By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 26: After weeks of dry weather, Shillong’s much-anticipated rains have returned, revitalising the region’s famous waterfalls. The downpour, which began on Wednesday, has delighted tourists who had been eagerly awaiting the chance to witness the stunning cascades that define the area.
Among the excited visitors were Aditya and Priya Shah, a couple from Mumbai on their first trip to Meghalaya. “We had heard so much about the beauty of Elephant Falls and the Seven Sisters Falls, but when we arrived last Tuesday, they were just trickles,” said Priya. “But now, after returning from the Seven Sisters Falls with the rain back, it’s like nature is putting on a show just for us. The falls are in full flow, and it’s breathtaking.”
Similarly, a solo traveller from West Bengal was thrilled to see the waterfalls come to life. “I came to Shillong for the scenic beauty and was disappointed to find many of the falls dried up due to the lack of rain. But this morning, after a night of steady showers, I was greeted by the roar of the falls. It’s magical.”
The dry spell that lasted through most of September had left many of Shillong’s and Sohra’s iconic waterfalls nearly bone dry, disappointing both tourists and locals. However, with the recent rains, these natural attractions have regained their splendor, drawing large numbers of visitors once again.
“We came all the way from Chennai, and seeing the waterfalls in their full glory has been the highlight of our trip,” said another tourist couple. “It felt like the rain was a blessing, and we couldn’t have timed our visit better.”
Local businesses are also seeing a surge in activity. “For the last few weeks, tourist numbers had dropped, but with the rains returning, we’re seeing more bookings for guided waterfall tours,” said Marcus Lyngdoh, a local taxi driver. “Everyone is eager to catch a glimpse of the falls at their best.”