Overview
About Crinoline Falls
Crinoline Falls is a small waterfall inside Shillong city, next to Lady Hydari Park in the Laban area and west of the Survey of India office. The water drops about 12 to 13 m, and its name is usually explained by the way the falling water spreads out at the bottom like a crinoline, the hooped Victorian skirt. The fall is also sometimes called Blue Heaven Falls. What sets it apart from most Meghalaya waterfalls is the swimming pool at its foot, which takes the fall's name and is used by local swimmers as well as visitors. Around it are planted borders, a rock pool with reeds and lilies, and short paths leading into the wooded stream valley behind. It is not a dramatic, high fall like those near Sohra; the appeal is a green, easy-to-reach spot in the middle of town that fits neatly into a visit to Lady Hydari Park or Ward's Lake.
On the day
What to expect at Crinoline Falls
Waterfall: A short, wide drop into a pool, best seen from the pool side. Swimming pool: The Crinoline pool at the base is used for swimming; carry swimwear if you plan to use it and follow pool rules. Walk: Short, uneven paths lead from the pool area up the wooded stream; comfortable shoes help. Combine: Lady Hydari Park is next door and Ward's Lake is a short drive away. Parking: Limited near the narrow access lane; being dropped off is easier.
Before you go
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
June to November
Monsoon (June to September) gives the fullest flow, though paths are wet and slippery. Post-monsoon (October to November) offers steady water and pleasant weather. Winter (December to February) is cold for swimming and the fall is thinner. Spring (March to May) is mild and good for a walk around the park. Visit in daytime; sources indicate the site is closed on Sundays, so check timings before going.
Getting There
Crinoline Falls is in central Shillong, beside Lady Hydari Park in the Laban area, roughly 2 to 4 km from Police Bazaar, which is about 10 to 15 minutes by car depending on traffic.
Crinoline Falls is in central Shillong, beside Lady Hydari Park in the Laban area, roughly 2 to 4 km from Police Bazaar, which is about 10 to 15 minutes by car depending on traffic. Ask for Lady Hydari Park or the Crinoline swimming pool; the falls are reached via a narrow lane next to the park and a short walk from the gate. Local taxis are easy to find in Police Bazaar, and from Guwahati the drive to Shillong is about 100 km (around 3 hours). A private cab from Shillong can be booked with Tour Meghalaya.
Entry & Duration
About an hour is enough for the falls and pool; add time if you are visiting Lady Hydari Park too.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Crinoline Falls in Shillong?
It is next to Lady Hydari Park in the Laban area of central Shillong, west of the Survey of India office.
How far is Crinoline Falls from Police Bazaar?
It is roughly 2 to 4 km away, about 10 to 15 minutes by taxi.
Can you swim at Crinoline Falls?
Yes, there is a swimming pool at the base of the fall that is open to swimmers; check timings and charges locally.
How high is Crinoline Falls?
It is a small fall of about 12 to 13 m.
Why is it called Crinoline Falls?
The name is usually linked to the way the water spreads at the bottom like a crinoline, a hooped Victorian skirt.
