Overview
About Tyrshi Falls
Tyrshi Falls is a waterfall in West Jaintia Hills district, a short drive from Jowai off the Shillong–Jowai road (NH6). A stream drops over a rock face in a broad white curtain, and a path with steps and a bridge leads down to the base of the falls. The setting is what sets Tyrshi apart from many Meghalaya waterfalls. From the falls you look out over Pynthor Nein, the terraced paddy fields of the valley below, which are green in the monsoon and turn gold around harvest in November. Visitors often compare the falls with Elephant Falls near Shillong. Tyrshi sees far fewer tourists than the waterfalls around Sohra, and the site is generally described as clean and well kept. It fits into a day trip to the Jowai area along with nearby stops such as Thadlaskein Lake and Nartiang. Combining it with these stops makes the long drive from Shillong more worthwhile.
On the day
What to expect at Tyrshi Falls
Descent: A walk down steps from the parking area to the base of the falls; the climb back up is the tiring part. Visitor estimates of the number of steps vary widely. Views: The falls with the Pynthor Nein paddy fields spread out below. Flow: Strongest from June to September; softer but steady after the monsoon. Crowds: Generally quiet on weekdays, busier on weekends and holidays. Facilities: Parking near the top; few other facilities, so carry water and wear shoes with good grip, as the steps can be wet near the spray.
Before you go
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
October to November; June–September for the strongest flow
June to September gives the fullest flow, but the steps can be slippery and views are often misty. October to November is a good balance: the falls still run well, the weather is drier, and the paddy fields turn gold around harvest. December to March is dry and pleasant, with a lower flow. Morning and late afternoon give softer light and fewer people.
Getting There
Tyrshi Falls is roughly 60–75 km from Shillong, about 2 hours by road along the Shillong–Jowai highway (NH6).
Tyrshi Falls is roughly 60–75 km from Shillong, about 2 hours by road along the Shillong–Jowai highway (NH6). From Jowai town it is a short drive of about 5–8 km by most accounts. Follow the turn-off to the falls, park near the top, and walk down a stepped path to the viewpoint and base of the falls. There is no direct public transport to the falls, so most visitors come by car or hire a local taxi in Jowai. A private cab from Shillong can be booked with Tour Meghalaya as part of a Jowai day trip.
Entry & Duration
Plan about 1 to 2 hours at the falls including the walk down and back up. From Shillong it works as a day trip combined with other Jowai sights.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Tyrshi Falls from Shillong?
Tyrshi Falls is roughly 60–75 km from Shillong, about 2 hours by road along the Shillong–Jowai highway.
How far is Tyrshi Falls from Jowai?
Most sources put it about 5–8 km from Jowai town, a short drive.
How many steps are there at Tyrshi Falls?
Visitor estimates vary widely, so there is no reliable count. Expect a steady walk down a stepped path and a tiring climb back up.
What is the best time to visit Tyrshi Falls?
October to November gives good flow, drier weather and harvest-season paddy fields. June to September has the strongest flow but slippery steps.
What to see near Tyrshi Falls?
Nearby stops in the Jowai area include Thadlaskein Lake and Nartiang, which can be combined in a day trip from Shillong.
