Dainthlen Falls: A Mystical Jewel In The Heart Of Meghalaya

Dainthlen Falls is a very beautiful place located in the lush green hills of Cherrapunji. This place is surrounded by lush greenery, rocky landscapes, therefore offering a charming escape from the usual tourist crowds. The Dainthlen waterfall in Cherrapunji is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its mysterious story of old times. Like other popular waterfalls of Meghalaya- Seven Sisters Falls or Elephant Falls, Dainthlen Falls is less crowded, giving visitors a peaceful experience. As the water rushes over wide rocks and drops into the forest, it offers a breathtaking view that is worth experiencing. But what makes Dainthlen Falls truly special is the fascinating story of Thlen, a phantom snake that once brought fear to the land. In this blog, we will study the fascinating story, how to reach the place, the best time to visit, travel tips, and more. Let’s know why this place deserves a spot in your Meghalaya tour package.

The Legend of Dainthlen Falls

Dainthlen Falls has a fascinating story that tempts travellers to visit the place. Long ago, a terrifying serpent named Thlen lived near Dainthlen Falls. ThIen was a massive, dangerous, and cruel snake. It used to wait for travellers and attack them. The villagers used to live in fear until a brave man named U Suidnoh came up with a clever plan. He continuously fed the serpent goats until it trusted him. Then one day, he threw a red-hot iron into Thlen’s mouth, burning it from the inside. ThIen died, and the villagers celebrated. But some say a piece of Thlen’s meat was secretly kept and later returned to life. The legend says that the spirit of Thlen demanded blood and brought dark powers to those who fed it.

Best Time to Visit Dainthlen Falls

The best time to visit Meghalaya especially Dainthlen Falls is during the rainy season because waterfalls around the waterfalls are surrounded by greenery. Best time to visit Dainthlen Falls depends on individual preference. Let’s know what each season has to offer to visitors:

1. Monsoon (June – September)

This is the best time to see Dainthlen Falls in its full glory. The waterfall gushes with power and looks magical with mist and greenery all around. If you are visiting during monsoon, don’t forget to carry a raincoat or umbrella as it rains a lot. 

2. Winter (October – February)

It gets cooler and drier in winter. The waterfall isn’t as strong, but the clear skies and chilly breeze make it a calm and cozy time to visit. Great for quiet sightseeing.

3. Summer (March – May)

The weather is warm and comfortable, even the waterfall is not at its full glory, it’s still a lovely time if you are someone looking to enjoy a day picnic or an easy hike around the area.

How to Reach Dainthlen Falls

Dainthlen Falls is a scenic waterfall near Cherrapunji, known for its powerful cascade and mysterious stories. Reaching this natural wonder is easy via road, air or train. Let’s know some of the best ways to reach the destination.

• By Air: Shillong Airport, which is roughly 80 kilometres from Cherrapunji, is the closest airport. To go to the falls from Shillong, you can take a bus or rent a taxi. Another option is to fly into Guwahati Airport, which is around 170 kilometres from Cherrapunji and has good flight connectivity from other major Indian cities, and then take the road.

  Nearest airport: Shillong Airport (80 km away)

• By Train: Guwahati is roughly 150 kilometers away, making it the nearest railway station. Following your arrival in Guwahati, you can travel to Shillong by bus or cab before continuing on to Cherrapunji. It's a beautiful drive with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

  Nearest station: Guwahati Railway Station

• By Road: Cherrapunji has good road connectivity to Shillong, which is around 54 kilometers away. You may reach the falls by bus or taxi from Shillong, which is around 5 kilometers from Cherrapunji town. The drive is lovely, winding through hills and lush green  surroundings.

  Dainthlen Falls is just 5 km from Cherrapunji town.

Best Things To Do at Dainthlen Falls

Cherrapunji's Dainthlen Falls is a stunning and thrilling place to visit in Meghalaya, which offers a wide range of enjoyable activities for all visitors. Here are the five best things to do at Dainthlen Falls for a memorable trip:

1. Explore the Waterfall

Walk around the wide rocks and watch the water fall into the forest below. The mist, the roar, and the green surroundings make it an unforgettable experience. Exploring the waterfalls in Meghlaya is one of the great ways to connect with nature and feel the power of the falls.

2. Check Out the Rock Formations

Watching the rocks of Dainthlen falls is one of the best things to do in Meghlaya. The rocks here aren’t just rocks. Locals believe that the rock formations are of ThIen, the giant serpent. Exploring these rock formations adds mystery and adventure to your trip. The setting is made even more magnificent by the stones' stunning contrast with the rushing water. 

3. Learn the Local Story

Dainthlen Falls Sohra is not just a natural wonder but also a place filled with local folklore. Thlen, the huge serpent that once haunted the area, adds to the Meghalaya beauty. You can engage with locals or guides for further information about how the serpent was defeated. This enhances your vacation experience and gives you a better understanding of the region's cultural past.

4. Take Stunning Photos

This place is made for photography. Wide landscapes, flowing water, moody skies, what more do you want? You can take some stunning pictures of the waterfall, the surrounding area, and, if you're lucky, even some wildlife using a camera or a smartphone. Remember to snap some photos with your loved ones to preserve the memories of your trip.

5. Enjoy a Picnic

Another excellent spot for a picnic is Dainthlen Falls. There is a tranquil setting in the open spaces close to the falls where you may sit, eat, and admire the natural splendour. It's a great way to spend time with family or friends because the sound of the waterfall makes your picnic even more peaceful. Just remember to keep the area neat and clean up after yourself.

Travel tips for Dainthlen falls

To make your journey more memorable, it is important to follow certain travel tips. Let’s know some of them:

• Wear shoes which have good grip as rocks can be slippery.
• Don’t forget to carry water, snacks, and a camera.
• Respect nature and therefore don’t litter.
• Be ready for rain and carry a raincoat or umbrella.
   

The Dainthlen Falls in Cherrapunji is beautiful, apart from being a site for breathtaking views that it offers; it is also a site for thrilling and thrilling sporting activities, a site associated with myth. Whether you are interested in the local legends or are in need of a quiet site surrounded by vast nature, Dainthlen Falls will complete your Meghalaya backpacking trip. Should you be thinking of visiting this beautiful area, there is a travel agency known as Capture a Trip which will assist you in organising your trip fully. In their company, your visit to Dainthlen Falls, Meghalaya, will be a very memorable one. 

Frequently asked questions

1. How to reach Dainthlen Falls?

Dainthlen Falls is situated in Sohra about 11 kilometers away from Cherrapunji. From Cherrapunji, the drive takes 30 to 40 minutes. The most convenient way to reach Dainthlen falls from cherrapunji is by Car/Taxi.

2. What is the best time to visit?

September to November is the best time to visit Dainthen Falls. When the falls are in its full glory and the pleasant weather makes it an ideal time for photography and light trekking.

3. Is it safe for kids and elderly?

Yes, Dainthlen falls are totally safe for kids and elders. However, be cautions of wet rocks, particularly after rain.

4. What else is there around the falls?

You can visit nearby attractions like Wei Sawdong Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Mawsmai Cave, for a more memorable trip.