Wei Sawdong Falls, the square pool of the Khasi Hills
A three-tiered waterfall near Cherrapunji (Sohra), known for its turquoise pools and forested descent trail. "Wei Sawdong" translates from Khasi as square-shaped pool, after the natural basins formed at the base of each tier. This profile documents the trek, seasonality, attractions and access points for travel trade reference.
Overview
Wei Sawdong Falls is located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, near the village of Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra. The waterfall descends in three tiers, each forming a clear emerald or turquoise pool before the water continues downstream. The name derives from Khasi, meaning square-shaped pool, referencing the form of the basins at the base of the falls.
The site sits within dense subtropical forest, with moss-covered rock faces and steep cliffs framing the cascade. Heavy monsoon rainfall drives peak water volume between June and September, while the post-monsoon and winter months bring clearer skies and safer trail conditions.
Cultural Context
Wei Sawdong reflects the long-standing relationship between the Khasi people and the surrounding landscape, with local communities maintaining traditional conservation practices around the area's forests and water sources. The site's rising profile has supported eco-tourism in the region, creating roles for local guides and benefiting nearby villages through sustainable visitor activity.
The Three-Tier Descent
Upper Viewpoint
Panoramic views over the falls and surrounding forest, reached early in the descent.
Mid-Level Pools
Clear blue-green pools visible at closer range as the trail continues downward via metal staircases and rocky sections.
Lower Basin
The closest vantage to the falls and pools; swimming is generally discouraged due to slippery rocks and changing water conditions.
Nearby Attractions
Nohkalikai Falls
One of the region's well-known waterfalls, often visited alongside Wei Sawdong.
Mawsmai Cave
A limestone cave site near Cherrapunji.
Seven Sisters Falls
A multi-stream waterfall formation in the surrounding area.
Arwah Cave
A cave system known for its fossil formations.
Double Decker Living Root Bridge
A root bridge at Nongriat, among Meghalaya's most recognised natural structures.
Cherrapunji (Sohra)
The nearest town, serving as the base for onward travel to the falls.
Activities
Trekking
A steep descent trail with staircases and rocky sections.
Photography
Turquoise pools, mist-covered cliffs and forest views.
Birdwatching
Forest bird species across the surrounding tree cover.
Eco-Tourism
Guided visits supporting local Khasi communities.
Seasonality & Access
| Period | Conditions |
|---|---|
| October – April | Pleasant weather, safer trail conditions, recommended visitor window |
| June – September (Monsoon) | Maximum water flow; trail can become slippery and more challenging |
| Access Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Nearest Airport | Shillong Airport; Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati, for wider connectivity |
| Nearest Railway Station | Guwahati Railway Station |
| By Road | Approximately two hours from Shillong to Cherrapunji, followed by a short drive and trek to the falls |
Local Cuisine & Produce
Khasi cuisine in the area includes Jadoh (rice with meat), Dohneiiong (pork in black sesame gravy), Tungrymbai (fermented soybean dish), smoked meat and bamboo shoot preparations. Markets in Cherrapunji and Shillong offer bamboo and cane products, Khasi textiles, organic honey, spices, handcrafted jewellery and woven baskets.
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