Located in the Indian state of Meghalaya, the beautiful Bishop Falls is quite the landmark to see and discover. Located near the city of Shillong, the area has been since the colonial-era been referred to as Scotland of the East because of how the hills reminded the British of the hills of Scotland. Shillong is part of what’s known as a hill station and so the city was developed to be high in the hills making the temperatures cooler. Shillong, for instance, the area is so high up the area is also known as “the abode of the clouds”. The state of Meghalaya is mountainous and hilly in general, giving the state a very distinct natural and green feel that attracts many tourists from around India. If you’re planning to travel around the area or find yourself in Shillong here is a guide to Bishop Falls, Shillong.
Things to do
Shillong, where Bishop Falls is located, was established as part of a hill station in the 19th century. Hill stations were first established by the British rulers in an effort to escape the heat and disease and rest in a cooler environment that was oftentimes replicated to feel like Britain. Shillong and Meghalaya are very mountainous and hilly by nature as such it reminded the British of Scotland giving the area their nickname “Scotland of the East” and Shillong is even home to one of India’s oldest (and most challenging) golf courses. Make sure to pack a camera and head to the hills of Shillong to check out Bishop Falls.
View the falls
Of course, the biggest activity to do here is to head up the hills and observe the falls. Bishop Falls has a height of 135 meters (445 feet) and is even considered to be a twin of the nearby Beadon Falls as they both end at the same escarpment into the gorge below. The Umiam River below is where the water ends up eventually flowing into a hydroelectric dam. The Mawlai road leads up to the falls where they can be viewed from a distance together with Beadon Falls.
Take a hike
The road up the viewing point of the falls is narrow and it is possible to take a ride up. But what you really should be doing if you’re visiting the falls is to take a hike up. The beautiful plants and foliage, as well as the views, make taking a hike up the best way to experience Bishop Falls. The weather is usually pretty temperate and there is a host of wildlife around as well as beautiful flowers and plants that would be missed if you drove up instead. Wear some good walking shoes and pack a handy camera.
Have a picnic
A common activity among locals here is to have a picnic nearby and watch the falls while you eat. Pack some light snacks and a blanket in a bag with you and head up the road to the falls. There are sitting areas already there. The space is pretty popular for picnics so make sure to get a spot early. Enjoy lunch with a view of Bishop Falls.
Travelers tips
Best time to visit
The area is very mountainous and hilly and as such, there is the possibility of encountering a lot of fog at certain points in the day. Try to avoid going too early in the morning as the area still might be pretty hazy. Moreover, if you can make it in the afternoon during monsoon season (June to October, roughly) the area will be very lush and green with a strong flow of the waterfalls.
Attire
While there is no restriction on attire, going on any kind of a hike can get a little dangerous if you’re not wearing the right clothes. The road and the path up to the viewing area are narrow and properly marked but hikers should still exercise caution and wear good walking shoes and be mindful of any cars that may come up on the road. Moreover, the weather can change at a moment’s notice so pack something dry or waterproof in case it rains.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Christmas in Shillong is truly a dream, and arguably, one of the best times to visit! Since the majority of the population is Christian, the streets are filled with people, lights, and laughter this time of the year.
The main goal of the festival is to meet friends and family and eat a lot of cake and good food. So, if you're planning to visit Shillong, you could make it a Christmas trip and immerse yourself in happiness and cheer!
How to get there
By car
If you’re driving here the best way to reach the road that takes you up to the falls is by taking National Highway 40 at Mawprem. Be careful because the road up the falls are very narrow and often have pedestrians.
By taxi
For tourists arriving without a vehicle, taking a taxi is likely the best option to get around and see the falls as taxis are very affordable and because the drivers know the best routes around town. In fact, fares for tours can be negotiated beforehand at a fixed rate with the taxi, at which point you can book it for the entire day. For 2,000 INR (27 USD) you can have the cab for the whole day and they’ll take you to all the tourist spots around town.
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Bishop Falls information
Bishop Falls
Address: Bishop Falls, Shillong, Meghalaya, India
Cost: Free
Department of tourism: Visit Shillong
History
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