Meghalaya Tourism: Explore the Best Places, Cuisine, and Culture

Exploring Meghalaya: The Northeastern Gem of India

Meghalaya, often referred to as "The Abode of Clouds," is a mesmerizing state located in the northeastern part of India, bordered by Assam and Bangladesh. Known for its stunning landscapes, pristine waterfalls, and lush green hills, Meghalaya is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Whether you're an explorer seeking breathtaking views or a cultural enthusiast keen on discovering local traditions, Meghalaya offers something for everyone.

How to Reach Meghalaya?

By Air:
The nearest airport to Meghalaya is Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam. From here, travelers can take a taxi or bus to Shillong, which is about 100 kilometers (approximately a 3-hour drive) away.

By Train:
The nearest major railway station is in Guwahati, Assam, which is well-connected to other major cities across India. From Guwahati, visitors can hire taxis or take buses to reach Meghalaya.

By Road:
A scenic 3-hour road trip from Guwahati to Shillong is an exciting journey through picturesque landscapes. The road is well-maintained, with taxis and buses readily available for travelers.

---

Top Attractions in Meghalaya

Shillong

• Umiam Lake: A serene man-made lake surrounded by lush hills, perfect for boating and relaxing amidst nature.
• Shillong Peak: The highest point in Shillong, offering panoramic views of the city and its surrounding landscapes.
• Elephant Falls: A picturesque three-tiered waterfall, nestled in the forests of Shillong, ideal for photography and nature walks.
• Wards Lake: A beautiful artificial lake with boating facilities, surrounded by well-maintained gardens.

Cherrapunji (Sohra)

• Nohkalikai Falls: The highest waterfall in India, cascading down from a height of 1,115 feet, offering a magnificent sight.
• Mausinram: Known as the wettest place on Earth, Mausinram is famous for its heavy rainfall and lush green landscapes.
• Living Root Bridges: Ingenious bridges made from the roots of trees, these living bridges are an architectural marvel and a unique feature of Meghalaya.

Dawki

• Umngot River: Famous for its crystal-clear waters, this river is a must-visit for those who appreciate natural beauty and serenity.
• India-Bangladesh Border: The border area offers interesting insights into the region's history and is a great spot for photography.

Mawlynnong

• Asia's Cleanest Village: Mawlynnong is not only famous for its cleanliness but also offers an authentic glimpse into the rural life of Meghalaya.
• Living Root Bridge: A magnificent bridge formed by the roots of rubber trees, showcasing the local ingenuity and sustainable living practices.

Nongkhram and Nongstein

• Breathtaking Valleys & Waterfalls: Known for their tranquil environment, Nongkhram and Nongstein boast beautiful valleys and stunning waterfalls perfect for a peaceful retreat.
  

13 Best Tourist Attractions in Meghalaya with Beautiful Photos

---

Best Time to Visit Meghalaya

The best time to explore Meghalaya is from October to April, when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The summer months (March to June) remain mildly cold, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C, while the winter months (October to February) can get chilly, with temperatures dropping to 5-15°C.

If you prefer the monsoon season (May to September), you can visit the rainiest areas of Cherrapunji and Mausinram. However, do keep in mind the heavy rainfall during this period.

---

Climate in Meghalaya

• Summer (March-June): Mildly cold with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.
• Monsoon (July-September): Heavy rainfall, especially in Cherrapunji and Mausinram, making it the perfect season for a rain-drenched experience.
• Winter (October-February): Temperatures can drop to 5°C to 15°C, making it a great time to enjoy chilly weather and misty mornings.

---

Local Cuisine: What to Eat in Meghalaya?

Meghalaya offers a variety of traditional dishes, influenced by the region's indigenous tribes, including:

• Jadoh: A rice and meat dish, usually served with pork or chicken, this is a staple of the Khasi tribe.
• Dukhleh: A flavorful pork dish that’s loved by locals and tourists alike.
• Nakam: A dry fish delicacy that captures the essence of Meghalaya’s coastal influences.
• Tungarimbai: A traditional dish made from soybean, often enjoyed during festivals.

---

Shopping in Meghalaya: What to Buy?

Meghalaya is known for its local handicrafts, which make for great souvenirs:

• Bamboo Products: Intricate bamboo items like baskets, mats, and furniture are widely available.
• Traditional Clothes: The Khasi and Garo communities craft beautiful traditional attire, perfect for those looking to take home a piece of the local culture.
• Handicrafts: You can find a wide range of handcrafted goods made from wood, cane, and bamboo.

---

Where to Stay in Meghalaya?

Meghalaya offers a range of accommodation options, from budget homestays to luxurious resorts. You can find good hotels and homestays in the popular tourist destinations of Shillong, Cherrapunji, and Dawki. These places offer comfortable stays and are perfect for a peaceful retreat in the midst of nature.

---

Conclusion

Meghalaya is a dream destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility amidst the hills and waterfalls. Whether you're exploring the living root bridges, soaking in the beauty of Nohkalikai Falls, or savoring the local delicacies, Meghalaya never fails to enchant. It’s a place where nature’s raw beauty blends seamlessly with the culture and history of its indigenous people.

---

Top FAQs about Visiting Meghalaya

Q1: What is the best time to visit Meghalaya?
A1: The best time to visit Meghalaya is from October to April, when the weather is cool and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Q2: How can I reach Meghalaya?
A2: You can reach Meghalaya by air through Guwahati Airport, by train to Guwahati Railway Station, or by road from Guwahati to Shillong.

Q3: What are the top attractions in Meghalaya?
A3: Key attractions include Shillong, Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Mausinram, Living Root Bridges, and the clean village of Mawlynnong.

Q4: What are some famous local dishes to try in Meghalaya?
A4: Don't miss Jadoh, Dukhleh, Nakam, and Tungarimbai—traditional dishes that reflect the local flavors of Meghalaya.

Q5: Where can I stay in Meghalaya?
A5: Meghalaya offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, homestays, and resorts in popular destinations like Shillong, Cherrapunji, and Dawki.

13 Best Tourist Attractions in Meghalaya with Beautiful Photos

Meghalaya, the "Abode of Clouds," is a land of breathtaking landscapes, cascading waterfalls, mystical caves, and enchanting root bridges. From the crystal-clear waters of Dawki River to the living root bridges of Nongriat, every corner of Meghalaya offers a stunning natural wonder. Whether it's the misty hills of Shillong, the lush valleys of Cherrapunji, or the serene lakes hidden within dense forests, this northeastern paradise is a must-visit for travelers seeking beauty and adventure. Explore Meghalaya Tourism: Explore the Best Places, Cuisine, and Culture

---

Conclusion:

Meghalaya is a dream destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photography enthusiasts. Its untouched beauty, diverse culture, and welcoming people make it a perfect getaway. Each photograph in this collection captures the essence of Meghalaya's charm, inviting you to explore its wonders and create unforgettable memories.

Tourist Attractions in Meghalaya | Places to visit in Meghalaya

Meghalaya, the "Abode of Clouds," offers breathtaking natural beauty and unique cultural experiences. Must-visit places include the living root bridges of Cherrapunji, the crystal-clear waters of Dawki, the lush landscapes of Mawlynnong, and the scenic Umiam Lake. The capital, Shillong, is known for its vibrant markets and waterfalls. The state’s caves, such as Mawsmai and Siju, are perfect for adventure seekers. Each destination promises an unforgettable experience in this northeastern gem.

Mawsynram

Source: Pinterest

Mawsynram is a village in Meghalaya that has been acknowledged to be the wettest place in the world, with the highest amount of rainfall received in a single place. Apart from being the wettest place, Mawsynram is also an exceptionally beautiful village amidst the mountains, and you can spend quality time there away from your daily life. Mawsynram is best for a weekend getaway. 

If you are visiting Meghalaya, there is no better place to start your trip than Mawsynram. The city of Mawsynram is located at a distance of around 60 km away from Shillong, which is the capital of Meghalaya. You can get to Mawsynram using cabs or state-run buses. The buses and cabs are both available easily and regularly from Shillong and other cities in Meghalaya.

Cherrapunji

Source: Pinterest

Cherrapunji is the second wettest place in the world. It was, however, known as the wettest place for quite some time before being taken over by Mawsynram. This village is also a premier tourist attraction in Meghalaya that attracts thousands of visitors annually from different parts of the world. The flora and fauna of the city are truly spectacular, and it can be an excellent place for you to spend your weekends. 

You can plan a long weekend trip to Cherrapunji and Mawsynram and enjoy the two wettest places on earth. Just make sure you carry your umbrella. Cherrapunji is also located quite close to Mawsynram at a distance of only 54 km from Shillong. You can use the same buses and cabs to reach Cherrapunji that you would use to reach Mawsynram. They are available easily from the capital city of Shillong.

Double Decker Root Bridge

Source: Pinterest

Located in Cherrapunji, the double-decker root bridge is an exceptional natural phenomenon. The bridge is made completely naturally out of the roots of the trees in the region. The double-decker root bridge is something unique to Cherrapunji, and it is located in a beautiful spot inside a jungle, which gives an exciting sense of adventure. 

The bridge, although not climbable by human beings, is one of the coolest natural things you can see in Meghalaya, so make sure you visit this among other Meghalaya places to visit on your next trip. If you start your journey from Shillong, it will take you around two to three hours to reach this tourist spot which is located roughly 70 km away from Shillong. You can find buses and cabs to reach this destination and also to get back to Shillong.

Nohkalikai Waterfalls

Source: Pinterest

Located close to Cherrapunji, the Nohkalikai waterfalls are the fourth-highest waterfalls in the world. With a drop of over 300 metres from atop a cliff, these waterfalls are incredibly beautiful. They are also the second-highest waterfall in India. As a prime example of one of the top tourist places in Meghalaya, the Nohkalikai waterfalls should be on your must-visit list on your next trip to Meghalaya. The Nohkalikai falls are located quite close to Cherrapunji at a distance of 54 km from Shillong. You can easily get to these waterfalls using the well-connected public transport system of Meghalaya, comprising cabs and buses.

Shillong

Source: Pinterest

Shillong is the picturesque capital of Meghalaya that boasts incredible scenery, pine trees, and pleasant weather that will make you want to stay there forever. The name Shillong comes from a deity that is worshipped at the peak of Shillong. Shillong is located at a height of over one km above sea level. You can find various trekking adventures and other activities around the capital of Meghalaya that can help you make your trip exciting and eventful. 

As the capital city, you do not need a map to get here; most of the journeys to Meghalaya would start at Shillong because the transport often leads to the capital city when you are getting to Meghalaya from other parts of the country. As the capital city, Shillong is the primary tourist location of Meghalaya, which faces the most tourists year-round.

Elephant Falls

Source: Pinterest

The Elephant Falls are named so because of the elephant-shaped rock present at the bottom of the waterfall. It is one of the most beautiful and popular waterfalls in North-East India. You can visit these falls easily from Shillong as they are located close to the capital. The best part about these waterfalls is that they have three layers, which can be viewed from different vantage points. You can trek to these various vantage points adding thrill and excitement to your trip and experience. The Elephant falls are located very close to Shillong at a distance of just 12 km from the capital. You can easily get to and from these waterfalls in a matter of hours, making it a great trip for your off days or for a day trip.

Jowai

Source: Pinterest

If you want to experience the best of Meghalaya in terms of scenic beauty, you must visit the district of Jowai. With beautiful waterfalls, tall mountains, and lush greenery all around you, this place is a perfect spot for mountain lovers. With pleasant weather, adequate accommodation options, and breathtaking views all around, Jowai is one of the best places for you to stay in Meghalaya. So, if you have the time, please be sure to stop and stay at Jowai during your trip to experience the best of Meghalaya. 

Jowai is located at a distance of over 60 km away from Shillong; you can easily get to Jowai using public transport such as cabs and buses. However, you should note that the distance between these two spots is considerable, which would contribute to a considerable journey time as well. So, please keep that in mind before setting out, especially if you are planning a quick or day trip.

Dawki

Source: Pinterest

Dawki is one of the most beautiful, picturesque, and unique tourist spots in Meghalaya. Located at the border of India and Bangladesh, Dawki is a river whose water is absolutely crystal clear. Tourists flock to Dawki to experience the clean river and boat in it. As a small town, it has become incredibly popular over the years to become one of the premier tourist destinations of Meghalaya. 

With the unique beauty of the river combined with the picturesque surroundings, a trip to Dawki is the perfect way to end your Meghalaya vacation. As one of the most popular tourist spots in Meghalaya, you can easily get to Dawki using public transport such as cabs and buses. The distance from Dawki to Shillong is around 80 km. The journey may take a while, but the trip would be absolutely worth it, as Dawki is truly a sight to behold and a unique experience that can’t be matched otherwise.

Umiam Lake

Source: Pinterest

Very few artificial lakes around the world share the beauty and serenity of Umiam lake, which is located north of Shillong. This artificial lake was created by the formation of a dam to generate hydroelectricity. Today, this beautiful lake is surrounded by lush greenery and pleasant weather. 

Whether you are interested in spending a day of leisure close to the lake or want to organise a small picnic of your own, you can do so on your trip to Umiam lake. The Umiam lake is located just 16 km away from the capital of Meghalaya. You can easily get there using cabs and buses that are easily available from Shillong.

Balpakram National Park

Source: Pinterest

When you are visiting a state like Meghalaya, which is well-known for its flora and fauna, you must visit the Balpakram National Park to complete your trip. You can see the full extent of the diversity in terms of the flora and fauna of the state in this national park. You can also see rare and endangered wildlife in this park, such as the Himalayan Red Panda. This national park is located at a height of over 3,000 metres above sea level, making it one of the highest national parks in the country. 

The Balpakram national park is the farthest tourist spot mentioned in this list from Shillong, as it is located at a distance of over 100 km from the capital city. So, if you want to travel to this national park, you would have to plan out a separate small tour to spend proper time at the national park. You can easily cover the distance using public transport like buses and cabs. However, you must keep in mind the travel time between these two locations.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Meghalaya?

You can visit Meghalaya at any time of the year as it's always spectacularly beautiful. However, since Meghalaya is home to both Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, Meghalaya is especially popular among tourists during monsoons. They come to experience the endless rains of Meghalaya and enjoy the monsoon here. It’s one of the most unique travel experiences you can find in India.

What is the ideal trip length for Meghalaya?

The ideal trip length needed to properly cover the state and all the amazing tourist destinations in the state is seven to ten days. Given that the state is huge and the tourist destinations are often located quite far from one another, you need time to travel from one place to another. So, keeping all these aspects in mind, a period of seven to ten days would be ideal to properly stay and experience Meghalaya at its best.

Is Meghalaya safe for travelling solo?

Yes, Meghalaya is absolutely safe for solo travelling for people of all ages and genders.

Conclusion

Meghalaya's diverse attractions make it a haven for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts. From stunning natural landscapes to intriguing local traditions, Meghalaya provides a refreshing escape and a deep connection with nature and heritage.