Introduction
If you love lush green landscapes, misty hills, waterfalls, and unique tribal culture, Meghalaya should be at the top of your travel list. Known as the “Abode of Clouds,” this Northeast Indian state is a nature lover’s paradise, packed with stunning caves, pristine rivers, and the famous living root bridges.
Whether you’re into adventure, photography, or just soaking in breathtaking landscapes, Meghalaya promises an unforgettable experience.
Top Places to Visit in Meghalaya
🌿 Shillong – The Scotland of the East
Meghalaya’s capital, Shillong, is a charming hill station known for its cool climate, colonial architecture, and vibrant local culture. Don’t miss:
- Umiam Lake: A stunning man-made lake, perfect for boating and kayaking.
- Shillong Peak: Offers panoramic views of the entire city.
- Elephant Falls: A picturesque waterfall nestled in dense greenery.
🌿 Cherrapunji – Land of Rain and Waterfalls
Once the wettest place on Earth, Cherrapunji is famous for its dramatic landscapes and waterfalls.
- Nohkalikai Falls: India’s tallest plunge waterfall, dropping from a height of 1,115 feet!
- Seven Sisters Falls: A breathtaking sight, especially during monsoons.
- Mawsmai Caves: Limestone caves with stunning rock formations.
🌿 Mawlynnong – Asia’s Cleanest Village
- Awarded as the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong is beautiful, peaceful, and eco-friendly.
- Walk on the bamboo skywalk, which offers a view of Bangladesh’s plains.
🌿 Living Root Bridges – A Natural Wonder
- Found in Nongriat Village, these handwoven bridges made from tree roots are over 100 years old!
- The most famous is the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, which requires a tough but rewarding trek.
🌿 Dawki – The Crystal-Clear River Town
- Home to the Umngot River, famous for its crystal-clear water where boats look like they’re floating in the air.
- Take a boat ride for a surreal experience!
🌿 Laitlum Canyon – Meghalaya’s Grand Canyon
- One of the most underrated places, offering stunning sunrise and sunset views over endless rolling hills.
How to Reach Meghalaya
✈ By Air: The nearest airport is Shillong Airport, but Guwahati Airport (120 km away) is better connected.
🚆 By Train: The nearest railway station is Guwahati, followed by a 3-hour scenic road trip to Shillong.
🚗 By Road: Meghalaya has excellent roads, and taxis/shared cabs are available from Guwahati to Shillong.
Best Time to Visit Meghalaya
🌦️ Winter (October – March): Best for sightseeing, adventure, and pleasant weather.
☔ Monsoon (June – September): The best time to see lush greenery, waterfalls, and mist-covered landscapes (but be prepared for heavy rain).
🌸 Summer (April – May): Good for exploring caves and trekking, as temperatures stay cool.
Average Travel Expenditure in Meghalaya
💰 Budget Travelers: ₹2,000 – ₹3,500 per day (homestays, shared taxis, local food).
💰 Mid-Range Travelers: ₹4,500 – ₹7,000 per day (3-star hotels, private cabs, guided tours).
💰 Luxury Travelers: ₹8,000+ per day (Luxury resorts, personal chauffeur, premium experiences).
✨ Pro Tip: Travel in a group to split costs on taxis and stay in local homestays for a more authentic experience.
Must-Try Local Food in Meghalaya
🍛 Jadoh: A delicious Khasi rice and meat dish.
🍖 Dohneiiong: Pork cooked with black sesame seeds.
🥔 Tungrymbai: Fermented soybeans cooked with spices.
🍜 Pumaloi: A traditional rice-based dish served with meat or vegetables.
🥩 Smoked Meat: Khasi cuisine is known for its smoked and dried meat, which has a unique flavor.
Essential Travel Tips for Meghalaya
✅ Respect Local Traditions: Meghalaya has a matrilineal society, where women play a key role in family and society. Be respectful of their customs.
✅ Pack Wisely: Carry raincoats, umbrellas, warm clothes, and sturdy shoes, especially if you’re visiting in monsoon or trekking to root bridges.
✅ Limited Network Connectivity: Some remote areas may have poor mobile networks, so download offline maps in advance.
✅ Cash is King: ATMs are limited outside Shillong, so carry enough cash for local travel and food.
✅ Stay in Homestays: Meghalaya’s best experiences come from staying in Khasi or Jaintia homestays, where you can enjoy authentic local food and hospitality.
✅ Early Sunsets: Meghalaya follows early sunrise and sunset timings (around 5 AM – 5 PM), so plan your travel accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Meghalaya is a hidden gem of Northeast India that blends natural beauty, unique traditions, and adventure. Whether you’re boating on the crystal-clear Umngot River, trekking to living root bridges, or enjoying the misty vibes of Cherrapunji, this state will leave you mesmerized.
For those looking for something beyond the usual tourist spots, Meghalaya is calling! 🌿🌧️💙