On the outskirts of the East Khasi Hills district in Meghalaya, a 10-minute picturesque drive away from Woodstock Resort resides the breathtaking Elephant Falls, Shillong. It is called Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew in Khasi, the local language, which translates to the three-step waterfall. The cascade derived its name from an elephant-shaped rock, which although got destroyed in an earthquake in 1897, still retained its unique name and its ubiquitous charm. The first tier is hidden amidst the dense vegetation and the second tier tends to recede during winters. The third tier is the tallest and most impressive of them all. It is among the most famous waterfalls in India, and the most-visited tourist places in Shillong.
Guests are charged a paltry 20 INR for entry with an additional 20 INR for camera and video equipment. Visitors are highly encouraged to pay the extra charge as there are a lot of photogenic locations at Elephant Falls Shillong, which is the epitome of the word 'picturesque'. There are marked signs to help you on your way to the stairways and trails that lead to the actual waterfall. Benches are considerately strewn along the way, should you choose to take a break on your journey there. Senior citizens and children should take special care as the stairs tend to be slippery.
