Best Places to Visit in Meghalaya

Meghalaya is among the popular places to visit in Northeast India. From green rolling hills to breathtaking waterfalls, transparent rivers to amazing caves, and living root bridges to city architecture, Meghalaya has everything that a traveller can wish for. Explore the most beautiful places to visit in Meghalaya on your next trip to Northeast India, from Shillong to living root bridges in the Khasi and Jaintia hills.
These points will take you through the scenic beauty and cultural charm of Meghalaya, be it a short or a long holiday.

1. Shillong

Don't miss visiting the Meghalaya capital, Shillong, which is widely loved for its scenic viewpoints, delicious food, and overall cool weather. Being the "Scotland of the East," the city is an amazing fusion of lively nightlife and nature. Attractions worth checking out are the Elephant Falls, Ward's Lake, Shillong Peak, and the lively Police Bazaar. The cafes, markets and Khasi food of Shillong are also worth experiencing. Shillong can be your base to visit other parts of Meghalaya.

2. Cherrapunji (Sohra)

Cherrapunji boast heavy rainfall, beautiful waterfalls, and breathtaking cliffs. Cherrapunji is a popular tourist destination and an all year round destination. Popular spots to visit are Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, Mawsmai Cave and Eco Park. Visitors can have a bird's eye view of the valley, walk through limestone caves or breathe in the fresh air of the hills.

3. Dawki

Dawki is a beautiful town in the West Jaintia Hills and known for the beautiful River Umngot River. Dawki is really famous for its beautiful transparent water of river which looks like the boat moving above the riverbed - one of the most popularly clicked sites in Meghalaya. Visitors will have the chance to indulge in activities such as boating and photography while taking in the pristine river views. Dawki is near the India-Bangladesh border and visitors usually go here along with Shnongpdeng, a place known for camping and adventure tourism.

4. Mawlynnong

Mawlynnong is best known for its cleanliness, greenery, as well as for the local Khasi tribal culture. The village provides a calm and quiet atmosphere to travelers in lush gardens, wooden bamboo houses, and picturesque countryside. The living root bridge is one of its main attractions, which can be constructed by training the roots of the rubber trees across a stream. Besides exploring the pathways of the village, tourists can also see the scenic view of the hills, rivers and learn more about the culture and ways of life in the community.

5. Nongriat Double Decker Living Root Bridge

The beautiful Double Decker Living Root Bridge is located in Nongriat. These bridges are living structures built by braiding and guiding the roots of rubber trees over decades. Located in a remote forested valley, it is one of the most popular sights of Meghalaya. The trip to the bridge is a difficult walk with many steps, so ensure you are wearing comfy shoes and have a bottle of water. The walk includes great sights of thick forest, streams and natural pools, so it is all worth it if you are an adventure lover.

7. Umiam Lake

Umiam Lake, one of the most scenic spots along the road from Guwahati to Shillong The lovely reservoir of Umiam Lake takes you through a stretch of forested hills, and is one of the first scenic views visitors see as they arrive in Meghalaya. Boating is available for visitors to the lake. Visitors can rest around the lake and take pictures of it. The relaxed ambiance of this hotel is also a great place to stop by for families, couples and those seeking to get up close and personal with nature before they reach Shillong.

8. Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Mawphlang Sacred Forest is an important place to visit, located near Shillong. The sacred groves in the Mawphlang Forest are managed and preserved according to Khasi customs and traditions. There are opportunities for guided walks in the forest with Khasi guides to the living traditions of this sacred site. This is a good example of the relationship between Khasi culture and conservation of the environment.

9. Mawsynram

One of the wettest places on earth, Mawsynram is famous for receiving highest rainfall and its scenic lush greens. Situated in the East Khasi Hills, this destination provides picturesque country-side and strange rock formations along with interesting caves. This destination is perfect for travellers who are seeking an alternative travel experience or something more subdued. The monsoon period can be unpredictable, so people should organise their travel plans accordingly.

10. Krang Suri Falls

Krang Suri Falls is located in West Jaintia Hills and well-known for its beautiful colour of the water which is almost of turquoise blue with the natural scenic beauty of the place. A lot of green vegetation and rocky mountains on both sides of the falls. Travellers should stay on the trail and walk to the viewpoint and enjoy the view of the waterfall. Swimming should be undertaken only where allowed and where conditions are safe.

Best Time to Visit Meghalaya

It depends on what you're looking to do! October to April is ideal for sightseeing, road trips, trekking and village visits. While June to September is the highlight for people who want to see the most vibrant and wondrous Meghalaya: the rain. This brings thick foliage and rushing waterfalls - but also rain.

Conclusion

Meghalaya is a place where you get all the views of nature, adventure and culture. Be it Shillong and its exciting city life, Cherrapunji for the waterfall, Dawki for the colorful water and Nongriat for the living root bridges, there is so much to explore in Meghalaya. Explore the places to visit in Meghalaya and plan your trip for an amazing holiday in Northeast India.