Wari Chora: Meghalaya's hidden canyon

Wari Chora in the South Garo Hills in Meghalaya is nature’s wonder with its towering canyons, waterfalls and a river flowing beneath peacefully. This little-known tourist destination has recently been listed on Google Maps.

Located in the Rekmangre Village between Pharomgre and Rekmangre Village in South Garo Hills, Wari Chora is also called the land of the Seven Giant Serpents. 

Locals believe that seven giant serpents protect Wari Chora.

‘Wari’ in the Garo language translates to deep water, while ‘Chora’ means long, referring to a place surrounded by high canyons with the tranquil waters of the Rongdik River flowing through it.

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Trekking and kayaking

The river starts at Wari Chora and eventually joins the Simsang River in Siju before entering Bangladesh. Serving as a vital water source for local communities in the region, the Rongdik River has played an important role in shaping the landscape.

Canyons are formed between cliffs due to weathering and erosive activities of a river over hundreds of years. Rongdik River has led to the formation of the Wari Chora Canyon.

Tourists can explore walking trails and trek to the Miminram Hills, which provide an up-close encounter with the canyon and river. The downhill trekking route is about 1.5 km from a cleared land into the forest. The trail, guided by locals, becomes steeper as one descends, with tea branch stairs aiding the journey. 

On weekends, visitors, both local and from various parts of the country, flock to Wari Chora for kayaking and boat rides in the Rongdik River. The canyons, resembling serpent layers, create a magical ambience as the river narrows and one reaches waterfalls.

Tourists can visit the cluster of nearby villages, which are home to many caves and waterfalls. The fish sanctuaries of Aginma in Emangre village and Jadesil in Tolegre village are pristine and untouched by pollution so far. 

The two sanctuaries are home to the endangered Redfins and Golden Mahseers fish species.

The nearest railway station to Wari Chora is Dudhnoi in Goalpara, Assam. It is best to visit Wari Chora between November and April to avoid the rains when the area becomes slippery and clouded in mist. 

Since Google Maps may not work well in the offbeat location, it is best to hire local guides. The 1.5 km trek downhill takes approximately 25-30 minutes, but the uphill climb back to the parking spot may take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on breaks.

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