Places to visit in Meghalaya – One of the most beautiful states in the North East region of India, Meghalaya is popularly known as ‘the abode of clouds’. Cherrapunji in Meghalaya is famous for receiving maximum rainfall in the world. Meghalaya will enchant you with its majestic hills, panoramic valleys beautiful lakes, mysterious caves and mystical waterfalls.
The ‘Scotland of the East’, Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. Abundant British architecture is evidence of the British colonial rule which was prevalent here. Meghalaya is home to Asia’s cleanest village Mawlynnong. Meghalaya also has rich culture and craftsmanship. To know further keep reading below.
Connectivity- Shillong has an airport at Umroi which is is 30 kilometers from Shillong on the the Guwahati-Shillong highway. Not all flights are operational from this airport. The next closest airport is the Guwahati airport. Meghalaya is connected the state of West Bengal via the Siliguri Corridor. Roads are the main form of transportation in the state. Meghalaya is connected to Guwahati via railway.
Here are a few must visit places in Meghalaya-
01 Cherrapunji
Located at 50 kilometres from Shillong, Cherrapunji is famous for its plethora of flora and natural scenic beauty. Maysynram a place located at 10 kilometers from Cherrapunji is now the wettest place on the earth. The famous living root bridge is a natural attraction in Cherrapunji with draws tourist from all over the world. This bridge is hid in deep lush green forests. The bridge is made of roots of living Indian rubber trees. The Mawsmai Caves are another natural attraction in the town. This is a maze of caves in the North east. The enchanting panoramic views of the misty valley and waterfalls in the region will make your jaw-drop. The famous Nohkalika waterfalls are another attraction of the place.
Best time to visit Cherrapunji- October to February
Nearest airport to Cherrapunji- Urmoi Airport situated 80 kilometers from Cherrapunji.
02 Shillong
Also known as the Scotland of the East, Shillong is a beautiful city and capital of Meghalaya. The hill station is encircled by pine trees. The city abounds in numerous waterfalls, beautiful mountain peaks, lakes, museums and golf courses. Also famous as the ‘music capital of India’ Shillong is home to many prominent musicians.
The popular tourist spots include the Umiam Lake. Surrounded by thick coniferous forest, this lake is man-made. In summers, gulmohar trees surround the shore of the lake which makes it look even more serene and colorful. The elephant falls is another beautiful tourist hotspot in the northeast. The Britishers named it so because of a elephant shaped rock found near the falls. It is a three step waterfall which is a breathtaking site to behold. Present on the east of Khasi Hills Laitlum Canyon is a beautiful sight which provides panoramic views of whole of Meghalaya. The best time to visit the Canyon is during sunset or sunrise.
Best time to visit Shillong- October to May.
Nearest airport to Shillong- Guwahati airport is the nearest airport to Shillong situated at about 125 kilometers from Shillong.
03 Dawki
Situated between India and Bangladesh Dawki is known for its crystal clear river. This town in West Jaintia Hills district has river Umngot flowing through it. The water is so clear that the river bed is visible. This turquoise serene river attracts tourists to this place. The Dawki bridge is constructed over river Umngot.
Best time to visit Dawki- October 2 April is the best time to visit Dawki. If you visit Dawki at any other time the water of the Umngot river is not clear due to silt deposition.
Nearest airport to Dawki- Guwahati airport is the nearest airport to Dawki situated at about 195 kilometers from Dawki.
04 Mawsynram
The mesmerizing village of Mawsynram is the wettest place on the earth and receives the highest rainfall in India. An ideal paradise for nature lovers, Mawsynram has a huge formation of a stalagmite which is in the shape of a shivling.
Best time to to visit- October to February
Nearest airport to Cherrapunji- Urmoi Airport situated 90 kilometers from Mawsynram.
05 Tura
With rich undisturbed biodiversity, waterfalls and caves, Tura is an eco-tourist hub of the state. The Nokrek National Park is situated here which is a home to leopard, golden cats, and other wild animals. The Rongbang waterfalls, Pelga Falls, Naphak Lakes are a few places in Tura worth a visit because of their natural beauty. These lakes and falls have evolved to be destinations for picnic.
Best time to visit Tura- March to June.
Nearest airport to Tura- Guwahati airport is the closest airport to Tura located at 200 kilometers from Tura.
06 Don Bosco Museum
If you want to know more about the cultural history of the state, the Don Bosco Museum near Shillong is the perfect stop for you. This seven storied building with seventeen galleries will help you explore the Northeast life in India. The Museum displays antiques, paintings, weapons, clothing’s and also throws light on the various tribes of the Northeast.
Visiting time of Don Bosco Museum- 9am-4:30pm.
A state with matrilineal culture which does not use nature for profits, Meghalaya is definitely one of the most beautiful states in India. Its ethereal natural beauty will lure you into a different world altogether. Meghalaya is a must visit for all the nature lovers out there.
This completes my research on Places to visit in Meghalaya. Please leave comment or suggestion below.
You may also want to read :10 amazing places to visit in Dehradun
Official website of Meghalaya Government – https://meghalaya.gov.in/