Nohkalikai Falls, dramatically cascading from the edge of the Cherrapunji Plateau in Meghalaya, is not only the tallest plunge waterfall in India—with a staggering drop of 335 meters (1,115 feet)—but also one of the most visually arresting natural wonders in the country. Set amidst the lush, rain-soaked landscapes of Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on Earth, the falls are a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of Northeast India and the deep cultural narratives that shape the region.
The Tragic Legend Behind the Name
The name “Nohkalikai” translates from the Khasi language as “the leap of Ka Likai“, a direct reference to a heart-wrenching local legend that infuses the site with a sense of poignancy and reverence. According to Khasi folklore, the story centers on a woman named Likai from the village of Rangjyrteh, upstream from the falls. After the untimely death of her husband, Likai was left to raise her infant daughter alone, eking out a living as a porter—a physically demanding job that required her to spend long hours away from home.
Driven by the hope of providing her daughter with a father figure, Likai remarried. However, her new husband grew increasingly jealous of the attention Likai lavished on her child, feeling neglected and resentful. In a fit of twisted rage, he committed an unthinkable act: while Likai was away at work, he murdered the child, cooked her flesh, and served it as a meal, discarding the head and bones to hide the evidence.
When Likai returned, exhausted and hungry, she ate the meal prepared for her, unaware of its gruesome origin. It was only after finishing her food and reaching for her customary betel nut that she discovered a severed finger in the basket. The horrifying realization that she had unknowingly eaten her own child drove her into a frenzy of grief and madness. Brandishing a hatchet to keep villagers at bay, she ran to the edge of the plateau and leapt off, ending her life in the very spot that now bears her name.
A Natural Wonder in the Heart of Meghalaya
Beyond its tragic legend, Nohkalikai Falls is a marvel of nature. The falls are fed by rainwater collected on the summit of the East Khasi Hills, making their flow particularly powerful during the monsoon season. In the drier months, the volume of water diminishes, revealing a different but equally captivating aspect of the landscape.
At the base of the falls lies a strikingly turquoise plunge pool, its color a result of mineral deposits and the purity of the water. The pool is encircled by rugged rocks and dense forest, creating a scene of wild, untouched beauty.
The Surrounding Landscape and Biodiversity
The region around Nohkalikai is enveloped in lush green forests, home to a remarkable diversity of plant and animal life. The constant mist and rainfall nurture a thriving ecosystem, making the area a paradise for nature lovers and those interested in botany or birdwatching. The forested slopes and cliffs provide not only a dramatic backdrop to the falls but also a habitat for many endemic species.
Adventure and Exploration
Nohkalikai Falls is a magnet for adventurous travelers. The site offers several trekking routes, each providing a unique perspective on the falls and the surrounding landscape. The most popular trek leads visitors to the edge of the falls, a journey that takes about two hours and traverses grassy plateaus, dense forests, and fossil-strewn riverbeds. Along the way, trekkers encounter crystal-clear streams and natural pools, perfect for a refreshing dip.
For the more daring, a steeper and more challenging trek descends to the base of the falls. This route involves scrambling over boulders and navigating slippery paths, especially treacherous during the rainy season. The reward is an up-close view of the waterfall’s thunderous descent and the opportunity to swim in the cool, turquoise waters of the plunge pool.
Tourism and Cultural Significance
Nohkalikai Falls has become a symbol of tourism in Meghalaya, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The main viewpoint, accessible by a short drive from Cherrapunji, offers panoramic vistas and is equipped with facilities for tourists. However, to truly appreciate the grandeur and atmosphere of the falls, many choose to venture further, either trekking to the edge or descending to the base.
The falls also serve as a poignant reminder of the region’s rich oral traditions and the enduring power of local legends. The story of Ka Likai is not merely a tale of personal tragedy but a reflection on the complexities of human emotion, the consequences of jealousy, and the resilience of women in Khasi society.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Nohkalikai Falls is during the monsoon months (June to September), when the rainfall is at its peak and the falls are at their most spectacular. However, visitors should be prepared for heavy rain and slippery trails. The post-monsoon period offers clearer skies and easier trekking conditions, though the volume of water may be reduced.
Conclusion
Nohkalikai Falls is more than just a natural spectacle—it is a place where nature and legend intertwine, offering visitors a profound experience that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. Whether drawn by the sheer scale of the waterfall, the allure of adventure, or the haunting tale of Ka Likai, travelers to this corner of Meghalaya are sure to leave with memories that linger long after the mist has cleared.
