Destination Cherrapunji

Destination Cherrapunji (Sohra), India

Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra, is a picturesque town in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India. It is renowned for being one of the wettest places on Earth, receiving heavy rainfall throughout the year. This lush green town is famous for its stunning landscapes, living root bridges, and vibrant cultural heritage.

Cherrapunji

Population and Ranking

  • Population: Approximately 11,000 (as per the latest available data).
  • National Ranking: Known primarily for its unique climate and natural beauty rather than its population size, Cherrapunji is not ranked in terms of population but is highly regarded for its environmental and tourism significance in India.

Historical Sites and Attractions

  1. Living Root Bridges: Ingeniously created by the Khasi tribe, these bridges are made from the aerial roots of rubber trees and can withstand heavy loads.
  2. Nohkalikai Falls: One of the tallest waterfalls in India, offering breathtaking views.
  3. Mawsmai Cave: A limestone cave known for its natural formations and narrow passages.
  4. Seven Sisters Falls: A famous waterfall offering panoramic views, especially during the monsoon season.
  5. Thangkharang Park: A park providing a beautiful view of the Bangladesh plains and the Kynrem Falls.

Cherrapunji

Surrounding Cities

  • Shillong: The capital city of Meghalaya, located about 54 km from Cherrapunji, known for its vibrant culture and colonial-era architecture.
  • Mawsynram: Another contender for the title of the wettest place on Earth, located about 15 km away.
  • Guwahati: The largest city in Assam, located about 147 km away, serving as a major gateway to the northeastern states of India.

Top Hotels in Cherrapunji

  1. Polo Orchid Resort: A luxury resort offering comfortable accommodations with stunning views.
  2. Cherrapunji Holiday Resort: Known for its warm hospitality and scenic surroundings.
  3. Coniferous Resort: A cozy and well-maintained resort offering modern amenities.
  4. Jiva Resort: Provides a serene stay with beautiful landscapes around.

Nearest College

  • Sohra Government College: The nearest higher education institution, offering undergraduate courses in various disciplines.

Shopping Areas

  • Local Markets: Cherrapunji has several local markets where you can buy traditional Khasi handicrafts, souvenirs, and local produce.
  • Police Bazaar (Shillong): For a more extensive shopping experience, Police Bazaar in Shillong offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and street vendors.

Local Foods

  • Jadoh: A traditional Khasi dish made with rice and meat.
  • Dohneiiong: Pork cooked with black sesame seeds.
  • Tungrymbai: Fermented soybean dish seasoned with local herbs.
  • Pukhlein: A sweet dish made from rice flour and jaggery.

Celebrations

  • Nongkrem Dance Festival: An important Khasi festival celebrated in the region, involving traditional dances and rituals.
  • Shad Suk Mynsiem: A spring festival where locals dress in traditional attire and perform dances to celebrate the harvest season.

Demographic Data

  • Language: Khasi is the predominant language, with English being widely understood and spoken.
  • Climate: Subtropical highland climate with heavy rainfall, especially during the monsoon season.

Hindi Information

  • चेरापूंजी (सोहरा): यह एक सुंदर शहर है जो मेघालय के पूर्व खासी हिल्स जिले में स्थित है। यह अपने भारी वर्षा के लिए प्रसिद्ध है और दुनिया के सबसे गीले स्थानों में से एक माना जाता है।
  • जनसंख्या: लगभग 11,000
  • प्रमुख स्थान: जीवित रूट ब्रिज, नोहकलिकाई झरना, मावस्माई गुफा, सेवन सिस्टर्स झरना, थानगखरंग पार्क।
  • आसपास के शहर: शिलांग, मावसिनराम, गुवाहाटी।
  • शीर्ष होटल: पोलो ऑर्किड रिसॉर्ट, चेरापूंजी हॉलिडे रिसॉर्ट, कनोफेरस रिसॉर्ट, जीव रिसॉर्ट।
  • स्थानीय भोजन: जादोह, दोहनेइओंग, तुंगराईंबाई, पुखलेइन।
  • त्यौहार: नोंगक्रेम नृत्य महोत्सव, शाद सुक म्यंसीम।