Wari Chora Meghalaya

Wari Chora, Meghalaya: A Secreted Splendor of Nature and Adventure

Meghalaya, popularly known as the “Abode of Clouds,” houses a bouquet of breathtaking scenarios, cascading waterfalls, and lush green hills. Wari Chora, an enchanting destination near the Bangladesh border, is among those lesser-known but incredibly picturesque places in Meghalaya. Tucked away in the South Garo Hills district, Wari Chora offers travelers a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and serenity that very few places can. Here everything you need to know goes into planning an unforgettable journey to this mesmerizing destination.

Location of Wari Chora:

Wari Chora lies in the South Garo Hills of Meghalaya, overlooking the Indo-Bangladesh border. It is pretty remote, lying about 400 kilometers from Shillong, which is the capital of Meghalaya. The area is whipped with rich biodiversity, dense forests, and crystal clear water bodies, ideal to get away from the din and bustle of the cities.

The Trek to Wari Chora:

The journey to Wari Chora, in itself, is an adventure. Most tourists begin their trek from a small village near Baghmara, the district headquarters of the South Garo Hills. Considering that the route covers river crossings, uphill treks, and dense forests, this trek would rate as moderate.

It takes almost 2-3 hours to reach Wari Chora from the starting point of the trek, and the view is just awesome: lush greenery, some unique rock formations, and small streams creating a natural symphony all along the way. That being said, this is a pretty unknown trek, so trails are unmarked and it’s recommended that you take along a local guide who will be able to navigate the forest paths and keep you safe. Be prepared to get a bit muddy-the trail may get slippery in the rainy season-but it will well be worth it once you come upon those fabulous landscapes awaiting at Wari Chora.

The Beauty of Wari Chora:

Once you arrive at Wari Chora, it is a panoramic view that stands before you-a natural wonder amidst turquoise-blue pools, rock formations, and small waterfalls. The water of Wari Chora is transparent to the extent that pebbles in the bottom are also clear from long distance. Surrounded by dense forest, the place feels untouched and pristine, providing the most apt background for photography or simply soaking in the serenity of nature. The main charm of Wari Chora is predominantly the lagoon that the rivers form. The water is so still, and hence a great spot to take a refreshing plunge into. You can explore the small caves and crevices in the rock formations surrounding the lagoon. For adventure enthusiasts, another popular activity here is cliff jumping.

Visiting Nearby Waterfalls:

Wari Chora isn’t all about this lagoon and the trekking. Some waterfalls nearby add a mystic charm to the total place. Among them is the Ranikor Waterfall, which shows its beautiful feature of falling down the rocks with the most melodious sound. The waterfalls are seasonal, and during the monsoon or post-monsoon season, the flow of water is at its peak.

Best Time to Go:

Wari Chora The best time to visit Wari Chora is between October and April. During this period, the weather is pleasant, there is manageable water, hence safer for trekking and river crossing. The period from October to December-just after the monsoon-end is really beautiful, with a lot of waterfalls, the landscape lush with the rains and all. These months starting from March to April are equally favorable for trekking and swimming purposes as the water is refreshing, without having any too cold temperature.

The best time to visit is during the dry season, avoiding the monsoon period that extends from June to September; the trails are just too slippery, and river crossings riskier.

Where to Stay:

Most tourists would prefer to stay in Baghmara, the nearest town with guesthouses and low-budget hotels. Baghmara offers ample budget accommodation, but one has to remember that facilities are very basic since this area is not a commercial tourist destination. Some locals may even provide homestays, giving one a touch of Garo culture and hospitality. Luxurious stays may be available further away, in Tura-a road journey of about 2-3 hours away from Baghmara. However, the advantage of staying here in Baghmara itself is that Wari Chora is nearer, and that would make the early morning trekking quite easier.

How to reach:

By Air- At a distance of approximately 400 km from Baghmara, the close local airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati, Assam. From Guwahati one can hire a taxi or find a bus to Tura and then toward Baghmara.

By Train- Nearest railway station is in Guwahati from where you can take a taxi or bus to reach Tura further continuing to Baghmara.

By Road- On arriving at the location of Baghmara, avail local taxi or jeep services and ask them to drive you as close as possible to the destination, Wari Chora. Some patches may have bad roads; therefore, an SUV or similar vehicle will be highly recommended.

But from Baghmara, a combined journey of road traveling and trekking takes one through forests and streams. The help of local guides can be obtained to assist in trekking and explore the region safely.

Travel Tips around Wari Chora Pack light:

The trek involves river crossings and climbs, so carry only the essentials. Food and Water: No shops on this trek, so carry some water and snacks for the duration. Cab recommend bringing reusable water bottles and other environmentally-friendly items. Engage a Local Guide: Difficult and mostly unmarked trails require great navigation skills. A local guide safely guides you up and shares information on flora, fauna, and local culture. Care for the environment: Wari Chora is actually a pristine site. Don’t litter and take all the waste with you whenever you have to leave. Adventure Gear: Bring change of clothes, towel, and water shoes if you plan to swim or cliff jump for your protection on the slippery rocks.

Conclusion:

Wari Chora befits nature lovers and adventure seekers. The unharmed beauty, the thrill of the trek, the serene lagoon, and the nearby falls make it an ideal destination for any soul intent on escaping the hustle of city life to reunite with Mother Nature. Though it remains largely unknown to mainstream tourism, this Meghalaya gem has much in store for someone who is ready to take the path less treaded. Individual sojourns, family outings, or corporate retreats are all surprisingly rejuvenating at Wari Chora, against the backdrop of one of India’s most beautiful and serene landscapes.

www.theunexplored.in