Ever dreamed of walking through clouds, discovering ancient tribes, and crossing bridges made of living tree roots? Welcome to the Khasi Hills in Meghalaya—a magical corner of Northeast India where nature, culture, and tradition all blend into one unforgettable experience, making it a must-visit on any Meghalaya tour package.
Khasi Hills is the hub where most of the popular tourist places in Meghalaya are located! From the iconic living root bridges to breathtaking waterfalls, this place is a paradise for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. With so many activities at Khasi Hills to explore, you'll find adventure at every turn—whether you're trekking through misty forests or soaking in the rich local culture.
If you’re looking to add something truly special to your Meghalaya trip, the Khasi Hills won’t disappoint. Whether it’s trekking through misty forests, tasting local Khasi cuisine, or learning about the unique matrilineal traditions, the Khasi Hills are full of surprises. Don’t miss out—this hidden gem is waiting for you to explore!
History and Culture of Khasi Hills
Located in Meghalaya, the “Abode of Clouds,” the Khasi Hills are home to the Khasi people—an indigenous tribe known for their matrilineal traditions (yep, the family name and property go to the youngest daughter!). Let’s talk about the history and culture of Khasi Hills:
A Quick Dive into History
- Ancient Roots: The Khasis are believed to have migrated from Southeast Asia and have lived in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills for centuries.
- Matriarchy: Unique to the region, the Khasi society is matrilineal—inheritance flows through the mother’s line.
- British Influence: After the Anglo-Khasi War (1829–1833), the British took control, and Shillong grew into a key colonial town.
- Statehood: Meghalaya became a separate state in 1972, recognizing the distinct Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo identities.
Culture & Traditions
Language: Khasi is part of the Austroasiatic family and is written in Latin script.
Religion: Many Khasis now follow Christianity, though ancient animistic practices still thrive.
Festivals:
- Ka Pomblang Nongkrem: A grand harvest celebration with goat sacrifices and dance.
- Shad Sukra and Behdeinkhlam: Festivals marking agriculture and warding off evil.
- Music & Dance: Folk dances like Shad Suk Mynsiem and local instruments like the duitara bring Khasi culture to life.
Top Places to Visit in Khasi Hills
The Khasi Hills are packed with natural beauty, rich culture, and unique experiences. Whether you're a nature lover, culture seeker, or just looking for peace in the hills, here are the top places to visit in Khasi Hills:
- Shillong – The Capital Charm
- Known as the “Scotland of the East”
- Must-visit spots: Ward’s Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Don Bosco Museum
- Great for café-hopping, shopping at Police Bazar, and enjoying the cool climate
2. Cherrapunji (Sohra) – Rain Lover’s Paradise
- One of the wettest places on Earth
- Famous for: Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Caves, Seven Sisters Falls
- Don’t miss the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in nearby Nongriat
3. Mawlynnong – Asia’s Cleanest Village
- Stunning village known for cleanliness and eco-living
- Sky View Tower offers panoramic views of the plains of Bangladesh
- Explore bamboo walkways, flower gardens, and friendly local hospitality
4. Dawki – Crystal-Clear River Magic
- Home to the pristine Umngot River—perfect for boating
- Located near the India-Bangladesh border
- Great spot for scenic photos, especially during winter when the water is glass-clear
5. Nongriat – Trekker’s Delight
- Reachable via a steep but rewarding trek from Tyrna village
- Famous for the Double Decker Living Root Bridge
- Experience village life and stay in local homestays surrounded by jungle
6. Mawphlang – Sacred Forest & Heritage
- Explore the mystical Sacred Groves—untouched ancient forest protected by local beliefs
- Also visit the Khasi Heritage Village nearby to learn about traditional Khasi culture
Top Activities at Khasi Hills in Meghalaya
The Khasi Hills in Meghalaya offer a rich mix of adventure, culture, and nature. Here are some top activities at Khasi Hills to enjoy:
- Trekking & Hiking: Explore scenic trails through misty forests and rolling hills, especially around Cherrapunji and Mawphlang.
- Visit Living Root Bridges: Walk across centuries-old natural bridges made from tree roots in places like Nongriat.
- Caving Adventures: Discover fascinating limestone caves like Mawsmai and Siju Caves for a bit of underground thrill.
- Waterfall Chasing: Witness stunning waterfalls like Elephant Falls, Nohkalikai, and Wei Sawdong.
- Cultural Experiences: Attend local festivals, enjoy traditional dances, and interact with the Khasi community.
- Local Food Tasting: Try Khasi delicacies like Jadoh, Doh Neiiong, and Kyat (local rice beer).
- Village Tours: Visit Mawlynnong, Asia’s cleanest village, and get a feel of rural Khasi life.
Local Cuisine of Khasi Hills
The local cuisine of Khasi hills is known for its simplicity, yet the dishes are rich in taste and often reflect the cultural and historical heritage of the region. Here’s a glimpse of the local food of Meghalaya you can expect in the Khasi Hills:
- Jadoh – A rice dish with meat (pork or chicken), cooked with spices and herbs.
- Doh Khlieh – Pork salad with raw onions, ginger, and spices.
- Tungrymbai – Fermented soybean stew, often with pork or fish.
- Maisaw – Corn and pork dish, cooked with herbs and spices.
- Ktung – Fish and vegetable stew with local ingredients.
- Pukhlein – Sweet fried rice flour cakes made with jaggery and coconut.
- Nongkrem – Rice and fish cakes, fried and served with chutney.
- Bamboo Shoot Curry – Tangy curry made with bamboo shoots and pork.
- Chutneys and Sauces – Made from fermented fish, bamboo shoots, and herbs, served with meals.
Best Time to Visit Khasi Hills in Meghalaya
The best time to visit Khasi Hills in Meghalaya is from October to April. During these months, the weather is pleasant, skies are clear, and the landscape is lush after the monsoon rains.
- October to November: Perfect for sightseeing and exploring waterfalls in Meghalaya, root bridges, and cultural festivals.
- December to February: Cooler temperatures with misty mornings—great for photography and cozy hill station vibes.
- March to April: Pleasant spring weather, blooming flora, and fewer crowds.
Avoid the peak monsoon (June to September) if you're not a fan of heavy rains, though this season turns the hills into a green wonderland for monsoon lovers.
How to Reach Khasi Hills in Meghalaya
The Khasi Hills in Meghalaya are a scenic and culturally rich part of Northeast India, and getting there is fairly easy with a bit of planning. Here’s a clear guide on how to reach this beautiful region:
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (Umroi) – Located around 35 km from Shillong city, this airport has limited connectivity with a few regional flights.
- Major Airport: Guwahati Airport (Assam) – About 125 km from Shillong, this is the best-connected airport for reaching the Khasi Hills. Regular flights are available from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and other major cities.
- From Guwahati, you can hire a cab or board a shared taxi to Shillong (3–4 hours).
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station – There’s no railway station in Meghalaya, so Guwahati (in Assam) is the main railhead, about 100–125 km away.
- From the station, take a cab or shared taxi to Shillong, the gateway to the Khasi Hills.
By Road:
- From Guwahati to Shillong: The drive is scenic and smooth via NH6. It takes around 3–4 hours depending on traffic and weather.
- Buses and Shared Taxis: Frequent state-run buses (ASTC, MTC) and private taxis are available from Guwahati to Shillong.
- Once you reach Shillong, local taxis or rental vehicles are easily available to explore popular spots in the Khasi Hills such as Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong, and Dawki.
Travel Tips for Visiting Khasi Hills in Meghalaya
Get the most out of your journey with these essential travel tips for visiting Khasi Hills in Meghalaya—from packing right to respecting local culture, a little prep goes a long way!
Cultural Etiquette
- Respect local Khasi traditions – many villages follow matrilineal customs.
- Seek permission before photographing locals or sacred sites.
- Dress modestly, especially in rural areas.
What to Pack
- Rain gear (umbrella/raincoat) – Meghalaya is unpredictable.
- Sturdy shoes – Essential for treks and slippery paths.
- Warm clothing – Nights can get chilly.
- Cash – ATMs are scarce in remote areas.
- Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated; avoid plastic.
Safety & Health Tips
- Leeches in monsoon – Carry salt or leech socks.
- Mobile Network – BSNL/Airtel work best in remote areas.
- Altitude sickness – Some areas are high-altitude; stay hydrated.
- Avoid night travel – Roads can be treacherous.
Khasi Hills in Meghalaya isn’t just another travel destination — it’s a whole vibe! With misty mountains, living root bridges, sacred forests, and charming villages, there’s something magical around every corner. If you’re into nature, culture, or just peaceful getaways, you’ll find plenty of places to visit in Khasi Hills that’ll steal your heart.
From the cleanest village of Mawlynnong to the stunning views of Cherrapunji and the crystal-clear waters of Dawki, the popular tourist attractions in Khasi Hills in Meghalaya are bucket-list worthy. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and let Khasi Hills surprise you!
