While one is the wettest place in the world, the other one, its close neighbour Cherrapunjee follows right behind on the list. In places where rains have created a way of life, a vacation to these destinations will make you relive your monsoon fantasy.
The weather in Mawsynram and Cherrapunjee remains pleasant throughout the year but monsoon still remains the masses’ personal favourite, when it comes to paying these places a visit. The landscape becomes magically misty with all shades popping out in the lush greenery. The sensation of the symphonies created by the falling raindrops and finding yourself surrounded by magnificent valleys- Cherrapunjee and Mawsynram in monsoon will transfer you to another realm.
Mawsynram is a small village in the East Khasi Hill district of Meghalaya, situated only about 60 km away from Shillong, although the driving time can reach 2-3 hours when you have Mawsynram as a destination in mind.
The Sumo Jeeps constitute a large part of the public transport system in Meghalaya. You simply hop into one at the stand, wait for it to fill up with passengers and head on out. Despite being private vehicles, they are relatively very cheap and convenient as well.
Shared sumos are available at ‘Anjali Taxi Stand’ in Shillong and cost about ₹ 60-70 , however if you want to reach the place within a restricted time schedule, you should call ahead to figure out the timings as there are only a few (2-3) that run daily to Mawsynram and back.
A private cab or taxi will cost ₹ 1500-2000 for o one-way journey. Hence, it can be quite costly for the average traveller. The shared sumos stop at a junction in Mawsynram where you can take a quick break. From there onwards, it’s a 3 km walk uphill to reach the village.
Just falling behind its neighbour Mawsynram as the second wettest place on Earth, Cherrapunjee can be accessed by National Highway 6. If you are travelling via your own vehicle, you can reach Cherrapunjee in about 3 hours or so from Guwahati, the gateway city to North East India. Unfortunately, there is no direct public transport from Guwahati to Cherrapunjee, hence you will have to travel to Shillong first.
Plan to visit Mawsynram this monsoon but haven’t finalised on a to-do list yet? Fret not, here’s a list of some things you can do in Mawsynram to have an eventful vacation in the wettest place in the world.
This is a holy cave of the Khasi tribe in the Mawsmai village. The insides of the cave are adorned with flora to grab one’s attention. The Mawsmai caves are an ideal location for cave exploration and cave diving. The cave is well-lit and presents a sight to behold under the glistening stars when the lights create a beautiful dance of their own.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: INR 10 per person
Camera- INR 15
Mawphlang is located 33 km away from Mawsynram,, this place is popular for being home to Meghalaya’s most renowned forest groves- the Sacred Forest. The forest is well-preserved as a burial site by the locals and is enriched with different kinds of flora. It is thought that many of the flowers and herbs have medicinal qualities that can cure serious diseases but these plants must be consumed within the forest.
Timings: 9:30 AM- 4:30 PM
Entry fee: INR 10 per person
INR 10 per camera
INR 50 per vehicle
Extra charges: An English-speaking Khasi guide charges 300 rupees for a half hour walk, and 500 rupees for an hour. It’s compulsory to hire one. You can pay extra to be taken deeper into the forest.
The trail is 16km long and covers waterfalls, horse tracks and the scenic beauty of the Khasi hills. It usually takes around 4 hours to cover the trek and it is best enjoyed in a group. The entry point of the David Scott Trail is at Mawphlang. The monsoon rain makes the trek all the more mesmerizing as each step is awarded with another picture-perfect frame.
Here’s a list of things you can do in Cherrapunjee to get the best out of this hidden gem during your monsoon vacation.
In this picturesque town, bridges aren’t built, they are grown with care for centuries until they become a mark of the region. The famous root bridges of Cherrapunjee are an utter delight to the eyes of a newcomer. The experience of travelling in a place wherein people are so connected with nature, would certainly leave an imprint on your mind.
Tip: While visiting bridges in comparatively remote areas, you should always be accompanied by a local guide.
At a distance of 24 km from Cherrapunji and 30 km from Shillong, the Mawkdok Dympep Valley is a popular tourist spot to visit in the town. The Duwan Sing Syiem Bridge provides a splendid view of the entire valley and as the pristine valley is untouched by commercialization, the scenic beauty is breathtaking.
Besides its visual appeal, the valley also has activities like zip lining to get your adrenaline pumping. One can also try on traditional Khasi dresses and take photographs here. Many shops around the region also provide good opportunities to buy souvenirs and local goods.
Timings: 6 AM- 6 PM
Zip lining cost: ₹ 400- ₹800 per person
Being a host to many famous waterfalls, you can take out one day from your vacation and visit all these magnificent waterfalls of Cherrapunjee.
To name a few, Nohkalikai Falls, Kynrem Falls Dainthlen Falls, Wah Kaba Falls, are the most popular tourist destinations. The cascading water from steep hills and the varying scenery each waterfall provides will surely leave you speechless.
The monsoon season only adds to the beauty of these places and leaves you with amazing memories and even more amazing pictures.
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