×
Misty hills, cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear rivers, and unique living root bridges, this northeastern state is a dream for travelers. If you’re looking to make my trip Meghalaya a memorable experience, this guide will help you plan your journey effortlessly.
🌍 Why Choose Meghalaya for Your Next Trip?
Meghalaya offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and nature. Here’s why you should visit:
✅ Mesmerizing Waterfalls – Nohkalikai, Seven Sisters, and Krang Suri.
✅ Mysterious Caves – Mawsmai, Arwah, and Siju Caves.
✅ Living Root Bridges – Witness centuries-old bioengineering wonders.
✅ Adventure Activities – Trekking, caving, kayaking, and river canyoning.
✅ Rich Culture – Experience the traditions of Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes.
Planning to make my trip Meghalaya special? Read on for the best places to visit, travel tips, and more!
🗺️ Top Places to Visit in Meghalaya
1️⃣ Shillong – The Scotland of the East
Shillong, the capital city, is known for its cool weather, vibrant cafes, and scenic beauty.
📍 Must-Visit Places:
- Shillong Peak – Get a bird’s-eye view of the city.
- Ward’s Lake – A serene spot for boating and walks.
- Elephant Falls – A breathtaking three-tier waterfall.
- Police Bazaar – Best place for shopping and street food.
2️⃣ Cherrapunji – Land of Waterfalls & Rainforests
Famous for being one of the wettest places on Earth, Cherrapunji is a paradise for nature lovers.
📍 Must-Visit Places:
- Nohkalikai Falls – India’s tallest plunge waterfall.
- Double Decker Living Root Bridge – A UNESCO heritage wonder.
- Mawsmai Caves – Natural limestone caves with beautiful formations.
- Seven Sisters Falls – A stunning sight during monsoon.
3️⃣ Dawki – The Land of Crystal Clear Waters
Located near the Bangladesh border, Dawki is famous for the Umngot River, where the water is so clear that boats look like they are floating on air!
📍 Must-Do Activities:
- Boat ride on the Umngot River.
- Visit the India-Bangladesh border at Tamabil.
- Explore the hidden waterfalls in Shnongpdeng.
4️⃣ Mawlynnong – Asia’s Cleanest Village
Mawlynnong, known as “God’s Own Garden”, is a picturesque village promoting eco-tourism.
📍 Must-Do Activities:
- Walk on the bamboo skywalk for a breathtaking view.
- Experience local Khasi culture and traditional lifestyle.
- Visit the Balancing Rock – A unique geological formation.
5️⃣ Jowai – The Cultural Gem of Meghalaya
Jowai, the heart of the Jaintia Hills, is rich in scenic beauty and culture.
📍 Must-Visit Places:
- Krang Suri Waterfall – One of Meghalaya’s most beautiful waterfalls.
- Thadlaskein Lake – A tranquil spot for nature lovers.
- Nartiang Monoliths – Ancient stone structures with historical significance.
📅 Best Time to Visit Meghalaya
The best time to visit Meghalaya depends on what you want to experience:
☀️ Summer (March – June): Best for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
🌧️ Monsoon (July – September): Lush green landscapes, but expect heavy rainfall.
❄️ Winter (October – February): Ideal for adventure, local festivals, and crystal-clear views.
For an ideal experience, make my trip Meghalaya between October and April when the weather is perfect for travel.
🚗 How to Reach Meghalaya?
Meghalaya is well-connected by road, rail, and air.
✈️ By Air:
- The nearest major airport is Guwahati Airport (130 km from Shillong).
- Shillong has a small airport at Umroi, but flights are limited.
🚆 By Train:
- The closest railway station is Guwahati, from where you can take a taxi or bus to Shillong (3-hour drive).
🚌 By Road:
- Meghalaya has excellent road connectivity. You can take a cab or a bus from Guwahati.
🚖 Local Transport:
- Taxis and shared sumos are the best ways to get around.
- Rent a bike for an adventurous ride through the hills.
🎒 Travel Essentials – What to Pack?
✔️ Warm clothes (even summers can be chilly).
✔️ Comfortable trekking shoes.
✔️ Raincoat or umbrella (especially if visiting in monsoon).
✔️ Power bank, camera, and extra memory cards.
✔️ Basic medicines and first-aid kit.
🏡 Best Places to Stay in Meghalaya
Meghalaya offers a range of accommodation options, from budget homestays to luxury resorts.
🏕️ Shillong: Polo Orchid, The Heritage Club, Cafe Shillong.
🏡 Cherrapunji: Saimika Resort, Jiva Resort.
🏕️ Dawki: Riverside camps and guesthouses.
🏡 Mawlynnong: Village homestays for an authentic experience.
For an amazing stay, check reviews on MakeMyTrip Meghalaya before booking!
🍽️ Must-Try Local Food in Meghalaya
Food is an essential part of travel, and Meghalaya offers some mouthwatering dishes:
🥘 Jadoh – Rice cooked with meat and spices.
🥩 Dohneiiong – Pork curry with black sesame.
🍲 Tungrymbai – Fermented soybean stew.
🥞 Pukhlein – Sweet rice pancakes.
Don’t forget to try local Khasi cuisine at traditional eateries for an authentic experience!
🏞️ Top Experiences to Try in Meghalaya
✔️ Walk on the Living Root Bridges 🌳.
✔️ Boat ride on the Umngot River 🚣.
✔️ Explore the mystical Mawsmai Caves 🕶️.
✔️ Hike to Laitlum Canyons for stunning views ⛰️.
✔️ Attend the Wangala Festival of the Garo tribe 🎉.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is Meghalaya safe for solo travelers?
Yes! Meghalaya is one of the safest travel destinations with friendly locals.
Q2: How many days are enough for Meghalaya?
A 5 to 7-day itinerary is perfect to explore Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki, and nearby places.
Q3: Do I need a permit to visit Meghalaya?
No permit is required for Indian travelers. Foreigners need to register at entry points.
Q4: Is Meghalaya expensive to travel?
Not at all! Budget travelers can stay in homestays and use local transport to save money.
🌟Plan Your Meghalaya Trip Now!
Meghalaya is a magical destination that offers something for everyone—nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to relax by waterfalls, explore hidden caves, or witness unique tribal traditions, this state has it all.
🚀 Ready to make your dream trip to Meghalaya a reality? Start planning now!
🔹 Book your tickets, pack your bags, and explore the breathtaking beauty of Meghalaya! 🌿✨
