Meghalaya, a highland state in north-eastern India, is one of the country’s seven north-eastern states. Meghalaya, which means “abode of clouds” in Sanskrit, lives up to its name. Know for its lush woods, abundant rainfall, and diverse biodiversity, which makes it one of the Best Places to Visit in Meghalaya, the crown jewel of Northeast India. It is a place of essential yet humorous and active locals.
1. Shillong
Shillong, known as the “Scotland of the East,” is one of the Best Places to Visit in Meghalaya, Northeast. This place Peak is well-known for having a bird-eye perspective of Meghalaya.
The summit, which stands at 1965 meters above sea level, is one of the top spots to visit in Meghalaya. This mountain gave rise to the city of Shillong. Trek to the summit of this gorgeous peak and take in the view of Shillong.
- Summers are pleasant, but monsoon rains are heavy, and winters are bitterly cold.
- September to May is the best time to visit.
- Umiam Lake, Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Laitlum Canyons, Ward’s Lake, Lady Hydari Park, Air Force Museum, Phan Nonglait Park, Sweet Falls, and Sohpetbneng Peak are among the major attractions.
- Climbing, trekking, river rafting, golfing, angling, horseback riding, kayaking, cave exploration, and other activities are available.
- The Shillong Airport is the closest airport and is only accessible from Kolkata.
- Guwahati Junction is the nearest railway station.
2. Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji is one of the wettest areas on the planet, with the most rainfall expected throughout the year. Tourists from around the globe come to witness the famed Cherrapunji waterfalls, including the Dain-Then, Kynrem, and Nohkalikai.
The town is home to some of Meghalaya’s most beautiful waterfalls. Cherrapunji is 4500 feet above sea level. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, this immaculate village is the wettest spot on the planet.
Nature enthusiasts, honeymooners, monsoon lovers, travellers, and serenity seekers will enjoy this must-see site in North East India.
- The climate is pleasant, muggy, and mostly cloudy during the wet season, while the dry season is calm and often clear.
- Major attractions include Nohkalikai Waterfalls, Mawsynram Village, Mawsmai Nongthymmai Eco Park, Dainthlen Waterfall, and Mawlynnong Village.
- River canyoning, boating, cave exploration, picnicking at Nohkalikai Waterfalls, photography, shopping, and other activities are available.
- Guwahati Airport is the nearest airport.
- Guwahati Junction is the nearest railway station.
3. Balpakram National Park
Balpakram National Park has an astounding 220 square kilometres and is situated in the lovely and verdant South Garo Hills.
This is the place to go if you want to see Indian elephants, barking deer, red pandas, Bengal tigers, or wild water buffaloes at a height of more than 900 meters.
The lush foliage is predominantly tropical deciduous and subtropical and has several colours and one can easily spot different types of birds twittering around.
- Summers are hot and humid, while the winters are mild.
- The best time to visit is from October to February.
- Red pandas, tigers, elephants, bison, black bears, leopards, sambar deer, and other major attractions
- Explore the Flora and Fauna, Visit the Caves of Balpakram National Park, Photography, Sightseeing, and other activities.
- Guwahati Airport is the nearest airport.
- Guwahati Junction is the nearest railway station.
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4. Mawlynnong Village
The Mawlynnong hamlet, located in the East Khasi Hilla, takes pride in being Asia’s cleanest community. It is one of the most exotic destinations in Meghalaya.
From beautiful waterfalls and root bridges to a clean atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, this community welcomes you with all you need to make your Meghalaya trip memorable with all the Best Places to Visit in Meghalaya.
Aside from that, there are various bamboo huts where you may stay to become more acquainted with the area.
- Climate- the year-round pleasant and cool temperature
- July is the best month to visit.
- Performing Activities – Enjoy delicious Khasi cuisine and views of the Bangladesh plain and surrounding areas while staying in a homestay. Take a stroll through the living root bridge, talk to friendly locals, and so on.
- Guwahati Airport is the nearest airport.
- Guwahati Junction is the nearest railway station.
- Major attractions include the Mawlynnong waterfall, the Jingmaham Living Root Bridge, and the Dawki-Shnongpdeng.
5. Double-decker Living Root Bridge
The Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Meghalaya’s main tourist attraction, is one of the most unusual natural-made constructions. This natural wonder is 100 feet long and located above the Unshiang River.
Make sure to check this off your Meghalaya bucket list. The most picturesque experience is strolling across the Umshiang River, which runs beneath the bridge.
It is the oldest natural bridge, built roughly 200 years ago, although it can only support 50 people simultaneously. This is a must-see location for your Meghalaya honeymoon.
- Speciality: The world’s oldest natural bridge
- Cherrapunji situates in Meghalaya.
- Aside from May to September, when it is quite slippery, the best time to visit:
- Trek duration: 4 to 6 hours
- March to May is the best time to visit.
- 3 to 4 hours is the ideal duration (approx.)
- How to Get There:
- Fly to Guwahati Airport (177 km from the bridge) and take a taxi to Tyrna Village, from which you must trek.
- Train: Take a train to Guwahati Railway Station (154 kilometres from the bridge) and then take a taxi to Tyrna Village. From there, hike.
- By Road: Take a bus from Shillong’s Sohra Bus Stand (63 kilometres from the bridge) to Cherrapunji, then a taxi to Tyrna Village. You can continue your journey from there.
6. Nohkalikai Waterfalls
Nohkalikai Falls, with a height of 115 feet, is recognized as India’s tallest plunge waterfall and one of the most picturesque spots in Meghalaya, considered one of the Best Places to Visit in Meghalaya.
The waterfall, set in the verdant lap of the East Khasi Hills, drops from a plateau, and rain acts as a source for its hunger. It generates a beautiful green pool at the bottom, accessible through a set of stairs. This waterfall is Meghalaya’s pride and one of the country’s most stunning and fantastic falls.
- A paradise-like destination with breathtaking natural views.
- Rs.10 for entry
- Hours of operation: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Best time to visit: September to October. The ideal time to visit: 1 – 2 hours
- How to Get There:
- Fly to Guwahati Airport (169 kilometres from the falls) and hire a taxi.
- By Train: Take a cab from Guwahati Railway Station (146 km from the falls).
- By Road: You can drive or take a taxi from Shillong (55 kilometres from the falls).
7. Umiam Lake
Umiam Lake, located around 15 kilometres north of Shillong, is a magnificent man-made lake. The lake arose due to the construction of a dam to generate hydroelectric power. The gorgeous Umiam Lake shares borders with lush green East Khasi hills, making it an alluring sight for nature enthusiasts.
The daybreak at the lake is a sight to behold with your own eyes and one should always try to visit during the sunset. You may also enjoy a long boat trip on the lake, drifting, and other water activities.
- Glistening man-made lakes is a speciality.
- Time required: 1–2 hours
- Fees for boat rides: Rs 20 for a pedal boat, Rs 100 for a yacht.
- March to June is the best time to visit.
- 1 to 2 hours is the ideal duration.
- How to Get There:
- By Air: Take a cab from Guwahati Airport (103 kilometres from the lake).
- Train: Take a taxi from Guwahati Railway Station (79 kilometres from the lake).
- By Road: Take a taxi or drive from Shillong (17 km from the lake) and take the NH6 route.
Can’t wait to discover Meghalaya’s unique beauty? Keep the above list accessible, plan your trip at a time when the weather will be ideal for you, and there is still so much more this state has to offer. Nothing is too far away from us!
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