Situated in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, India, the breathtaking Kynrem Falls is a three-tiered waterfall that stands as the seventh highest in India. Cascading down from a height of about 305 meters (1,001 feet), this natural wonder is located inside the Thangkharang Park, a few kilometers away from Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on earth also known locally as Sohra.
Cherrapunji has long been a place of enchantment and mystery due to its unique climate and rich cultural heritage. Tourism in Cherrapunji, and by extension to Kynrem Falls, dates back to the times when the British were enchanted by its scenic beauty and made it a British outpost during their rule in India. Over the years, the region's fame has grown due to its living root bridges, limestone caves, and waterfalls, among which Kynrem Falls stands out.
The area around Kynrem Falls was relatively unknown to the wider world until lately. The tourism infrastructure has developed over time, with efforts to maintain the pristine nature of the falls, while making it accessible for tourists. This balance is critical in regions like Cherrapunji where ecological preservation is paramount.
As tourism evolves, there has been a noticeable shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices. Visitors to Kynrem Falls are often seeking an escape away from the bustling city life. They are drawn by the allure of experiencing nature and the local Khasi culture, which promotes living in harmony with nature.
Adventure tourism is also gaining popularity with activities such as trekking, rock climbing, and exploring the nearby living root bridges contributing to the charm of the area. While the area is modernizing to accommodate tourists, efforts are made to keep commercialization minimal to protect the untouched beauty of Kynrem Falls and its surroundings.
Monsoon season, despite the high rainfall, remains a popular time to visit, as the falls are at their most spectacular during this time. The recent trend also sees an increase in the number of homestays, allowing tourists to engage more deeply with the local lifestyle and enjoy a more authentic experience.
Visitors to Kynrem Falls can enjoy the spectacular sight of water plunging over the cliffs and rocks into stream below all year round, though the post-monsoon months make the falls especially magnificent. The Thangkharang Park provides an excellent viewpoint for the falls and also offers panoramic views of the plains of Bangladesh on clear days. Accessibility to the falls has improved, with pathways and viewpoints constructed for tourists to take in the falls' grandeur safely and comfortably.
Responsible Tourism is encouraged in the region, with visitors asked to respect the natural environment and local customs. This includes proper disposal of waste and not disturbing the natural wildlife that thrives in the area.
Whether you're a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply in need of some tranquility, the Kynrem Falls and its surrounding landscapes offer a captivating experience that encapsulates the essence of Meghalaya's natural beauty.
