Which Is the Tallest Plunge Waterfall in India?

Discover India’s tallest plunge waterfall, Nohkalikai Falls in Meghalaya. Learn its height, location, features, legend, and best time to visit.

🌊 Which Is the Tallest Plunge Waterfall in India?

India is home to hundreds of stunning waterfalls, but when it comes to plunge waterfalls, one name stands above all others.
The tallest plunge waterfall in India is Nohkalikai Falls, located in the northeastern state of Meghalaya.

With a sheer vertical drop of about 340 metres (1,115 feet), Nohkalikai Falls is not just the tallest plunge waterfall in India but also one of the most dramatic natural sights in the country.

📍 Location of Nohkalikai Falls

Nohkalikai Falls is situated near Cherrapunji (locally known as Sohra), in the East Khasi Hills district.

This region is famous worldwide for receiving extremely high rainfall, which plays a major role in feeding the waterfall.

💧 What Is a Plunge Waterfall?

A plunge waterfall is a type of waterfall where water:

• Falls straight down
• Does not flow along rock steps
• Drops freely through the air before hitting the pool below

In simple words, the water takes a direct vertical fall.

Nohkalikai Falls is a perfect example of this category because the water descends in one uninterrupted drop, making it India’s tallest waterfall of this specific type.

📏 Height and Physical Features

• Total height: ~340 metres (1,115 feet)
• Waterfall type: Plunge waterfall
• Number of drops: Single vertical drop
• Water source: Rainwater (seasonal)

At the bottom, the falling water forms a deep plunge pool that often appears emerald green or turquoise, depending on sunlight and season.

🌿 Natural Surroundings

Nohkalikai Falls is surrounded by:

• Steep forested cliffs
• Dense green vegetation
• Mist and clouds during monsoon
• Wide valley views from the top

The contrast between the white falling water and the green landscape creates a breathtaking scene, especially during the rainy season.

📜 The Story Behind the Name

The name “Nohkalikai” comes from a local Khasi legend.

In the Khasi language:

• “Noh” means jump
• “Ka Likai” refers to a woman named Likai

According to local folklore, Ka Likai leapt from the cliff due to a tragic personal incident. The waterfall was later named in memory of this story. While the tale is heartbreaking, it is an important part of the region’s cultural heritage.

🏞️ Comparison With Other Tall Indian Waterfalls

India has waterfalls that are taller in total height, but not in plunge form.

🔹 Key point:
Even though Kunchikal Falls is taller, it flows in multiple steps, not as a single vertical plunge. That is why Nohkalikai Falls holds the record for the tallest plunge waterfall in India.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

• June to September (Monsoon):
  Most powerful and dramatic flow
• October to December (Post-monsoon):
  Clear views, lush greenery, ideal for photography
• January to May (Dry season):
  Reduced water flow but excellent valley views

⚠️ During heavy monsoon rains, mist may limit visibility, but the force of the waterfall is at its peak.

🚗 How to Reach Nohkalikai Falls

• Nearest town: Cherrapunji (Sohra)
• Nearest city: Shillong
• Nearest airport: Guwahati (Assam)
• From Shillong, the waterfall can be reached by road via taxi or private vehicle.

A well-maintained viewpoint allows visitors to safely enjoy the scenery from above.

📸 Why Nohkalikai Falls Is Special

• Tallest plunge waterfall in India
• Single, uninterrupted vertical drop
• Located in one of the wettest regions on Earth
• Combines natural beauty with local folklore
• Popular among nature lovers, photographers, and travelers

✅ Final Answer

Nohkalikai Falls, located near Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, is the tallest plunge waterfall in India, with a vertical drop of about 340 metres (1,115 feet). Its powerful single plunge, stunning natural surroundings, and cultural significance make it one of India’s most remarkable waterfalls.