Elephant Falls Meghalaya: Timings, Entry Fee, Best Time & Travel Guide 

Meghalaya’s Elephant Falls At A Glance 

Meghalaya is one of the best destinations to go for a holiday. There are many beautiful spots to see there, and one of them is Elephant Falls. It is a three-tiered waterfall in Upper Shillong and is around 12 km from Shillong city centre. 

Here’s a brief rundown before you scroll ahead:

1. The waterfall is locally known as Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew. This is to honour its three-step structure. Its English name comes from an elephant-shaped rock that was destroyed in an earthquake.
2. Elephant Falls is open from 6 AM to 5-6 PM. You have to buy an entry ticket for ₹20 per person to visit the falls.
3. This fall is most dramatic during and after the monsoon. Because this is when water flow increases and the surrounding greenery becomes especially lush.
4. Ideally, spend around 1–2 hours here if you want to walk down through all three levels and take photographs.
5. Wear comfortable footwear when visiting Elephant Falls.

About Shillong, Meghalaya 

Meghalaya is very famous for its waterfalls, caves, living root bridges and cloud-covered hills amongst travellers. And Shillong is one of the easiest bases to explore all of this beauty. You can reach Shillong easily by taking flights  to Guwahati in Assam, and then reach Shillong by road. Travellers exploring the region through Meghalaya Tour Packages can use Shillong as a convenient base for nearby attractions. 

You can take a private taxi, a shared cab, or a bus. The journey takes about 3-3.5 hours. The ride is scenic and mesmerising. On the way, there will be a beautiful lake, where you can spend some time.

You could also fly to Shillong directly, but the frequency of flights there is lower.

Among Shillong’s many attractions is Elephant Falls. Located in Upper Shillong, you can visit this easily. You can reach it in roughly 30–40 minutes from the city. 

What are Elephant Falls Timings and Entry Fee?

Elephant Falls Shillong is a multi-level waterfall. The Khasi name of the waterfall is Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew. This commonly translates to “Three-Step Waterfall”. This describes the three distinct levels over which the water descends.

The English name pays homage to the elephant-shaped rock near the waterfall that was there during the British period. But it was later destroyed in an earthquake.

The Elephant Falls timing is 6 AM to 6 PM. Entry to the Falls is not free. You have to buy a ticket for ₹20 per person and then also pay an additional ₹20 camera charge.

Pro tip: The timings or ticket prices may vary, so please confirm before you visit. 

What to do at Elephant Falls? 

You need at least 2-3 hours or more to completely enjoy Elephant Falls in Shillong. This is because just taking photographs at the entrance, or seeing it from afar, is not enough. 

Here are some things you can do at Elephant Waterfall while you are there:

1. Walk Down All Three Levels

The main experience of Elephant Falls Shillong Meghalaya, is the walk itself. You go from the upper section to the lower section via stairs and railed pathways. You will see different views of the waterfall at each level.  Just keep in mind that the return journey is uphill, so take your time rather than rushing back.

Pro tip: Spend time at the first level if you have any difficulty climbing stairs. 

Do not miss: To experience the full power of a waterfall, spend most time at a lower level. 

2. Photography

Around the Elephant Waterfall is lush and dense greenery, mossy rocks, and ferns. You can capture a lot of beautiful pictures, especially at the lower level of the waterfall. This is where the water flow is the strongest.

Do not miss: Capture some beautiful photos of the waterfall. The bottom pool is a great photogenic spot.

3. Enjoy the Natural Pool Area

There is a pool in the last section of  Elephant Waterfall.  You can get close to the water here and go inside up to knee level. 

Keep in mind: Water conditions can change rapidly, especially during heavy rain. So be careful, and do not treat the pool as a swimming area. Make sure to follow restrictions, if any.

4. Shop for Local Souvenirs

Near the Elephant Falls, there are stalls selling snacks and souvenirs. Purchase a small Meghalaya souvenir from here or enjoy a quick snack.

Do not miss: Definitely enjoy local Meghlayan cuisine around Elephant Waterfall Shillong.

Should You Hire a Guide For Elephant Falls?

It is a good idea to hire a tourist guide when visiting Elephant Falls, especially if you are a first-time visitor or are unfamiliar with the local language. Guides help you understand the cultural context of the Falls, help you with navigation, and overall enhance your experience.

You can get half-day or full-day tours and cover other spots like Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Ward’s Lake, and Mawphlang Sacred Grove as well.

How to Reach Elephant Falls from Shillong

The waterfall is easily accessible from Shillong since it’s only 12 km from there. Opt for a local taxi, a private or shared taxi, or a local bus to reach here. 

Let us explore various means to reach Elephant Waterfall from different places:

Pro tip: If you are arriving in Shillong from Guwahati, it is better to stay in Shillong that day rather than trying to squeeze the waterfall into a long Guwahati–Shillong transfer day since you need your energy to climb three levels.

What is the Best Time to Visit Elephant Falls?

The best season to visit Elephant Falls Shillong depends on whether you want maximum water flow or more comfortable walking conditions. So, you have to pick your visit time accordingly. 

If you want to see Elephant Falls in all its glory, visit during the monsoon or just after. The cascade is so dramatic that it increases the beauty of the waterfall manifold. However, heavy rain also makes the steps and pathways wet and slippery. So, be very careful. 

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from Elephant Falls in different seasons:

1. Monsoon: June to September

Pros:

• Powerful water flow
• Lush greenery
• Misty and surreal scenery
• Excellent conditions for nature photographers

Cons:

• Slippery steps
• Heavy rain can disrupt plans
• Visibility can change quickly
• Water flow can escalate at any time

Pro tip: Keep rain protection gear like a raincoat water proof phone cover handy. 

2. Post-Monsoon: October to November

This is when the views are breathtaking, and the risk of heavy rains has vanished. The landscape remains green, and steps are not as slippery. Water flow may still be dramatic, particularly right after the monsoon. 

3. Winter: December to February

In winter, Shillong is very cold. You will have to wear plenty of layers to keep yourself warm. The mornings and evenings are pleasantly cool and misty. Walking would be comfortable, but the water will not be as dramatic as it would be in the monsoon.

Pro tip: If your priority is easy sightseeing rather than maximum water flow, a winter visit is perfect for you! 

4. Summer: March to May

Summer is a very pleasant time for Shillong Tourism. The mornings and evenings are cosy, and afternoons can be sunny. Plan your visit to Elephant Falls accordingly. 

The surrounding scenery remains attractive, but water flow can be lower than it is in monsoon.

What to Pack For Elephant Falls?

Elephant Falls is not a tough hike, so you do not need a technical hiking kit. All you need are some comfortable shoes and clothes to see all three levels of Elephant Falls Shillong.

Essential items to pack:

1. Shoes with good grip
2. Lightweight rain jacket or umbrella
3. Water bottle
4. Small backpack to keep phone, camera, power bank
5. Quick-drying clothes
6. Small towel
7. Sunscreen and insect repellent
8. Basic medicines, and bandaid

Nearby Attractions to Combine with Elephant Falls

You can combine the mentioned spots with Elephant Falls Shillong to make a comprehensive Shillong itinerary: Travellers considering shillong tour packages can also cover these attractions in the same itinerary. 

1. Shillong Peak

Shillong Peak is Shillong’s popular point. It is also located in the Upper Shillong area and can be easily combined with Elephant Falls.

2. Ward’s Lake

Ward’s Lake is located closer to central Shillong, and you can see it and spend some relaxing time after you see the waterfall and Shillong Peak.

3. Don Bosco Museum

Don Bosco Museum is an introductory gateway to the cultures and traditions of Northeast India. It is a good spot to visit when in Shillong.

Suggested One-Day Shillong Itinerary

If you are visiting Shillong for the first time, follow this sample 1-day  itinerary:

Travel Tips for Visiting Elephant Falls 

If you are visiting Elephant Waterfall, keep these practical points in mind:

1. Check Elephant Falls Shillong timings carefully. Even ask a local to be double sure.
2. Grip matters more than style at Elephant Falls, so wear a comfortable pair of shoes. 
3. The lower level of the waterfall is worth seeing, so do not rush. Be careful when going down, and more so when returning upstairs.
4. It is a good idea to carry a raincoat and a waterproof phone cover.
5. Do not litter at the beautiful Elephant Falls. 
6. Always follow local instructions as water levels and access restrictions can change during heavy rain.
7. There are many tourist spots near the waterfall, so combine your visit here with those nearby. 

FAQs

Some of the frequently asked questions about Elephant Waterfall are:

1. Where is Elephant Falls located?

Elephant Falls is located in Upper Shillong in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district. It is approximately 12 km from central Shillong. 

2. What are the Elephant Falls timings?

You can visit the waterfall from 6 AM to 6 PM.

3. What is the entry fee for Elephant Falls?

You have to buy a ticket worth ₹20 per person, with an additional ₹20 camera charge to visit Elephant Waterfall.

4. What is the best time to visit Elephant Falls?

You can visit this spot all around the year but during and after the monsoon is best if you want to see stronger water flow and lush greenery. 

Keep in mind: Heavy rain can make the steps slippery. So, be careful. 

5. How many levels does Elephant Falls have?

The waterfall has three distinct levels in the Elephant Waterfall Shillong.

6. Is Elephant Falls worth visiting?

If you are visiting Shillong, visiting Elephant Falls is a must. You will see a three-level cascade, lush greenery, and overall a very serene landscape.

7. Can you bathe at Elephant Falls?

There is a pool at the lower level, and you can wade into it at around knee level, but this can vary when there is heavy rainfall. 

8. How far is Elephant Falls from Shillong?

The waterfall is approximately 12 km from Shillong city, and the drive generally takes around 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic and your starting point. You can go via private taxi, shared taxi, or a local bus.