The original elephant-shaped rock formation at the site was destroyed during the Great Assam Earthquake of 1897.
The Khasi name for the falls, 'Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew', translates to 'three-step waterfall' due to its distinct tiered structure.
The site is maintained by the Meghalaya state tourism department with infrastructure designed to handle high foot traffic on steep terrain.
The waterfall is fed by a small stream that flows through a dense forest catchment area before plunging over the cliff edge.
Unlike many remote falls in the region, the entire descent is facilitated by well-maintained, stepped walking paths.
The humidity and constant mist at the base of the falls support a diverse ecosystem of ferns, mosses, and endemic plant species.
Elephant Falls is a three-tiered waterfall system located in Upper Shillong, known locally as 'Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew' meaning 'three-step waterfall'. The British colonial administration named the falls after a once-prominent elephant-shaped rock formation located near the base, which was destroyed during a 1897 earthquake. The site features a series of concrete stairs and metal railings that allow visitors to descend from the forest canopy to the base of the tiers. The waterfalls are fed by the mountain streams of the Shillong Plateau and are surrounded by lush, moss-covered rock faces. The flow intensity varies significantly based on regional rainfall patterns. It remains one of the most accessible natural attractions in the East Khasi Hills district.
The middle tier viewing platform, which captures all three levels of the falls in a single vertical frame.
Wear shoes with high-traction soles as the stone steps and viewing platforms are perpetually damp and slippery.
Bring a lightweight rain shell or waterproof gear even on sunny days, as mist from the falls often saturates the immediate area.
Visit on a weekday morning to avoid the high density of weekend tour groups.
Attempting to climb the damp rock faces surrounding the falls, as they are unstable and pose a significant fall risk.
Avoid littering the fragile forest ecosystem; stay strictly within the designated railing boundaries for safety.
