Wei Sawdong Falls is one such natural beauty that situates in the beautiful land of Meghalaya and can make any visitor go awestruck. This place that is barely 3-4 hours’ drive from Shillong gives a pristine beauty to the tourists with its calm waters and beautiful scenery. In this article, there is a detailed description of the trip from Shillong to Sawdong Falls with the description of the route, distance, and such interesting sights.
Wei Sawdong Falls, the Force of Tourism Nature
Sawdong Falls boasts of its three-drop waterfall that makes it a very serene and attractive location. This splendid natural sight works like a paradise for the tourists as it offers natural surroundings of greenary to enjoy the beauty of the falls away from the crowded cities. It is a beautiful place which will appeal to lovers of nature and adventurous people because of the rhythmic noise of the water and the untouched nature of the area.
Distance from Shillong
Sawdong falls is approximately 55 kilometers or 34 miles away from Shillong. Even though this may not seem like a big distance, the trip involves a lot fun and excitement, and passes through interesting terrains and beautiful sights. Normally it may take about 2 and half to 3 hours from SHILLONG to the falls based on the roads and transport that is used.
The Journey Begins: The journey starting from Shillong to Sawdong Falls
Starting Point: Shillong
For your cycling tour, Shillong which is the capital of Meghalaya is a perfect base for this cycling trip. Also known as the “Scotland of the East” Shillong has rich and preserved colonial buildings, rich culture and good climate. Other tourist places of interest include Ward’s Lake, Elephant Falls and the Don Bosco Museum before proceeding to Sawdong Falls.
Route Options
There are two main routes to reach Sawdong Falls from Shillong:There are two main routes to reach Sawdong Falls from Shillong:
1. Via Sohra (Cherrapunji):
- Distance: It is about 55kilometre
- Travel Time: Taking time to focus on one or few risk domains 2 to 3 hours.
- Route: It has travel destinations like the Shillong city that has the Sohra and further to Sawdong Falls.
2. Via Laitkynsew:
- Distance: Approximately 50 kilometers
- Travel Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
- Route: Shillong – Laitkynsew – Sawdong Falls
Both routes offer stunning vistas, rolling hills, and charming villages. Choose the one that suits your preference for adventure and sightseeing.
The Scenic Route: Expectation
Large wide fields or meadows and huge mighty mountains.
On leaving Shillong, you get the feel of rolling hills and vast land that is synonymous with Meghalaya. The route goes through the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya and gives you the purest form of air one can breathe and sights that are stunningly beautiful. During the walk, there are various vantage points and the whole scene is breathtaking especially the valleys and hills; ideal for photograph freaks.
The Beauty of Sohra in Short; Cherrapunji
If you opt for the Sohra route, a visit to Cherrapunji, one of the wettest recorded places in the world is very pertinent. Sohra, famous for its records in rainfall, the hills that are often covered with mists, and many waterfalls, got the number of tourist interesting points such as Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Fall, and Mawsmai Cave. This route is rather picturesque, and riding through it will give a feeling as if you are in the fairy kingdom covered with mist and amazing greenery.
Quiet Villages and Specific Traditions
Both itineraries go through beautiful villages where you will get to taste the representatives of the local population and hospitality. Some of the such villages include Laitkynsew and Nongriat famous for traditional Khasi houses and terraced farms and the friendly people. Meeting the native people as fellow travelers make one understand their culture to some degree as they share their lifestyle and experiences with the travelers.
Reaching Sawdong Falls
The Final Stretch: Short Hike
Upon arriving at Sawdong Falls area, a relatively short nature trail will then take visitors to the base of the waterfall. The trekking is not very challenging but requires crossing the forest tracking and different rocky terrains. It is recommended to put on comfortable shoes for a walk and to take enough bottled water with you. The trail is easily followed, and the greenery is pleasant making the walk a bit exciting.
The First Glimpse: This is quite a rewarding sight since we can easily avoid entailing the military in very many of the problems which we experience hence they are left free to address other important issues.
Getting closer to Sawdong Falls, only the noise of the water falling down creates great expectation. When you move from the forest area you will it immediately noticeable a three-tiered waterfall. The combination of the clear blue waters plunging down the cliff like staircases is very beautiful to behold. The natural pool that is formed behind the waterfall encourages the tourist to take a shower in the water that is cool.
Experiencing Sawdong Falls
Swimming and Relaxation
The natural pool at the base of Sawdong Falls is perfect for swimming and relaxing. The cool, crystal-clear waters provide a refreshing respite, especially on a warm day. Spend hours enjoying the serene surroundings, listening to the soothing sound of the water, and immersing yourself in nature’s beauty.
Photography and Nature Walks
Wei Sawdong Falls is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. The unique three-tiered structure, coupled with lush greenery, offers numerous opportunities for stunning photographs. Additionally, the area around the falls is ideal for nature walks and exploration. The forested trails and diverse flora and fauna make it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Practical Information for Travelers
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sawdong Falls is during the post-monsoon season, from September to November. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the falls are in full flow, creating a spectacular sight. The monsoon season (June to August) should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and slippery trails.
Safety and Precautions
- Footwear: Wear sturdy and comfortable walking shoes for the hike.
- Water: Carry sufficient drinking water for the trek.
- Safety: Exercise caution while swimming in the natural pool, as the rocks can be slippery.
- Guide: Hiring a local guide is recommended for first-time visitors to navigate the trail safely.
Responsible Tourism
Tourism is managed to ensure that it is responsible and this is made clear by encouraging people to keep the area clean and respect the environment. No littering and ensure that there is no negative impact on the plants and animals of the region.
Wei Sawdong Falls Reviews
The wonderful working in wei Sawdong Falls has left many visitors with good words to say concerning the place. A lot of people consider the falls to be a ‘best kept secret,’ and it has been described as natural, quiet and unspoilt. The walk to the waterfalls is reported to be relatively easy and it reaches a climax when one gets to see the three waterfalls. The visitors are always overwhelmingly touched by such things as quietness and the chance to be close to nature.
Wei Sawdong Falls Distance by Road from Guwahati
From Guwahati, the Sawdong Falls is about 150 Kilometers or around 93 miles away. It would essentially take approximately 4-5 hours by car and involves the drive through beautiful sceneries and beautiful countryside towns. Guwahati is another important gateway to Meghalaya and has good network of roads to connect most of the important tourist places in the state.
Why Wei Sawdong Falls is Closed
Sometimes, it is closed to the public for safety purpose or for some conservation measures. The major problem of visiting these falls is that during the monsoon season the rainfall is very heavy and the trails that leads to the falls become very slippery and adventurous. Furthermore, authorities limit access to the area either for the purposes of cleaning or preventing the negative consequences of mass tourism. It is recommended to look for any closure or limitation when planning the trip..
Conclusion
A journey from Shillong to Wei Sawdong Falls is an experience that combines adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. The 55-kilometer distance is filled with scenic landscapes, charming villages, and the promise of discovering one of Meghalaya’s hidden treasures. Wei Sawdong Falls, with its unique three-tiered structure and serene ambiance, offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts and travelers seeking tranquility. Whether it’s the joy of swimming in the natural pool, capturing stunning photographs, or simply soaking in the beauty of the surroundings, Wei Sawdong Falls promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture to its enchanting