If there’s one experience that truly captures the raw, untouched charm of the region, it’s exploring the Best Waterfalls in Northeast India. The moment you step into this lush corner of the country, the air shifts—cooler, cleaner, filled with the distant roar of cascading water. Imagine the thrill of rounding a forest bend and suddenly finding a towering waterfall tumbling down ancient cliffs, soaking the earth in mist. That moment stays with you.
For passionate travelers, adventure seekers, and nature lovers, the Best Waterfalls in Northeast India promise a journey filled with surprises—hidden trails, emerald valleys, tribal villages, cloud-kissed mountains, and the refreshing splash of icy streams.
Let’s wander through the Northeast, one waterfall at a time.
Standing tall at 1,115 feet, Nohkalikai Falls near Cherrapunji is a jaw-dropping spectacle—and one of the Best Waterfalls in Northeast India. As you approach the viewpoint, mist swirls in from nowhere, and the sound of the waterfall grows like a heartbeat echoing across the valley.
Best Season: October to April (clear skies and full flow after monsoon)
Travel Tip: Visit just after sunrise when the sunlight hits the turquoise plunge pool.
Local Treat: Try warm, freshly steamed Jadoh from the nearby stalls.
As the name suggests, this waterfall splits into seven streams, flowing gracefully down rugged limestone cliffs. During monsoon, these seven curtains of water come alive in full glory—almost like a giant natural theater.
A traveler once leaned over and whispered, “This looks like the mountains are crying.” And it truly does.
Must-Know: The falls are best viewed after heavy rains when all seven streams appear.
Adventure Tip: Pair your visit with the nearby Mawsmai Caves for an epic half-day itinerary.
Drive a few kilometers from Sohra, and you’ll hear Dainthlen before you see it. The waterfall is wide, powerful, and framed by giant natural rock formations. According to Khasi folklore, this is where villagers defeated a mythical serpent—its story still told in local households.
Perfect For: Sunset photography, picnics on grassy meadows, and nature walks.
Safety Tip: Avoid stepping too close to the waterfall edge—the rocks are slippery.
Gently flowing through three distinct layers, Elephant Falls is one of the most accessible Best Waterfalls in Northeast India. Visitors stroll down charming wooden bridges and stone steps, making it feel like a peaceful rainforest escape right outside Shillong city.
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings for soft light and fewer crowds.
Local Cuisine Nearby: Try Dohneiiong and rice cakes at local cafés.
This is the waterfall you may have seen all over Instagram—the emerald pool, the stepped cascades, the dramatic cliffside trail. But nothing compares to seeing Wei Sawdong in person. The trail down is steep, filled with bamboo ladders, but the reward? Simply magical.
When you stand at the final viewpoint, the world goes quiet except for the rhythmic fall of water.
Best Season: November to March
Travel Tip: Hire a local guide; the trail can be confusing for first-timers.
Tucked deep within forested hills, Vantawng Falls cascades with mesmerizing force. This 750-foot waterfall is surrounded by bamboo forests, wild orchids, and rare bird species.
You can’t go all the way to the base due to safety restrictions, but the viewpoint offers incredible panoramic views.
Best Experience: Combine your visit with a local homestay for authentic Mizo hospitality.
Best Season: September to January
Often called Jang Falls, Nuranang is one of the most cinematic Best Waterfalls in Northeast India. Often covered in mist, with rainbows forming at its base, this waterfall gives you goosebumps the moment you see it.
A traveler once exclaimed, “I feel like I’ve stepped into a movie scene!”—and that’s exactly how it feels.
Best Time: March–June and September–November
Nearby Attractions: Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Jang village markets
Located near Wokha, Khandrong feels untouched and serene. The water flows over smooth black rocks forming natural pools perfect for dipping your feet after a long drive.
Perfect For: Road-trippers exploring Wokha, bird watchers, and peace seekers
Budget Tip: Entry is free; carry snacks and water.
If adventure is your travel style, Rainbow Falls will steal your heart. The trek begins from Nongriat village—famous for the Living Root Bridge. As you cross jungle trails, bamboo bridges, and streams, you slowly hear the booming sound of the waterfall.
And yes—the name is real. During sunny days, a natural rainbow arcs right across the waterfall’s mist.
Trek Duration: 2–3 hours from Nongriat
Must-Do: Take a dip in the icy blue pool (if you can handle the cold!)
Often overshadowed by its famous cousins, Langshiang is actually one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Located in West Khasi Hills, it’s a dream for slow travelers craving solitude.
The best part? You may have the entire viewpoint to yourself.
Travel Tip: Combine with a visit to Mawphanlur, the “Switzerland of Meghalaya.”
Best Season: November to April
Best Time to Explore the Region
October–April: clear skies, great photography
June–September: powerful waterfalls, lush greenery (but heavy rains)
Budget Tips
Homestays are cheaper and offer authentic experiences.
Hire local guides instead of tour packages.
Carry light snacks; remote areas often lack shops.
Local Cuisine to Try
Meghalaya: Jadoh, Nakham Bitchi
Mizoram: Bai stew, Grilled pork
Arunachal: Thukpa, Zan, bamboo shoot pickles
What to Pack
Waterproof shoes
Light raincoat
Power bank
Travel insurance for trekking
Camera with wide-angle lens
Exploring the Best Waterfalls in Northeast India is more than a journey—it’s a reminder of nature’s quiet power. Each waterfall tells a story: of mountains sculpted over centuries, of tribal legends passed down generations, of forests that still breathe freely.
Standing before these cascading giants—feeling the spray on your face, the ground trembling beneath your feet—you realize why the Northeast is called India’s last untouched frontier.
Whether you’re planning a week-long adventure or drifting through the region slowly, let these waterfalls guide you deeper into the magic of the Northeast.
