Places to visit in Meghalaya

Top 12 Unique Places to Visit in Meghalaya

Have you ever imagined a place where nature's beauty harmonizes with rich culture? - Meghalaya is that place. 

 

Wondering how to explore its green hills and connect with its people? Don't worry. Our guide guarantees a seamless journey, providing insights into this captivating destination. 

 

From the crystal-clear rivers of Dawki to the living root bridges of Cherrapunji, discover the top places to visit in Meghalaya. Each location offers unique charm and activities, making this northeastern gem a must-visit. Start planning your trip to this heavenly destination and prepare to be amazed!

CONTENTS:

1. Double Decker Living Root Bridge

2. Mawlynnong – Asia's Cleanest Village

3. Dawki and Umngot River

4. Mawsmai Cave

5. Nohkalikai Falls in Cherrapunji

6. Balpakram National Park

7. Krang Suri Falls

8. Mawsynram - Wettest Place on Earth

9. Shillong Peak

10. Siju Cave

11. Mawphlang Sacred Forest

12. Wari Chora Meghalaya

1. Double Decker Living Root Bridge

 

The first among the best places to visit in Meghalaya is the magnificent Umshiang Double Decker Living Root Bridge. Crafted from the roots of Indian Rubber Trees, this impressive marvel spans 3 kilometres at an elevation of 2400 feet. The Umshiang River gracefully flows beneath, enhancing the overall experience. 

 

When you visit these bridges, shaped by local communities, you not only connect with nature but also uncover cultural legacies. Beyond appreciating their architectural beauty, it's an opportunity to witness nature's resilience and understand the cultural significance embedded within these structures.

 

Location: Cherrapunji

 

Trip Duration: 4 to 6 hours

 

Best time to visit Double Decker Bridge: October - April

 

Entry Fee:

• 30 INR per person (adult)

• 15 INR for Children

• 50 INR per Still Camera

 

Tip: Avoid visiting the bridge from May to September, as it becomes slippery due to heavy rainfall.

 

One More Tip: Keep your bags light to avoid fatigue. Nearby shops ensure you won't go hungry, so no need to worry.

 

2. Mawlynnong – Asia's Cleanest Village

 

Mawlynnong, a charming village 90 km from Shillong, earned the title of Asia's cleanest village in 2003, as declared by Discovery India. Also known as God’s Own Garden, this village is a community-driven ecotourism initiative, where everyone pitches in to keep it impeccably clean. Mawlynnong is one of the best tourist places to visit in Meghalaya in winter, thanks to its picturesque surroundings of lush valleys, crystal-clear rivers, and blossoming orchids. 

 

Besides its cleanliness, the village is renowned for its living root bridges, boasts a 100% literacy rate among the tribal locals, empowers women, and welcomes visitors with warm hospitality. The weather is delightful year-round, and during the monsoon, Mawlynnong transforms into a heavenly paradise.

 

Location: East Khasi Hills

 

Trip Duration: 1 day 

 

Entry Fee: 

• 10 INR per person

• 50 INR per vehicle

 

Best time to visit Mawlynnong: September - November 

 

3. Dawki and Umngot River

 

Dawki, a border town, is among the top tourist places in Meghalaya. Its allure lies in the scenic beauty, the crystal-clear Umngot River, and the abundant flora. 

 

The Umngot River is the major attraction here which provides a one-of-a-kind experience with its transparent waters. The water here is so clear that you can see all the fish, stones and pebbles lying at the bottom. Boating along the river is a popular activity. 

 

Other popular attractions in Dawki Meghalaya include:

 

• living root bridge - accessible via a short walk. 

• Khasi Hills - known for its picturesque landscape and cascading waterfalls

• local marketplaces - for shopping

• neighbouring rainforests - known for abundant flora

• Dawki-Shnongpdeng border -  the only legal crossing between India and Bangladesh

 

Location: West Jaintia Hills

 

Trip Duration: 1 - 2 hours

 

Cost of boating in the Umngot River: 500 INR to 800 INR

 

Best time to visit Dawki: Throughout the year

 

4. Mawsmai Cave 

 

A mysterious yet popular place to visit in Meghalaya, Mawsmai Cave is located just 6 kilometres away from Cherrapunji. Delve into the mysterious depths of Mawsmai Cave, adorned with stunning limestone formations and intricate stalactites and stalagmites.

 

The caves dazzle with hues and patterns on limestone when lit up. Despite its 150-meter length, which is less than some other caves in Meghalaya, it offers a close look into underground life. 

 

An abundance of flora and fauna thriving in the breathtaking maze makes Mawsmai Cave a must-visit Meghalaya attraction.

 

Location: East Khasi Hills

 

Trip Duration: 1 hour

 

Entry Fee: 

• 20 INR per person

• 5 INR per child up to 10 years old

• 20 INR camera charge

 

Best time to visit Mawsmai Cave: Post monsoons

 

Tip: Carry a torch if you wish to explore the dark corners of the cave.

 

5. Nohkalikai Falls

 

At 1115 feet, Nohkalikai Falls is India's tallest plunge waterfall in Meghalaya. Below the fall is the ever-changing pool, showcasing blue, aqua, and green hues. You can enjoy stunning views from viewpoints where plentiful water runs in the summer and changes to a delicate white waterfall in the winter, all set against a lush green forest backdrop. 

 

Nohkalikai Falls holds a tragic backstory. A woman named Ka Likai met her unfortunate end by plunging from the waterfall, forever remembered as 'Noh Ka Likai.'

 

Location: Cherrapunji

 

Trip Duration: 1 hour

 

Entry Fee: 

• 20 INR per person

• 20 INR camera charge

 

Best time to visit Nohkalikai Falls: October - December

 

6. Balpakram National Park

 

Balpakram National Park, situated about 167 km from Tura, captivates with its pristine beauty at an elevation of 3,000 feet. Meaning 'land of perpetual winds,' this renowned national park boasts breathtaking scenes. 

 

The park is home to diverse fauna and flora, including the rare Red Panda and Indian Bison. Abundant growth of locally known 'dikges,' rare medicinal herbs, further enhances its allure. 

 

The park features a deep gorge often likened to the Grand Canyon, referred to as the 'land of the spirits.' Believed to be a temporary residence for departed spirits, Balpakram National Park is rightfully termed a traveller's paradise, showcasing one of the region's best canyons - must-see attractions in Meghalaya.

 

Location: Southern Garo Hills

 

Trip Duration: 1 day

 

Entry Fee: 

• 10 INR per person 

• 25 INR per phone (Camera Phone fee)

 

Best time to visit Balpakram National Park: October - March

 

Tip: Avoid wearing red dresses while visiting the park as they can disturb the wildlife.

 

7. Krang Suri Falls 

 

Krang Suri Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder that enchants visitors with its ethereal beauty. Located about 90 kilometres from Shillong, this hidden gem is accessible through a journey that takes you through picturesque landscapes and lush greenery. As you approach the falls, the sound of cascading water grows louder, building anticipation for the splendid sight that awaits. 

 

Krang Suri is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters that cascade from a great height, forming a captivating pool below. You can relax in the area's tranquilly, take a refreshing dip in the pristine pool, or simply gaze at the natural splendour. The surrounding green hills and the relaxing atmosphere make Krang Suri Falls a popular Meghalaya attraction for nature enthusiasts and those looking for a peaceful vacation. 

 

Location: West Jaintia Hills

 

Trip Duration: 1 hour

 

Entry Fee: 40 INR per person

 

Best time to visit Krang Suri Falls: January - April

 

8. Mawsynram - Wettest Place on Earth

 

Known for its relentless monsoons and stunning landscapes, Mawsynram is a must-visit place in Meghalaya. It is conveniently situated 61 kilometres south of Shillong. Slightly wetter than Cherrapunjee, the village features distinctive megaliths denoted by the 'Maw,' which means 'stone' in Khasi. 

 

Located 1400 metres above sea level, Mawsynram is famous for its stalagmite formation that looks like a 'Shivling.' The intense rainfall drives local villagers to utilize thick grass as a soundproofing measure against the thunderous downpours.

 

Location: East Khasi Hills

 

Trip Duration: 1 day

 

Best time to visit Mawsynram: September - November

 

9. Shillong Peak

 

At an elevation of 1965 m above sea level, Shillong Peak stands as the city's highest point, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Shillong, the Himalayas, waterfalls, and the plains of Bangladesh. Although heavy fog often limits visibility, trekking to this semi-circular peak is the best thing to do in Shillong. 

 

According to legend, Shillong gets its name from this peak, believed to be the abode of the patron deity 'Leishyllong,' safeguarding the city from evils. The U Shulong site atop the peak holds a sacred ritual every spring. 

 

Serving as an air force base with an Indian Air Force radar station, the peak enforces strict security at the gates, necessitating tourists to temporarily deposit their cameras. Shillong Peak stands out as one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya in winter, revealing a pristine landscape adorned with tranquility and scenic wonders.

 

Location: Shillong

 

Entry Fee: 

• 30 INR per person

• 10 INR per minute for telescope

 

Best time to visit Shillong Peak: March - June

 

Tip: You can visit Shillong Peak from 9 am to 3.30 pm. It’s closed on Wednesday. So plan accordingly.

 

10. Siju Cave 

 

Located about 255 km from Shillong and 125 km from Tura, Siju Cave stands tall as one of India's longest and extensively researched cave systems. Popularly known as the "Bat cave" due to its home to nine distinct bat species, it holds a rich history as one of Meghalaya's oldest exploration sites. 

 

This cavern features beautiful limestone structures, including the well-known stalactites and stalagmites. Aside from its geological marvels, the cave is home to about 102 live species, including recent discoveries like cave-dwelling prawn and new snail species.

 

Situated along the banks of the Simsang River, Siju Cave offers more than underground exploration. On the opposite bank is the Siju Bird Sanctuary, a home for migrating birds like Siberian ducks and native species like hornbills. The sanctuary also houses primates such as the Hoolock Gibbon, slow loris, and langurs, adding to the many natural delights surrounding the Siju Cave experience.

 

Location: South Garo Hills

 

Trip Duration: 2 - 3 hours

 

Entry Fee: 20 INR per person

 

Best time to visit Siju Cave: November - April

 

11. Mawphlang Sacred Forest

 

Mawphlang, located 25 kilometres from Shillong, houses Meghalaya's Sacred Forest. The village gets its name, meaning "Grassy Stone," from the monoliths in the Khasi Hills, and is steeped in legendary stories and unique culture. The sacred forest is believed to be protected by the deity Labasa, with the Lyngdoh clan serving as its guardians. According to legend, the Blah Clan initially guarded the forest but handed it over to the Lyngdohs. 

 

The 78-hectare forest has deep spiritual significance, with locals believing that offending it brings deity curses like sickness or even death. Even taking a dried leaf from the sacred woodland is thought to invite a curse.

 

Here you can explore the lush green expanse, witness ancient monoliths, and encounter rare flora with healing properties, including ferns, orchids, pine trees, and more.  

 

Location: East Khasi Hills

 

Trip Duration: 1 - 2 days

 

Entry Fee:

• 20 INR per person

• 20 INR for camera

• 300 INR for guided tour per hour

 

12. Wari Chora Meghalaya

 

A lesser known place to visit in Meghalaya, Wari Chora, is nothing short of a hidden paradise. Like many places in Meghalaya, is steeped in local legends. According to folklore, the canyon is safeguarded by seven giant serpents, and disrespecting the river incurs their wrath. The community, aware of this, holds great respect for nature. 

 

Wari Chora, meaning "deep river" in the local Garo dialect, features a mountain river flowing through towering gorges. The surrounding area is densely forested and hilly, lending it an ethereal appearance. Though undiscovered until recently, it has become a must-visit tourist place in Meghalaya after gaining popularity on Instagram through captivating reels, revealing its hidden beauty to the world.

 

Location: Southern Garo Hills

 

Trip Duration: 3 - 4 hours

 

Best time to visit Wari Chora: November - February (when there is little or no rain)

 

Tip: During the monsoon season, the forest is infested with leeches. So avoid going at that time.

 

Let Experts Plan Your Meghalaya Tour!

 

The best places to visit in Meghalaya promise a journey filled with awe-inspiring beauty and cultural richness. From the iconic living root bridges to the mysterious Siju Cave, each local attraction narrates a unique tale of nature and adventure. 

 

Planning your Meghalaya trip? 

 

Let experts guide you for an affordable yet unforgettable experience. Explore hidden gems, savour local delights, and navigate seamlessly with customised Meghalaya tour packages. Book now and dive into the wonders of these must-visit attractions in Meghalaya!