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Elephant Falls: The Most Attractive Destination in Shillong, Meghalaya

Elephant Falls: The Most Attractive Destination in Shillong, Meghalaya

Elephant Falls

Shillong, the beautiful capital city of Meghalaya, is famous for its scenery, lush green surroundings, and beautiful waterfalls. Among all the natural wonders that are there in and around the city, Elephant Falls stands out as one of the most attractive and charming tourist destinations. This waterfall is situated just a few kilometers from Shillong. It is one of the perfect destinations for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat into the beauty of nature. In this article, we are going to talk about everything you should know about Elephant Falls, such as its history, significance, and the best ways to enjoy your visit.

Introduction to Elephant Falls

Elephant Falls, located approximately 12 kilometers from Shillong, is one of the most popular waterfalls in Meghalaya. The waterfall owes its name to a huge boulder close to the falls that appeared like an elephant; however, years ago, in an earthquake, the boulder was destroyed, but the legacy of its peculiar shape continues today as it is still called Elephant Falls.

Elephant Falls has beautiful scenery with its picturesque landscape. It can be a spot where visitors must experience Shillong's charm of a natural landscape. Essentially, the fall is a combination of three small waterfalls that cascade downwards in a step fashion, presenting an effect by flowing down into a deep valley.

Location of Elephant Falls

The Elephant Falls Shillong is located deep inside the Khasi Hills, a place well known for its hilly landscape, dense forests, and breathtaking views. It is just one drive from the city center of Shillong, making it an easy day trip for locals and tourists alike. The road is paved well, and the journey is something worthwhile as it offers views of the surrounding hills and forests.

The location of Elephant Falls Shillong Meghalaya lies near the Upper Shillong village, and by taking taxis or private vehicles, the falls are accessible. Elephant falls are one of the most beautiful places that every tourist who travels to Shillong must have visited. You could reach the elephant falls by following the Shillong-Nongthymmai Road.

What's Special About Elephant Falls?

Elephant Falls is not just another waterfall; it has its own charm that attracts visitors year after year. Here are a few reasons why Elephant Falls Meghalaya is so special:

1. A Beautiful Three-Tier Waterfall

The waterfall is made up of three stages or tiers. The water from the higher regions of the Khasi Hills flows down in these tiers, creating a stunning visual display. The water splashes dramatically at each tier, and as it cascades down, it creates a refreshing mist that adds to the natural beauty of the surroundings. The sight of the water flowing over the rocks is peaceful and soothing, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature.

2. Surrounded by Lush Greenery

The falls are surrounded by dense green forests, which add beauty to the site. The lush vegetation around the falls creates a peaceful atmosphere, and Elephant Falls is an ideal destination for nature walks and photography. The air is cool and fresh, and the sound of water cascading down harmoniously combines with birds singing and the rustling of leaves in the breeze.

3. For All Types of Visitors

Some waterfalls are a long trek or a long hike from the nearest drop-off. But with Elephant Falls Shillong, that's not the case. Well-trodden pathways that take tourists through the falls, thus it can be visited by anyone. It has stairs leading up to the falls where you can view the entire three-tiered drop from various viewing stations.

4. Ideal for Photography

For photography lovers, Elephant Falls Shillong is like a dream come true. The play of water, light, and shadows plus the natural beauty of the surrounding area has brought into them numerous opportunities for great photographs. You could click pictures of the flowing water and the surroundings or the reflections in the water-you need not worry about it not being fit for posting on Instagram.

5. Serene Ambiance

Being one of the main tourist destinations in Shillong, Elephant Falls continues to give a peaceful atmosphere. The voice of the fall and the swaying of trees inside create a peaceful environment, making one forget all the tension and enjoy nature in its best form.

The Best Time to Visit Elephant Falls

The best time to visit Elephant Falls in Shillong is in the cooler months from September to April. The weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and photography. The monsoon season, June to August, is also a good time to visit if you want to see the falls in all their glory because of the heavy rains, which flow more forcefully through the falls. However, during the monsoons, it gets slippery in the area, so extra caution needs to be exercised.

Weather in Shillong

The climate of Shillong is temperate, with cool winters and mild summers. Winters, October to February, are relatively cold, while summers, March to May, are warm but not too hot. The general climate in the city makes it a good getaway, and Elephant Falls is an excellent place to enjoy the cool weather and refreshing mist emanating from the waterfall.

How to Reach Elephant Falls

Reaching Elephant Falls Shillong Meghalaya is very easy as it is located close to the city of Shillong. Here's how you can reach the falls:

By Car/Taxi:

If one is visiting from Shillong, the most convenient access to the falls would be by taxi or private car. It takes almost 30 minutes to get there, and the roads are in very good condition. Taxis are available from many points in Shillong and can take you directly to the waterfalls.

By Local Transport:

Local transport is available from Shillong to the surroundings. A bus and shared vehicle are available to reach the area of the falls, but the best option is to hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the city.

By Foot:

If you love walking and discovering, you can walk to the falls from places around Khasi Hills. This might be a bit tough, especially in the rainy season.

Things to Do Around Elephant Falls

Even though Elephant Falls Shillong is the major attraction, there are other things you can discover in the surroundings:

1. Visit Shillong Peak

Shillong Peak is about 10 kilometers from Elephant Falls. It provides a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding hills. It is one of the highest points in the region and a must-visit spot for nature lovers and photographers.

2. Visit the Shillong Golf Course

The Shillong Golf Course is also within reach, considered the oldest golf course in India. This beautiful course has pine forests surrounding it. The beautiful sights in the area will always be an attraction for a day away from noise.

3. Visit Ward's Lake

Another famous tourist destination in Shillong is Ward's Lake, which offers a serene atmosphere with boating facilities. It is a great place to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, just a short drive away from Elephant Falls.

Entry Fee and Timings

The entry fee is nominal, which makes it accessible to all the tourists. There could be a nominal charge for taking photographs as well. The falls are open every day of the week, and it is best to visit during the day when light enhances the beauty of the falls. The visiting hours are generally between 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Conclusion

There is one such natural wonder in Shillong, Meghalaya. It is one of the most majestic waterfalls; however, it is an easy three-tiered fall. The lush greenery, serene environment, and its beauty make it a perfect destination for nature lovers, families, and photography enthusiasts. Relax or enjoy photography: Elephant Falls in Shillong has something to offer everyone.

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