Meghalaya, or the "Abode of Clouds," is a heaven in Northeast India. With its lush rolling hills, dense greenery, cascading waterfalls, deep and long caves, and rich heritage and culture, it is one of India's most scenic states. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or history enthusiast, Meghalaya has a lot to offer everyone. You can visit Shillong, which is the capital of Meghalaya, by booking Shillong Tour Packages.
List of Tourist Places in Meghalaya
Below is a list of the top attractions you should not miss when travelling to this stunning state.
1. Shillong – The Scotland of the East
Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya, known for its pleasant weather, scenic beauty, various breathtaking attractions, and vibrant culture. Shillong is beautiful throughout the year, but the best time is from March to June when the weather is pleasant to undertake certain outdoor activities. Monsoon makes the region bloom with beauty and is a time cherished by nature lovers. The local markets like Police Bazar and Bara Bazar are worthy of exploration, and you can even take souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Khasi dresses from there. Shillong's vibrant nightlife at cafes and pubs is a delight to experience. There are various delicacies that are a must-try when in Shillong. Few of them include Jadoh (rice with meat), Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame), and Tungtap (fermented fish sauce). In a nutshell, Shillong has a lot to offer its tourists and is the perfect destination to begin your journey to Meghalaya.
Top Shillong Tourist Attractions:
- Umiam Lake: It is a breathtaking man-made lake surrounded by verdant hills. Tourists can indulge in boating, kayaking, and walks amidst beautiful nature.
- Shillong Peak: It is the highest point in Shillong that lets tourists witness a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings.
- Elephant Falls: It is a stunning three-tiered waterfall that is easy to access and is the perfect spot to engage in photography and take beautiful snaps of nature or self.
- Ward’s Lake: It is a peaceful lake named after Sir William Ward, who was the Chief Commissioner of Assam during the British era. Having a wooden bridge and lush green gardens, it also offers tourists the chance to indulge in water sport activities like boating.
- Don Bosco Museum: It is a cultural museum that showcases and restores the cultural traditions and heritage of Northeast India. It is a must-visit attraction in Shillong, Meghalaya.
2. Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji is among the wettest locations in the world, and it boasts stunning waterfalls and unusual living root bridges that have been constructed from the roots of rubber trees. You will need to bring a raincoat or umbrella with you since it rains suddenly at times. It is also recommended that you wear trekking shoes if you are going to visit the living root bridges. Travellers can choose to spend the night in a homestay so that they can enjoy the local Khasi hospitality.
Top Cherrapunji Tourist Attractions:
Nohkalikai Falls: It is India's tallest plunge waterfall renowned for its breathtaking view, particularly in the monsoon. The fall cascades from a height of 340 metres (1,115 ft). The beauty of the falls is increased during rainy season. It is no less than a delight to view the charm of this waterfall. Therefore, it is among the must visit places in Meghalaya.
Seven Sisters Falls: Seven Sisters waterfall is a seven segmented waterfall and among the breathtaking locations in Cherrapunjee. Cascading down from a cliff, with gushing sound, this waterfall is viewed at their best during the rainy season. It is India’s fourth highest waterfall and also known by the name, Nohsngithiang Falls or Mawsmai Falls. This spot is a must-see when in Cherrapunji and is counted among the best places to visit in Meghalaya.
Mawsmai Cave: An interesting limestone cave with fascinating stalactites and stalagmites formations and fossils. It is a 150 m long and 10 m high cave. The surrounding lush greenery enhances the beauty of this majestic limestone cave. The opening of the cave is quite spacious, but visitors might have to bend down and crawl at some point while exploring the cave as the passage becomes narrow adding on to the thrill of adventure seekers. Thus, if you’re an adventure enthusiast, this destination is a paradise for you.
Dainthlen Falls: A picturesque waterfall with a mythological background, Dainthlen falls stands out for its beauty and is among the amazing places to visit in Meghalaya. It is located about 10.8 km from Cherrapunjee and cascades down from a height of about 80 metres. Therefore, is amazing location is not to be missed when in Cherrapunji, Meghalaya.
Double Decker Living Root Bridge: This place located in the Nongriat Village in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya is worth visiting for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts. Travellers can take a hike amidst green forests to arrive at this wonder. This bridge is believed to be around 250 years old and is made by entangling of the roots of rubber tree as designed by the local folk to form a bridge which gets stronger with time. This marvel is a must explore in Cherrapunji and tops the list of places to visit in Meghalaya.
Thangkharang Park: A vantage point with a view of Bangladesh, this is an enthralling destination located about 10 km from Cherrapunjee and spreads across the land of about 100 acres housing various verdant plants and trees. There’s a small bridge that adds on to the beauty of the park. Visitors can relax picnicing and viewing the majestic Bangladesh plains.
3. Dawki
Dawki, along the border of Bangladesh, is a town in the West Jaintia Hills District, renowned for its transparent river called Umngot River or Dawki River. The river is so clear that boats seem to be hovering in mid-air. Travellers can take a boat ride on the Umngot River. The most suitable time for boating is from October to March when the river is at its clearest. A trip to the Dawki Suspension Bridge, a British-era bridge, is a must to see the scenic beauty of the river and hills. Shnongpdeng, a serene village close to Dawki, is ideal for camping, kayaking, and snorkelling. It is a treat for adventure seekers. Some of the delicacies to be enjoyed in Dawki are fresh river fish curry, a local specialty, and Pukhlein, a sweet Meghalayan dish prepared with jaggery and rice. Thus, Dawki is one of the numerous wonderful places to see in Meghalaya.
4. Mawlynnong Village – Asia's Cleanest Village
Mawlynnong Village is famous for its cleanliness, organic way of living, and picturesque location. Mawlynnong allows tourists to enjoy eco-tourism at its peak. You can take up a walk to the village and participate in interactions with the people to learn about the sustainable way of life. Visitors can also relish traditional Khasi cuisine prepared using organic food. Mawlynnong Village is an ideal retreat from the typical city life and allows tourists to live the simple and natural life of the locals here.
Top Attractions In Mawlynnong Village:
- Sky Walk: It is a bamboo platform providing a panoramic view of Bangladesh and the nearby forests.
- Balancing Rock: A natural phenomenon in which a big rock balances on a smaller rock with no support. This formation is so strong and has been the same since a long time. This is definitely a marvel and a mystery for scientists as well.
5. Mawsynram – The Wettest Place in the World
Mawsynram holds the top position with the highest rainfall all round the year. It is surrounded by dense green grass and hidden waterfalls. Visitors who are fond of rains, visit here from June to September during the monsoon to experience the true beauty of the place. Mawsynram is situated 1,400m above sea level and is about 15 km from Cherrapunjee. The average annual rainfall in Mawsynram is about 11,872mm.
Best Attractions in Mawsynram:
- Mawjymbuin Cave: This cave is made of calcareous sandstones and is also known as Krem Mawjymbuin. It is 15 feet high and about 150 feet wide.
- Jakrem Hot Water Spring: It is a popular hot water spring in Cherrapunji. Visitors can relax in this destination by dipping into the warm pool and wash off the toxins from their body.
6. Jowai – A Hidden Paradise
Jowai, situated in the Jaintia Hills, is an offbeat yet stunning destination with lakes, waterfalls, and cultural heritage. There is local cuisine to sample, such as Ki Kpu (steamed rice cakes) and Pork Bamboo Shoot Curry to relish the taste of authentic Jaintia cuisine. Jowai houses a lot of attractions that are worth visiting and exploring.
Top Places to Visit in Jowai:
Krang Suri Waterfall: One of the most scenic waterfalls of Meghalaya, with turquoise blue water. This tourist destination attracts a lot of visitors by its captivating scenery. This falls is a must visit attraction of Meghalaya and is best visited after monsoon.
Nartiang Monoliths: A series of enormous stone formations of historical importance. This is one of the unique attractions to witness in Meghalaya.
7. Laitlum Canyons
Laitlum Canyons, situated near Shillong, is renowned for its scenic views of rolling green hills, vast gorges, and misty environment. Traversing through scenic trails, visitors can engage in photography at sunrise or sunset, and picnicking with family along with pure mountain air at this amazing tourist attraction. The sunset and sunrise views are so scenic that they're a treat to watch. It is one of the many beautiful places to visit in Meghalaya.
8. Smit Valley – A Glimpse of Khasi Culture
Smit is a representative Khasi village in the neighbourhood of Shillong, renowned for its rich culture. The Nongkrem Dance Festival is a popular Khasi festival observed with traditional dance and music. It is a must-attend festival whenever in the region at that time. You can witness the traditional old Khasi houses made of bamboo and wood and even understand the Khasi tribal customs and heritage. Hence, being one of those locations in Meghalaya that brings back the state's rich heritage and culture, a trip to this location is a must.
9. Nongriat
Nongriat is a small village famous for its Double Decker Living Root Bridge. Aside from that, travellers can have trekking experiences here. Trekking in Nongriat is tiresome but rewarding because of its scenic grandeur. The place is endowed with dense forests, waterfalls, and natural, crystal clear pools. You may dip into the natural pools adjacent to the bridge during a refreshing summer day. So, Nongriat is perfect for those who want to undertake adventures and are also searching for offbeat things to do.
10. Mawphanlur
Mawphanlur is a picturesque and among the least explored locations with rolling hills and small lakes. It offers boating and kayaking on calm lakes. You can experience starry-night camping in the tranquil surroundings of the countryside. You can also take leisurely walks in the soft breeze. So, it is no surprise that it's one of the most peaceful places to visit in Meghalaya.
Conclusion
Meghalaya is a paradise, ranging from beautiful waterfalls and caves to serene villages and rich culture. Whether you are an adventure lover, nature enthusiast, or just need some peace, Meghalaya has it all. Plan your trip to Meghalaya and see the magic of the "Abode of Clouds" yourself!
