Rainbow Falls on an overnight stay
Rainbow Falls lies beyond Nongriat along a rougher forest path with rock steps, small stream crossings and another root bridge on the way. From Tyrna it is too far for a comfortable single day for most people, since you would add three hours of walking to an already long outing. The answer is to sleep in Nongriat.
Accommodation in the village is basic: small rooms in family guesthouses, shared bathrooms and simple rice-and-curry meals. It is clean and friendly, but nothing like a hotel, and we explain this clearly before guests choose it. In return you have the village to yourself in the evening, after day walkers leave, and can reach Rainbow Falls by 9 am, when the sun angle is right for the rainbow that gives the fall its name.
On day two we walk back to Nongriat, rest at the double-decker bridge and climb to Tyrna in the early afternoon, then drive to Sohra or on to Shillong. We send light overnight packs only; the guide carries the essentials, and everything else stays in the car.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How far is Rainbow Falls from Nongriat?
About 1.5 hours each way on foot from the double-decker bridge, on a rougher forest trail with rock steps and stream crossings. Added to the 3,000-step descent and climb from Tyrna, it makes a very long day, so most walkers stay a night in Nongriat.
What are the guesthouses in Nongriat like?
Simple and clean, with small rooms, shared bathrooms and home-cooked rice, dal and vegetables. There is no luxury option in the village. They suit adventurous travellers happy to trade comfort for a quiet evening and an early start to Rainbow Falls. We confirm the best available room in advance.
Can I swim at Rainbow Falls?
In the dry months the pool below the fall is often calm enough to swim, but it is deep and cold, and conditions vary. Swim only where your guide says it is safe. During and soon after the monsoon the flow is too strong, and the trail may be closed.
Also in Nongriat
More hours to plan around
