If you’re planning a trip to Cherrapunji, don’t miss Nohkalikai Falls. It’s one of those places that looks even better in real life than in photos. The viewpoint is just a short walk from the parking area, so you can enjoy India’s tallest plunge waterfall without a long trek.
The waterfall isn’t famous just for its height. It’s also linked to the touching story of Ka Likai, a Khasi folk tale that makes this place even more memorable.
In this guide, we’ll help you plan your visit with the best time to go, how to reach, nearby places to explore, and simple travel tips. If this is your first trip to Meghalaya, our Complete Visitor Guide will help you plan the rest of your journey as well.
Quick Visitor Information
| Details | Information |
| Location | Sohra (Cherrapunji), East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya |
| Waterfall Type | Plunge Waterfall |
| Height | 340 metres (1,115 ft) |
| Time Required | 45–60 minutes |
| Trek Required | No |
| Parking | Available |
| Best Time to Visit | October to May for clear views, June to September for the strongest water flow |
| Suitable For | Families, Couples, Solo Travellers & Photographers |
Travel Tip: Try to visit before 10 AM. The weather is usually clearer, the crowd is smaller, and you’ll have a better chance of seeing the waterfall without heavy mist.
Why Visit Nohkalikai Falls?
If you’re already exploring Cherrapunji, Nohkalikai Falls is one place you shouldn’t skip. It’s easy to reach, doesn’t require any trekking, and the viewpoint offers one of the best views in Meghalaya.
Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or travelling solo, you’ll easily spend an hour here enjoying the view, taking photos, and simply relaxing. If the weather is on your side, you’ll also get a clear view of the beautiful blue-green pool at the bottom.
What Makes Nohkalikai Falls Special?
There are many waterfalls in Meghalaya, but Nohkalikai Falls stands out for a few reasons.
- It’s India’s tallest plunge waterfall.
- The water falls straight down in one single drop.
- You don’t need to trek to reach the viewpoint.
- The view changes every few minutes as clouds move across the valley.
- During winter, the pool below looks crystal clear, while the monsoon shows the waterfall at its most powerful.
No matter which season you visit, the experience feels different every time.
The Story Behind Nohkalikai Falls
Before you leave this place, there’s one story you should know.
The name Noh Ka Likai comes from the Khasi language.
- Noh means “to jump.”
- Ka is used before a woman’s name.
- Likai was the woman’s name.
So, Noh Ka Likai simply means “The Jump of Ka Likai.”
It’s one of Meghalaya’s most famous folk stories, and many local guides still share it with visitors standing at the viewpoint.
A Mother Who Worked Every Day for Her Daughter
Many years ago, a Khasi woman named Ka Likai lived near this area with her little daughter.
After losing her first husband, she worked as a porter, carrying heavy loads every day to earn a living. Life wasn’t easy, but everything she did was for her daughter. No matter how tired she was after work, she always came home to spend time with her child.
A New Marriage Took an Unexpected Turn
As time passed, Ka Likai got married again, hoping her daughter would have someone to care for her while she was away at work.
But her new husband couldn’t accept the love she had for her daughter. He slowly became jealous, and that jealousy turned into anger.
The Day That Changed Everything
One day, while Ka Likai was working, her husband made a terrible decision.
He killed the little girl and cooked the food before Ka Likai returned home.
After a long day of work, she came home hungry and tired. Seeing a meal ready, she ate it without knowing what had happened.
The Truth She Never Expected
After finishing her meal, Ka Likai went outside.
That’s when she noticed something lying inside a basket.
It was her daughter’s tiny fingers.
In that moment, she realised the heartbreaking truth.
The food she had just eaten was her own child.
Why the Waterfall is Called Nohkalikai
The shock was too much for Ka Likai to bear.
She ran towards the edge of the cliff and jumped.
Since then, people have called this waterfall Noh Ka Likai, meaning “The Jump of Ka Likai.”
Even today, many travellers remember this story long after they leave the viewpoint. It adds a completely different meaning to one of Meghalaya’s most beautiful waterfalls.
Best Time to Visit Nohkalikai Falls
You can visit Nohkalikai Falls at any time of the year, but the experience changes with every season.
October to February
This is the best time if you want clear views of the waterfall and the valley.
You’ll enjoy:
- Pleasant weather
- Better visibility
- Clear photos
- Comfortable sightseeing
If it’s your first trip to Meghalaya, this season is highly recommended.
March to May
The weather stays pleasant, and the surrounding hills remain green.
This is a good time if you want fewer crowds while still enjoying nice weather.
June to September (Monsoon)
If your goal is to see the waterfall at its strongest, visit during the monsoon.
The water flow becomes much more powerful, and the valley turns completely green. Just remember that heavy clouds can sometimes hide the waterfall for a while, so waiting a few minutes often gives you a much better view.
Which Season Should You Choose?
| Season | Why Visit? |
| October – February | Clear views, pleasant weather, great photography |
| March – May | Comfortable weather and fewer crowds |
| June – September | Strongest waterfall and lush green landscapes |
How to Reach Nohkalikai Falls
Reaching Nohkalikai Falls is easy, especially if you’re staying in Shillong or Cherrapunji.
From Shillong
- Distance: Around 55 km
- Travel Time: Around 2 hours
Most travellers hire a taxi or drive themselves.
If you’re travelling from Guwahati first, our Guwahati to Shillong road trip guide will help you find the best route, scenic stops, and useful travel tips along the way.
From Cherrapunji
- Distance: Around 7 km
- Travel Time: 15–20 minutes
This is one of the easiest places to include in your Cherrapunji sightseeing plan.
By Flight
The nearest airports are Shillong Airport and Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati).
If you’re flying from Delhi or another city, our guide to reaching Meghalaya by flight explains the best airport options and how to continue your journey to Sohra.
What to Expect at Nohkalikai Falls
Once you reach the viewpoint, don’t rush.
Spend a few minutes enjoying the view before taking out your camera. Depending on the weather, you might see clouds slowly moving across the valley, making the waterfall look different every few minutes.
From the viewpoint, you can enjoy:
- India’s tallest plunge waterfall
- A deep green valley
- The beautiful blue-green pool below
- Fresh mountain air
- Small local stalls selling tea, snacks, and souvenirs
If the weather is clear, you’ll get one of the best views in all of Meghalaya.
Best Things to Do at Nohkalikai Falls
Enjoy the View
Sometimes the best thing to do is simply stand back and take it all in. Spend a few minutes enjoying the peaceful surroundings before moving on to the next attraction.
Take Photos
Morning is usually the best time because the weather is clearer and the viewpoint is less crowded.
Try Local Snacks
Before leaving, stop at one of the small stalls near the parking area. You can enjoy a cup of tea, grab a quick snack, or pick up a locally made souvenir to remember your visit.
Photography Tips
If you’re planning to take photos at Nohkalikai Falls, try to reach early in the morning. The weather is usually clearer, and you’ll have a better chance of seeing the entire waterfall without thick clouds covering the view.
Here are a few simple tips:
- Visit before 10 AM for the clearest views.
- Use the main viewpoint to capture the entire waterfall and valley.
- If you’re using a phone, turn on HDR mode for better colours.
- Carry a rain cover for your camera during the monsoon.
- Be patient if the waterfall disappears behind clouds. They usually move away after a few minutes.
Can You Trek to the Bottom of Nohkalikai Falls?
This is one of the most common questions visitors ask.
The answer is No.
There isn’t a regular tourist trail that takes you to the bottom of the waterfall. Visitors can only enjoy the falls from the official viewpoint at the top.
If you’re looking for waterfalls where you can get close to the water, you can visit places like Wei Sawdong Falls or Lyngksiar Waterfall instead.
Facilities Available
Since Nohkalikai Falls is one of Meghalaya’s most popular attractions, you’ll find all the basic facilities near the viewpoint.
Available facilities include:
- Parking area
- Local food stalls
- Tea stalls
- Souvenir shops
- Public washrooms
- Seating areas
- Viewing platform
However, don’t expect restaurants or cafés right next to the viewpoint. If you’re planning lunch, it’s better to eat in Sohra before or after your visit.
Mobile Network
Most visitors get decent mobile network near the parking area and viewpoint.
Generally:
- Jio works well.
- Airtel also has good coverage.
- Mobile internet is usually available.
- During heavy rain, the signal may become weaker.
It’s still a good idea to download offline maps before leaving Shillong.
Things to Carry
You don’t need to carry a lot for this visit, but a few things will make your trip more comfortable.
Take along:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Drinking water
- Rain jacket (during monsoon)
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Camera or phone
- Power bank
- Light snacks
- Small amount of cash
If you’re travelling during the rainy season, keep your electronics in a waterproof bag.
Travel Tips
Before you leave for Nohkalikai Falls, keep these simple tips in mind.
- Reach early for better views.
- Don’t worry if clouds hide the waterfall for a few minutes.
- Wear shoes with good grip during the monsoon.
- Carry cash for snacks and shopping.
- Spend at least one hour here instead of rushing.
- Check the weather forecast before leaving Shillong.
Is Nohkalikai Falls Safe for Solo Travellers?
Yes.
Nohkalikai Falls is one of the safest tourist places in Meghalaya. Families, couples, and solo travellers visit throughout the day.
If you’re travelling alone:
- Visit during daylight hours.
- Stay near the main viewpoint.
- Avoid crossing safety barriers.
- Keep your phone charged.
Best Places to Visit Near Nohkalikai Falls
The best thing about visiting Nohkalikai Falls is that several famous attractions are just a short drive away.
Eco Park (2 km)
If you have 30–40 minutes, stop at Eco Park before leaving Sohra. The park offers wide views of the valley and is a great place to relax after visiting the waterfall.
Mawsmai Cave (6 km)
Mawsmai Cave is one of Meghalaya’s easiest caves to explore. The pathway is well maintained, making it a good option for families and first-time visitors.
Seven Sisters Falls (7 km)
Visit Seven Sisters Falls during the monsoon to see seven streams flowing down the cliff together. It’s one of the most photographed waterfalls in Meghalaya.
Arwah Cave (8 km)
If you’re interested in caves, don’t miss Arwah Cave. It’s known for its ancient marine fossils, limestone formations, and an easy forest walk.
Thangkharang Park (12 km)
This park is famous for its beautiful viewpoints overlooking the Bangladesh plains. It’s a peaceful place to spend some time before heading back
Khoh Ramhah (14 km)
Also known as the “Mushroom Rock,” Khoh Ramhah is one of the most unusual rock formations in Meghalaya and is worth a quick stop if you’re exploring Sohra.
Suggested One-Day Itinerary
If you’re staying in Shillong, here’s an easy day plan you can follow.
7:00 AM – Leave Shillong.
9:00 AM – Visit Nohkalikai Falls.
10:30 AM – Explore Mawsmai Cave.
11:30 AM – Visit Seven Sisters Falls.
1:00 PM – Lunch in Sohra.
2:30 PM – Explore Arwah Cave.
4:00 PM – Stop at Eco Park or Thangkharang Park.
6:30 PM – Reach Shillong.
This route helps you cover most of Sohra’s top attractions in one day without rushing.
Travel Responsibly
Nohkalikai Falls is one of Meghalaya’s biggest natural attractions, so let’s help keep it clean.
- Don’t throw plastic bottles or food wrappers.
- Stay inside the viewing area.
- Don’t climb over safety railings.
- Respect local people and their culture.
- Support local shops whenever possible.
Small actions like these help protect the place for future travellers.
Plan Your Meghalaya Trip with TripGuruGo
A visit to Nohkalikai Falls is more than just ticking off another tourist spot. It’s a place where beautiful views, peaceful surroundings, and a memorable local story come together. Whether you’re planning a short trip to Sohra or a longer Meghalaya road trip, TripGuruGo helps you discover the best places, comfortable stays, reliable transport, and local experiences to make your journey smooth and memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Nohkalikai Falls?
Nohkalikai Falls is 340 metres (1,115 feet) tall, making it India’s tallest plunge waterfall.
Is there any trekking involved?
No. The viewpoint is only a short walk from the parking area.
How much time should I spend here?
Around 45 minutes to 1 hour is enough for sightseeing, photography, and exploring the viewpoint.
Which is the best season to visit?
October to February is best for clear views, while the monsoon offers the strongest waterfall.
Can I swim at Nohkalikai Falls?
No. Visitors cannot reach the bottom of the waterfall, so swimming is not possible.
Is parking available?
Yes, parking is available near the entrance.
Can I visit with children or senior citizens?
Yes. Since there isn’t any difficult trekking, it’s a good place for families and senior travellers.
Which places can I visit on the same day?
You can easily combine Eco Park, Mawsmai Cave, Seven Sisters Falls, Arwah Cave, Thangkharang Park, and Khoh Ramhah with your visit to Nohkalikai Falls.
Apurv jain is a travel seo and content writer who specializes in creating well-researched and engaging travel content. His work focuses on destinations, itineraries, travel guides, and practical tips that help readers plan memorable and hassle-free journeys.
