The state of Meghalaya offers a stunning landscape of rolling hills, waterfalls, caves, and forests. The pine-covered hills and the lush green flora add to the charm of this place.
During your trip to Meghalaya, there are many places and attractions that you can visit. You will find surprises waiting to be discovered at every corner and an essence that fills the entire state.
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In this article, you will get to know about the following places to visit in Meghalaya,
Let’s see each of these places in detail.
1. Shillong
| Best Time to Visit | September – May |
Shillong is a beautiful hill station and the capital of Meghalaya. It is situated in the East Khasi Hills and has an average elevation of 4,908 feet. The city constitutes a rich cultural heritage and is home to several indigenous tribes, such as the Khasis, Jaintias, and Garos.
The city boasts scenic beauty, waterfalls, lakes, parks, and colonial architecture, which make it unique. The town is muffled amidst rolling hills and dense wilderness, making it a popular destination among nature lovers.
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Shillong is also known for its vibrant music scene and is often called the “Rock Capital of India.” You can enjoy the sightseeing of the cascading waterfalls, the sacred forests of Mawphlang, the well-maintained gardens, and the azure lakes.
You can also visit the Don Bosco Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region, go for a trekking expedition, or try rock climbing for some thrill. If you love water sports, you can enjoy kayaking on the lake or river. You can also camp under the stars and enjoy the beauty of nature at its best. And, of course, do not miss the shopping opportunities in Shillong.
2. Mawsynram
| Best Time to Visit | September – November |
Mawsynram is a village 69 kilometers away from Shillong that receives the highest rainfall in India, with an average annual rainfall of 467 inches. It is a place to experience the beauty of nature, with incessant rain, lush green valleys, and roaring waterfalls. The village is famous for its “living bridges” that span across the rain-soaked valleys.
There are many things to do and see in this location. You can explore the Mawjymbuin caves and admire the Mawsmai Falls, the fourth-highest waterfall in India. You can also visit Krem Puri, the longest sandstone cave in the world, which requires a steep descent through the valley slopes. The experience will be unforgettable.
3. Cherrapunji
| Best Time to Visit | September – May |
Also known as Sohra, Cherrapunji was once the wettest place on Earth. The town is also famous for its living root bridges. It is about 50 kilometers drive from Shillong and is blessed with captivating beauty.
The town is muffled by spectacular terrain, including mesmerising waterfalls, exuberant green forests, mystical valleys, and picturesque lakes. Its sandy beaches, which are quite rare in an inland location, add to its charm.
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You can visit the Double Decker Living Root Bridges, Nohkalikai Waterfalls (which is the tallest plunge waterfall in the country), and Mawylyngnong (the cleanest village in Asia). In this village, you can experience the culture and cuisine of the locals.
You can also enjoy boating, zip lining, caving, river canyoning, trekking, and many other activities. Trekking along David Scott’s trail is a must if you love exploring and wandering. After all these adventures, you can relax and savor the delicious Khasi cuisine.
Charrapunji is also a popular honeymoon destination in North East India.
4. Laitlum Canyons
| Best Time to Visit | September – May |
Laitlum Canyons is a stunning mountain ridge near Smit in Meghalaya, just 24 kilometers away from Shillong city center. It is one of the best trekking destinations in Meghalaya.
Laitlum means ‘end of hills,’ and this sublimely stunning hilltop appears to be true to its given name. From the top of the ridge, you can see the breathtaking panorama of clouds, hills, and gorges that surround the place. It is also an ideal spot to watch the mystical sunsets.
Laitlum Canyons is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers who want to explore the beauty of nature. The terrain is challenging but rewarding, with some of the most amazing views in the world. You can also enjoy the fresh air and the peaceful atmosphere.
You can add this place as part of your sightseeing tour, even if you don’t want to go trekking. The views will truly mesmerize you.
5. Tura
| Best Time to Visit | Throughout the year |
Tura is a municipality settled in the West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya. It is amongst the largest towns in the state and is an eco-tourist hub. It is located at the foothills of the Nokrek range of Garo Hills.
Tura is 311 kilometers from Shillong and boasts rich and pristine biodiversity. It blends with the forest rather than invading it, which is a unique feature of this place. Tura has its roots deeply embedded in its native Garo culture, and the authentic rawness can be felt when visited.
You can explore Nokrek National Park, Pelga Falls, Siju Caves, and Tura Peak here.
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Tura Peak is about 872m above sea level and is a reserve forest. It has a tourist bungalow, a cinchona plantation, and an observatory. From the peak, the panoramic view is breathtaking.
Siju Caves is another attraction, a natural limestone cave located in the Siju Wildlife Sanctuary. The cave is home to many species of bats and swiftlets. For some adventures, trekking is always an option.
6. Dawki
| Best Time to Visit | Throughout the year |
This place is a traveler’s paradise. It is situated on the border between India and Bangladesh and is famous for the crystal-clear water of the Umngot River that flows by the village. It is a must-visit spot for tourists and nature lovers.
Dawki village is the last Indian village on the border between India and Bangladesh. It is also one of the primary international routes for coal, limestone, and food grains export to Bangladesh. It has one of the cleanest rivers in India with great tourism potential.
Dawki is considered one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya, attracting travelers from all over the world. The pristine place, along with the river looks like heaven. You can engage in various activities while enjoying the spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.
You can go for a boat ride on the river, camp by the shore, or try snorkeling. Explore as much as possible and soak in the tranquility of the Khasi Hills.
7. Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong is a peaceful village in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. It was awarded the title of the cleanest village in Asia by Discovery India magazine in 2003. It is also known as God’s own Garden.
The place is a paradise of natural beauty, with vivid-colored flora, rich green valleys, long stretchy roads, and a bluish-purple sky.
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You can walk through gardens and fruit orchards and smell the fresh air, or take short hikes in the nearby forest and listen to the sounds of nature. You can also go around the village and learn about its culture and history.
If you want, you can also admire the huge living root bridge nearby, enjoy the cool mountain streams, and discover the strange rock formations in the vicinity of the village. You can also climb a tree house with bamboo ladders at a nearby hamlet and get amazing views of Bangladesh. There is much more to experience when you visit.
8. Jowai
| Best Time to Visit | October – March |
Jowai is a town in the Jaintia Hills District of Meghalaya and is also its headquarters. It is the home of the Pnar, a sub-tribe of the Khasi people.
It rests on a plateau surrounded on three sides by the Myntdu River and borders Bangladesh to the south. The charming place is known for its scenic landscape and stunning views.
The green surroundings and attractions in the form of parks, waterfalls, stretched open valleys, and other natural splendors are some of its marvelous features.
You can visit places like Syntu Ksiar, Tyrshi Falls, Nartiang Monoliths (to learn about the history of Jaintia kings), Ialong Park, and Krang Suri Falls to witness and explore them. (Check out other places to visit near Jowai)
Chad Sukra, Behdienkhlam, and Laho are some festivals that draw travelers from across the country and abroad. All the facts about the place are way more than just fascinating.
Among all the food items, try the Tungrymbai, a fermented bean dish with an interesting flavor profile.
These are some of the best places to visit in Meghalaya.
If you want to quench your wanderlust, then these destinations are ideal for you. They will truly make your trip memorable.
Be like the locals during your stay there and you will be able to capture the spirit of the land. Get on your feet and explore as many spots as possible!
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