Places to visit in Meghalaya: Meghalaya, one of India’s seven northeastern states, is a hilly state located in the region. Meghalaya lives up to its name, which translates to “abode of clouds” in Sanskrit. These are the greatest spots to visit in Meghalaya because of its rich biodiversity, heavy rainfall, and lush forests. Bangladesh borders Meghalaya on the south and Assam on the northeast. A significant population is contributed by the tribal groups of Khasis, Garos, and Jaintias.
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7 Best Places To Visit In Meghalaya In 2024
With so many attractions to offer, Meghalaya is sure to astonish you. Travel to Meghalaya, a pine-scented mountain state in the Northeast, and lose yourself in its verdant valleys and forests. These are a few Meghalayan destinations you should consider while you’re exploring the state.
1. Cherrapunji
Given that the heaviest rainfall is expected there all year round, Cherrapunji is thought to be among the wettest places on Earth. The most well-known waterfalls in Cherrapunji are the Dain-Thlen, Kynrem, and Nohkalikai waterfalls, which draw visitors from all over the world. Some of Meghalaya’s greatest waterfalls are located within the town.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Meghalaya, it offers a plethora of attractions like the Living-Root bridges, Mawsmai Cave, Seven Sisters Falls, an Eco-park, and a Garden of Caves. Due to its location in a forest, it does not offer the option of a luxurious stay; instead, Meghalayan resorts and certain hotels in the middle of the wilderness are excellent places to stay with family and friends.
2. Balpakram National Park
Balpakram National Park is a must-see for travellers visiting Meghalaya; it’s regarded as a traveller’s paradise. Many visitors who come here to study the amazing biodiversity of Balpakram National Park call this region the “Land of Spirits.”
Among the top tourist destinations in Meghalaya, the area is a photographer’s and wildlife enthusiast’s dream come true, with opportunities to see creatures like the marbled cat, red panda, wild buffalo, elephant, tiger, deer, and leopards. The Lesser Panda, Indian Bison, and Sterow are a few examples of rare species.
Often compared to the Grand Canyon in the United States, this location is among the top things to visit in Meghalaya. One of Meghalaya’s greatest national parks, it’s easy to locate reasonably priced lodging here.
3. Shillong
One of the most well-liked Meghalaya tourist destinations in the Northeast and a must-see for everyone is Shillong, often known as the “Scotland of the East.” It is one of the best destinations to visit in Meghalaya since it is far from the bustling life and has forested hills, a nice climate, and beautiful beauty that draws many people from all over the world.
Among the well-known Meghalaya tourism destinations in Shillong are the Don Bosco Museum, Lady Hydari Park, Wards, Elephant Falls, and Shillong Peak. Khyrim, Mylliem, Maharam, Mallaisohmat, Bhowal, and Langrim are the local tribes in Shillong. Shillong is also regarded as the entry point to Meghalaya because it is home to the state’s primary airport. There are lots of activities to do in Shillong to ensure that your vacation is unforgettable.
4. Elephant Falls
Amazing waterfalls may be seen in the evergreen state of Meghalaya, which is covered in lush forests. Elephant Falls is a stunning sight in Meghalaya, with an elephant-shaped stone at its base. One of the top things to do in Meghalaya is to visit one of the most well-known falls in the Northeast.
The surrounding Khasi people called the magnificent Elephant Falls “Ka Kshaid Lai Patang Khohsiew,” which translates to “The Three Step Waterfalls,” since they are made up of three amazing falls that progress together. One of the nicest sites to visit in Meghalaya is the first of the three waterfalls, which is vast and nestled amongst dense woods.
Because the water levels are dropping in the winter, the fall that follows reduces to tiny threads of water and is essentially meaningless. With beautiful water cascading like a sheet of milk and dramatic boulders in the backdrop, the third waterfall is the tallest and the most obvious to the unaided eye. One of the most popular tourist destinations close to Shillong is this waterfall, which boasts magnificent surroundings and picturesque vistas.
5. Double-decker Living Root Bridge
This double-decker living root bridge, located in Cherrapunji, Meghalaya, is well-known for being constructed entirely of Indian rubber tree roots. The bridge is 2400 feet high and 3 km long. Walking over the Umshiang River as it runs beneath the bridge is the most picturesque experience. Though it was created almost 200 years ago, this is the oldest naturally occurring bridge, yet it can only hold 50 people at once. This spot must be visited during your honeymoon in Meghalaya.
During its journey, the bridge starts in the town of Tyrna and crosses the Umshiang river. Reaching the precise spot involves a bit of a walk. The descent to the bridge takes an amazing 3500–3600 steps on each path to the scaffold and back from Tyrna, the base town, which is located 20 km from Cherrapunjee, the main town. It is among the best destinations in Meghalaya for couples to visit.
6. Don Bosco Museum
The state’s cultural past piques the curiosity of a large number of visitors. The seven-story Don Bosco Museum in Shillong is a historical institution with seventeen galleries with exhibitions that transport visitors to Northeast India’s way of life.
In addition, these galleries showcase an extensive assortment of artwork, antiques, apparel, weapons, and labour-intensive pieces that portray the customs and traditions of many Meghalayan tribes and individuals. You should include the Don Bosco Museum, which is widely regarded as among the greatest in Asia, on your list of things to see in Meghalaya.
7. Kyllang Rock
Situated in the West Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, Kyllang Rock is a remarkable red stone giant that is located approximately 78 km distant from Shillong. Situated at an elevation of 5,400 feet above sea level and with a width of around 1000 feet, the Rock is a massive granite square that is a part of the Khasi folklore and has an exquisite appearance. It is the most well-known tourist destination in Meghalaya, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Reaching the summit of Kyllang Rock allows you to appreciate the breathtaking view of the surrounding area. Kyllang Rock, surrounded by ancient Red Rhododendrons, is reputed to have an exceptionally beautiful field. The gigantic dome is filled with rhododendrons and plants on its northern side, but its southern side is closed off.
Ending the Journey
For those who enjoy the mountains and are looking for some quiet time to themselves, Meghalaya is the ideal location. A vacation to Meghalaya is something you should absolutely think about doing if you’re searching for some peace and quiet among the snow-capped mountains. You will not be let down. We hope you enjoyed reading this article. You might also like to read this one: 7 Best Places to Visit in Summer in India