Nohkalikai Falls Legend Tales of Meghalaya

The Heartbreaking Legend Behind India's Third Tallest Waterfall of India 

Dated: 09 November 2024

Nestled in the lush landscapes of Meghalaya, India, lies the majestic Nohkalikai Falls, cascading from a breathtaking height of 340 meters—making it the third tallest waterfall in the country. Yet, beyond its stunning beauty, this natural wonder is steeped in a poignant legend that speaks of love, loss, and tragedy. According to Khasi folklore, the tale begins with a woman named Ka Likai, who lived a simple yet joyful life with her husband, a porter, and their beloved baby daughter. However, their happiness was shattered when Ka Likai’s husband tragically died in an accident, leaving her to navigate the harsh realities of life alone. Confronted with societal pressures and the need for her daughter to have a father, Ka Likai remarried, hoping to rebuild her family.

As time went by, her new husband grew increasingly envious of the bond Ka Likai shared with her daughter. Consumed by jealousy and feeling threatened, he committed an unspeakable act. One fateful day, while Ka Likai was at work, he took her daughter's life, preparing a meal from her flesh, which he thought would deceive Ka Likai. Upon returning home, hunger enveloped Ka Likai, and she unwittingly consumed the horrific meal prepared by her husband. It was only when she reached for her usual betel leaves that the horrifying truth revealed itself. Within the betel leaf case lay the fingers of her precious daughter. Overcome by grief and shock, Ka Likai ran wildly, her heart shattered, until she reached the edge of a cliff. In a heart-wrenching moment of despair, she leapt into the depths of the waterfall below, forever intertwining her fate with the very place that would bear her name.

The falls are known as "Nohkalikai," which translates to "the place where Ka Likai jumped." This haunting tale serves as a reminder of the depths of human emotion and the tragic consequences of jealousy and loss. Today, as visitors stand before the cascading waters of Nohkalikai Falls, they are not only captivated by its beauty but also moved by the poignant story that lingers in the air—a testament to Ka Likai's enduring spirit. So, as you plan your visit to this breathtaking site, take a moment to reflect on the legend that gives Nohkalikai its profound meaning. Let it inspire you to cherish the bonds of love and the fragility of life, as you witness one of nature’s most stunning displays.