Digital Desk: The Seven Sisters Waterfalls also known as the Nohsngithiang Falls, is a magnificent cascade that is sited in Meghalaya and is known as one of the best waterfalls in India. Located near the Mawsmai village in the Cherrapunji location, this waterfall earns its name from seven distinct streams that flow down the layered limestone cliffs, falling from a height of around 315 meters. In this article, let us talk about this spectacular waterfall that makes every Meghalaya trip unforgettable.
History of the Seven Sisters Waterfalls
Credit- Wikipedia
The Seven Sisters waterfall is known to be one of the best waterfalls during the monsoon season. Located near the Mawsmai Village, the seven sisters waterfalls holds deep cultural significance in Khasi folklore. According to one version of traditional tales, there were seven sisters who turned into waterfalls after a tragic love story. It is said that the seven sisters fell in love with seven brothers from a neighbouring village, but their love was forbidden due to family disputes and ancient customs. After the incident, the heartbroken sisters transformed themselves into the eternal waterfalls that still continues to flow down the cliff, forever weeping their lost love. Another version tells of a single suitor who tried to win the hearts of all seven sisters. Due to jealousy and heartbreak that rose among them, they chose to turn into waterfalls, forever flowing down the rugged cliffs, representing their sorrow and unity. The name “Nohsngithiang” comes from the Khasi language that translates to “the place where the seven sisters dance”. Local elders believe that during the monsoon season, people can hear the sisters singing in Khasi language. These traditional tales adds a mystical dimension to the falls making the visit to the seven sisters waterfalls more than just sightseeing.
Location
The Seven sisters waterfalls is located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya near the village of Mawsami. It is located one kilometre south of the Mawsmai village that is in East Khasi hills district. This mesmerising waterfall is a seven segmented waterfall. The water falls from a height of 315 meters (1,003 ft) and has an width of 70 meters (230 ft) making it one of the tallest waterfalls in India. To reach the Waterfalls, people need to embark on a trek through the jungle that surround the entire waterfalls. There are several trekking trails that leads to different viewpoints of the falls.
The most popular approach to the waterfalls is by road from Guwahati via Shillong but during the monsoon season, the roads tend to be difficult due to heavy rainfall.
Best time to Visit
Cherrapunji is one of the wettest places on earth and the weather remains pleasant throughout the year.
The best time to visit the Nohsngithiang falls is during the monsoon season which is from June to September. During the season, the water remains at its peak. The heavy rainfall fills the seven streams, creating a breathtaking sight. This time of the year offers the visitors with scenic view of the Seven Sister falls as it flows with immense fury.
People also visit during the months of October and November. The weather is clearer but waterfalls may not be intense as in monsoon, but the views are still very stunning. During the winter season which is from December to February, the water flow of the falls is less due to limited rainfall.
Activities to Do
The Seven Sisters Waterfalls offer incredible photography opportunities, especially during the monsoon when the waterfalls are most dramatic and intense. The misty surrounding, lush greenery, and vibrant rainbows formed by the sunlight on the water enables photographers to take scenic photographs. Sunrise and sunset offer the most magical lighting for capturing the beauty of the falls. During appropriate weather conditions, there are various rock climbing and rappelling opportunities in the surrounding areas.
There are also Khasi villages that provides an insight into Meghalaya’s traditional way of life. The tourists can interact with locals, learn about their history, and witness their unique stilt houses made of bamboo and wood. By doing this, tourists achieve an opportunity to taste Meghalaya food like Jadoh, Tungrymbai and Pumaloi. Many small eateries around Cherrapunji serve these delicious traditional meals as well.
Conclusion
The Seven Sisters Waterfalls is a perfect blend of natural and cultural richness. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in India and is known for its mesmerising beauty. The Falls is culturally valued by the Khasi people, who believe it to be a sacred spot filled with myths. This magnificent cascade, represents the ultimate expression of why Meghalaya stands as India’s premier monsoon destination. Visiting the falls is not just about sightseeing— it’s about experiencing something mystical that reveals the rich and beautiful history of the people of Meghalaya and their land.
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