Elephant Falls, Shillong, Meghalaya

Elephant Falls, Shillong, Meghalaya

Elephant Falls is a waterfall located in outskirts of Shillong City in East Khasi Hills District in the Indian state of Meghalaya. The waterfall is located in Upper Shillong area within the Eastern Air Command of Indian Air Force.

History

The original Khasi name for the falls is Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew, which translates to the three - step waterfall. This name is still used locally. However, the modern name is explained by a signboard near the waterfall. The name originated in the British era when the Englishmen spotted a giant rock that looked like an elephant near the fall. This rock was destroyed in the 1897 due to an earthquake.

The Waterfall

Elephant Falls is a 3-tier waterfall. The first fall of Elephant Falls is an example of a horsetail-punchbowl waterfall. The first fall is very broad and is hidden among trees. The second fall, however, is quite domesticated and in the winters (and drier months) looks inconsequential. The third fall is the tallest and comes to view suddenly and looks most spectacular with crystal clear water falling over sharp rocks of myriad shapes.

The sides of the waterfall are flanked by lush greenery and are rich in ferns. One need to navigate through steep and slippery flight of stairs from the gate to reach each level of the fall. The first and second level facilitated with benches to rest and relax. There is a bridge traversing the stream between the second and third level of the falls. The best time to visit the waterfalls is during the post monsoon. There are entry fees to visit this waterfall.

Connectivity

The falls is located at about 10 Kms from Mawngap, 12 Kms from Shillong, 13 Kms from Shillong Bus Stand, 33 Kms from Mairang, 34 Kms from Shillong Airport, 103 Kms from Guwahati Railway Station, The falls is situated on Shillong to Mawngap route.

Location