Meghalaya, the "abode of clouds," is the "gateway of the northeast." Meghalaya is a special place with lots of things to see and do for tourists. It is a magnificent state with unmatched natural beauty in all forms. The state is home to several waterfalls, caves, stunning lakes, and rivers that run from north to south and east to west.
The best part is that its tribes, who have long maintained matrilineal culture, set an example by peacefully coexisting with nature and abstaining from using it for their own benefit. Their amazing Living Root Bridges, impeccable hygiene, the singing song calls to each other, and several other activities are just a few examples of their individuality.
It undoubtedly remains one of the most picturesque states in India despite all of its strange and unexplainable ways. If traveling to the wettest place on earth, strolling through a sacred forest, and bathing in frigid mountain streams seem attractive to you, Meghalaya is the place you need to go this year.
Let's get to know Meghalaya and all it has to offer by exploring its top attractions.
Shillong
Cherrapunjee
Mawsynram
Kongthong
Dawki
Umiam Lake
Mawlynnong
Balpakram National Park
Williamnagar
NongpohJowai
Shillong, Scotland of the East!
Any journey to Meghalaya, whether it is a honeymoon excursion or a family holiday, will start in Shillong, a well-known hill town in North East India. This is the case regardless of the type of vacation being taken. It is affectionately known as the "Scotland of the East" due to the undulating hills and valleys that can be seen across the region. The site carries the name of a god known as U Blei Shillong, also known as the God of the Khasis, since it is the gateway to the state of Meghalaya, which is noted for its waterfalls, caves, rivers, and breathtaking panoramas.
Guwahati, which is 103 km distant from Shillong, is connected by both train and air to a number of important cities in India. Since it was first established, Shillong has witnessed a considerable rise in the number of visitors that visit it. It was the administrative hub of Assam until 1972 when it was replaced by Guwahati as the state capital. It goes without saying that Shillong is the most popular tourist destination in Meghalaya due to its pleasant climate, pollution-free environment, breathtaking Khasi Hills scenery, appealing lakes, and lively marketplaces. All of these factors contribute to Shillong's status as the most popular tourist destination in Meghalaya.
Places of Interest in Shillong
Elephant’s Lake
Lady Hydari Park
Shillong Viewpoint
Umiam Lake
Laitlum Canyons
Don Bosco Museum
Air Force Museum
Things to Do in Shillong
Waterfalls visit
Museum visit
Food tours
Photography
Sightseeing
Camping
Horse Riding
Shopping
Cherrapunjee, Abode of Clouds!
Cherrapunjee is a town in the South Khasi Hills of Meghalaya that has a delightful name. It is a major tourist attraction in Meghalaya and is well-known for its caves, fossils, waterfalls, and living root bridges. The city of Cherrapunjee, often referred to as Sohra, is the historical capital of the Khasi tribal empire and the best place to gain an understanding of the local population.
Cherrapunjee and Sohra come to life as soon as the monsoon season in Meghalaya begins. On the other hand, when the sky are clear in the summer, the tropical trees that are found in the Khasi Hills provide for a great background. Swimming beneath cascading waterfalls, venturing into dangerous caves in search of fossils, and trekking to living root bridges in Nongriat are some of the most popular things to do for tourists in Meghalaya.
There is no way to talk about Cherrapunjee without also talking about the living root bridges in Nongriat. Hiking for around 90 minutes and ascending and descending more than 3,000 steps is required in order to reach the double-decker root bridge, which is considered to be one of the man-made wonders of the Khasi region. The difficulties you will face on your trek will be more than compensated for by the awe you will feel when viewing this tangible historical site. After going on a comprehensive tour of the bridge and learning everything there is to know about its construction, you shouldn't leave without first having a refreshing dip in one of the icy mountain streams that is located below it.
Places of Interest Cherrapunjee
Noh Sngithiang Waterfalls
Noh Ka Likai Waterfalls
Wei Sawdong Falls
Nongriat
Mawsmai Cave
Dainthlen Waterfalls
Arwah Caves
Things to Do in Cherrapunjee
Camping
Hiking
Ziplining
Waterfall Tours
Photography
Sightseeing
Cave Visits
Mawsynram, The Wettest Region!
During their time at school, everyone has been exposed to the concept of Mawsynram through the reading of their geography textbook. It has been said that this region receives the greatest rainfall on an annual basis and currently holds the record for the wettest place on earth in the Guinness Book of World Records. Mawsynram is one of the most well-known tourist locations, and due to the abundance of waterfalls and old caverns that can be found there, it attracts explorers and nature enthusiasts from all over the world.
The capital and largest city of Meghalaya is Shillong, which is around 61 km away from Mawsynram. It is the site of Krem Puri, the world's longest sandstone cave, which provides visitors with a thrilling tour down its perilous valley slopes. Another must-see attraction in Mawsynram is known as the Split Rock. This rock was cleaved in half by the devastating Assam earthquake that occurred in 1897. Swimming in the breathtaking lakes, exploring the fossil sites, and strolling along the pristine nature trails that wind through the villages while listening to the birds sing in the morning are some of the other holiday activities that are an absolute must if you go to Mawsynram.
Places of Interest in Mawsynram
Mawjymbuin Cave
Lum Symper Peak and Cave
Khreng Khreng Waterfall
Phlangwanbroi
Mawlyngbna
Phlangmawsyrpat
Umkhakoi Lake
Split Rock
Krem Puri
Top Things to Do in Mawsynram
Explore caves
Ziplining
Staying in a Treehouse
Kayaking
Village Walk
Forest Walk
Swimming
Fishing
Boating
Hiking
Kongthong, The Singing Village!
The East Khasi Hills District is home to the Kongthong hamlet, a unique community that has quickly become one of the most famous tourist sites in all of Meghalaya. Shillong is around 60 kilometers away from the hamlet, which is also known as the "whistling village" throughout the world. To go there, you will need to travel.
This hamlet has been put forth as a candidate for inclusion on the list of "Best Tourism Villages" that will be compiled by the UNWTO (The World Tourism Organization) in 2021. The people that live in this town have made it their signature mode of communication by whistling to one another. Even the individual towns each have their own characteristic yell that goes along with their other names.
The new baby is given his name by the mother in the form of a song that she sings to him. The name of this tune is "Mother's Love Song," and it's also known as "Jingrwai Lawbei." Every resident of Kongthong is given a song name in addition to their regular name. There are two forms of the song's name: the long form and the short form, which is a nickname that is used in the household. The long form is the one that is officially recorded. Unquestionably, taking a tour of this unique hamlet, chatting with the inhabitants, and learning about the background of names such as these are one of the most enjoyable things that can be done during a vacation to Meghalaya.
Places of Interest in Kongthong
The Singing Village
Mylliem
Mawjrong
Top Things to Do in Kongthong
Village Walk
Learning History
Eating Local Food
Sightseeing
Staying in a Khasi Home
Dawki, The Pristine Region of Meghalaya!
The border town of Dawki in Meghalaya attracts a large number of individuals who like engaging in water sports throughout the entire year. As a result of its location, the Umngot River, and the proximity to the villages of Shnongpdeng and Darrang, it is considered to be one of the most popular tourist sites in the state of Meghalaya. Because of its very pure water, the Umngot River is by far the most frequented tourist site in the area.
In the West Jaintia Hills District is where you'll discover Dawki, which is around 132 kilometers away from Shillong. It is the perfect place to witness how the landscape and culture of Bangladeshi and Indian neighboring countries mingle together. At night, when there are lights above the dark river, the perspective of the neighboring nation, which is the plains of northern Bangladesh, is a stunning picture that you shouldn't pass up the opportunity to witness.
An additional activity that tourists must partake in while their time in the area is boating on the Umngot River. Because of the pristine water and the natural beauty all around you, this will be a really relaxing experience for you. Because December is the month when the river is at its clearest, this is the best month to go boating because you will be able to view the riverbed. You and your significant other have the option of making Dawki your honeymoon destination if you want to go camping and participate in a variety of water sports throughout your trip. These chores are available for you to complete in Shnongpdeng and Darrang, respectively.
Places of Interest in Dawki
Mawlynnong
Sky View Point
Shnongpdeng
Umngot River
Jaflong Zero Point
Burhill Waterfall
Top Things to Do in Dawki
Boating
Food Tour
Village Walk
Hiking
Photography
Sightseeing
Umiam Lake, The Hub For Water Sports Activities!
Due to the fact that it is the focal point for a variety of water activities, Umiam Lake should not be missed on a vacation to Meghalaya simply for the purpose of sightseeing. Because of its location on the route leading from Guwahati to Shillong, it will be easy for you to reach there on the first day of your journey when you start off in Shillong.
The Umiam Dam, which was constructed in the early 1960s as part of a hydroelectric power project, is the location of the lake, which is regarded as one of the top tourist destinations in the general vicinity of Shillong. You can also see the Umiam Stage I powerhouse, which is located to the north of the lake and has four turbine generators that each produce nine megawatts of power.
The lake is surrounded on all sides by green hills that are framed by visually appealing bridges. On Umiam Lake, you may do water skiing, water biking, boating, and kayaking, among other water activities. In addition, there is a resort that is owned by the government nearby where you may swim while taking in the lovely scenery around the lake and have some refreshments in the on-site restaurant while taking in the stunning scenery.
Places of Interest in Umiam Lake
Ward’s Lake
All Saints Church
Lumpongdeng Island
Elephant Falls
Sweet Falls
Top Things to Do in Umiam Lake
Boating
Kayaking
Water Cycling
Scooting
Photography
Trekking
Camping
Fishing
Sightseeing
Mawlynnong, Asia’s Cleanest Village!
The village of Mawlynnong, which is considered to be the cleanest in all of Asia, has earned international attention in recent years. Located 79 kilometers outside of Shillong, this is yet another fantastic destination for viewing the traditions of the Khasi people that have been carefully preserved.
As you wander throughout the neighborhood, you will discover to your astonishment that each and every Mawlynnong inhabitant, from young children to senior citizens, has been working hard to maintain the village tidy. You will have no problem finding a garbage can that is kind to the environment everywhere you go in the village, and you will have a wonderful time doing it while being enveloped in the sheer splendor of nature.
The Living Root Bridge of Nohwet is an additional well-known tourist spot that can be found in Mawlynnong. This location is home to one of the most stunning examples of the traditional architecture of the Khasi people. The villagers living in the mountains and deep valleys are brought together by the bridge, which also serves as a trading route to the towns. The Living Root Bridge was designed to work in harmony with its natural surroundings, and as the tree and its roots continue to mature, the structure will become even more stable.
Following your exploration of the Living Root Bridge, you should continue your adventure by going to the Church of the Epiphany. Your vacation to Meghalaya, which takes you to a tropical paradise that also has remnants of European architecture, will certainly leave you with some irreplaceable memories.
Places of Interest in Mawlynnong
Single Root Bridge
Double Root Bridge
Sacred Forest
Bangladesh Border
Church of the Epiphany
Byrdaw Falls
Things to Do in Mawlynnong
Hiking
Waterfall visits
Swimming
Fishing
Forest Walk
Photography
Sightseeing
Village Walk
Balpakram National Park, Home to The Rarest Animals!
The region of Meghalaya known as Balpakram, which is located in the foothills of the Garo Hills, is home to several plant and animal species that are at risk of extinction. Balpakram, often known as "the land of perpetual winds," is a well-known tourist site in Meghalaya that caters to those interested in animals and the environment. It is also a vital part of the Garo Hills Conservation Area.
The forests, grasslands, massive cliffs, and powerful rivers of Balpakram figure prominently in a number of the tales that are told in Garo folklore. Since the plants represent nature in its most pristine state, they have long been a source of fascination for botanists from all over the world. The national park is home to a wide variety of animals, including the red panda, the golden cat of Asia, the Indian elephant, and wild water buffalo, all of which are on the endangered species list. While you are at Balpakram, you will get the chance to see a number of spectacular waterfalls that plunge from the high cliffs and the major canyon in the park.
Places of Interest in Balpakram
Siju-Dobakhol Cave
Simsang River
Nokrek Biosphere Reserve
Tura Peak
Chandigre Village
Top Things to Do in Balpakram
Wildlife Spotting
Hiking
Cave Visits
Photography
Swimming
Williamnagar, The Place to See Garo Tribe and Tradition!
Williamnagar, which was earlier known as Simsanggre, was given its current name in honor of Meghalaya's first Chief Minister. Williamnagar, which is located in the East Garo Hills District and serves as the administrative capital for that district, is historically notable since it was there in 1837 that the Garo people fought their final struggle against the British invasion. Outside of Williamnagar on the 12th of December in 1837, the British carried out an assassination on the notable Garo chieftain Pa Togan Nengminja Sangma.
In addition to being a destination of historical significance, it is also an important center for the economics, culture, and education of the state. It is a community that was built so that both nature and society might coexist. During your time in this picture-perfect city in Meghalaya, you may have the opportunity to explore a variety of popular tourist destinations, such as Memo Lake, Mrik Wari, and waterfalls like Me Dare.
Places of Interest in Williamnagar
Simsang Warima Bridge
Memo Lake
Gambal Picnic Spot
Mrik Wari
Sisobira
Rongon
Me Dare
Top Things to Do in Williamnagar
Swimming
Fishing
Boating
Hiking
Trekking
Sightseeing
Photography
Forest Walk
Village Tours
Nongpoh, A Petitte Town in East Khasi Hills!
Another nearby location to Shillong is Nongpoh, which is known as a paradise for anyone who are interested in wildlife. Before moving on from Guwahati to Shillong, the quaint small village is an excellent spot to stop and get some rest. It is the perfect place to go on vacation if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and find someplace quiet and uncomplicated.
Nongpoh may be found on the southeastern rim of the East Khasi Hills. It lies next to the spectacular Brahmaputra plains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and scenery. Nongpoh, the administrative capital of the Ri-Bhoi District, is in close proximity to a number of key towns in Meghalaya and Assam, including Shillong, which can be reached in a short amount of time. Because of the nearby attractions, such as Lum Nehru Park, Lum Sohpetbneng, and Umiam Lake, this site is considered to be one of the best places to go sightseeing in all of Meghalaya.
Places of Interest in Nongpoh
Phrut Dak Lake
Rongmesek View Point
Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary
Markets
Dwar Ksuid
Lum Sohpetbneng
Top Things to Do in Nongpoh
Boating
Hiking
Wildlife Spotting
Shopping
Exploring Locals
Sightseeing
Photography
Jowai, An Idyllic Town in Jaintia Hills!
A wonderful place to visit for a relaxing vacation is Jowai, which is located in the West Jaintia Hills District and 64 km from Shillong. On National Highway 44, which connects Meghalaya with Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, and certain regions of Manipur, it is situated. The city of Jowai is encircled by the River Myntdu on three sides and features some of the most stunning valleys, waterfalls, lakes, and architecture in the whole world.
Another tribe that resides in Jowai is the Pnars, a subtribe of the Khasi. One of these events, the Behdienkhlam one, is held here in the month of July and is one of the biggest. It's well known that attendees come from all across the nation to this event. The Nartiang Monoliths, Tyrshi Falls, Jowai Presbyterian Church, and Thadlaskein Lake are just a few of the Meghalayan state's other popular tourist destinations, in addition to the festival.
Places of Interest in Jowai
Nartiang Monoliths
Thadlaskein Lake
Tyrshi Falls
Krang Suri Falls
Stone Bridge
Umlawan Cave
Jarain Pitcher Plant Lake
Top Things to Do in Jowai
Hiking
Exploring History
Waterfalls Tour
Village Tour
Cave Visits
Boating
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