The Legend of NohKaLikai Falls

Nohkalikai, The name itself sounds like it belongs in an epic fantasy novel, doesn’t it? But it’s actually a combination of Khasi words: “Noh” means “jump,” and “Ka Likai” is the name of the tragic heroine in this story. Yes, this waterfall is named after a woman, and not just any woman – a woman with a story that is film worthy!

Once upon a time, in a village near the falls, there lived a young widow named Likai. Life had not been kind to her. Her husband had died young, leaving her with a newborn daughter. To support herself and her baby, Likai worked tirelessly as a porter, carrying heavy loads up and down the steep hills.

Despite the hardships, Likai adored her daughter. Every moment she wasn't working, she spent with her little girl. But as the story goes, societal pressures and well-meaning but nosy neighbors pushed her into remarrying. Likai's new husband, however, was not the loving partner she hoped for. Instead, he became jealous of the attention Likai gave to her daughter.

One day, Likai came home exhausted from work, only to find a delicious meal waiting for her. Starving and grateful, she devoured the food. After finishing her meal, she looked around for her daughter. But she was nowhere to be found. As she called out and searched frantically, her eyes fell upon a small severed finger in the betel-nut basket.

Horror struck, Likai realized the unthinkable: in a fit of insane jealousy, her husband had killed her daughter and cooked her into the meal. Consumed by grief, rage, and despair, Likai ran to the edge of the nearby cliff and threw herself off, thus giving the waterfall its name: Nohkalikai – “the leap of Likai.”

Visiting Nohkalikai Falls today, it’s hard to reconcile its serene beauty with such a tragic tale. The water comes down a sheer cliff into a strikingly blue pool below, surrounded by lush green forest. The view is both majestic and melancholic, a natural monument to Likai’s sorrow.

During the monsoon season, the falls are at their most powerful, a roaring cascade that can be heard from miles away. In contrast, the dry season reveals the stark, rocky face of the cliff, a quieter but equally impressive sight. Both versions of Nohkalikai have their own charm, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

The legend of Nohkalikai serves as a reminder of the depths of human emotion and the sometimes horrifying outcomes of jealousy and despair. It also highlights the power of nature to reflect and memorialize human experiences. So, the next time you find yourself near Cherrapunji, take a moment to visit Nohkalikai Falls. Marvel at its beauty, remember Likai’s story, and perhaps ponder the mysteries of the human heart.

Nohkalikai Falls is more than just a natural wonder; it's a testament to the power of storytelling and the ways in which nature and legend intertwine. Whether you’re a lover of dramatic tales, a nature enthusiast, or just someone looking for a breathtaking view, Nohkalikai Falls offers something unforgettable. Just be sure to hold your loved ones a little closer and appreciate the beauty – and the darkness – that life can bring.