Overview
About Borhill Falls
Borhill Falls is a tall waterfall on the southern edge of the Khasi Hills, beside the road between Dawki and Mawlynnong (the Riwai–Dawki road). Locals also call it Bophill or Pangthumai Falls. The water drops down a steep, forested cliff, flows under the road bridge and then down towards the plains of Bangladesh, which are visible from the same spot. The main view is from the road bridge over the gorge, so there is no long trek. That makes it a common stop on the day trip that links Dawki and the Umngot River with Mawlynnong village and the Riwai living root bridge. The falls are at their fullest in and just after the monsoon, when spray drifts over the road. In the dry months the flow drops, but the view of the hills on one side and the flat Bangladesh plains on the other is still worth a short stop.
On the day
What to expect at Borhill Falls
Bridge view: The falls are seen from the road bridge over the gorge, the main photo spot. Border view: Downstream, the hills give way to the flat plains of Bangladesh. Walk: Only a few minutes from the vehicle. Some visitors scramble down the rough trail towards the water, but the rocks are slippery and the current is strong. Parking: The bridge is narrow and space is limited. Park on the nearby verge, not on the bridge, to avoid blocking traffic. Facilities: No dedicated facilities at the falls. Food, toilets and shops are in Mawlynnong and Dawki.
Before you go
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
July to November
The flow is strongest in the monsoon (June to September), especially from late summer, but rain, mist and slippery roads are common near the border. Post-monsoon (October to November) is the best balance: the falls still run well, the skies are clearer, and the Umngot River at Dawki is turning clear. In winter and spring (December to May) the flow is much lower, but the drive is easy. Daylight hours are best, as the road is narrow.
Getting There
Borhill Falls is about 80–95 km from Shillong, a drive of roughly 2.5–3 hours via the Shillong–Dawki road and Pynursla.
Borhill Falls is about 80–95 km from Shillong, a drive of roughly 2.5–3 hours via the Shillong–Dawki road and Pynursla. It sits on the stretch between Dawki and Mawlynnong, a few kilometres from Mawlynnong and Riwai, so it is usually seen on the drive between the two. The road is narrow and winding near the border, and the falls are viewed from the road bridge with no trek needed. A typical day trip covers Mawlynnong, the Riwai root bridge, Borhill Falls and Dawki. A private cab from Shillong can be booked with Tour Meghalaya.
Entry & Duration
Most visitors stop for 15–30 minutes for photos. It fits into a full-day Mawlynnong and Dawki trip from Shillong.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Borhill Falls?
It is on the road between Dawki and Mawlynnong (the Riwai–Dawki road) in East Khasi Hills, close to the Bangladesh border, a few kilometres from Mawlynnong.
How far is Borhill Falls from Shillong?
It is about 80–95 km from Shillong, a drive of roughly 2.5–3 hours via Pynursla.
Is there an entry fee for Borhill Falls?
No official entry fee is reported. It is a roadside waterfall seen from the bridge.
Can you see Bangladesh from Borhill Falls?
Yes. The water flows down towards the Bangladesh plains, which are visible from the bridge on a clear day.
Best time to visit Borhill Falls?
July to November, when the flow is strong. October and November usually bring clearer skies.
