Rainbow Falls: A Spectacular Natural Wonder You Can't Miss

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

1. Timings:

Rainbow Falls doesn’t have official timings as it is a natural site rather than a structured tourist attraction.

Daylight Hours: The best time to visit is during daylight hours, typically from around 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This ensures you have enough natural light for the trek and to enjoy the falls.

2. Distance:

Approximate Distance: 70-80 kilometers (43-50 miles).

Trek Distance: The trek to Rainbow Falls from Mawsmai Village is approximately 5-7 kilometers (3-4.5 miles) one way.

Trek Duration: The trek usually takes around 2-3 hours each way, depending on your pace and trail conditions.

3. Ideal Season:

Season: The best time to visit is during the post-monsoon season, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the waterfall is full.

Avoid Monsoon: During the monsoon (June to September), the trek can be dangerous due to slippery paths and heavy rains.

4. How to Get There:

From Shillong:

By Car/Taxi: The most convenient way to reach Rainbow Falls is to hire a taxi or drive from Shillong to Tyrna Village. The journey takes around 2-3 hours.

Public Transport: There are shared taxis or buses that can take you from Shillong to Cherrapunji or nearby areas, but these may not take you directly to Tyrna. From Cherrapunji, you can take another taxi to reach Tyrna village.

5. Parking:

Location: Tyrna is the nearest village where most tourists park their cars or bikes before starting the trek to Nongriat and Rainbow Falls.

Parking Space: There are a few informal parking spots in the village where you can leave your vehicle. These are usually safe but may be basic in terms of facilities.

6. Height:

Rainbow Falls in Meghalaya has an estimated height of around 100-120 feet (30-36 meters).

7. Activities:

Trekking – Enjoy a scenic and moderately challenging trek through lush forests, rivers, and suspension bridges.

Photography – Capture the stunning waterfall and its famous rainbow effect.

Swimming – Take a dip in the natural pool at the base of the falls.

Birdwatching – Spot various bird species in the surrounding forest.

Relaxation – Unwind with a picnic or meditate in the serene environment.

8. Food:

No Food Stalls at the Falls – There are no eateries or food stalls at Rainbow Falls itself.

Packed Meals – It’s recommended to carry your own snacks, packed meals, and water for the trek.

9. Stay:

There are no accommodations directly at Rainbow Falls, but you can stay in nearby villages or towns

Guesthouses and Homestays – Nongriat, located near Rainbow Falls, offers several simple guesthouses and homestays run by locals. They provide basic amenities like food and shelter for trekkers.

Hotels and Resorts – Cherrapunji, located about 15-20 kilometers from Tyrna (the starting point of the trek), has more comfortable accommodations, including hotels and resorts.

10. Tips:

Non-Slip Shoes: Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes suitable for trekking and walking on wet and uneven surfaces.

Hire a Guide: If you're unfamiliar with the area or the trek, hiring a local guide is recommended for safety and navigation.

Overnight Stay: Consider staying at Nongriat overnight to split the trek into two manageable parts and enjoy the scenery without rushing.

11. Trek Details:

Trek Duration: The trek to Rainbow Falls typically takes about 4-6 hours round trip.

Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult. The trail involves steep descents and ascents, and some parts can be slippery.

Guides: It’s advisable to hire a local guide for safety and to enhance your experience.

12. Nearby Attractions:

Mawsmai Caves: Explore these fascinating limestone caves nearby.

Cherrapunji: A visit to Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on earth, offers more natural wonders.