A powerful waterfall near Cherrapunji, known for its unique potholed rock formations and a fascinating Khasi legend about a slain serpent.
Discover what makes this destination truly special

Dainthlen Waterfalls is a powerful, single-plunge waterfall located just before you reach Cherrapunji town. Unlike many other falls that are viewed from a distance, here you can walk right up to the edge where the water cascades into the gorge below. The landscape around the falls is distinctive, featuring a wide, flat, rocky riverbed covered in numerous circular and irregular potholes carved by the force of the water over centuries. This unique terrain makes it an interesting place to explore on foot, though caution is advised on the uneven surfaces.
Plan your trip around the ideal season for the best experience
October-January, weekends, and public holidays, due to peak tourist season and pleasant weather.
June-September (monsoon attracts nature lovers), weekday afternoons.
March-May (pre-monsoon season), early weekday mornings.
Plan ahead with accurate pricing and visiting hours
Indian Visitors
₹20
Per person
Foreign Visitors
₹20
Per person
Opening Hours
8:00 AM — 5:00 PM
Open all days. It's a natural site, but visiting after dark is not advisable for safety reasons. The entry gate may close around 5:00 PM.
A nominal entry fee of ₹20 per person is usually collected at the entrance. Parking charges may be extra, around ₹20-₹30 for cars.
Find your way to this destination with ease
Address
Shillong-Sohra Highway, near Sohra
Coordinates
25.2941, 91.6828
Nearest City
Cherrapunji
Multiple ways to get to this destination conveniently
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) in Guwahati, Assam is the nearest major airport, about 170 km away (4-5 hours by car). Shillong Airport (...
Guwahati Railway Station (GHY) is the nearest major railway station, approximately 150 km away. You can hire a taxi from the station to Cherrapunji.
The waterfall is located on the main road from Shillong to Cherrapunji (Sohra), about 5 km before Sohra town. You can hire a taxi from Shillong (approx. 55 km a...
The best way to explore Cherrapunji is by hiring a local taxi for the day. These taxis typically have a fixed itinerary that includes Dainthlen Waterfalls and o...
Learn about the story and cultural importance of this destination
The history of Dainthlen Waterfalls is rooted in local Khasi legend rather than historical records. The name 'Dain-thlen' translates to 'cut the Thlen'. According to folklore, the 'Thlen' was a giant, malevolent serpent that terrorized the local villages. To rid themselves of this menace, the people...
Dainthlen Waterfalls holds significant cultural importance for the Khasi people due to the legend of U Thlen. It's more than just a scenic spot; it's a place where a major mythological event is believed to have occurred. For visitors, its natural uniqueness lies in the expansive, potholed rock bed l...
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