INTRODUCTION
Cherrapunji in the state o Meghalaya takes the record of being the second wettest place on earth with a rainfall record of 2,300 cm.But however according to a recent study this title is taken away by Mawsynram, 55 kilometers from Shillong.Cherrapunji is noted for its orange groves, orange honey and the limestone caves.Cherrapunji is situated at a distance of about 56 km away from Shillong and at an altitude of about 4,500 feet .The Guinness Book of World Records has notes carrying about this misty valleys as the wettest place on earth, the place where the rainfall can be recorded in feet rather than in millimeters. The other main feature of Cherrapunji is that it houses the world's fourth highest waterfall the Nohkalikai Falls which is at a distance of 5 km away from Cherrapunji.This land of pristine beauty is the only place in India which has the monsoon season throughout the year. One of the other major attractions of Cherrapunji is the living bridges where for years and years people have developed techniques for growing roots of trees into large bridges. The process takes 10�15 years and the bridges typically last hundreds of years, the oldest ones in use being over 500 years old.
LOCATION
Cherrapunji in the north eastern state of Meghalaya is situated at an altitude of 1,484 meters high in the southern part of the Khasi Hills, facing the plains of Bangladesh. It coordinates at 25.30�N 91.70�E.BEST TIME TO VISIT
The ideal time to visit Cherrapunji is between the months of September to October.HISTORY
Cherrapunji was initially named as Sohra, pronounced as "Churra" by the British. But however now again the government of Meghalaya is decided to refer Cherrapunji by its original name. There are evidences for this place being under the British for a period like one can see the monument of David Scott who was the British Administrator in NE India, 1802�31.Though the place receive rainfall throughout the year irrigation is not possible here because of heavy rain the topsoil is washed away and as a result of this you can see encroachment of the people into the forest.PLACES OF INTERESTS
Nohkalikai Waterfalls
This waterfall is situated at a distance of about 5 km away from Cherrapunji.
The waterfall starts off as a clear bubbling stream and turns into a majestic waterfall gushing down the rocky precipice into a deep gorge.
Thangkharang Park
It gives a magnificent view of the criss-crossed plains with wide rivers on their final leg to their journey to the sea are visible from this hilltop.
Another main attraction of this park is the 200 feet giant Koh-ramhah, a natural single rock formation, shaped like an upside down basket.
Kynrem Waterfall
The Kynrem Falls which falls from an altitude of 1000 feet high can be seen from across the park. It is supposed to be the highest waterfall in the state.Double Decker Root Bridge
Dainthlen Waterfalls
The Dainthlen waterfalls are one of the ideal places for picnics and the drive to this place is very pleasant with the scenic beauty around. There is a village nearby Rangjyrthei, which should not be missed.Khasi monoliths
It is quite adventurous and interesting to explore this place.
Elsewhere around Cherrapunji, Khasi monoliths which are the stones in memory of their ancestors lie scattered around.
Mawsmai Falls
Other places of interest in Cherrapunji are the Kshaid Dain Thlen Falls, Nohsngithiang falls, Cherrapunji Meteorological Observatory, Ramakrishna Mission Museum, First Presbyterian Church, David Scott Memorial, etc.
SHOPPING
The other items which come under the shopping list includes cane, bamboo and wooden handicraft items
EAT OUTS
1.Circuit House ACCOMMODATIONS
1.Cherrapunji Holiday Resort |
Travel Guide
Travel Information
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GETTING THERE
By Air
Pawan Hans has provided a Dauphin helicopter to Govt. of Meghalaya for running regular passenger services on Guwahati- Shillong - Tura sector. You can take a bus or taxi to Cherrapunji, after reaching Shillong.
By Rail
Cherrapunji is 60 km from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. A steep motorable road, are available, which leads up to Cherrapunji. Buses and taxis ply to Cherrapunji from Shillong.
By Road
Guwahati (181 km) is the nearest railhead to Cherrapunji. You can either take a bus or hire a taxi from the Paltan Bazaar bus stand in Guwahati.