Rainbow Falls — Attraction in Meghalaya

🌈 A Hidden Treasure Worth the Trek

Nestled deep in the Khasi Hills, Rainbow Falls lies about 18 km from Cherrapunji and roughly 3 km beyond the Double-Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat . This secluded cascade spills into a stunning turquoise pool, and on sunny mornings, a delicate arc of rainbow mist dances across its waters—hence the evocative name .

🥾 The Adventure Trail

Getting There: The journey begins at Tyrna, descending over 3,500 stone steps to Nongriat, then taking a well-defined hiking trail through bamboo groves and local villages .

Distance & Difficulty: Expect a rugged 3 km trek each way from the Double-Decker Bridge—completed in around 1.5–2 hours one way—through ever-changing terrain .

Trail Conditions: Rough, uneven, and often muddy paths—especially during monsoon months. Sturdy shoes, early starts (by 6–7 AM), and plenty of water are essential .

🌊 The Falls Experience

Scenery & Serenity: Upon arrival, you’re greeted by a multi-tiered waterfall cascading into a clear, blue-green pool surrounded by lush forest. The secluded location means you can often enjoy private moments here .

Rainbow Delight: Sunlight and mist combine beautifully in clear weather, creating shimmering rainbows over the falls—especially during hours of direct sunshine .

Swimming & Relaxation: Perfect for a refreshing dip—avoid standing directly beneath the plunge, but enjoy the cool waters around the pool. Note: slippery rocks mean caution is required .

🛖 Facilities & Visitors’ Tips

Local Facilities: No entry fee for the falls, though parking or bridge entry may cost around ₹20. A few small shops near the falls offer snacks and drinks; basic rest and homestay options are available in Nongriat and Tyrna .

Guides & Safety: Hiring a local guide (₹200–300) is recommended for first-timers or solo travelers; groups may rely on trail signage .

Best Time to Visit:

Post-monsoon (September–November): perfect water flow, lush surroundings, and good visibility for rainbows .

Summer (Feb–April): calmer waters, lovely for swimming, and increased sunshine for vivid rainbows .

🌟 Why It Stands Out

Pure & Unspoiled – The isolated location protects it from commercial clutter, offering a raw, natural vibe .

Visual Spectacle – Turquoise waters framed by forest cliffs make a surreal, postcard-worthy scene .

Magical Atmosphere – That fleeting rainbow, misty surroundings, chirping birds, and fresh air create a truly immersive experience .

Cultural Connection – Trekking through Khasi villages, connecting with locals, and witnessing their traditions adds depth beyond scenery .

🎒 Smart Tips Before You Go

Footwear: Waterproof trekking shoes with good grip.

Timing: Start by sunrise; plan to return by mid-afternoon to avoid dark trails .

Pack Light, Pack Right: Bring water, energy bars, rain gear, first aid, and a dry bag for electronics.

Stay Options: Overnight in Tyrna or Nongriat—homestays like Serene or Traveler’s Nest offer warm hospitality .

Guided Exploration: A local guide adds safety, insight, and helps you discover hidden gems en route .

Leave No Trace: The community maintains the area’s pristine charm—carry back all litter, and respect...

It's a beautiful falls with eye catching green water that you will find worth the trek. This takes about 1-1.5 hrs of forest trail trekking to reach rainbow falls from double decker root bridge. It's tougher route than the double decker one as you don't have proper steps, it's mostly stone setup as steps and it's highs and lows throughout the route. You don't have to pack too many water bottles with you as it might be heavy to carry, also there are many shops on the way you can get a bottle or juice as needed. Absolutely unnecessary to pack for the entire trek. Carry a glucose pack each, it was life saver for us. Everytime you are tired, have a spoon or two it gives instant energy and you will magically have strength to cope for next 20-30 mins. There was a shop in the final location where we had some Maggie and snacks. I suggest you carry very minimal snacks like energy bars and some biscuits just in case you are hungry before reaching the place. There is restrooms available as well in some places. It was pretty manageable for us. It took us 1 to reach rainbow falls from double decker root bridge and return took us little less than an hour to return to double decker root bridge. From double decker root bridge to starting point of the trek took us 1.5 hrs and it was super difficult as it was very steep uphill. Also our guide said we were quite fast unlike other tourists. So please don't expect everyone to complete at this speed.

Guides are all over the place when you start the trek. Remember you don't need this. You need to pay 600 till double decker root bridge or 1000 till rainbow falls. The only confusion you will have is in the start where the steps are going up and one goes down on your left. Choose the steps that goes down on your left (this will take you to double decker) . Everything from there is pretty straight forward. There is no room to get lost whatsoever guide tells you. We hired guide because of the initial confusion. However I highly recommend you taking a guide if you have kids or heavy bags. Though they aren't helpful to guide you through the route, they can carry your bags and take pictures for you, they also carried kids. I'm sure that's quite useful that way. Regarding the sticks that people rent in the start of the trek, it's totally useless unless you have knee pain or elderly person who needs support to walk. Stick will also add weight and will be a hindrance to your speed it's much easier without stick. You always have rails to hold on to or you can sit on steps as you need to rest. Staying hydrated and going in steady pace is the key to...

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the mesmerizing Rainbow Falls in Meghalaya, and I must say, it was an experience that left me awestruck. Nestled amidst the lush greenery and rolling hills of Meghalaya, this hidden gem is a sight to behold.

The journey to Rainbow Falls was an adventure in itself. As we trekked through the dense forests, we were treated to breathtaking vistas and the soothing sounds of nature. The trail was well-marked, making it relatively easy to navigate. Along the way, we encountered vibrant flora and fauna, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.

Upon reaching the falls, I was instantly captivated by its sheer beauty. The water cascading down the rocky cliffs created a mesmerizing spectacle. The mist that enveloped the surroundings added a touch of magic to the scene. As sunlight filtered through the mist, it formed a stunning rainbow that arched over the waterfall, hence the name "Rainbow Falls."

The sight of the rainbow blending with the lush green surroundings was truly a feast for the eyes. It felt like stepping into a fairytale. I couldn't resist taking numerous photos to capture the ethereal beauty of the falls. Every angle offered a unique perspective, and I found myself spellbound by the play of light and water.

The tranquility of the place was another highlight. Far away from the bustling city, the sounds of nature were the only soundtrack to our visit. It was a serene and peaceful retreat, allowing me to reconnect with myself and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.

I must commend the local authorities for maintaining the area so well. The path leading to the falls was clean and well-maintained, and there were safety precautions in place to ensure a secure visit. The presence of knowledgeable guides further enhanced the experience, as they shared interesting facts and stories about the falls and the region.

If you're planning a trip to Meghalaya, I highly recommend including Rainbow Falls in your itinerary. It's a true hidden gem that showcases the untouched beauty of nature. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or simply someone seeking solace, this place has something to offer everyone.

Note: It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and carry sufficient water and snacks during the trek. Also, be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity as the trail involves some...