Where Is Wari Chora? Why Is This Unique Kayaking And Trekking Destination Worth It?
“Sites like Abong Chigat, Redingsni, Wari Chora, and Tengte Rongrep are stunning natural spots that draw visitors from across Meghalaya and beyond. These locations could promote sustainable tourism that benefits local communities. However, unchecked mining will destroy their natural beauty, deter tourism, and strip the region of long-term economic opportunities.”
– Spensar Marak, General Secretary, Garo Students’ Union (GSU).
We keep our eyes on Wari Chora, which is now struggling with coal mining and possible threats of uranium extraction in the South Garo Hills.
Wari Chora is a hidden canyon carved by the Rongdik River, a tributary of the Simsang River, in the South Garo Hills of Meghalaya. The river exudes a mystical charm with the colors changing from transparent to green and blue in places.
Furthermore, a dense vegetation of plants and moss here makes the region rich in biodiversity and adds a surreal charm to the overall landscape. The forest is home to the Himalayan Black Bear, Hoolock Gibbon, and a wide variety of birds.
GSU and other organizations, such as Chokpot Area Vigilance Committee (CAVC) and Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP) are some other organizations to raise concerns about the river, forest, natural habitats, and the local people here at being at risk due to these mining endeavors.
But why does Wari Chora show such a huge potential for tourism? Let’s find out about this Meghalayan hidden gem in this Dream and Travel Guide.
What Is Wari Chora? The Hidden Gem Of Meghalaya
I understood the true meaning of an “immersive experience” when I reached Wari Chora. If the Khasi Hills have the beautiful Laitlum Canyon, the Garo Hills have the mysterious Wari Chora.
It is a small canyon that is formed by the Rongdik River, which passes between two gorges. The real magic begins when you start canoeing in the lagoon formed by the Rongdik River here.
You will notice here water dripping through the moss-covered walls of the gorges. These are the moments when you want to go absolutely silent.
Where Is Wari Chora Located?
Most of us, as travelers, have great faith in Google Maps. Then come places such as Wari Chora, which even Google Maps fails to track.
Located in the South Garo Hills, Wari Chora is around 280 km from Shillong. From Guwahati, the distance to Wari Chora is close to 250 kilometers.
Baghmara is the nearest town to Wari Chora, and it is located at a distance of around 35 km from the Emangre Village, which is the base of Wari Chora.
Moreover, the canyon or Wari Chora is very close to the Nokrek Peak. With an elevation of 1515 meters, it is the highest peak of the Garo Hills and the core of the UNESCO-recognized Nokrek Biosphere Reserve.
Also, Wari Chora, like the Umngot River in Shnongpdeng, has a strategic location. It overlooks the Indo-Bangladesh border.
How To Reach Wari Chora?
Your journey to Wari Chora is not going to be as simple as the Guwahati to Shillong journey or the Shillong to Cherrapunji journey. The journey involves a road journey and trekking and has several phases.
It will take around 10 to 12 hours to reach the trek base of Wari Chora if you start your journey from Guwahati or Shillong. Nevertheless, here are the details.
Step 1: Journey Begins From Guwahati/Shillong To The South Garo Hills
The Guwahati Airport (Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport) and the Guwahati Railway Station are the closest to Wari Chora. However, if you are traveling from Shillong, you can also fly to the Umroi Airport. However, the flight options here are limited.
From Guwahati, you will get private vehicles and shared Sumos to various areas of the South Garo Hills, such as Baghmara, Siju, or Tura. You will even get Sumo services from Shillong to Baghmara.
The journey will take around 8 to 10 hours based on the road conditions, weather and traffic on the specific day.
I took a Sumo from Shillong. It cost me around INR 600. However, if you are taking a private vehicle, the cost will be close to INR 6000 for one-way.
Step 2: Local Transport To Emangre Or The Wari Chora Base
Then, I got into a 4×4 vehicle to reach Emangre, the base of the Wari Chora Canyon trek. The roads are unpaved, rugged and treacherous in many places.
So, taking an off-road vehicle is the only way to move forward to the Wari Chora base. In this stretch, a dramatic journey of 15 km takes around 45 minutes.
Step 3: A Short Trek To Wari Chora
From the point where the 4×4 vehicle drops you, you have to go for a short trek of 30 to 45 minutes downward to reach Wari Chora. It is an easy trek initially. However, once we reached the dense forest, the trek started becoming trickier.
There is a fear of leeches falling from the trees, and the trails are not marked well. Also, there are sections when you have to crawl, crouch and rappel down the rocks to reach the canyon.
Finally, after a lot of effort and a few cuts on our knees and elbows, we could listen to the soft sound of the water and smell the wet canyon walls. The trek distance is 3 km.
What Are The Entry Requirements For Wari Chora? Guides And Permits
You need a permit to reach the Wari Chora. Our local guide arranged for it, and hence I don’t remember the exact amount or procedure for the permit.
Also, the best time to visit the Wari Chora Canyon in a day is between 8 AM and 5 PM.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Wari Chora?
November to February is the best time to visit Wari Chora. It may not be as wet as the places in Cherrapunji, but it experiences heavy rainfall from June to September.
From November to February, the weather is cool and dry. So, the trails are in better condition. However, if you are visiting Wari Chora in November, you will need some sanitizer and salt as the region will still be full of leeches, just after the monsoon.
Waterproof bags, layered clothing, trekking shoes and rain gear are a must, irrespective of the month you are trekking in Wari Chora.
Also, remember that December, January and February are pretty cold in Wari Chora as the lowest temperature can drop to around 4-5 degrees Celsius. The month of November is quite temperate with an average high temperature of 19 degrees Celsius and a low of 10 degrees Celsius.
What To Expect At Wari Chora? What Are The Things To Do?
Wari Chora is the place that celebrates the bond between nature and human beings. Our local guide, Dippu Sangma, shared a beautiful folklore with me.
He said, “Seven giant serpents live in the river here. If you do anything wrong or harm nature, they will wake up from their resting condition and destroy everything with their wrath.
Also, we believe that every night, mermaids and angels from heaven visit Wari Chora. That is why it is so beautiful.”
So, even before I could start the trek or explore the canyon, I had my takeaway stories from Wari Chora. Nevertheless, these are the things to do and the experiences you can expect here.
1. Canoeing In The Canyon And River Adventure
As I have already mentioned, canoeing in Wari Chora has been an amazing experience for me. I just sat still and saw the water of the lagoon formed by the river changing its color.
This moment, it was teal, the next moment, it was orange, and then it was green and ochre and every possible tone you can think of. It was no less than a kaleidoscope.
2. Finding The Waterfall
As we were canoeing, the water suddenly became shallow in one place, and there was a narrow opening in the canyon. I woke up from my trance with the sound of water falling on the rocks.
The waterfall was not very mighty, but it looked beautiful with the Sunlight piercing it at an angle of around 45 degrees from the right.
I sat on a rock and took my moment as some members of our group started swimming.
3. Watching The Rainbow
It was past 12 noon by then, and Dippu told me to get up and climb up on the cliff on the opposite side of the waterfall. I followed his instructions and waited for around 30 minutes.
I was about to make a return to our canoe, and suddenly Dippu screamed, “Didi, look!” It was the most beautiful and tangible experience I have had in my life with a rainbow.
It was sheer drama!
4. Exploring The Rock Formations
The rock formations on the gorges’ sides and the ones visible in the lagoon bed are stunning.
Also, there are some small crevices and caves surrounding the lagoon. You can explore them.
Furthermore, for an adrenaline rush, you can try cliff jumping here, but solely under the supervision of the local guides, as no professional assistance is available here.
5. Nature Photography
As a professional travel blog writer and especially for the designers, the photos we click on a journey are very important. However, Wari Chora actually made me forget about the photos, and it’s our guide who gave me a nudge.
“Photo Nahin Loge Aap?” “Will you not take photographs?” It was nature in front of us. Raw! Pure and speaking tales of time we don’t know of! The gorge surfaces look like the sculptures from the best artist.
I did not know the art of capturing the moment of sunlight piercing through the crevices. I could not frame how the moss covering the rocky surface changes its colour with a sudden change in sunlight movement.
6. Trekking Back
It was time to trek back and return to where we came from. The ascent through the same route took us longer than expected. It took us close to 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Once we reached the trek point, we found the 4×4 vehicle waiting for us, and we boarded it.
Knowing The Local Culture & Community (Garo Tribe)
A trek to Wari Chora and a stay in nearby South Garo Hills villages will give you a glimpse of the daily lives of the Garo tribes.
1. The Garo Tribes Have A Matrilineal Society
Start living in the villages of South Garo Hills if you want to say goodbye to patriarchy. Here, the mother, along with the youngest daughter of the house, is the owner of the property.
The father, or the males of the house, stay with their family.
2. Community Bond
Nokpante, or the dormitory for bachelor men, is where they learn community tasks and discipline. Women, on the other hand, do weaving, farming, household chores and make rice beer.
3. Strong Clan Systems
The clan systems are very strong in Wari Chora. Momin, Sangma and Marak are popular clans here.
A boy or girl from a particular clan cannot marry a boy or girl from the same clan. Thus, an inter-clan bond is encouraged in the village societies here.
4. Spiritual Significance Of The Wari Chora Region
In Wari Chora, you will still feel that the Songsarek religion and customs are very much alive. The sacred groves, caves and meditative atmosphere here also add to the region’s spiritual value.
5. The Wangala Or 100 Drums Festival
Wangala, an agricultural thanksgiving ceremony, is the biggest festival for the people here. In this festival held in October, local people worship Saljong for the natural bounty.
The festival culminates with the Wangala or 100 drums dance. The dancers get decked up in colourful traditional attire, and they need to learn the skill.
Where To Stay In Wari Chora?
You can stay in Baghmara if you want to explore most of Wari Chora. Baghmara has many properties listed by Meghalaya Tourism.
| Government Guesthouses | Contact Number |
|---|---|
| Baghmara Baptist Church Guest House | 8118916259 |
| Tourist Lodge Baghmara | 8787625756 |
Furthermore, organizations such as North East Explorers and Baghmara Campers offer camping facilities as part of their tour package.
You can even stay in homestays such as Wari Chora Homestay in Emangre (+91 81329-13510) or Siju Guesthouse in Siju.
The Chitmang Chaiwat Nature-Based Glamping Project In Badri Rongdong
Conrad K. Sangma, the CM of Meghalaya, inaugurated this project in June 2025. When the project is completed, you will get to stay in traditional Garo-style domes with all the modern amenities.
It will redefine the ecotourism scene of the South Garo Hills.
Wildlife, Nature, And Ecology Of Wari Chora
The Rongdik River has carved the Wari Chora canyon over centuries. It means Wari or River and Chora or Deep, which is Deep River in the Garo language.
Furthermore, the ecosystem here is hidden, and you will see various microclimates with lush jungle, turquoise waters and sandstone cliffs.
1. Ecology And Landscape Of Wari Chora
Wari Chora primarily has a river canyon ecology. However, sunlight can only reach the canyon floor for a few hours a day due to the narrow gorge.
As a result, you will notice a specialized environment here.
Microclimate
Because the gorge is narrow, the air inside the canyon remains much cooler than the surrounding forest. You will experience a temperature drop by several degrees.
Geology
The towering sandstone cliffs have streaks of rust, copper and orange. Further, with the river cutting it smooth, it now has a chameleon-like structure.
2. The Flora And Green Canopy Of Wari Chora
Wari Chora is a part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. You will primarily notice tropical semi-evergreen forest here.
You will find epiphytes and mosses here on the vertical walls of the canyon. Furthermore, Meghalaya’s state plant, the rare Lady’s Slipper orchid, grows in the South Garo Hills.
Also, if you want to explore more, you can spot pitcher plants in the Siju and Baghmara areas.
3. Wildlife: The Inhabitants Of Wari Chora
Wari Chora acts as a corridor for wildlife moving between Balpakram National Park and Nokrek Biosphere Reserve. So, you will find a wild variety of primates, mammals, birds, and aquatic life here.
| Types of Inhabitants of Wari Chora | Spot Them |
|---|---|
| Primates | • Hoolock Gibbon (Only Ape in India) • Capped Langurs • Assamese Macaques |
| Mammals | • The Elusive Clouded Leopard (The State Animal of Meghalaya) • Asiatic Elephants • Himalayan Black Bear (Rare Sighting) |
| Birds | • Great Hornbills • Grey Hornbills • The Green Magpie • Kingfishers • White-Winged Wood Duck |
| Aquatic Life | • Golden Mahseer • Mahsir |
Costs And Budgeting For Wari Chora Visit
A 3-day and 2-night trip to Wari Chora will cost around INR 9000 to 15000 per person. Here is a brief breakdown.
| Expenses | Budget Travelers (Group of 4) | Luxury Travelers (Group of 2) |
|---|---|---|
| Transport | ₹3,500 (Shared Cab + 4×4) | ₹7,000 (Private SUV + 4×4 |
| Stay & Food | ₹4,000 | ₹5,500 |
| Activities and Guides | ₹1500 | ₹2500 |
| Total | ₹9,000 Per Person | ₹15,000 Per Person |
Wari Chora Itineraries For 3 Days (With Wildlife In Focus)
| Days | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: The Long Drive to the South Garo Hills | • Departing from Shillong early • Arrival at South Garo Hills after a drive of 10 hours (Tura) • Arrival in Baghmara (Tura to Baghmara) • Watching the sunset at the Simsang River • Dinner and rest at your accomodation |
| Day 2: Exploring Wari Chora | • 4×4 vehicle ride to Emangre • Guided trek from Emangre through bamboo forests • Spending 3-4 hours at the canyon, including kayaking, swimming and photography • Trekking back to the village in the late afternoon • Having a special Garo dinner with smoked pork or chicken with bamboo shoots |
| Day 3: Spotting Wildlife and Return | • Visiting the Jadesil Fish Sanctuary and seeing the sacred Maheer fish • A detour to Balpakram National Park for birdwatching • Return ride to Shillong via Tura |
What Are The Hidden Places To Visit Near Wari Chora?
The hidden gems near Wari Chora promise you a unique experience in nature. Also, they are associated with some stories and spiritual beliefs.
1. The Jadesil & Aginma Fish Sanctuaries
The Jadesil & Aginma Fish Sanctuaries in the Emangre Village are famous as the home to the sacred Chocolate Maheer fish. The Garo people consider them as the sacred guardians. You can feed them local puffed rice.
2. Dabat Wari And Siju Cave
Dabat Wari, or the Blue Lagoon, and the Siju Cave, one of the longest limestone caves in India, are two other natural attractions near Wari Chora. Like the Mawsmai Cave, here also you will find unique stalactite formations and bats.
3. Rongbang Dare Waterfall
Also, the Rongbang Dare Waterfall on the road to Tura is the place to relax. It is a multi-tiered waterfall hidden in a deep forest pocket.
4. Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary
Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary is the place to witness the botanical wonders of the region. The Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary is the only Sanctuary in India to have pitcher plants.
5. Balpakram National Park
However, the most fascinating nearby attraction is the Balpakram National Park. Along with being home to wildlife such as red pandas, clouded leopards and elephants, it also has the Mahadeo Peak, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Bangladesh plains.
The local Garo people further call it the “Land of Spirits.” They believe that the departed spirits leave in the Grand Canyon-style gorges here before leaving for heaven.
What Are The Things To Pack For A Trip To Wari Chora?
The things to pack for Wari Chora are a dry bag, sturdy trekking shoes, a light jacket, and quick-dry clothing.
Furthermore, do not forget to carry adequate cash as ATMs are not frequent in the South Garo Hills.
Wari Chora: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Wari Chora.
Wari Chora is ideal for adventure seekers, travelers looking for a digital detox and nature and ecology enthusiasts.
However, it is not suitable for a family holiday, especially if you have young children, elderly members or people with mobility issues.
Baghmara is the closest to Wari Chora. It is the district headquarters of the South Garo Hills.
Furthermore, it is located at a distance of 35 km from Emangre, the starting point of the Wari Chora trek.
Wari Chora has every potential to turn into the next canoeing capital of India. Also, it is less crowded than places such as Dawki and Cherrapunji.
Furthermore, when you pay the entry fee or the guide charges, it directly goes to the Community Conservation Fund. This fund currently protects the Golden Mahseer.
Wari Chora has an otherworldly appeal, and 10:30 AM to 1 PM is the golden window to capture its beauty to the fullest.
The Sun shines the brightest in these hours, and if there is a slight mist in the air (common in November/December), you can capture spectacular “God rays” slicing through the canyon walls.
GoPro action cameras, a polarizing Filter, and a wide-angle lens are the essential photography equipment you will need. Wari Chora is also ideal for drone photography as you will get the perfect top-down view.
You need at least 3 days to visit Wari Chora. The drive to Wari Chora from Shillong or Guwahati is a long journey, leaving very little room for other activities on that day.
You can explore Wari Chora on day 2 and visit the nearby attractions or go for wildlife spotting on day 3 before returning to Shillong or Guwahati in the late afternoon or evening.
