Phe Phe Falls & Sua Ludong Falls in Meghalaya – Travel Guide

Updated on

Are you planning to visit Phe Phe Falls & Sua Ludong Waterfall in Meghalaya?

If yes, you are in the right place.

This article contains my personal experiences and a detailed guide to Phe Phe Falls and Sua Ludong Waterfall.

Refer to the FAQ Section for the travel guide.

Meghalaya

Meghalaya in the North-Eastern corner of India is a nature lover’s paradise.

The Abode of Clouds as it is known otherwise encompasses majestic waterfalls, caves, hills and unique cultures.

From Root Bridges to the Rock Capital of India, Meghalaya’s natural beauty forms the basis of the folklore, culture, music and life of the people. Well, who wouldn’t love to explore such a beautiful place?

This article is about Phe Phe Falls in Shkentalang village and Sua Ludong Falls in Jarain of West Jaintia Hills district in Meghalaya.

Phe Phe falls, phea phea falls, lahoo falls, meghalaya
The enormous and beautiful Phe Phe Falls

I have compiled all the information you need to plan your Phe Phe Falls trip based on my three visits.

Phe Phe falls

Phe Phe Falls , Phea Phea Falls, Phe Phe Fall in Meghalaya - The Gypsy Chiring
The Main Phea Phea Falls,
captured during our trip by professional photographer Manabendra Choudhury

Phe Phe Falls Location and Paradise Adventure Camp

On the 24th of August,2019, we set out to Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya with This Travel Company in the quest for its least explored waterfalls.

After five hours of a journey through the green hills shining against the blue sky and the music of Dire Straits, we reached the Paradise Adventure Camp –  The Gateway to the waterfall.

The Phe Phe falls distance from Shillong is about 80 km and takes around 2.5 hours to reach. By Jowai-Dawki Road, this campsite located beside a river provides the best facilities. Not only does it have unique miniature huts and cabins but also cottages for a comfy stay.

There is an abundance of space for pitching tents as well. Paradise Adventure Camp and Phe Phe Waterfall are located in the Shkentalang Village near Jarain in the West Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya.

Here’s the location of Phea Phea Falls on Google Maps.

Phe Phe Falls Location - Paradise Adventure Camp - The Gypsy Chiring
The cabins for stay at Paradise Adventure Camp
Morning Sunrise View from Paradise Adventure Camp
Paradise Adventure Camp - Phe Phe Falls Camp in Meghalaya
A total of three such cottages with attached bathrooms are available at the campsite.
Trek to Phe Phe Fall in Meghalaya
View from the campsite

About Phe Phe Falls – Meaning

Phe Phe Falls is a two-tier waterfall. Phe Phe is a Jaintia word that translates to Paradise (Jaintia is one of the major ethnic groups of Meghalaya).

The location of the waterfall makes it more thrilling. Descending a steep hill, through the shrub bamboo plants, the sight of the waterfall in the backdrop of the blue sky and the range of hills layered with light and shadow on the other side, we entered the realm of paradise.

The waterfall has its own charm and essence. The water is as blue as the sky, clean transparent and above all, cold.

Phe Phe Falls and Sua Ludong Falls Travel Guide
Giant and beautiful Paradise – Phe Phe Fall, Meghalaya.
Photo from my visit in 2019

Plunging into these waters and refreshing ourselves was a pure delight. With feet immersed in these chilling waters, and eyes closed, the sensation of a sprinkling of water from the Fall touching the skin gave me a strange kind of peace.

To stare at the constant motion of the waterfall for minutes, to just be absorbed in the beauty around are moments I live for. A single cloud formed right above the waterfall to bid us goodbye as we were returning to the camp.

The First tier of Phe Phe Falls in Meghalaya - The Gypsy Chiring
The first tier
Phe Phe Fall, Phea Phea Falls, Phe Phe Falls Meghalaya, Phi Phi Falls Meghalaya
The second tier. Recreated the same pose in 2021

What are the things to do in Phe Phe Falls?

Kayaking

Go for a Kayaking experience in the river stream near the campsite. There’s a centuries-old megalithic bridge a little ahead of the stream.

They help you cross the river either on boats or Kayaks
The Phe Phe Falls trek

Watching colourful butterflies swinging by the flowers and collecting nectar was soothing. As we kayaked to cross the river, the fun and enthusiasm of each of us roared.

Half an hour’s walk to the Phea Phea Waterfall (also known as Paradise Falls) will introduce you to a vast array of exquisite landscapes, lakes, and flora. 

The trail to reach Phe Phe Falls in Meghalaya
The hiking trail to the waterfall.

Small natural pools, the river and scenic landscapes make the trek to the waterfall worth it.

I have seen people spending time in these streams. Doing so, you will miss the enjoyment at the main waterfall.

After reaching the trail point as you can see in the photo below, you have to cross the river. I had already crossed it when I clicked that photo.

The source of the first tier of the waterfall.

To go to the first tier of the waterfall, you don’t have to cross the river. Follow the trail to the right and descend to the waterfall.

After the river crossing, the view of the hills gets better. You also get a glimpse of the main Phea Phea Falls.

View near the main Phe Phe Falls in Meghalaya
The view after crossing the river and heading to the main waterfall.
The Gypsy Chiring in Phe Phe Falls Meghalaya - Phe Phe Falls trek
Selife to banta hain!
Phe Phe Falls Location - Trek to Phe Phe Falls in Meghalaya
Those hills give a vibe of Dzukou Valley in Nagaland. Don’t you agree?

The peculiar carnivorous plant, which we once read about in our textbooks is also found here. Yes, we are talking about Pitcher Plant.

Pitcher Plant in Phe Phe falls, Meghalaya
Pitcher plant near the waterfall
Swimming

Starting the day by witnessing the sunrise from the cabins and diving into the river stream was rejuvenating. The most thrilling of all is to swim in the clear blue natural pools at the main waterfall.

Swimming in Phe Phe Falls Meghalaya - The Gypsy Chiring
Floating in Paradise – Paradise Waterfall.

Adventure activities such as Waterfall Rappelling are also done when requested.

Bonfire

The Meghalaya trip is incomplete without the clear night skies and rain. Under the stars, beside the river, with music and barbeque, our evening commenced.

Our happiness doubled when we witnessed the Milky Way galaxy through the lens of eminent photographer Manabendra Choudhury. We hurried to our cabins when the rain eventually downpoured. With the sound of the rain and guitar, we sang songs that helped us reminisce about our old days.

Paradise Adventure Camp Meghalaya night view of Phe Phe falls
The Campsite view at night.

Phe Phe Falls – All FAQs Answered

What is the best time to visit Phe Phe Falls?

The best time to visit Phe Phe Falls is from September to April. It can also be visited all year round. Unlike other waterfalls in Meghalaya, Phea Phea Falls do not dry up.

How long is the trek to Phe Phe Falls?

The trek to Phe Phe Falls in Meghalaya takes hardly around 25 to 30 minutes to reach the main waterfall. Make sure you don’t stop at the first tier of the waterfall.

How to reach Phe Phe Falls from Guwahati in Assam?

1. Reach Guwahati via LGBI Airport or Guwahati Railway Station in Assam. You can also board a flight to Shillong Airport- a domestic airport located in Umroi, Meghalaya.
2. Board a bus or shared-sumo vehicle from Paltan Bazaar Area or Khanapara in Assam to Shillong in Meghalaya. If you rent a car, it can directly take you to the waterfall.
3. Board a bus that goes to Silchar from Guwahati to reach Jowai in Meghalaya. From Jowai it is around 20 km to Paradise Adventure Camp.

How to reach Phe Phe Falls from Shillong?

You can board shared or rented taxis or buses that go to Jowai from Anjali Taxi Stand in Shillong. From Jowai to Phe Phe Falls, you will have to hire or travel on shared taxis to Paradise Adventure Camp.

How to reach the main waterfall from Paradise Adventure Camp?

How to reach phe phe falls from Paradise Adventure Camp

After reaching the top of the first Phea Phea waterfall, cross the river stream, follow the trail and descend the hill to the right. The trail was steeper before but as of 2022, steps are made for easy descent and ascending of the hill.

What are the places to visit near Phi Phi falls?

Plan to the following places during your Phi Phi Falls trip-
1. Sua Ludong Waterfall
2. Krangsuri Waterfall
3. Rbangpohpamlong Waterfall
4. Kudengrim Living Root Bridges.
5. Umpliang Waterfall
6. Nohkhreh Waterfall
7. Thlu Amwi Falls
8. Moopun Falls
9. Leskha Falls
10. Rynji Falls
11. Umbyrleiñ Falls

Can I visit Phe Phe Falls in December?

Phe Phe Fall in December - Best time to visit - The Gypsy Chiring

December is the best time to visit Phe Phe Falls. Take a swim in the blue natural pool of Phe Phe Falls during your trip in December.

Is there any resort near Phe Phe Falls?

Yes, the nearest Phe Phe Falls resort is Lookmyntoor Resort in Skhenpyrsit village about 3.8 km from Paradise Adventure Camp. Alternatively, you can stay in Jowai – HeiJo’s Homestay & Odyssey Stays Jowai – West Jaintia Hills and visit the waterfall during the day.

Should I go from Cherrapunji to Phe Phe Falls directly?

I would highly recommend you either travel from Cherrapunji to Phea Phea Falls or visit Phea Phea Falls first then go to Dawki and then to Cherrapunji during your Meghalaya trip.

What is the famous waterfall in Meghalaya?

Phe Phe Waterfall in Meghalaya - Phe Phe Falls Meaning

At present, I would definitely say Phe Phe Waterfall is the famous waterfall in Meghalaya.

Whom to Contact?

You can go to Phi Phi Falls by yourself by contacting Paradise Adventure Camp. I went with This Travel Company on my first two visits. The third time, I rented a bike from Shillong in November 2021.

Where to get a Life Jacket during the Phea Phea Falls trip?

You can either carry your own life jacket to swim in Phea Phea Falls or you can rent it from Paradise Adventure Camp.

Sua Ludong Falls

Chasing waterfalls on the next day we reached the Sua Ludong Falls. The Jaintia word Sua refers to the last of the water in the same place, while Ludong means the rocks by the side of the fall in its surroundings.

Located about 6 km ahead of the Paradise Adventure Camp, Sua Ludong is another exquisite waterfall in Jarain, Meghalaya. Enjoyed by the local kids, could be seen swimming, diving and playing in the waters of Sua Ludong Waterfalls.

Sua Ludong Falls in Jarain, Meghalaya
Sua Ludong Waterfall- Your own natural pool.

As we dipped our feet, the rain blessed us with a new perspective on the beauty of the waterfall. The natural pool danced delightfully with the splashing of each raindrop. The scene was such that the waterfall became the lead artist while the raindrops joined its synchronized dance moves.

As we returned from the waterfall, the rain stopped. This Sua Ludong experience was perhaps meant exclusively for us.

Sua Ludong Falls in Meghalaya
Sua Ludong Waterfall

Is Sua Ludong Falls worth visiting?

Definitely Yes! It is like a private pool where you can swim, cliff jump and enjoy a peaceful time. The water isn’t deep either.

How to reach Sua Ludong Falls?

You may contact the owner of Paradise Adventure Camp who organizes the trip to Sua Ludong Waterfalls

Find Homestays, Hotels & Resorts near Jowai

Here’s a video I made for This Travel Company

Shot on Phone

Conclusion

Add this giantly beautiful Phe Phe Falls Meghalaya to your list of places to visit in Northeast India. You can also add all the other waterfalls that I mentioned above during your Meghalaya trip.

You can refer to Meghalaya Tourism’s page on Jaintia Hills to learn about more such beautiful destinations in this part of the district of Meghalaya.

Read More such stories and travel tips on Meghalaya on our website.

Travelling indeed provides a platform to explore oneself, to experience something out of our comfort zones.

Meeting new people, sharing experiences and learning from everyone, travel is the best gift one can give to oneself.

To all the folks out there, gear up, pat yourself and let’s bond with the energy and beautiful moments around us. 

Loved reading the article? Share it with your friends and family.

Click to Save on Pinterest
Phe Phe Falls- Travel Guide
Click to save it on Pinterest

P.S: A Few of the other articles on Phe Phe Falls that you can read online have copied my personal experiences (moments) & photos, and have added to their article. Kindly contact me directly If you need anything. I have abundant original photos of Phe Phe Falls.

Disclosure: The post contains affiliate links to trusted partners.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Photo of author
Awarded by Meghalaya Tourism, Joydeep Phukan is a travel writer & a certified mountaineer based in Assam of Northeast India. He is on his mission to travel offbeat India and share his stories and tips about culture, travel & adventure with you through The Gypsy Chiring Blog.

27 thoughts on “Phe Phe Falls & Sua Ludong Falls in Meghalaya – Travel Guide”

  1. Worth reading article Joy da….
    But I have a question, in the picture you are with a life jacket….did you carry that from home….or can we rent it there?

    Reply
    • Hi Mukut. Thanks. Yes, you can rent it there. It will cost you around Rs 100 per jacket. If you do not want to rent, you can also take your own life jacket.

      Reply
  2. This article reminds me why I hail you as my travel guru!! The gems of Northeast are finally getting explored properly ❤️

    Reply
  3. Hi Joydeep, I’m extremely proud of you, seeing you flying high towards your dreams and goals.
    Even sky is not a limit.
    Keep it up.
    Keep exploring more and update more.
    And keep refreshing all of us by your Lovely Travel articles.
    Wish you all the success in all you do and a healthy life too.
    It’s always my dream and hobby to explore or to reach the unreachable.
    May be sometime or later, I will love to join with you all guys and explore the world and nature together.
    Keep updating.

    Thanks & Regards
    Mashungmi Zingkhai
    Ukhrul dist, Manipur state, India.

    Reply
  4. Just love the pictures and your words make me feel like packing my bags for Meghalaya immediately. Must have been a beautiful adventure.

    Reply
  5. Another awesome work from you. Felt nice to go to that place through your words and getting the vibe of those falls without visiting the place!

    Reply
  6. Brother you are living a life.

    I really like the way you articulate things you are gem of a person.

    You know how desperately I want to travel and experience things along, but yeah this kambkhat job is not letting me to do.

    EXPLORE AND LEARN MORE.

    Reply

Leave a Comment