Kakochang Waterfall

Kakochang Waterfall (locally known as Keipholangso Falls) is a multi-tiered waterfall situated near Naharjan Gaon in the Golaghat District of Assam, at an elevation of 120 meters above sea level. Located about 13 km from Bokakhat and 30 km east of Kaziranga's Kohora range, this 40-meter cascade originates in the Karbi Anglong hills. The waterfall is open throughout the year and is a popular active excursion for visitors exploring the national park.

Approaching the Hidden Plunge Pool

You will hear the waterfall long before you see it. Walking through the dense canopy, the hum of forest cicadas and the scent of wild ginger fill the air. The trail leads to a cool, rock-strewn plunge pool where the cascade plunges down dark basalt cliffs. Standing on the right side of the waterfall, you will experience sudden, high-velocity winds and heavy spray—an exciting, high-energy phenomenon that is completely absent on the calmer left side.

Natural Ecology & Geology

The waterfall originates from highland springs in the Karbi Anglong plateau, carving its path through geological formations of Precambrian basalt rocks. The forest is characterized by tropical semi-evergreen vegetation, home to unique native bird species such as the Great Indian Hornbill and various kingfishers. Thick groves of native Bhaluka bamboo (Bambusa balcooa) drape the stream banks, creating a humid microclimate where wild ferns and epiphytic orchids cling to the trees.

Trail Access, Vehicles, and Community Bridges

The journey begins at the entry gate, where the trail technically starts. However, vehicles are permitted to drive 2 kilometers further to the main parking area. Past this parking area, no vehicles are allowed. From the parking lot, visitors walk on foot. While there is a well-furnished resort with accommodation and a restaurant situated just across the first stream after the parking lot, the trek to the falls continues deeper into the forest.

Previously, this trek was highly challenging as visitors had to wade directly through several shallow mountain streams. Over time, simple bamboo bridges (sako) were added, but today the local community has constructed sturdy iron bridges across the streams and over the rugged rock paths. This modern infrastructure makes the lower trail highly accessible and safe for everyone, including children and elderly travelers. Visitors can still choose to cross the shallow streams on foot, which is considered a fun and refreshing experience.

The Upper and Lower Trails

After crossing the first few streams on foot, the trail splits into two distinct paths that both lead to the falls. You can make it a round trip by exploring both routes:

• The Lower Trek: This route was cleared and developed by the local community specifically for general tourists. It is flat, runs along the valley floor, and is comparatively very easy to walk.
• The Upper Trek: This is the original path. It is a harder route that requires climbing up a steep forested hill. For adventure seekers, this is an exciting climb, but caution is required on the final descent to the waterfall: the dirt steps are very narrow, and the bamboo safety railings may naturally wear off due to exposure to the elements.

Local Bamboo Cuisine and Trailside Eats

At the trailhead parking area, small local shops and stalls offer tea, bottled water, souvenirs, and local produce. Here, you can try traditional local tribal delicacies, such as pork and chicken seasoned with local herbs, stuffed into hollow green bamboo stems, and slow-cooked over open wood fires. A few small snack and beverage stalls are also scattered along the trail for refreshments.

Getting There

The trailhead is reached via a narrow road off National Highway 37 from Bokakhat. To reach the entry gate, you must drive through the beautiful, sprawling Naharjan Tea Estate, whose manicured green tea bushes line the route. If you are traveling on our 9-day wildlife and gorge tour or the 7-day Kaziranga and Tawang journey, Kakochang is a perfect active morning excursion. The nearest major town is Bokakhat (13 km), Jorhat Airport is 65 km away (1.5 hours by road), and Furkating Junction in Golaghat is 40 km away.