Cherrapunji

Sitting neatly on the edges of the Himalayas while towering over the low-lying plains of Bangladesh, Cherrapunji is a small town located in the Indian state of Meghalaya and is known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Also known as Sohra, this small town was once regarded as the wettest place on the Earth, given the massive monsoon rainfall it experiences. The lush green landscape of Cherrapunji well justifies the tag ‘Scotland of the East’ that Meghalaya has. One of the most popular attractions Cherrapunji is known for is the Living Root Bridges which are hundreds of years old and are a mesmerizing sight.

Cherrapunji has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in the traditions and customs of the Khasi people, one of the three main indigenous tribes of Meghalaya. The town is home to several attractions that showcase the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region, including The Living Root Bridges, several waterfalls, caves, and the Khasi Heritage Village, among others. The town also has a unique cuisine, which is characterized by using local ingredients such as bamboo shoots, smoked meat, and fermented soybeans.

In recent years, Cherrapunji has become a popular tourist destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers, who come here to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. Despite its growing popularity, the town has managed to maintain its peaceful and laid-back vibe, making it a perfect place for a relaxing getaway.

• Nohkalikai Falls : The Nohkalikai Falls is the tallest plunge waterfall in India and a must-visit attraction in Cherrapunji. The waterfall gets its name from a tragic legend that says a woman named Ka Likai jumped from the cliff after discovering that her husband had killed and cooked their daughter. The waterfall cascades down from a height of 1115 feet and offers a breathtaking view of the surroundings.
• Living Root Bridges : The living root bridges of Cherrapunji are unique structures formed by weaving the roots of trees across streams and rivers. The double-decker living root bridge in Nongriat village is a popular tourist attraction that takes around 3-4 hours of trekking to reach. The bridge is made by weaving the roots of two Ficus trees across a stream and is strong enough to support the weight of several people at once.
• Mawsmai Cave : The Mawsmai Cave is a popular tourist destination in Cherrapunji known for its limestone formations. The cave is well-lit and has a concrete path for visitors to walk on. The cave is around 150 meters long and takes around 30-45 minutes to explore.
• Seven Sisters Falls : Seven Sisters Falls is a beautiful waterfall located near Cherrapunji. The waterfall is named after the seven streams that flow down the cliff, which gives it a unique appearance. Visitors can get a panoramic view of the waterfall from a viewpoint located nearby.
• Krem Phyllut : Krem Phyllut is a popular cave system located in Cherrapunji that is known for its unique rock formations. The cave system is around 1600 meters long and takes around 3-4 hours to explore. The cave system is home to several species of bats, spiders, and other wildlife.
• Dainthlen Falls : The Dainthlen Falls is a beautiful waterfall located on the way to Cherrapunji. The waterfall is named after a legendary serpent that used to reside in the area. Visitors can take a short hike to the base of the waterfall and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings.
• Thangkharang Park : Thangkharang Park is a beautiful park located near Cherrapunji that offers stunning views of the Bangladesh plains. The park is home to several species of birds and butterflies and is a popular spot for picnics and nature walks.

• Jadoh : Jadoh is a traditional rice dish that is popular in Cherrapunji. It is made with rice and pork or chicken, and it is seasoned with ginger, garlic, onions, and a variety of spices.
• Dohneiiong : Dohneiiong is a pork dish that is cooked with black sesame seeds, ginger, and garlic. It is a popular dish in Cherrapunji and is often served with rice.
• Tungrymbai : Tungrymbai is a fermented soybean dish that is a staple in Khasi cuisine. It is made by mixing boiled soybeans with rice, ginger, garlic, and other spices and allowing it to ferment for several days.
• Nakham Bitchi : Nakham Bitchi is a spicy fish curry that is made with fermented fish, ginger, garlic, and chili peppers. It is a popular dish in Cherrapunji and is often served with rice.
• Pumaloi : Pumaloi is a sweet rice dish that is made with sticky rice, coconut milk, and jaggery. It is a popular dessert in Cherrapunji and is often served during festivals and special occasions.

• Orange Roots : A cozy restaurant that serves Khasi and Indian cuisine with a focus on using organic, locally sourced ingredients.
• Cafe Cherrapunjee : A small cafe that offers a range of snacks, sandwiches, and beverages with beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
• Khasi Mandi : A local eatery that specializes in Khasi cuisine and is popular for its Jadoh and Doh Khlieh.
• Sari Khana : A small food stall that serves delicious local dishes such as Doh Neiiong and Tungrymbai.
• Dylan's Cafe : A small cafe located near Nohkalikai Falls that serves delicious burgers, sandwiches, and coffee. It is popular among tourists and locals alike for its scenic location and chilled-out ambiance.
• The Nest Cafe : A cozy restaurant that offers a range of dishes from Khasi, Indian, and Continental cuisines. It has a beautiful outdoor seating area surrounded by greenery and is perfect for a relaxed meal or evening drink.
• Orange Sunset Viewpoint Cafe : A small cafe that offers snacks and beverages with stunning views of the sunset over the hills.

• Ramakrishna Mission Museum : The Ramakrishna Mission Museum is in Cherrapunji and is dedicated to the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda. The museum has several exhibits, including photographs, books, and personal belongings of Swami Vivekananda. The museum also has a meditation hall where visitors can meditate and reflect.
• Dainthlen Art Gallery : The Dainthlen Art Gallery is located about 5 kilometers from Cherrapunji and is a popular destination for art enthusiasts. The gallery has a collection of paintings, sculptures, and other art forms created by local artists. Visitors can also purchase art pieces from the gallery.
• Khasi Heritage Village : The Khasi Heritage Village is located about 13 kilometers from Cherrapunji and is a living museum that showcases the culture and traditions of the Khasi people. The village has several exhibits, including traditional houses, handicrafts, and musical instruments. Visitors can also participate in cultural activities and learn about the local way of life.
• Mawkdok Dympep Valley View : The Mawkdok Dympep Valley View is located about 10 kilometers from Cherrapunji, and it features a gallery that displays the work of local artists.

• Behdienkhlam Festival : The Behdienkhlam Festival is one of the most important festivals celebrated in Cherrapunji. The festival is held annually in July and is a celebration of the town's agricultural prosperity. The festival features a procession of men carrying large wooden poles, which are believed to bring good luck to the community.
• Ka Pomblang Nongkrem Festival : The Ka Pomblang Nongkrem Festival is another important festival celebrated in Cherrapunji. The festival is held annually in November and is a celebration of the Khasi community's harvest season. The festival features traditional dance performances, music, and rituals.
• Siju Cave Festival : The Siju Cave Festival is a popular event held in the nearby village of Siju. The festival is held annually in February and is a celebration of the village's natural beauty and cultural heritage. The festival features cultural performances, adventure activities like trekking and caving, and local cuisine.
• Autumn Festival : The Autumn Festival is a popular event held in Cherrapunji during the months of September and October. The festival features a variety of cultural events, including traditional dance performances, music, and food. The festival also showcases the town's natural beauty, with guided tours of the waterfalls and caves in the surrounding area.
• Christmas and New Year : Christmas and New Year are celebrated with great enthusiasm in Cherrapunji. The town is decorated with lights and ornaments, and there are several cultural events and performances held during this time.

• Cherrapunjee Market : The Cherrapunjee Market is a small traditional market located in the heart of the town. The market is known for its locally produced fruits, vegetables, and spices. Visitors can buy local products and interact with the locals to learn more about their way of life.
• Khliehshnong Market : Khliehshnong Market is a small local market located in the Khliehshnong area of Cherrapunji. The market is known for its fresh produce, local handicrafts, and textiles. Visitors can interact with the locals and experience the traditional way of life in Meghalaya.
• Mawkdok Market : Mawkdok Market is a small market located near the Mawkdok viewpoint in Cherrapunji. The market is known for its locally produced fruits, vegetables, and spices. Visitors can buy local products and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings.
• Hat Thymmai : The market is famous for its exotic location and geographical backdrop and offers everything from cosmetics to chocolates to even a pint of beer along with essentials such as groceries and medicines. The market is aimed at visitors and mountaineers who purchase before going for a trek.

• Orange Roots
• Eco Park Souvenir Shop
• Orange Sunset Viewpoint Cafe Shop
• Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan
• Dutta Brothers
• Sohra Departmental Store.

• Eco Park : The Eco Park in Cherrapunji is a popular tourist attraction and is located near the Seven Sisters Falls. Spread over an area of 480 acres, the park has several viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The park also has a variety of flora and fauna, and visitors can take a guided nature walk to learn more about the local ecosystem.
• Khasi Heritage Park : The Khasi Heritage Park is a beautiful garden located in the heart of Cherrapunji town. The park has several varieties of plants and flowers, and visitors can also learn about the local Khasi culture and traditions. The park also has a small museum that showcases the history and heritage of the Khasi people.
• Dainthlen Falls Park : Dainthlen Falls Park is located about 5 kilometers from Cherrapunji and is home to Dainthlen Falls. The park has several trekking trails, and visitors can take a guided trek to the falls. The park also has a small restaurant that serves local cuisine.
• Mawkdok Dympep Valley : The Mawkdok Dympep Valley is located about 10 kilometers from Cherrapunji and is a popular picnic spot. The valley has several viewpoints that offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The valley is also home to the Mawkdok Dympep Bridge, which is a popular spot for adventure activities like zip-lining and rappelling.

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The best time to visit Cherrapunji is during the months of October to May, which is considered the winter season in the region. The monsoon season in Cherrapunji starts from June and lasts until September, during which time the town receives very heavy rainfall, making it difficult to explore the area.

During the winter season, the weather in Cherrapunji is pleasant, and the temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and caves that are abundant in the region. The months of October to May are also the festival season in Cherrapunji, and visitors can witness and participate in many cultural and religious festivals during this time.