Overview
About Umbyrlein Falls
Umbyrlein Falls is a waterfall at Rangad village in East Jaintia Hills, near Mutong village and Moopun Falls. The district administration places it about 36 km from Jowai and about 7 km off the Jowai-Khliehriat highway at Kongong junction, along the Mukhaialong-Cham Cham road. The village has developed the approach as a small park: a large meadow and grassland with swings, benches and gazebos, standing stones (menhirs) typical of the Jaintia Hills, and stretches of forest. From there a short stone pathway leads to the falls, and stone steps go down to a large natural pool at the base. Umbyrlein still sees relatively few visitors compared with the main falls of the Khasi Hills. Because Moopun Falls and Rynji Falls are close by, most travellers visit it as part of a waterfall circuit east of Jowai rather than as a stand-alone trip.
On the day
What to expect at Umbyrlein Falls
Meadow: An open grassland at the start with swings, benches and gazebos, good for a picnic. Menhirs: Standing stones near the meadow, part of Jaintia tradition; do not climb on them. Walk: About half a kilometre on stone pathways through forest to the falls. Pool: Stone steps lead down to a large natural pool at the base of the falls. Access: Two- and four-wheelers can reach the site; carry water and snacks as shops are few.
Before you go
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
October to February
October to February is the most comfortable period, with clear weather, a decent flow after the rains and drier steps. Spring (March to May) is pleasant but the falls are thinner. The monsoon (June to September) brings the strongest flow, but the stone steps and pool edge become slippery and the water is fast, so do not enter the pool then. Visit between late morning and mid-afternoon for the best light in the gorge.
Getting There
Umbyrlein Falls is roughly 95 to 100 km from Shillong, about 3 hours by road.
Umbyrlein Falls is roughly 95 to 100 km from Shillong, about 3 hours by road. Take NH6 past the Jowai bypass to Kongong junction, then turn right onto the Mukhaialong-Cham Cham PWD road and follow it to Rangad village, near Mutong. The falls are about 36 km from Jowai; taxis can be hired in Jowai or Khliehriat. A private cab from Shillong can be booked with Tour Meghalaya. From the parking area, a walk of about half a kilometre on stone paths and steps leads to the pool.
Entry & Duration
Plan 1.5 to 2 hours including the meadow, the walk and time at the pool. Add Moopun and Rynji Falls nearby for a half-day or full-day circuit.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Umbyrlein Falls?
Umbyrlein Falls is at Rangad village in East Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya, near Mutong village and Moopun Falls.
How far is Umbyrlein Falls from Jowai?
The district administration gives the distance as about 36 km from Jowai, via Kongong junction and the Mukhaialong-Cham Cham road.
How far is Umbyrlein Falls from Shillong?
It is roughly 95 to 100 km from Shillong, about 3 hours by road.
How long is the walk to Umbyrlein Falls?
About half a kilometre on stone pathways, with stone steps down to the pool at the base.
Best time to visit Umbyrlein Falls?
October to February is best. In the monsoon the flow is strong but the steps are slippery.
