Overview
About Rynji Falls
Rynji Falls is a waterfall near Cham Cham village in East Jaintia Hills, close to the border with West Jaintia Hills. The district administration places it about 3 km south of Mutong village, the site of Moopun Falls, and it lies on the river system that feeds the Myntdu downstream of Jowai. The falls drop over a broad rocky section and are known locally for their force, especially after rain. Above the falls the river forms a series of stepped natural ponds, which are used for fish angling, and upstream lies Sahksaw, a fish sanctuary run by the village. Footpaths and small pedestrian bridges through the forest connect these spots. Cham Cham's village council and a local tourism society have promoted Rynji through events such as the Rynji and Sahksaw Festival held in 2022, which included boating and trekking. Even so, it remains far less visited than Moopun, and the walk in is longer, which makes it better suited to travellers who want a short forest trek rather than a roadside stop.
On the day
What to expect at Rynji Falls
Walk: The falls are reached on foot through forest on footpaths and pedestrian bridges; the walk is longer than at Moopun, so wear grippy shoes. Stepped ponds: Natural pools above the falls, used locally for angling. Sahksaw: A village fish sanctuary upstream that can be combined with the walk. Rock formations: Wide rock shelves around the river and the falls. Facilities: Very basic; carry water and food, and ask in Cham Cham for a local guide.
Before you go
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
October to March
Post-monsoon (October to November) is the best balance: the falls are still strong and the forest paths are drying out. Winter (December to February) is dry and comfortable for the walk, with clearer pools. In the monsoon (June to September) the flow is powerful but the paths and rocks are slippery and the river can rise quickly, so stay well back from the edge. Start the walk by late morning so you are back on the road well before dark.
Getting There
Rynji Falls is roughly 90 km from Shillong, about 3 hours by road.
Rynji Falls is roughly 90 km from Shillong, about 3 hours by road. Take NH6 to Jowai (around 64 km), continue to Kongong junction, then follow the Mukhaialong-Cham Cham PWD road towards Mutong and Cham Cham, about 25 km from Jowai in all. Taxis can also be hired from Jowai or Khliehriat. A private cab from Shillong can be booked with Tour Meghalaya. From the road the last stretch is on foot through forest; the district describes the falls as less accessible, so allow extra time and take a villager along.
Entry & Duration
Allow 2 to 4 hours at Cham Cham for the walk and time at the falls. It combines well with Moopun Falls, about 3 km away.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Rynji Falls?
Rynji Falls is at Cham Cham village in East Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya, about 3 km south of Mutong village and Moopun Falls.
How far is Rynji Falls from Shillong?
It is roughly 90 km from Shillong, about 3 hours by road via Jowai and Kongong junction. Cham Cham is about 25 km from Jowai.
How to reach Rynji Falls?
Drive to Cham Cham via Jowai and the Mukhaialong-Cham Cham road, then walk to the falls through forest paths. A local guide from the village is useful.
Best time to visit Rynji Falls?
October to March is best. The falls are strongest in the monsoon, but the paths are slippery and the river can be dangerous.
Can I visit Rynji and Moopun Falls together?
Yes. The two are only about 3 km apart, so they fit easily into one day from Jowai or Shillong.
