Overview
Cherrapunji (locally called Sohra) is a collection of villages perched on the East Khasi Hills plateau in Meghalaya, famous for its dramatic scenery, thundering waterfalls, and the extraordinary living root bridges crafted by the Khasi people over generations. The landscape is impossibly green, shrouded in mist, with deep valleys plunging down toward the Bangladesh plains below.
Day Trips · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Accommodation
Guesthouses and homestays are plentiful and cheap; book ahead for weekend visits. "Guesthouse" often means a family home—contact them directly rather than expecting a front desk.
Food
Khasi tea stalls offer the cheapest meals (about half restaurant prices) but may have limited English. Local specialties include rice-based dishes.
Language
Khasi is the local language; English and Hindi are widely understood in tourist areas but not guaranteed in villages.
Safety
Road travel can be hazardous, especially in monsoon season when landslides are common. Carry rain gear year-round and sturdy shoes for treks.
Transport
Cherrapunji has no railway or airport; access is by road from Shillong (2 hours) or Guwahati (3-4 hours). Within town, local taxis and shared sumos connect Upper and Lower Sohra.
Weather
Peak monsoon (June-July) brings heavy rainfall but spectacular waterfalls; dry season (November-February) is cooler (around 5°C in January) and better for trekking.