the climate is not hot, and the hiking trails are less dangerous. The sky is clearer during this period, therefore it is more likely to see the rainbow effect at the falls. The waterfall is greater and noisier in the monsoon months, but the trail is slippery and dangerous. Soft sunshine, chilly evenings, and winter mornings are the ideal days to enjoy a quiet scenery. If you want to enjoy a safe and beautiful adventure, do plan wisely.
How to Reach Rainbow Falls
The journey to the Rainbow Falls location is an adventure in itself. The falls lie close to Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, and they are accessible only on foot. First, take a road trip to Cherrapunji by road from Shillong and arrive at Tyrna village, where the trek begins. The trip includes a walk on thousands of stone steps, over the famous Double Decker Bridge, to visit Rainbow Falls and moving further into the woods. There are also local guides who are readily available and strongly suggested to have a convenient and safe experience.
Important Information About Rainbow Falls
Here is some basic information which you must know before heading to the Rainbow Falls.
Rainbow Falls timings: Only in the daytime (early morning)
Entry fee: No official fee
Guide fees: According to local rates.
Nearest village: Tyrna
Network: Very limited
Food: Carry your own snacks or can have it in the nearby villages.
Rainbow Falls Trek
The Rainbow Falls Trek is not an ordinary walk; it is an experience. The walk is long, upward and physically challenging, yet a very rewarding one. You pass through the thick woods, wooden bridges, rivers, and root bridges created by nature itself. The trail gradually pulls you away from noise and brings you closer to peace.
This Rainbow Falls trail is for people who are patient and have basic fitness. It takes approximately 5-6 hours, depending on the speed on one side. You will also find some rest stops and small villages on the route that provide you with some time to relax, have some water, and enjoy the landscape.
Trek essentials:
Trek duration is around 5-6 hours one way.
The difficulty is medium to challenging.
Best with a guide.
Proper shoes are a must.
Things To Do At Rainbow Falls
Do not miss to enjoy the following things to make the best out of your adventure to the Rainbow Waterfall.
1. Trekking to Rainbow Falls
One of the primary and most thrilling activities to perform at Rainbow Falls is Trekking. The walk will lead you through rocky paths, woodlands, and brooks that make the walk an adventure. During the walk, you are accompanied by birds and running water. The journey may be exhausting, but the nature surrounding you makes the journey delightful. It takes an extremely long walk to get to the waterfall, but once you get there, you have a strong sense of happiness and accomplishment that makes it really worth the hike.
2. Spotting Wildlife along the Trail
The path to Rainbow Falls runs through dense trees, and the nature remains untouched and pure. While walking, you can observe butterflies, coloured birds, and insects, and in some cases, small creatures in the forest, which hide between the trees. Spotting wild animals here is not hard or dramatic, but it is soft and natural. Taking a look at these tiny animals in their wild habitat makes the trip worthwhile and makes you feel much closer to the wildness of Meghalaya.
3. Explore Nongriat Village
A visit to Rainbow Falls will be more beautiful by exploring Nongriat Village. The village is simple, calm, and surrounded by lush greenery. It depicts a slow life, and people live in harmony with nature. A stroll in the village streets provides you with traditional ancient houses, smiling villagers, and village life. This tour allows you to experience the culture and the way of life of the region in a very realistic manner.
4. Witness the Living Root Bridge
The experience of sightseeing the Double Decker Living Root Bridges during a visit to Rainbow Falls is an experience that will always be remembered. These bridges consist of tree roots and have been formed through natural means over the years by local communities. It is magical and surprising to walk on them. They are powerful, natural, and they fit perfectly well with their environment. Looking at these bridges can demonstrate the way in which humans and nature can collaborate.
5. Try the Local Cuisine
Trying the local dishes in the nearby villages is a simple yet memorable activity which you must not miss while visiting Rainbow Falls. The food is hot, fresh, and it is prepared out of the local foodstuffs. The food is typically simple, though rich in natural flavours. It is a soothing experience to have a local meal at the end of a long walk. Eating in this serene mountain ambience is one of the additional charms of the whole experience and makes the journey complete and wholesome.
Tips For Visiting Rainbow Falls
Start early to avoid crowds and catch the waterfall at its best when sunlight creates the rainbow effect
Wear proper trekking shoes as the trail has steep steps, uneven stones, and slippery sections
Be prepared for a long and physically demanding trek with thousands of steps via Nongriat
Carry enough water and light snacks since food options are very limited beyond the village
Avoid visiting during heavy monsoon days as the trail becomes risky and extremely slippery
Respect local villages, follow rules, and avoid littering along the route
Do not attempt swimming near Rainbow Falls due to strong and unpredictable currents
Keep enough buffer time for the return climb, which is more tiring than the descent
conclusion
Some places talk softly but never leave our minds. One of such places is Rainbow Falls. It is not a smooth ride, yet it is rewarding. Every step teaches patience, and every view rewards effort. From the trail of green forests till the ultimate vision of falling water and floating colours, Rainbow Falls seems to be a silent celebration of nature. If you are fond of pure beauty, slow travelling, and relaxation, this place will make you feel at home. When you visit here, you do not only bring photos, but serenity and calm.
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