The Seven sisters of Meghalaya, tucked away in the misty hills, is an enchanting place that feels like a page torn from a fairytale. This iconic Seven Sisters Waterfall, also known as Nohsngithiang Falls, is located in the East Khasi Hills. This waterfall is a must-see Meghalayan jewel because it is more than simply a beautiful sight; it has profound cultural and spiritual meaning. An unforgettable experience awaits you at the Seven Sisters Falls, whether you're a nature lover, a folklore buff, or just someone seeking tranquillity and expansive vistas. The falls are located at a distance of 56 kilometres from Shillong. The falls cascade over limestone cliffs and segments in seven different streams as they flow. A Meghalaya Tour Package will enhance your experience and allow you to see this amazing phenomenon firsthand.
Best Time To Visit The Seven Sisters Falls
Even though the spot is open throughout the year, the best time to visit Meghalaya falls is in the monsoon, which is from June to September. During monsoon, the rain is at its peak, and the falls will be filled and cascading over the limestone cliffs. This creates a breathtaking sight filled with lush greenery, occasional rainbows, making it one of the most vibrant and beautiful places to visit.
Tips: Don’t forget to carry rain gear if visiting during monsoon, as sudden showers may hamper your trip.
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How to reach the Seven sister falls
Seven sister falls is located about 1.5 km from Mawsmai Cave and 60 km from Shillong, and is situated close to Mawsmai village in Cherrapunji, Meghalaya. Here's how to get there:
1. By Airways: Shillong Airport, which is roughly 82 kilometres distant, is the closest airport to Seven Sisters Falls. However, it has a restricted number of flights. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, which is 170 kilometres away, is a better choice. From Guwahati, you can take a taxi or a bus to Shillong, then to Cherrapunji.
2. By Railways: There is no railway station in Meghalaya. Guwahati Railway Station, which is 150 kilometers distant, is the closest. From there, you can travel to Shillong by bus or cab, and from there, you can continue on to Cherrapunji.
3. By Roadways: Cherrapunji has excellent road connectivity. From Shillong, you can take a 60-kilometre drive, which will take 2.5 hours. From Cherrapunji town, local taxis can take you to the waterfall.
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Places to Visit Near Seven Sister falls
The famous Seven Sisters Falls offers the chance to discover various popular attractions, including Buddhist monasteries, temples, and verdant valleys. Here is a list of top places you can consider while visiting the place.
1. Kabi Lungchong
Kabi Lungchok, also known as Kabi Longstok, is a significant cultural site located in Northern Gangtok. This place has a rich history of Sikkimese birth and is filled with temples, monasteries, and significant figures. Kabi Longstok offers the most picturesque views of the surrounding hills and is one of the must-visit locations while visiting the seven sisters in Meghalaya.
- How to reach- Taxi or shared vehicle
- Distance from Seven Sister falls- 12.1 kilometres
2. Tashi Viewpoint
The Tashi Viewpoint is a popular tourist attraction located 8 kilometers away from Gangtok. This place offers a panoramic view of the surrounding verdant hills and a complete view of the entire Gangtok. This place is best visited during sunrise and sunset. You can enjoy the picturesque view along with a cup of tea.
- How to reach- Taxi or shared vehicle
- Distance from Seven Sister falls- 23.5 kilometres
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3. Phodong Monastery
Phodong Monastery is located at an altitude of 4500 metres, a significant Buddhist Pilgrimage in Sikkim. This monastery was built in 1740 A.D. by Gyurmed Namgyal, the fourth King of Sikkim, and is one of the six most important monasteries in Sikkim. This cultural heritage of Buddhism attracts large number of tourists every year because of its alluring architecture, interiors, Buddha paintings, and murals.
- How to reach- Taxi or shared vehicle
- Distance from Seven Sister falls- 8.5 kilometres
4. Tsuk Lakhang
Tsuk La Khang Monastery is an important place of worship for Buddhists, and is a well-known monastery owned by the formerly royal family of Sikkim. This Tsuk La Khang Monastery is inspired by traditional Tibetan-style architecture where images of Lord Buddha and other tantric deities, as well as murals and texts, adorn the monastery's walls. The significance and magnificent architecture of the Tsuk La Khang Monastery make it an essential place to visit on every journey to Gangtok.
- How to reach- Taxi or shared vehicle
- Distance from Seven Sister falls- 33.5 kilometres
5. Do Drul Chorten Monastery
Lama Trulshig Rinpoche constructed this magnificent stupa to ward off the bad spirits that were thought to stalk the Do Drul Chorten Monastery, which was situated at the top of the lush Gangtok hill. People travel from all over the world to see this architectural wonder because of its serene ambiance and complex design. There are 108 prayer wheels with holy mantras inscribed on them that make up the stupa. Vajra Kilaya, a Buddhist deity renowned for removing barriers and purifying negativity, is carved on the stupa's top.
- How to reach- Taxi or shared vehicle
- Distance from Seven Sister falls- 35.2 kilometres
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Things to do at Seven Sisters fall
There are various things to do in Meghalaya you can enjoy at Seven sisters Falls. Let’s know some of them.
1. Visit the Viewpoint: The best activities to do in Seven sister falls, Meghalaya, are visiting the viewpoint, one of the best places to visit. From here, you can see the spectacular seven streams cascading down the limestone cliffs.
2. Photography: Bring out the photographer in you and click all the pics you can of the falls. After all, you're standing by the tremendous falls right in the wettest place on the entire Earth! So save the memory!
3. Picnic: Choose a good viewpoint and have a picnic with your family, with food and snacks, and together marvel at the beauty of the segmented falls.
4. Hiking in Meghalaya: There are a few hiking and trekking trails around the Seven Sisters Waterfalls. If you are an athletic person, you can go on these. Or you can just have a walk around nature and wander.
5. Visit Local Villages: You could visit the local villages and meet the people there, and explore. Also, try new food, taste local food, and have a hearty meal with the locals.
6. Try Local Cuisine: Tasting the local cuisines of Meghalaya is a must when visiting. Local dishes like Jadoh, Tungrymbai, and Pumaloi are a must-try. These dishes are easily available at many small eateries around Cherrapunji.
Travel Tips for the Falls
As you'll be visiting the wettest place on Earth, you'll certainly have to look for unexpected rainfalls and maybe even thunderstorms. And as it is said, the Seven Sisters Falls, Meghalaya, are best visited in the monsoon; there will be rain all through. Therefore, it becomes necessary to follow certain travel tips for a smooth journey:
1. Pack up your bags accordingly, with rain boots and rain jackets, and spare clothes and shoes.
2. Don’t forget to keep your umbrellas and make sure to check the weather forecast before arriving.
3. Pack enough water and snacks, as there are limited facilities near the falls.
4. Respect nature and keep your surroundings clean - don't throw trash around and take it back with you if you don't spot a bin.
5. Respect the wildlife and plant life around.
6. Make sure to come early to enjoy the view in peace and avoid the crowds.
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The Seven Sisters Falls is more than just a scenic wonder; it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a tranquil environment. Whether you are looking to capture breathtaking views or simply want to escape from the hustle of daily life, this spot in the heart of Meghalaya promises an experience like no other. With its cascading streams, lush green surroundings, and welcoming locals, a visit here will leave you refreshed and fill you with unforgettable memories. So what are you waiting for? Pack your raincoat and your camera, and let the misty charm of the Seven Sisters Falls, Meghalaya sweep you off your feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Where is the Seven Sisters Waterfall located?
The Seven Sisters Falls is located in Sohra, Cherrapunjee, in the state of Meghalaya. Cherrapunjee is said to be the wettest place on the Earth. The falls is about 60 kilometres from Shillong.
Q. Why is it called Seven Sisters Falls?
The Seven Sister Falls in Meghalaya gets its name from the seven different streams that flow from the cascade of the falls on the limestone cliffs. These streams resemble seven sisters in a harmonious dance. And hence the name. Another reason for the name is also the fact of the unity of the seven states in the Northeast of India, which are Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram and Meghalaya.
Q. How tall is Seven Sisters Falls?
The Seven Sisters Waterfall has an altitude of about 1,033 ft and an average width of 230 ft.
Q. What is the Seven Sisters real name?
The real name of the Seven Sisters Falls is Nohsngithiang Falls. It is also called the Mawsmai Falls due to its location in the Mawsmai village.
Q. How many waterfalls are there in Meghalaya?
There are approximately 16 main waterfalls in Meghalaya namely, Nohkalikai Falls, Khoh Ramhah, Kynrem Falls, Nohsngithiang Falls, Elephant Falls, Spread Eagle Falls, Sweet Falls, Weinia Falls, Thum Falls, Krang Suri, Tyrshi Falls, Thlumuwi Falls, Pelga Falls, Imil Chang Dare, and Rong’bang Falls.
