Are you planning to visit Meghalaya this summer? Let’s find out the top 20 places to visit in Meghalaya where you find serenity and a different meaning of life.
Meghalaya, the hilly state in the North-Eastern region is considered to be one of the best travel destinations in India where millions of people visit to quench their wanderlust. The term Meghalaya means ‘abode of clouds’ in Sanskrit and it is absolutely true to its name. This hilly region is often found covered in clouds and it highest rate of average rainfall in the whole country. Famous for its lush green mountains, caves, waterfalls, and many hidden gems; this state offers plenty of beautiful places to visit and explore.
If you are planning your next vacation in Meghalaya, here are the top 20 places you need to know.
- Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji is perhaps the wettest place in the country as this region receives the most amount of rainfall every year. Not only just Indians but tourists around the world come to visit this place for its enthralling natural beauty. Tourists can enjoy a spectacular experience by visiting the waterfalls namely Kynrem, Dain-Thlen, Nohkalikai, and many others. When it comes to Meghalaya, Cherrapunji offers some of the best places of attraction such as Mawsmai Cave, Seven sisters falls, Living-Root Bridges, and so on. It also provides some of the best hotels to stay, nestled in the lush green hills. This place is perfect for your next vacation, however; make sure to not visit the place in the peak rainy season.
- Balpakram National Park
Balpakram National Park is one of the best tourist attractions in Meghalaya which is considered as paradise for the people who love wilderness. The rich biodiversity of National Park and its mysterious water bodies make this place the ‘Land of Spirits’, like straight out of Studio Ghibli. Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers can find the opportunity to spot Wild Buffaloes, Elephants, Red Pandas, Tigers, Leopards, and many other animals in the wild. Other than rich diversity, you can also find canyons and sheer hills; which make this place of surreal beauty. It is recommended to visit the place from October to March.
- Shillong
Known as the Scotland of east India, Shillong is one of the most popular places to visit that stays at the top of every tourist’s checklist. The forested hills, lush valleys, and pleasant climate attract a lot of people from around the world. Some of the famous places to visit are Elephant Falls, Lady Hydari Park, Shillong Peak, and many others. Make sure to meet and respect the local tribes in Shillong such as Maharam, Mallaisohmat, Khyrim, Mylliem, Langrim, and others. Meghalaya’s main airport is located in Shillong which makes this the gateway to North-east India.
- Elephant Falls
Elephant Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Meghalaya which is surrounded by dense forest. The name of the waterfall was given to it due to the huge elephant-like stone at its foot. The Khasi individuals in the locale call this waterfall, ‘Ka Kshaid Lai Patang Khohsiew’ which means ‘The Three Step Waterfalls’. The main waterfall is comprised of three different waterfalls and thus the name. If you want to enjoy a majestic view of this waterfall, it is recommended to visit during monsoon when the water levels are high.
- Double-decker Living Root Bridge
When they say nature is an artist, the Living Root Bridge in Meghalaya is the biggest example of that. This Double-decker bridge is formed by the roots of the rubber trees in the forest and has been there for many years now. The living installation can be found at a height of 2400 feet which offers the most magnificent experience for the tourists. The Umshiang River flows under the living root bridges. The bridges were formed more than 200 years ago, yet it is strong enough to fit and hold 50 people. The place can be visited from the base of Tyrna.
- Don Bosco Museum
Not just natural beauty but Meghalaya is also enriched with its cultural history and many tourists are interested to know that. The Don Bosco Museum is specially recommended for them which is situated in Shillong. It is a huge 7-stored historical center that consists of a total of 17 galleries. The gallery displays a wide range of antiques, clothing types, weapons, expressions, and many others that help to depict the struggle of the local tribes and their lifestyle. It is one of the best museums in Asia and you should definitely visit there.
- Kyllang Rock
It is an absurdly big and beautiful rock made with Red stone that is situated 78 km away from Shillong. The extraordinary Kyllang Rock can be found at 5400 ft above sea level which comes with a width of 1000 ft. This mammoth square of granite stone received its unique shape through natural formations only and offers a magnificent viewpoint. You will be also welcomed by age-old Red Rhododendrons and shrubs as the vegetation changes here. Climbing a rock in monsoon is not a good idea so, it is better if you visit in summer or winter when it is dry.
- Mawlynnong Village
Well renowned around the world as the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong Village is one of the exotic locations where people come to visit from around the world. Its clean and colorful environment, sustainability, and humbleness among the locals make this village a must-visit for all. The village is surrounded by gorgeous scenic beauty, situated at East Khasi Hills, Shillong.
- Baghmara
This place is specially recommended for wildlife lovers and photographers as the Baghmara Reserve Forest is situated here. Only 4 km from the town of Baghmara, the reserve forest consists of elephants, langurs, and a huge diversity of birds. Those who love the sensation of a labyrinth can visit the Siju caverns which is the third-longest cavern framework found in the Indian subcontinent region. It can offer tourists the excitement and horror of endless mazes and chambers. There is another cavern named the ‘Princess Di’s Chamber’ which is revered for its beautiful limestone formations.
- Nohkalikai Waterfalls
Nohkalikai is one of the most gorgeous, gigantic, and terrifying waterfalls in India. It is also the 4th most noteworthy waterfall around the globe where the river jumps from a height of 335 meters, from a verdant cliff to directly ground. Offering an enthralling view for everyone, the waterfall divides into five different tidal ponds which are as blue as the sky. There is no doubt that you can find a piece of paradise here.
- Mawsmai Cave
Mawsmai Cave is perhaps not the biggest or longest cave in the region but it is still liked by every tourist due to its artistic formation and beautiful view. There is a lot of vegetation inside and outside the cave and it is situated only 6 km away from Cherrapunjee. This thrilling natural installation is situated in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya and is capable of offering an unusual experience of the underground.
- Umiam Lake
This is not a natural formation, but rather a beautiful man-made reservoir that many people visit every year. The lake was initially built after a dam was formed to produce hydroelectric power. It is situated 15 kilometers north of Shillong and its picturesque essence is what invites all the tourists across the country. The Umiam Lake is surrounded by lush green East Khasi slopes which offer a great view. People gather here to enjoy the lake at dawn which is heavenly and beautiful. You can also enjoy boat rides and water sports.
- Tura
Tura is located in Garo Hills which is best known for its natural beauty and serene environment. Wildlife enthusiasts would definitely come here as the Nokrek National Park is only 12 kilometers away. The national park can help you find wild buffaloes, golden cats, leopards, etc many other animals in the wild. From Tura, you can also visit Siju caverns, making your trip more oriented and wholesome. It is best if visit this place in winter.
- Jowai
Jowai is one of the most attractive tourist places in Meghalaya that is located in Garo Hills. Other than its natural beauty, the place is also famous for its blend of heritage and culture. Make sure to join the locals to experience their lifestyle, learn about their culture, and share happiness. The place also offers some of the best lakes such as the Thadlaskein Lake where you can enjoy your own company with serene views. Pristine waterfalls and blueish-green water can make you feel like taking a skinny dip.
- Nongpoh
Nongpoh is a small town situated in the east Khasi Hills which has become a tourist attraction due to its gushing rivers and natural beauty. This town can be considered a great stop-over if you are visiting Shillong by car. It is also close to the Brahmaputra plains, allowing tourists to have a well-rounded experience.
- Williamnagar
Williamnagar offers a huge diversity of flora and fauna and is considered one of the most naturally enriched places in India. The scenic beauty of the green mountains and blue rivers makes this place no less than paradise. This place has been named after the first Chief Minister of Meghalaya. Located beside the Simsang River, this place can offer you a beautiful experience of the countryside. It is recommended to visit this place from October to February.
- Dawki
Well, Dawki perhaps needs no introduction as it is globally revered for its crystal clear lake where boating literally seems like hovering on air. The place is highly picturesque and visited by millions of tourists every year. The Dawki Lake is already on the check-list of most people who are visiting Meghalaya however, remember the fact that you might not get the exact crystal clear experience throughout the whole year. The best time to visit would be November when the weather is good and the sun is bright.
- Laitlum Canyon
if you are looking for paradise, this is the place you definitely need to visit. Nestled in East Khasi Hills, this place offers low-flying clouds, lush green landscapes, and spectacular views from every region. Close to a dreamland, this place can quench the thirst of adventure seekers and nature lovers. There is a 3000-step stairway to offer you a thrilling escape from reality. It is best if you visit the place in summer when you can have greater visibility and surreal views.
- Mawsynram
Meghalaya is best known for its heavy and merciless monsoon, and Mawsynram is the rainiest landscape in the whole state. Even though the village receives a huge amount of rainfall throughout the whole year, it still managed to look like one of the most beautiful places in India. Green valleys, misty weather, low-flying clouds, and everything together make this place straight out of mysterious folklore. Mawsynram receives on average 11,872 millimetres of rain annually. It is one of the most distinctively beautiful places in Meghalaya where you will not find tourists buzzing around.
- Mawphlang Sacred Forest
Heavy rainfall works as a catalyst for forest growth and Mawphlang is the greatest example of that. This tropical rain forest is situated in the Nongrum region of Meghalaya, which is home to thousands of animals, birds; and a huge diversity of flora and fauna. The forest consists of a spiritual essence where you can find 1000-year-old trees everywhere. The local communities can also tell you the folklore related to the forest along with mythological significance. The forest is sacred to them and they believe that it helps them survive through this heavy rainfall. Undoubtedly, it is the most spiritual experience in the forest that everyone should feel at least once in their life.
Make sure to book your tickets and hotels in advance as many other tourists are planning along with you. Check out the 20 places mentioned above to change your perspective on life!
