Introduction
Meghalaya shares its borders with Assam and Bangladesh. The state’s name translates to “Abode of Clouds,” which perfectly describes its mist-covered hills and cool, pleasant weather. Shillong, the capital city, is often referred to as the “Scotland of the East” because of its rolling hills and colonial charm. A Meghalaya tour is a delightful journey through pristine nature, tribal culture, and unique traditions that have been preserved for generations.
Meghalaya is home to three major tribes – Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo – each with its own distinct culture, festivals, and way of life. Visitors are enchanted by the warmth of the locals, their traditional attire, and their love for music and dance.
How to Reach Meghalaya
Planning a Meghalaya tour begins with understanding how to get there. Meghalaya doesn’t have a major international airport, but connectivity is excellent through neighbouring states.
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Guwahati, Assam (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport), which is well-connected to major Indian cities. From Guwahati, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Shillong, which is around 120 km away. Shillong also has a small airport at Umroi, but flights are limited.
- By Train: Meghalaya doesn’t have its own railway station; the nearest station is Guwahati Railway Station. After reaching Guwahati, travellers can continue their journey by road.
- By Road: National Highway 6 connects Meghalaya with Assam and other parts of Northeast India. The scenic drive to Shillong is a highlight of the Meghalaya tour.
Top Tourist Destinations in Meghalaya
A Meghalaya tour is incomplete without visiting these iconic places:
1. Shillong – Scotland of the East
Shillong, the charming capital of Meghalaya, is often called the “Scotland of the East” for its rolling hills, misty landscapes, and colonial charm. Situated at an altitude of 1,496 metres, Shillong is the gateway to your Meghalaya tour and offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and modernity. The city is known for its cool climate, scenic beauty, and vibrant music scene.
Some of the must-visit attractions in Shillong include Shillong view point, offering panoramic views of the city, and Elephant Falls, a stunning three-tier waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Ward’s Lake, with its serene walking paths, and the Don Bosco Museum, showcasing the culture of Northeast India, are also popular spots. For shopaholics, Police Bazaar is the place to explore local handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs.
Shillong is also famous for its bustling cafes and bakeries, influenced by Western culture, making it a paradise for food lovers. Its rich cultural heritage is reflected in the festivals and music concerts regularly held in the city. Whether you’re exploring its hills, enjoying the food, or soaking in the city’s artistic vibe, Shillong is a must-visit destination that perfectly captures the spirit of Meghalaya.
2. Cherrapunji – The Rainiest Place on Earth
Cherrapunji, locally known as Sohra, is one of the wettest places on Earth and a jewel of any Meghalaya tour. Perched at an elevation of about 1,484 metres, Cherrapunji is renowned for its mist-covered valleys, roaring waterfalls, and vibrant landscapes that thrive under heavy rainfall. Despite being famous for its rains, the region enjoys clear skies and breathtaking scenery during the winter months, making it an ideal travel destination year-round.
One of Cherrapunji’s top attractions is the Nohkalikai Falls, India’s tallest plunge waterfall, offering a spectacular view of water cascading into a turquoise pool. The Seven Sisters Falls and Dainthlen Falls are other must-see natural wonders. Cherrapunji is also famous for its living root bridges, bio-engineered marvels created by the Khasi people, where ancient rubber tree roots are intertwined to form sturdy pathways.
Adventure lovers can explore Mawsmai Cave, a limestone wonder with fascinating rock formations, or hike through the lush trails surrounding the town. The region’s lush greenery, vibrant flora, and cultural richness make it a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts. A visit to Cherrapunji gives travellers a chance to witness the unmatched beauty of Meghalaya, making it an essential stop on your journey through the Abode of Clouds.
3. Mawlynnong – Asia’s Cleanest Village
Mawlynnong, often called “God’s Own Garden,” is a must-visit destination on any Meghalaya tour. This picturesque village, located about 90 kilometres from Shillong, gained international fame for being declared the cleanest village in Asia by Discover India magazine in 2003. Visitors are greeted by spotless streets, bamboo dustbins at every corner, and vibrant gardens outside every home, showcasing the locals’ strong commitment to cleanliness and sustainability.
Mawlynnong is not just about cleanliness; it’s a cultural experience. The village is home to the Khasi tribe, who follow a matrilineal system where women play a central role in family and community life. Travellers can enjoy warm hospitality, stay in traditional bamboo cottages, and immerse themselves in the simple, eco-friendly lifestyle of the locals.
A key attraction here is the Living Root Bridge of Riwai, located just a short walk from the village. Another highlight is the Sky Walk, a bamboo tower that offers breathtaking views of the Bangladesh plains and surrounding hills. Mawlynnong is also rich in natural beauty, with waterfalls, streams, and lush greenery all around.
A trip to Mawlynnong provides more than just sightseeing; it offers lessons in sustainable living and community spirit, making it a highlight of your Meghalaya adventure.
4. Dawki – The Crystal Clear River
Dawki, a small border town in Meghalaya, is one of the most breathtaking destinations to explore during your Meghalaya tour. Located about 80 kilometres from Shillong, Dawki is renowned for the pristine Umngot River, often described as the cleanest river in India. The emerald-green waters are so transparent that boats appear to float on air, making it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.
A boat ride on the Umngot River is the highlight of visiting Dawki. The experience of gliding over crystal-clear waters surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush hills is unforgettable. The town also serves as a trade hub between India and Bangladesh, and the Indo-Bangladesh border at Tamabil is a short drive away, giving travellers a unique cultural experience.
Dawki is also a hotspot for adventure activities like camping, kayaking, snorkelling, and cliff jumping. The calm, serene surroundings make it a perfect getaway for travellers seeking relaxation or adventure.
For a complete experience, pair your visit to Dawki with nearby attractions like Mawlynnong, Asia’s cleanest village, just a short drive away. Dawki’s natural beauty and thrilling activities make it an unmissable destination, offering one of the most memorable moments of your Meghalaya journey.
5. Jowai – A Cultural Gem
Jowai, located in the scenic Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya, is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an essential stop on your Meghalaya tour. Known for its rolling hills, serene lakes, and vibrant traditions, Jowai offers a peaceful yet enriching travel experience away from the bustling tourist hubs.
One of the top attractions in Jowai is the stunning Krang Suri Waterfalls, a turquoise gem surrounded by lush greenery. Travellers can enjoy swimming, photography, or simply relaxing by the crystal-clear waters. Another must-visit site is Thadlaskein Lake, a historical lake associated with Jaintia legends, where visitors can enjoy picnics and boating. Jowai is also home to Nartiang Monoliths, one of the largest collections of monoliths in the world, offering a glimpse into the region’s fascinating history.
Apart from its scenic beauty, Jowai is deeply rooted in the culture of the Pnar tribe. If you plan your visit in July, you can witness the colourful Behdienkhlam Festival, celebrated to drive away evil spirits. The town’s traditional music, cuisine, and warm hospitality give travellers an authentic taste of Meghalaya’s rich heritage.
6. Mawsynram – The Wettest Village in the World
Mawsynram, located about 60 kilometres from Shillong, is renowned as the wettest place on Earth, recording an average annual rainfall of over 11,000 millimetres. This charming village is a paradise for nature lovers and a fascinating stop on your Meghalaya tour. Surrounded by mist-covered hills, lush valleys, and roaring waterfalls, Mawsynram offers a raw and untouched beauty that leaves every traveller awestruck.
The continuous rainfall throughout the year nourishes dense forests, unique flora, and vibrant landscapes, making it a haven for eco-tourism. A major attraction here is the Mawsmai Cave, a natural limestone wonder with striking rock formations and narrow passages that thrill adventure seekers. Visitors also flock to the Mawjymbuin Cave, which houses a naturally formed Shiva Lingam, drawing both tourists and pilgrims.
Despite its fame for heavy rainfall, Mawsynram is best visited in winter and early summer when the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is equally stunning. The drive to this village is a visual treat, with winding roads, panoramic views, and several waterfalls along the way.
For travellers seeking tranquillity, natural wonders, and a truly unique weather experience, Mawsynram offers an unforgettable adventure that showcases Meghalaya’s mystical charm at its best.
7. Nongriat – The Double Decker Living Root Bridge
Nongriat, a small village nestled deep in the East Khasi Hills, is one of Meghalaya’s most iconic destinations, famous for the Double Decker Living Root Bridge. This unique structure, crafted by the Khasi tribe, is a natural marvel created by guiding and intertwining the roots of rubber trees over decades to form strong, functional bridges. The Double Decker Bridge is a highlight of any Meghalaya tour, attracting trekkers and nature enthusiasts from around the world.
Reaching Nongriat is an adventure in itself, as visitors must descend over 3,000 steep steps from the nearby village of Tyrna. The journey, though challenging, is rewarding with spectacular views of dense forests, crystal-clear streams, and smaller root bridges along the way. Once you reach Nongriat, the tranquillity of the village, the sound of rushing waterfalls, and the sight of this natural masterpiece make the trek worthwhile.
Apart from the Double Decker Bridge, the village offers access to attractions like Rainbow Falls, a stunning waterfall with turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation. Nongriat is also an excellent spot to experience traditional Khasi hospitality through homestays and local cuisine.
Best Time to Visit Meghalaya
The best time to visit Meghalaya is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing. Winters (November to February) are cool and refreshing, making it ideal for exploring Shillong, Cherrapunji, and Dawki. Summers (March to June) are mild, with temperatures rarely exceeding 25°C, offering lush greenery and comfortable travel. Monsoon (June to September) transforms Meghalaya into a waterfall paradise but brings heavy rain, so it’s best for adventure lovers. If you want clear skies, stunning landscapes, and safe road travel, winter and early summer are perfect. Plan your Meghalaya tour during these months for a memorable experience.
Adventure Activities in Meghalaya
A Meghalaya tour isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s a paradise for adventure seekers too:
- Trekking: Popular treks include the route to Double Decker Living Root Bridge, David Scott Trail, and Mawryngkhang Bamboo Trail.
- Caving: Meghalaya is home to some of the longest caves in India, like Mawsmai Cave, Siju Cave, and Arwah Cave.
- Boating: Enjoy a serene boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River.
- Camping: Riverside camping near Dawki or in the hills around Shillong is a favourite among tourists.
- Rock Climbing and Ziplining: Thrill-seekers can try ziplining in Mawkdok Valley or rock climbing in various adventure hubs.
Travel Tips for a Perfect Meghalaya Tour
- Book Early: Plan your trip well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Pack Smart: Carry warm clothes, comfortable shoes, and rain gear, as the weather can change quickly.
- Cash is King: Many remote areas may not have digital payment options.
- Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly and always ask before taking photos of locals.
- Eco-Friendly Travel: Help preserve Meghalaya’s pristine environment by avoiding plastic waste.
A Suggested Itinerary for Your Meghalaya Tour
Here’s a 6-day itinerary for your Meghalaya tour:
- Day 1: Arrive in Shillong, explore local attractions like Ward’s Lake, Shillong Peak, and Police Bazaar.
- Day 2: Day trip to Mawlynnong and Dawki for boating and sightseeing.
- Day 3: Explore Cherrapunji, visit Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Cave, and Eco Park.
- Day 4: Trek to Nongriat village and experience the Double Decker Living Root Bridge.
- Day 5: Visit Jowai for Krang Suri Waterfalls and cultural exploration.
- Day 6: Return to Guwahati, shopping and leisure in Shillong on the way.
Conclusion
A Meghalaya tour is a journey into a world of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or someone seeking a peaceful escape, Meghalaya has something for everyone. Its waterfalls, caves, lush valleys, and welcoming people make it a destination you’ll cherish forever.
From the bustling streets of Shillong to the serene waters of Dawki and the rain-soaked charm of Cherrapunji, a Meghalaya tour offers an adventure that is as diverse as it is magical. So, pack your bags and embark on this unforgettable trip to the Abode of Clouds – Meghalaya is waiting to enchant you.
