Discovering Wari Chora ||| The Hidden Canyon of South Garo Hills

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  • Discovering Wari Chora ||| The Hidden Canyon of South Garo Hills
by Noel Travels 5th Dec, 2025 3 mins Read

Nestled deep within the forests of South Garo Hills, the canyon-river system of Wari Chora near Emangre village is one of Meghalaya’s newest and most magical offbeat travel destinations.

What Makes Wari Chora Special

  • A canyon carved by water and time: The name “Wari Chora” comes from the Garo words meaning “deep water” (Wari) and “long” (Chora) a fitting description of the ravine carved by the Rongdik River winding between towering moss-clad rock walls.
  • Unspoiled beauty & pristine waters: Turquoise-green water flows through the gorge, flanked by steep cliffs and dense jungle  a landscape that seems straight out of a dream.
  • Canoe rides, trekking & natural exploration: The only way to truly experience the canyon is by trekking down from the jungle road and then drifting on a wooden canoe or raft between the canyon walls , a serene and surreal journey into nature’s splendor.


How to Reach & Logistical Info

  • Wari Chora lies in South Garo Hills, roughly 285 km from Shillong and 230 Km from Guwahahti
  • From Shillong (or from Guwahati), your route typically goes via the district-headquarter town of Baghmara, then onward to Emangre village , usually by local vehicle or shared taxi. From there, a rough forest track leads you toward Wari Chora.
  • The final approach to the canyon is a trek of about 1.5 km (or slightly more depending on the entry point), often downhill to the river and then uphill to return
  • No fancy hotels nearby: accommodation is limited to basic homestays in Emangre

Best Time to Visit

  • The ideal period is October to April, when the weather is dry, the water levels are calm, and the canyon is accessible and safe for canoeing.
  • Monsoon months (June–September) are not recommended — heavy rains can swell the river, make trails slippery, and hamper boat rides

What to Do & What to Expect

  • Canoe / Kayak through the canyon  Glide through narrow gorges as towering cliffs rise on either side, under lush forest canopy. The clarity of the river and the drama of the rock formations make it a surreal, almost otherworldly experience.
  • Swimming & Cliff-side dips  In calm sections, the turquoise water invites quiet plunges. For many visitors, this is one of the most magical parts of the experience.
  • Trekking & forest-trail adventure — Getting to Wari Chora involves a jungle-trail trek , offering glimpses of the surrounding forest, jungle sounds, and a sense of wilderness that few tourist spots provide.
  • Local culture & folklore — On nearby trips (or with the same guides), you might get to hear tales of nearby legendary spots like Dombe Wari, and learn about traditional Garo beliefs and local ways of life.

Travel Tips & What to Keep in Mind

  • Hire a local guide : The final stretch to Wari Chora is remote and off-map; local guides are essential for navigation, safety, and understanding the landscape.
  • Plan for basic accommodation : Expect rustic homestays rather than hotels; homestays in Emangre or nearby villages offer the most feasible lodging.
  • Pack smart  : Think waterproof bags, good trekking shoes, possibly life jackets for canoeing, and minimal luggage (since the final leg is a trek).
  • Be eco-responsible & respectful :Wari Chora and its surroundings are relatively untouched; travel light, avoid littering, respect local customs, and carry back everything you bring.
  • Avoid monsoon season  : Heavy rains can make the area dangerous and trails impassable. Stick to dry months (Nov–Apr).

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