Best Places to visit in Meghalaya
Are you planning a trip to the Northeast of India? Go for the beautiful Meghalaya! Meghalaya is a small state in India that offers many attractions. It is a little paradise, literally meaning the abode of clouds. With the dense forests, heavy rainfall and diverse biodiversity, you can’t get enough of this place! This state is also home to the most complex cave in the world.
There are many places to visit in Meghalaya. Starting from lush green valleys and forests to the pine fresh mountains, you won’t be disappointed. As you explore the place, you will find some hidden gems. They will make for a lifetime of memories and give you an escape from everyday life.
To make your trip easier, we have compiled the best places to visit in Meghalaya. Let’s dig in!
Tourist Places to Visit in Meghalaya
1) Cherrapunji
If you are a monsoon fan, make sure to attend your visit to Cherrapunji. This place is one of the most populated tourist places in Meghalaya (and the wettest!). The heavy rainfall makes it the wettest on Earth with attractions like Dain-Thlen, Kynrem, and Nohkalikai waterfalls. These are some of the best ones in India where you can feel the breeze like never before.
You can also explore the places here like Living-Root bridges, Mawsmai Cave, Seven sisters falls, an Eco-park and a garden of caves in this place. You won’t be able to get a luxury stay but a nature retreat. People who love to explore the beauty of nature and want to see the best of Meghalaya, visit this place!
2) Balpakram National Park
One of the best places to visit in Meghalaya, the Balpakram National Park is a must-visit when in the state. It is a traveller’s paradise and is also called the Lands of Spirits. There is a rich biodiversity here where you can explore the incredible India. All the wildlife enthusiasts or photographers will take this place as a treat! Explore the fauna like Red Panda, Wild Buffalo, Elephant, Tiger, Deer, Leopards, Wild Cows, Marbled Cat, etc. You may also be able to explore Lesser Panda, Indian Bison, and Sterow if lucky!
The Balpakram National Park is often compared with the Grand Canyon in the USA (and is known as the mini Grand Canyon). For your stay, there are many affordable options available.
3) Shillong
Shillong is known as the Scotland of the East and is one of Meghalaya’s best places to visit. It is on everybody’s checklist! Thanks to the forested hills, a pleasant climate and scenic beauty, this place in India attracts millions of tourists around the world.
Shillong offers many attractions like Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Lady Hydari Park, Wards, Lake, and Don Bosco Museum. There are many local tribes you can connect with here including Khyrim, Mylliem, Maharam, Mallaisohmat, Bhowal, and Langrim. This place is called the gateway to Meghalaya (as the airport is located here). Do visit this place to make your Meghalaya trip worth it!
4) Elephant Falls
Meghalaya has many waterfalls but this one is unique. Here the waterfalls are like elephant feet (the stone is shaped like one). This majestic elephant is called ‘Ka Kshaid Lai Patang Khohsiew’ by the Khasi tribals. It is a three-step fall which is unique in India and looks majestic overall.
5) Double-Decker Living Root Bridge
This bridge is one of the must-visit tourist places in Meghalaya. It is located in Cherrapunji and is famous for its roots. It is made with the roots of an Indian rubber tree and is 3 km long. The bridge is located at a height of 2400 feet and is one of the most unique places here.
You can see the Umshiang River here. To get here, you have to trek and let yourself loose!
6) Don Bosco Museum
If you want to explore the history of Meghalaya, do visit the Don Bosco Museum. It depicts the cultural history of the place with 17 galleries on the show. The building is 7-stored so get ready for a good time! There are many expressions, antiques, clothing types, weapons, and painstaking work on display which may entice you.
7) Kyllang Rock
Add this place to your places to visit in Meghalaya list! This place is located 78 km away from Shillong. It is an extraordinary giant rock which is made of red stone in the West Khasi Hills of the state. It is 5400 above the sea level and has a width of 1000 ft. You can get a view from up above.
8) Mawlynnong Village
This is regarded as the cleanest village in India. You can see many exotic locations in the state with beautiful waterfalls and root bridges to a clean environment and scenic view. There are bamboo houses that you can explore or stay in! This place is unique to India and is a must-visit when in Meghalaya.
9) Baghmara
Explore the Baghmara Reserve Forest where you can explore wildlife with elephants, feathered creatures and langurs! This place is for labyrinth lovers where you can find the Siju caverns as well!
10) Nohkalikai Waterfalls
This waterfall is the 4th most attractive waterfall in the world! It is located on the verdant cliff and is a paradise to look at! You can explore the evergreen rainforest of Khasi hills as well with a tidal pond that looks surreal.
11) Umngot River
Located in Dawki, the Umngot River is crystal-clear and looks pristine for as far as you can see. On either side of the river, you will see greenery and dense forests. Sit beside the cool water, search for the pebbled rock bed, and play with the fish. Adventurers can also plan kayaking, boating, and camping with friends and family. If you go boating, you will reach short hilly streams and secret alcoves. This is one of the places to visit in Meghalaya in September.
12) Nokrek National Park, Tura
Nokrek National Park is a part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It is located close to the Tura Peak and is where you will find plenty of animals. The park is home to red pandas, tigers, marbled cats, Asian elephants, macaques, and various birds. You can easily spend 2 to 3 hours here as there is dense vegetation and an exotic blooming scene. As you explore the national park, you will find various trails suitable for trekking and hiking.
13) Mawkdok Dympep Valley
Imagine a scene – you are standing in the middle of a gorgeous forest and there are hills wherever you see. This is the Mawkdok Dympep Valley for you. From there onwards, you can witness green valleys and the immensely beautiful view of the Duwan Sing Syiem Bridge. What’s special about this place is that it is completely free from civilisation and gives you an authentic experience of nature.
14) Williamnagar
Williamnagar or Simsanggre holds historical importance for the natives of Meghalaya. This is where the Garos (tribe) initiated their last resistance towards the Britishers. The place is named after Meghalaya’s chief minister and has a scenic view. There is flora and fauna everywhere, giving you a truly blissful experience. Located across the Simsang River, Williamnagar is undoubtedly one of the most peaceful tourist places in Meghalaya.
15) Wah Kaba Falls
Wah Kaba Falls is where two fairies live. Don’t believe it? Witness it with your own eyes! This pristine destination makes you believe in fairy tales and happily ever afters. The natural attraction begins from the steep cliff and bestows upon the rock beds. The clear water falls from an altitude of 170 to 190 m and gives you a breathtaking sight. If you want to reach the vantage point, hiking should be on your itinerary. It promises a blissful and adventurous experience, all in one!
16) Rainbow Falls
Meghalaya is a state that makes you feel like you are in a wonderland. One of its iconic tourist attractions is the Rainbow Falls in Nongriat. This beautiful spot is where you can see the sun shining brightly over the water and a rainbow falling crisply over the hills. Located somewhere within dense forests, Rainbow Falls is easily accessible via trek. You can also take a dip in the pool underneath. Make sure you have dry clothes for changing after the swim.
17) Kynrem Falls
Visit Thangkharang Park but don’t miss out on the gorgeous Kynrem Falls. It is located over a height of 1000 ft. and is a three-tiered attraction. If you are wondering where to go in Meghalaya for a blissful experience then this is the place to be. It especially feels spectacular during the monsoon season and in case the weather is misty, you are in for a real treat! At this place, you will find an observation deck. This is the perfect place to click some pictures and relax.
18) Laitlum Canyon
Visit the East Khasi Hills and spot the iconic Laitlum Canyon. There you will find green landscapes, low-flying clouds, and a breathtaking view. It is Meghalaya’s dreamland in every sense. You might be a nature lover or simply a seeker of peace. This destination will be perfect for you. There is a 3000-step staircase for you to climb if you are a passionate thrill seeker!
19) Mawsynram
Are you a pluviophile? If yes then Mawsynram is the perfect tourist place in Meghalaya. Along with the green hills, you will experience a tremendous amount of rain all around the year. The misty weather, low-level clouds, and green landscapes make this experience worthwhile. Mawsynram witnesses an average of 11,872 mm every year. That is why it is one of the most favourite destinations for every traveller.
20) Mawphlang Sacred Forest
This sacred forest is in the tropical rainforest of the Nongrum region. Rich in flora and fauna, Mawphlang is home to towering trees. You will see 1000-year-old trees wherever you look. The greenery promises a scenic and pleasant day and an escape from the noisy streets. This forest holds a legend, making it a sacred destination for the natives of Meghalaya. Anyone planning to explore the best places to visit in Meghalaya can come here, you won’t be disappointed!
Best Time to Visit Meghalaya
Plan a magical holiday in Meghalaya with us. This no-less-than paradise welcomes tourists throughout the year. But if you are wondering which is the best time to visit, October to April will be perfect. During these months, the weather is quite pleasant. You can roam and explore various aspects of the state without feeling hot or extremely chilly.
The temperature between these months hardly goes over 30 degrees. So, what are you waiting for? Book your bus tickets to Meghalaya and head to the state from where adventurers and petrichor lovers never want to leave.
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