Cherrapunji is known as the second wettest place on the Earth. Although the title of being the wettest place on Earth has now gone to Mausynrum, Cherrapunji still holds the world record of receiving maximum rainfall in a month and in a year. Cherrapunji is situated at an elevation of 4,869 feet. The Khasi Hills spring out of the landscape and face the plains of Bangladesh.
Cherrapunji registered a rainfall of 22,987 mm in August 1860 and 9,300 mm in July 1861 and hence bagged two Guinness Book records. The place was originally called Sohra, which was pronounced as Churra by the British. This eventually evolved into the name Cherrapunji.
According to scientists, the deep gorges of Cherrapunji successfully channelize the low flying rain bearing clouds South West and North East monsoons to pour down over Cherrapunji and for this reason Cherrapunji is not only one of the wettest places on the Earth but it is also the only place in India which receives rain throughout the India. Cherrapunji lies on the windward side of the Khasi Hills, which have an orographic effect on the rain bearing clouds. Cherrapunji falls directly in the path of the South West Monsoons and when these water bearing clouds ascend higher altitudes, they become heavy and cause rainfall.
Most of the rainfall that Cherrapunji experiences can be attributed to the nature of the Khasi hills which force moist air to rise and condense. Most of the heavy rains in Cherrapunji occur during the morning hours.
However, this heavy rainfall has also had its ill effects on the town. The town faces acute shortage of water as the town is so hilly that the water from rainfall just runs off and doesn’t get collected anywhere.
Locals have to travel long distances to collect water for domestic uses. This is caused due to the coming together of water bearing air masses from the Brahmaputra and Meghalaya.
Another problem caused by the incessant rain is the denudation of the soil in this region. Coupled with deforestation, the hills slopes are not suitable for agriculture and mostly xerophytic plants are found here.
However, the valleys of Cherrapunji are lush green and blessed with luxuriant vegetation. It is also home to the Meghalaya sub-tropical forests.
An attractive feature of Cherrapunji is the live bridges which have been created by the locals. These bridges can bear weights of 50 people at a time.
Cherrapunji is also a popular site for trekking when it is not raining. The most popular trekking trail is the one that leads to the Double Decker Root Bridge.
The best time to visit Cherrapunji is between September and October as the rainfall is relatively lesser than the rest of the year.
Cherrapunji is also known for its handicrafts and cuisine. Handicrafts include items made from bamboo and cane. Another local attraction is the honey made from orange flowers.
