Sohra, one of the wettest places on earth

Sohra (erstwhile Cherrapunji) is must visit in Meghalaya. You can either do a day trip from Shillong or stay overnight in Cherrapunji. If you are planning to trek to Double Decker Bridge, better to stay overnight in Cherrapunji.

The drive from Shillong to Cherrapunji itself has been one my most scenic trips. The road condition was good, and the mountain scenery fantastic, though a bit cloudy. The distance is a little over 50kms, and the drive takes less than 2 hours. Cherrapunji(4600 ft.) is actually located at a altitude little lower than of Shillong(~5,000 ft).

It was once the wettest place on earth

Cherrapunji was once the wettest place on earth, a distinction that now belongs to nearby Mawsynram, less than 15kms away on a straight line. What is unique about Cherrapunji is that it has light to moderate rains almost every other day though bulk of the heavy rain falls in the rainy season. And it is generally cloudy through out the year. Even more incredible is that in the winter/summer months, it has experienced water shortage!

What to do and see in Cherrapunji

Nohkalikai falls – At a 1115 ft., Nohkalikai is the highest plunge waterfall (waterfall without touching the cliff) in India. It forms an unusual green colored plunge pool below. It is rain dependent and can be visited any time but it is at its full glory right after the raining season.

Mawsmai Falls – Also called Seven Sisters Falls a there is a cluster of seven waterfalls. Plunges over 1000 ft. Rain dependent and when I went, there was not much of water.

Mawsmai caves – The limestone caves are quite well lit and easy to navigate. A bit narrow at certain places. You can even try Arwah caves or Krem Mawmluh caves.

Ecopark – plenty of Orchids and a view point.

Living Root Bridges – A major attraction, the Living Root Bridges have existed in Meghalaya since 19^th century CE. There are over 10 Living Root Bridges including 3-4 double decker bridge. There may be possibly more as many of the areas are not readily accessible. Most famous and most visited is the double decker bridge at Nongriat village.