Have you ever stared at those dreamy wallpapers with rolling green hills and misty valleys and thought, “No way this place is real”? Well, guess what? It is! Plan a trip to Meghalaya and turn those wallpaper vibes into your actual travel photos.
Meghalaya, often called “the Abode of Clouds,” is known for its misty landscapes, lush greenery, and abundant rainfall. The capital city, Shillong, is popularly referred to as “the Scotland of the East” because of its rolling hills, cool climate, and colonial-era charm. Together, they offer a refreshing escape for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of Northeast India.
Indeed, snow-covered mountains are charming — but never underestimate those lush green hills with waterfalls tumbling down them! So why not go find out for yourself what all the hype is about? Let’s get you started with this Meghalaya Tour Guide!
Quick Facts About Meghalaya
- Capital: Shillong
- Official Language: English (Khasi and Garo are widely spoken)
- Known For: Living root bridges, majestic waterfalls, Cherrapunji – the wettest place on Earth, Mawlynnong – Asia’s cleanest village, scenic valleys, and vibrant local culture.
Best Time to Visit Meghalaya
Meghalaya is a treat all year round, but the best time to visit Meghalaya is between October and April. During these months, the weather is pleasant, skies are clearer, and the lush landscapes are at their scenic best — perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and long drives through the hills.
If you’re someone who loves monsoon vibes and doesn’t mind getting drenched, you can also visit between June and September, when the rains bring out Meghalaya’s wild beauty. This is when waterfalls roar in full glory, and places like Cherrapunji and Mawsynram (the wettest places on Earth) look like scenes from a fantasy movie.
But a little heads-up from this Meghalaya travel guide: the monsoon also comes with frequent landslides, slippery roads, and unpredictable weather. So unless you're a rain-loving adventurer, it's better to avoid this season for hassle-free travel.
Getting to Meghalaya is easier than you might think! While the state doesn't have a major airport of its own, it’s well-connected through nearby cities and any good Meghalaya tour guide will point you straight to Guwahati as your gateway.
By Air:
- The nearest major airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, about 120 km from Shillong (Meghalaya’s capital). From Guwahati, you can hire a cab or take a shared taxi to Shillong — the drive takes around 3–4 hours and offers some stunning views along the way.
- Fun tip: There’s also a small airport in Shillong (Umroi Airport), but it has limited flights, mostly from Kolkata.
By Train:
- Meghalaya doesn't have a direct railway line. The nearest railway station is again in Guwahati. From there, it’s the same scenic road journey to Shillong.
By Road:
- Meghalaya is very well connected by road. Whether you're coming from Guwahati or other parts of the Northeast, buses, taxis, and private cabs are easily available. The drive into the hills is one of the best parts of the journey — think winding roads, misty valleys, and surprise waterfalls.
Top Places To Visit In Meghalaya
Cities, Villages & Nature Spots
From busy local streets to peaceful canyons — soak in the essence of Meghalaya.
- Cherrapunji (Sohra)
Known for its record-breaking rainfall, this is where you’ll find stunning waterfalls like Nohkalikai Falls, mysterious caves, and the famous living root bridges. It’s a nature lover’s dream!
2. Mawlynnong – Asia’s Cleanest Village
Yes, you read that right! This picture-perfect village is spotless, green, and peaceful. Walk along bamboo skywalks, chat with locals, and soak in the clean air.
3. Dawki & Umngot River
Crystal clear waters are so transparent, boats look like they’re floating in the air. Take a boat ride on the Umngot River, visit the India-Bangladesh border nearby, and enjoy the chill riverside vibes.
4. Shillong – The Scotland of the East
The capital city is buzzing with life and music. Explore the Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Ward’s Lake, and don’t miss out on the cool cafes, street food, and local markets.
5. Laitlum Canyons
Less touristy and more heavenly, this cliffside view is all about vast landscapes, deep gorges, and peace. One of the best places to visit in Meghalaya for those Instagram-worthy shots.
Prepare to get misted — these waterfalls are straight out of a dream!
- Nohkalikai Falls (Cherrapunji)
This is India’s tallest plunge waterfall, dropping from a height of about 1,100 feet. The view from the top is jaw-dropping, with lush cliffs and misty air. Bonus: There’s a tragic legend behind the name too!
2. Elephant Falls (Shillong)
Located just outside Shillong, this three-step waterfall is an easy stop and a favorite with tourists. It’s named after a rock shaped like an elephant, though the rock fell long ago. Still, the beauty lives on!
3. Dainthlen Falls (Cherrapunji)
This wide and powerful waterfall is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and open spaces. Legend says it’s where a mythical serpent was defeated.
4. Seven Sisters Falls (Cherrapunji)
Also called Nohsngithiang Falls, these seven streams drop side by side from a towering cliff. Best seen during the monsoon when all seven are in full force — truly a sight to remember!
Go deep — literally. These caves are mysterious, beautiful, and full of surprises.
- Mawsmai Cave (Cherrapunji)
One of the most tourist-friendly caves with easy walkways and lights. The limestone formations inside are stunning, and you’ll feel like you're on a mini adventure without getting too muddy.
2. Arwah Cave (Cherrapunji)
This one's for the explorers! Arwah Cave is longer, darker, and packed with ancient fossils in its walls. Carry a flashlight — it gets spooky but in the best way possible.
3. Siju Cave (South Garo Hills)
Located far from the usual tourist route, this cave is massive and wild. It's one of India’s longest natural caves and has beautiful rock formations, plus it's home to thousands of bats (don’t worry, they’re shy).
Where trees and tradition meet. These bridges are grown, not built!
- Nongriat Village & Double Decker Root Bridge
Trek your way (yes, 3000+ steps!) to witness one of the most incredible sights in Meghalaya — the double-decker living root bridge. It’s a magical mix of nature and tradition.
2. Single Root Bridge (Riwai, near Mawlynnong)
Want to see a root bridge without the intense trek? Head to Riwai! It’s just a short walk from the road, making it perfect for a quick visit near Asia’s cleanest village, Mawlynnong.
3. Umshiang Double-Decker Bridge (Nongriat)
Often called the “big brother” of all root bridges, this one lies deeper in the forest near Nongriat. It’s massive, mossy, and feels like something straight out of a fantasy movie.
Top Things to Do in Meghalaya
Sightseeing is great but what if you could actually live the Meghalaya vibe? From trekking on root bridges to boating on rivers so clear they look photoshopped, Meghalaya isn’t just about places, it’s about unforgettable experiences. Let’s dive into the coolest things to do in Meghalaya!
- Trek to a Living Root Bridge
It's not just a walk — it’s a workout with a reward! Climb hundreds (or thousands) of stairs and feel like you've stepped into a fairytale when you see those root bridges up close.
2. Take a Transparent Boat Ride in Dawki
Boating on Dawki’s crystal-clear river feels like gliding through glass. It's peaceful, surreal, and a total Instagram win.
3. Camp by a Waterfall
Set up a tent next to the dreamy Krang Suri or Dainthlen Falls. Falling asleep to the sound of water? 10/10 would recommend.
4. Wander Through the Sacred Forest of Mawphlang
Join a guided walk in this mystical forest where nothing can be taken out — not even a leaf! Legends, nature, and silence come together beautifully.
5. Live the Village Life in a Homestay
Stay with a local Khasi family, help cook traditional meals, and wake up to fresh mountain air instead of alarm clocks. Yes, it’s one of the most fun things to do in Meghalaya!
6. Watch the Sunset from Laitlum Canyon
Sit on the edge of a massive canyon with clouds below and colors exploding in the sky. It’s peace, perspective, and a great photo spot.
7. Try Local Khasi Dishes Like Jadoh
Foodies, this is your calling. Jadoh (spicy rice with meat), tungrymbai (fermented soybean curry), and local chutneys are full of bold, earthy flavors.
8. Attend a Tribal Festival
Catch local festivals like Wangala in the Garo Hills — it’s all about drumming, dancing, and pure cultural energy.
How to Prepare for Your Trip to Meghalaya
Before you head off to the land of clouds, misty mountains, and root bridges, a little prep goes a long way! This Meghalaya travel guide will help you get ready, as Meghalaya is beautiful but also full of stairs, rain, and areas with limited connectivity. So, here's your mini prep checklist to make your journey smooth and fun:
- Pack Smart (and Light!)
Stick to comfortable clothes, a light rain jacket, good walking shoes (lots of stairs!), and a power bank. Meghalaya weather is unpredictable so layers are your best friend.
2. Keep Cash Handy
While bigger towns like Shillong have ATMs and card-friendly cafes, many small villages still run on cash. It’s best to withdraw before heading into rural areas.
3. Book Stays in Advance (Especially in Peak Season)
Meghalaya is getting popular, especially in winter and monsoon. Whether it’s a homestay in Mawlynnong or a guesthouse in Cherrapunji, book early!
4. Don’t Rely Completely on Mobile Networks
Connectivity can be patchy in remote places, so don’t rely on Google Maps alone. Download offline maps, inform family, and enjoy the digital detox.
5. Respect Local Culture
Meghalaya is home to matrilineal tribes like the Khasi and Garo. People are warm and welcoming so just be mindful of local customs and ask before taking photos.
Already exploring the hills and waterfalls of Meghalaya? Here are some Meghalaya travel tips to keep you comfy, safe, and smiling throughout your trip!
- Start Your Day Early
Sunsets here are early (around 5:30–6 PM), so follow this golden Meghalaya travel tip: plan all your sightseeing in daylight hours to make the most of your trip.
2. Don’t Skip the Local Food
Try local Khasi cuisine like Jadoh, Dohneiiong, and tungrymbai. You won’t find these flavors anywhere else!
3. Travel with an Open Mind (and Some Patience)
The roads can be bumpy and journeys long — but the views? Totally worth it. A key Meghalaya travel tip: relax and enjoy the ride, literally.
4. Ask Locals for Hidden Spots
One of the underrated Meghalaya travel tips — chat with locals! They’ll often guide you to offbeat places that aren’t even on Google Maps.
5. Stay Longer in One Place
Instead of hopping from one town to another, pick a base like Cherrapunji or Shillong and explore nearby spots. It’s a slower, better experience.
So there you have it — your complete Meghalaya Tour Guide to one of the dreamiest corners of India. From misty waterfalls and living root bridges to clean villages and cozy homestays, Meghalaya has a magical way of stealing hearts (and filling up your camera roll).
Whether you're chasing clouds in Cherrapunji or sipping tea in Shillong, the places to visit in Meghalaya are endless and unforgettable. Pack your bags, bring your sense of wonder, and let Meghalaya do the rest!
