Kynrem Waterfall is around 40 km from Shillong and cascade down from a height of around 70 m. One can enjoy stunning views of hills all around while enjoying the beauty of these falls. They are also surrounded by lush green forests on all sides, which make it an ideal place for picnics and hiking.
The beautiful Kynrem Falls is located in the Ri-Bhoi district, Meghalaya at a distance of about 70 kilometres from Shillong. It has been named after the Kynrem stream which flows down to join Umngot River at Nohwet village near Umtryng falls. At the bottom of this fall, there is another small fall that forms the third cascade before flowing into Umtryng or Umkyrang lower down below.
This waterfall is situated on the River Myntdu which originates from Nokrek Biosphere Reserve and empties itself into Umiam Lake also known as Bara Pani meaning Big Water. There are many institutions around taking care of Kynrem Falls such as Mawsmai Cave & viewpoints, Living root bridges etc. An approach road to these institutions has been built which makes your journey more convenient for exploring these places while on your trip to Meghalaya State in India.
The Kynrem Falls are believed to have formed during the mythological period of Rongmei-Nongsang, when the Lord of the Sky, Ngachokpa had a son with Princess Lengdon. While returning back with his new bride to their village, Ngachokpa had to pass by the Khethiang River where King Tirot Sing attempted to stop them. However, he could not do so and went on his way peacefully along with his beautiful wife.
But as per the prophecy, the rain god had told King Tirot Sing that he would not be able to detain them and soon after he reached home; it started raining heavily. Then, his heart filled with rage and anger and in a fit of fury, he picked up an arrow and shot it fiercely towards the sky. The thunder god was angered by this act and threw down lightning bolts on him so hard that his entire kingdom was destroyed overnight. Since then, it has been said that all those who visit these falls will face heavy rains with strong winds during their journey back home.
The best time to visit the falls is from October to February when many other waterfalls in and around Meghalaya open for visitors.