Meghalaya in February: Weather, the Clearest Umngot of the Year and What This Month Trades Away

If you are here, you must be looking for a trip to Meghalaya in February. Well the happy news is that you have chosen a good month to visit this tropical paradise. You are in for clear views, comfortable outings and also a lucky chance to witness Umngot River in Dawki in its transparent state.

In February, it is easy to go caving and trekking through the green villages. It allows you to take the popular Double Decker Living Root Bridge trek, which is an experience of its own. The best part is that February is also associated with the Strawberry season(peak harvest season), which gives travellers another reason to visit.

However, if you are visiting Meghalaya in February, and expecting the waterfalls to be in their full power, then you will be disappointed. The waterfalls will not be as powerful as they are during the rainy months.

So, if you have plans to go for water activities, and outdoor adventures, instead of full flow waterfalls, then Feb will be the best time to visit Meghalaya.

Yes, February is the best time if you want to be a part of the off season in Meghalaya, which has relatively dry weather, clear views and plenty of outdoor adventures, without worrying about the rains.

This month is perfect for exploring Shillong and spending time around Dawki. The dry weather also allows you to go trekking through the living root bridges, making your trip to Meghalaya a memorable one.

Sightseeing becomes more comfortable in this weather, especially if you plan to stay outside for a long time. Besides trekking, you can go caving or walking around the view points and take in all the beauty of this place.

Even though the waterfalls may not be in full flow, you can still enjoy the Nohkalikai and the Seven Sisters Falls, which are very beautiful but their water flow is lower during this time than what it is during the monsoon season.

• Shillong: Colder morning but the days are pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 17°C and 22°C during the day and 5°C to 10°C at night.
• Sohra(Cherrapunji): Cool mornings, mild afternoons with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 23°C during the day and 10°C to 12°C at night.
• Dawki and Shnongpdeng: Generally warmer during day time with temperatures 20°C to 26°C and during night it remains between 10°C to 13°C.
• Garo Hills: Generally warmer with 25°C to 28°C during the day and at night it ranges between 13°C to 16°C.

If you are willing to explore Shillong in February, make sure you carry a warm jacket, comfortable shoes and a few layers. Afternoons can feel pleasant but mornings and evenings can be colder.

Umngot River in Dawki, also known as the Dawki River is the clearest river one could witness. It is so clear that you could actually see what’s beneath the water. If you look from a little far away, it looks like the boat is floating in the air.

You may have seen this river on Instagram, it is particularly famous for its transparent waters but the clarity can not be guaranteed everyday. Recent rainfalls can affect the visibility. So February will be a suitable time to visit the lake and witness it at its clearest form.

You can take a boat ride on the Umngot, and head towards Shnongpdeng if you want a longer riverside experience. It also allows tourists and locals to do camping or indulge in other outdoor activities.

Love strawberries? If yes, then February is the most suitable time for your Meghalaya trip. The state is cooler in February and the areas that are associated with strawberry harvesting includes Sohliya village in Ri-Bhoi, where strawberry farming is quite common and is a local attraction as well.

Remember, while some may welcome visitors to witness how the harvesting is done, not every farm allows visitors. If you are lucky, you may find fresh strawberries in local stalls. It is a completely different experience than sightseeing and adventure activities, and definitely worth the visit.

Meghalaya also hosts several strawberry related events during the harvest season but the dates and venues keep changing. You can confirm the schedule before visiting, so you can plan your trip accordingly.

Caving is another experience, which is quite different from the rest of the itinerary, so if you get a chance to visit a cave, you should definitely take it. During the dry season, the routes become drier than during the monsoon season, which makes it easier to reach the cave.

One of the best and popular caves in Meghalaya is Mawsmai Cave near Sohra, for a really cool experience. The main attraction is the passageways, narrow sections and rock formations that make it an interesting spot.

• Location: Sohra, Cherrapunji
• Timings: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. everyday
• Entry Fees:₹30 to ₹50 for adults; ₹10 for children

Arwah cave is another option for caving that features limestone formations and fossils, making it an attraction worth visiting. Both the caves can be included in your Meghalaya itinerary if you have sufficient time.

• Location: Sohra, Cherrapunji
• Timings: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. everyday
• Entry Fees:₹20 to ₹50 for adults; ₹10 for children

Here is some truth, waterfalls in February may not be as appealing to you as they are during the monsoon season. The dry season in Meghalaya means less water flow, which makes the waterfalls in Meghalaya lose their essence temporarily.

However, you can plan your visit to the Nohkalikai Falls and the Seven Sisters Falls that remain impressive even during the dry season due to their cliffs. The waterfalls may look thinner but the clear view leaves room to take plenty of pictures of the surroundings which isn’t any less impressive.

If you want to have the most memorable experience in Meghalaya then you shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity to trek through the Double Decker Living Root Bridges. February is the perfect time because the route is less slippery and less muddy.

This trek involves long descent with the help of stone steps, and then later followed by a climb back up. Be assured that it is not a usual walk, so be prepared and keep all the essential things with you including enough water to drink, some protein bars and wear shoes with a good grip.

The trails can be slippery in some places, so be careful and check local conditions before you reach, and if you have limited trekking experience, you can take a guide too.

February can be a suitable time to travel to Meghalaya before the demand rises and the tourist season begins. Some places in Meghalaya may feel quieter during weekdays, however others may be crowded, including Shillong and Sohra.

Prices depend on demand, location, and accommodation type, so it may vary from one place to another. You can compare rates before you travel, so that you can get a good deal. You should also check whether transport, meals and other essential things are a part of your accommodation or not.

If you have finalized the dates, it’s advisable to book accommodation and transportation in advance to avoid paying extra cost later.

The amount of time you have will determine how much of Meghalaya you can comfortably explore.

• 3-4 days: Focus on Shillong and a selection of nearby attractions. Trying to cover Shillong, Sohra, and Dawki in a rushed itinerary can leave little time to enjoy each place.
• 5-6 days: Allow time for Shillong, Sohra, Dawki, and nearby villages. Keep travel time in mind because the roads between destinations can make journeys longer than they appear on a map.
• 7 days or more: You can travel at a slower pace and include activities such as trekking, caving, village visits, and riverside stays

If you are comparing organised trips, browse theMeghalaya tour packages under ₹25,000 to see whether a suitable itinerary fits your budget. Check the inclusions carefully, especially transport, accommodation, meals, and activities.

Meghalaya in February is a good choice if you want clear views, relatively dry trekking conditions, caves to explore, and a chance to see the Umngot River at Dawki. Strawberry season adds another reason to visit, while the quieter travel period can make planning easier. The main trade-off is the waterfalls, which may not be at their most powerful. Choose February for outdoor exploration and clear scenery, and plan your route around the places you most want to experience.