15-05-2024

Best Places to visit in Meghalaya in 2024: Comprehensive Guide

Forget crowded beaches and scorching deserts, Meghalaya offers a sanctuary unlike any other. Nicknamed the “Abode of Clouds,” this hidden gem in Northeast India is a wonderland shrouded in mist. Think cascading waterfalls, plunging into emerald valleys, ancient caves whispering secrets, and vibrant green landscapes as far as the eye can see. Planning a Meghalaya Tour is a chance to truly reconnect with nature’s grandeur. This guide will unveil the best places to visit in Meghalaya, ensuring your adventure is filled with awe-inspiring sights and unforgettable experiences. Get ready to discover hidden waterfalls, trek through verdant forests, and witness the magic of living root bridges – all within this breathtaking state.

Shillong

Nicknamed the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong in Meghalaya’s capital city. This hill station boasts a cool climate, charming British architecture, and scenic viewpoints. Explore bustling bazaars, serene lakes (Ward’s Lake, Shillong Peak), and historical sites like the State Museum, making it the best places to visit in Meghalaya.

Location: Capital city of Meghalaya
Best Time to Visit: October to March (Pleasant weather)
Especially Known For: “Scotland of the East”, British architecture, scenic viewpoints, Ward’s Lake, Shillong Peak, State Museum

Cherrapunjee

Once known as the wettest place on Earth, Cherrapunjee is a land of cascading waterfalls and lush greenery. Hike to the breathtaking Nohkalikai Falls, the highest plunge waterfall in India, or explore the Mawsynram caves, hidden gems formed by rainwater erosion.

Location: Sohra district, Meghalaya
Best Time to Visit: June to September (Monsoon season for waterfalls)
Especially Known For: Once wettest place on Earth, Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsynram caves, lush greenery

Mawsynram

This village competes with Cherrapunjee for the title of wettest place on Earth! Immerse yourself in the monsoonal beauty of Mawsynram, where the air is perpetually fresh and the landscape is an emerald paradise. Explore nearby caves and waterfalls for a truly refreshing experience with making it best places to visit in Meghalaya.

Location: East Khasi Hills district, Meghalaya
Best Time to Visit: June to September (Monsoon season for greenery)
Especially Known For: Contender for wettest place on Earth, refreshing monsoonal beauty, emerald landscapes, nearby caves and waterfalls

Nohkalikai Falls

Witness the power and majesty of Nohkalikai Falls, a champion among Meghalaya’s many waterfalls. Nicknamed the “Seven Sister Falls,” Nohkalikai plunges a staggering 1100 meters, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Enveloped in local legends, this breathtaking cascade is sure to leave you speechless.

Location: Near Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year (Breathtaking year-round)
Especially Known For: Highest plunge waterfall in India (over 1100 meters), breathtaking views, local legends

Suggested Blog: Nohkalikai Waterfalls

Double Decker Living Root Bridge

Ever seen a bridge made of living trees? In Meghalaya, you can! The Double Decker Living Root Bridge is a marvel of human ingenuity and nature’s collaboration. Woven from the roots of Ficus Elastica trees, these bridges are not only functional but also a testament to the region’s unique culture. Walk across this historical wonder and marvel at its sustainable design.

Location: Nongriat village, Meghalaya
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Especially Known For: Unique marvel of human and nature collaboration, woven from tree roots, sustainable design

Elephant Falls

Take a refreshing dip beneath the cascading waters of Elephant Falls, a popular spot among Meghalaya’s many waterfalls. This three-tiered wonder tumbles down lush green cliffs, creating a picture-perfect scene. Legend says the rocks here resemble a slumbering elephant, adding to the charm of this famous tourist places in Meghalaya. Enjoy a scenic hike or simply relax by the pool at the falls’ base.

Location: Near Shillong, Meghalaya
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year (Enjoyable weather)
Especially Known For: Three-tiered waterfall with a refreshing pool, legend of resembling a sleeping elephant, scenic hikes

Mawlynnong Village

Step into a fairytale at Mawlynnong Village, known as Asia’s cleanest village. Spotless streets lined with colorful flowers and unique bamboo houses create a picture-perfect scene. Explore the village and discover its dedication to sustainability, with eco-friendly initiatives like bamboo dustbins and solar power. This charming village is a breath of fresh air and a must-visit for nature lovers with making it the best places to visit in Meghalaya.

Location: East Khasi Hills district, Meghalaya
Best Time to Visit: October to March (Pleasant weather)
Especially Known For: Asia’s cleanest village, spotless streets with flowers, unique bamboo houses, eco-friendly initiatives

Umiam Lake

Surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, Umiam Lake is a haven for peace and relaxation. This man-made lake offers stunning views, perfect for a scenic boat ride or a relaxing stroll along its shore. Adventure seekers can try kayaking or water skiing, while others can simply enjoy a picnic on the lake’s banks. Umiam Lake is a perfect escape for all types of travelers.

Location: Near Shillong, Meghalaya
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year (Offers various activities)
Especially Known For: Man-made lake with stunning views, scenic boat rides, water sports (kayaking, skiing), relaxing picnics

Balpakram National Park

Escape into the wild at Balpakram National Park, a haven for diverse flora and fauna. Home to the endangered Indian rhino, this park offers a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of Meghalaya. Explore the park on an elephant safari, trek through dense forests, or go birdwatching and spot exotic species. Balpakram National Park is a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking an unforgettable adventure and making it the best places of interest in Meghalaya.

Location: South West Khasi Hills district, Meghalaya
Best Time to Visit: November to February (Pleasant weather for wildlife viewing)
Especially Known For: Home to endangered Indian rhinos, diverse flora and fauna, elephant safaris, trekking, birdwatching

Suggested Blog: Things to do in Meghalaya

Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Discover a mystical haven at Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a unique conservation effort led by the local community. This grove is home to towering trees, some believed to be centuries old, and a rich variety of plant life. Wander along sacred trails, learn about the forest’s significance in Khasi culture, and witness the deep connection between the community and nature.

Location: East Khasi Hills district, Meghalaya
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year (Serene experience)
Especially Known For: Unique community-led conservation effort, towering trees (some centuries old), rich plant life, sacred trails, connection between community and nature

Kyllang Rock

Calling all thrill-seekers! Kyllang Rock is a natural monolith, a giant single rock formation, that provides a heart-pounding adventure. Challenge yourself with a climb to the top and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and villages. Kyllang Rock is a perfect famous tourist places in Meghalaya for photography enthusiasts and adventure lovers seeking a unique experience.

Location: West Khasi Hills district, Meghalaya
Best Time to Visit: October to March (Pleasant weather for climbing)
Especially Known For: Natural monolith (giant rock formation), thrilling climb to the top, panoramic views, photography opportunities, adventure experience

Krang Suri Falls

Take a dip in the refreshing waters of Krang Suri Falls, a hidden gem nestled amidst the verdant hills of Meghalaya. This cascading waterfall plunges into a crystal-clear pool, perfect for a refreshing swim or a scenic picnic. The surrounding forest offers hiking trails for those seeking a more adventurous experience. Krang Suri Falls is a perfect escape for relaxation and a chance to connect with the beauty of nature.

Location: Jaintia Hills district, Meghalaya
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year (Waterfall accessible year-round)
Especially Known For: Cascading waterfall with a refreshing pool, perfect for swimming or picnics, scenic hikes in surrounding forest, hidden gem amidst verdant hills

Checkout this Webstory: Waterfalls in Meghalaya

So, have we convinced you that Meghalaya deserves a spot on your travel bucket list? From cascading waterfalls and hidden caves to serene lakes and vibrant villages, this “Abode of Clouds” offers something for every traveller. Explore the best places to visit in Meghalaya, like the majestic Nohkalikai Falls or the awe-inspiring Double Decker Living Root Bridge. Ready to plan your unforgettable Meghalaya adventure? Check out TripzyGo Meghalaya tour packages and discover the magic of this breathtaking state for yourself!