Overview
About Lyngksiar Falls
Lyngksiar Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall in the Sohra (Cherrapunji) area of Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills. Most sources place it near Mawkma village. The water drops over three tiers into clear green pools, and the lowest pool is clear enough to see the stones on its bed. Unlike the big plunge falls around Sohra, such as Nohkalikai, which you see from a viewpoint, Lyngksiar is one you can walk down to and swim in. The village maintains a paved trail, a rope-marked swimming area, life jackets for hire and basic facilities at the entrance. A small cave and a smaller side stream sit close to the main falls. The walk is short and mostly gentle, so Lyngksiar suits families and anyone who wants a waterfall swim without the long stair treks of Nongriat or Wei Sawdong. It is often added to a Sohra sightseeing day with nearby stops such as Arwah Cave and Nohkalikai. Water levels vary a lot by season: the falls are strongest after the monsoon and can thin out noticeably by late winter.
On the day
What to expect at Lyngksiar Falls
Trail: A paved, well-kept path of about 1 km each way with a few steps near the end. Parts of the route pass by or through a small cave. The trail to the upper tiers is sometimes closed. Pool: A clear green pool at the base. Swimming is allowed inside a rope line, and life jackets can be hired to go further out. Facilities: An entry counter, washrooms near the entrance, and separate charges for camera, life jacket and picnic use. Time there: Most visitors spend 1–2 hours, including a swim.
Before you go
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
October to March
Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Heaviest flow, but the pool can be rough and swimming may be restricted after heavy rain, and the paths get slippery. Post-monsoon (Oct–Nov): The best balance of strong flow, clear water and dry weather. Winter (Dec–Feb): Pleasant walking, but the water is cold and the flow thins out. Spring (Mar–May): Warmer days for a swim before the pre-monsoon rain. Go late morning to early afternoon, when the pool gets the most light and the water looks its clearest.
Getting There
Lyngksiar Falls is in the Sohra (Cherrapunji) area.
Lyngksiar Falls is in the Sohra (Cherrapunji) area. Drive from Shillong to Sohra (about 55 km, roughly 1.5–2 hours), then follow local signboards toward Mawkma to the falls car park. Public transport does not reach the falls, so plan on a taxi or your own vehicle. A private cab from Shillong to the falls can be booked with Tour Meghalaya. From the car park, the paved trail down to the pool is short and easy, about 2 km round trip in total. Drivers in Sohra usually know the turn-off, but confirm the route locally because few maps label it clearly.
Entry & Duration
Entry Fee: Approximately ₹20–50 per person (reported in 2024; camera and life-jacket charges extra)
The walk to the pool and back is about 2 km and takes 30–60 minutes in total. Most visitors spend 1–2 hours here including a swim.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Lyngksiar Falls located?
Lyngksiar Falls is in the Sohra (Cherrapunji) area of East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, and most sources place it near Mawkma village. It is about 55–65 km from Shillong by road.
How to reach Lyngksiar Falls from Shillong?
Drive to Sohra and follow local signs to the falls car park, which takes about 2 hours in total. From there it is a short, easy walk down a paved trail.
Can you swim at Lyngksiar Falls?
Yes. Swimming is allowed in the bottom pool within a roped area, and life jackets can be hired if you want to go past the rope.
What is the entry fee for Lyngksiar Falls?
Recent visitor reports put it at roughly ₹20–50 per person, with camera and life-jacket charges extra. Fees change, so confirm at the gate.
Best time to visit Lyngksiar Falls?
October to March gives the safest paths and clear water, and October–November has the strongest flow. In the monsoon the falls are at full force, but swimming may be restricted.
