Meghalaya in Monsoon: A Complete Meghalaya Monsoon Guide

Known as the “Abode of Clouds,” this region comes alive with lush green hills, cascading waterfalls, and misty valleys during the rainy season. It’s the perfect time to embark on thrilling adventures and immerse yourself in the rich cultural traditions of the local communities. 

Visiting Meghalaya in the rainy season, particularly in May, June, and July, offers a wonderful experience. You can explore Meghalaya tour packages to find the best tour for your visit during these months.

Reasons to Visit Meghalaya in Monsoons

Here are several compelling reasons to visit Meghalaya in monsoons : 

1. Lush Greenery:

Unlike most parts of India, Meghalaya remains unaffected by flooding during the rainy season due to its high altitude. The monsoon months in Meghalaya transform into a blanket of vibrant green. The hills and valleys are covered with dense forests, creating a picture-perfect setting straight out of a fairy tale. The fresh monsoon showers rejuvenate the flora and fauna, making it a haven for biodiversity enthusiasts and those seeking tranquillity in nature.

2. Cultural Richness:

Meghalaya has many different indigenous tribes, each with its own unique culture and traditions. During the monsoon, people celebrate festivals like Behdienkhlam and Wangala with great enthusiasm. These festivals offer visitors a chance to see traditional dance, music, and rituals. Getting involved with the local communities helps us understand their way of life and appreciate their culture.

3. Adventure Activities:

Meghalaya in monsoon is a paradise for adventure seekers. You can go trekking through misty hills to explore hidden caves such as Mawsmai and Siju, or take a thrilling river rafting expedition on the turbulent waters of the Umngot River, all made even more exciting by the cool, misty weather. These adventure sports in Meghalaya will surely add a lot of thrill to your trip.

4. Cuisine:

The local cuisine, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients, is best enjoyed during the monsoon months in Meghalaya. Delight in delicacies such as Jadoh (rice cooked with meat), Doh Khlieh (spicy pork salad), and Tungrymbai (fermented soybean chutney), which reflect the region’s culinary diversity. Trying the local delicacies in monsoon season is one of the best things to do in Meghalaya making the experience even more delightful.

5. Peaceful Retreats:

Meghalaya in monsoon offers a peaceful retreat from city life. Stay in a cozy guest house overlooking a valley or a traditional homestay in a remote village to experience unparalleled tranquillity and serenity. It’s the ideal time to unwind, relax, and rejuvenate amidst nature’s embrace.

6. Photography Opportunities:

For photographers, Meghalaya in monsoon presents endless opportunities to capture breathtaking landscapes, vibrant flora, and unique cultural practices. The interplay of light and shadow, mist and rainbows, creates a magical ambiance that is perfect for capturing stunning images. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional photographer, you’ll find plenty of inspiration in Meghalaya’s monsoon beauty.

Best Places to Visit in Meghalaya in Monsoons

1. Cherrapunji (Sohra):

Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra, is famous for being one of the wettest places on Earth. During the monsoon season, the region turns into a lush green paradise with numerous waterfalls in Meghalaya cascading down the cliffs. Some of the key attractions include:

• Nohkalikai Falls: One of the tallest plunge waterfalls in India, Nohkalikai Falls is a breathtaking sight during the monsoon. The waterfall drops from a height of 340 metres into a turquoise pool below, surrounded by dense greenery.
• Seven Sisters Falls (Nohsngithiang Falls): This impressive waterfall is made up of seven streams cascading down a cliff, creating a spectacular sight during the rainy season.
• Mawsmai Cave: Explore this limestone cave with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The cave becomes even more enchanting with the sound of water dripping from the ceiling during the monsoon.
• Thangkharang Park: This park offers panoramic views of the plains of Bangladesh and the Kynrem Falls, making it a great place to enjoy the misty, rain-soaked landscape.

2. Mawsynram

Mawsynram, another contender for the title of the wettest place on Earth, is one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya in monsoons. The incessant rainfall enhances the region’s natural beauty:

• Mawsmai Cave: Similar to the one in Cherrapunji, this cave is known for its fascinating rock formations and becomes even more captivating during the monsoon.
• Mawjymbuin Cave: Famous for its stalagmite shaped like a Shivalinga, this cave is a popular pilgrimage site. The cave is also home to numerous bats, adding to its mystique.
• Green Valleys and Hills: The lush, rolling hills and valleys of Mawsynram are a treat for the eyes during the monsoon, with every shade of green imaginable.

3. Shillong

The capital city of Meghalaya, Shillong, is a charming hill station that becomes even more picturesque during the monsoon season:

• Elephant Falls: Named for an elephant-shaped rock at its base, Elephant Falls in Shillong is a three-tiered waterfall that flows in full glory during the monsoon.
• Shillong Peak: Offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, Shillong Peak is often shrouded in mist during the monsoon, creating a mystical atmosphere.
• Ward’s Lake: Ward’s Lake is a man-made lake surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens. A walk around the lake in the gentle monsoon rain is a delightful experience.
• Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: In Don Bosco Centre you can learn about the rich cultural heritage of Meghalaya and the Northeast at this museum, which showcases artefacts, art, and information about the region’s tribes.

4. Mawlynnong Village

Mawlynnong village in Meghalaya, often referred to as the “Cleanest Village in Asia,” is a picturesque village that shines even brighter during the monsoon:

• Living Root Bridge: The living root bridges of Mawlynnong are marvels of bioengineering. The rain-swollen streams and lush surroundings make these bridges even more enchanting during the monsoon. It is one of the best living root bridges in Meghalaya.
• Sky View: Climb the bamboo watchtower for a panoramic view of the village and the surrounding forest. The monsoon mist adds an ethereal quality to the landscape.
• Local Culture: Interact with the friendly villagers and learn about their sustainable lifestyle practices, which are even more evident during the rainy season.

5. Dawki and Umngot River

Dawki, located near the India-Bangladesh border, is famous for the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River and one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya in monsoons:

• Boat Rides: During the monsoon, the river swells and offers an even more exhilarating boat ride. The transparent waters allow you to see the riverbed even after heavy rains.
• Suspension Bridge: The suspension bridge over the Umngot River provides stunning views of the lush surroundings and the river below.
• Shnongpdeng: A nearby village that offers adventure activities like kayaking, snorkelling, and camping by the river. In fact, camping at this site is one of the top things to do in Dawki. The monsoon enhances the thrill of these activities.

6. Jowai

Jowai, the headquarters of the West Jaintia Hills district, is known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture:

• Krang Suri Falls: One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Meghalaya, Krang Suri Falls is a sight to behold during the monsoon. The waterfall cascades into a crystal-clear pool, surrounded by lush greenery.
• Thadlaskein Lake: Thadlaskein Lake in Meghalaya is surrounded by hills and meadows, is a perfect spot for a peaceful retreat. The monsoon rain adds to the lake’s serenity.
• Nartiang Monoliths: Explore these ancient monoliths in Meghalaya, which are believed to be the tallest in the world. The monsoon season adds an air of mystery to these historical stones.

7. Laitlum Canyons

Laitlum Canyons, located near Shillong, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills:

• Trekking: The trek to the Laitlum Canyons is a rewarding experience, with the mist and rain adding to the adventure. The panoramic views from the top are unparalleled, especially during the monsoon.
• Local Villages: Visit the nearby villages to experience the local culture and hospitality. The monsoon season is a great time to witness traditional agricultural practices.

8. Nongriat

Nongriat is a small village near Cherrapunji, famous for its living root bridges and scenic beauty:

• Double Decker Living Root Bridge: Double Decker Living Root Bridges is the most famous of all root bridges, this two-tiered marvel is a testament to the ingenuity of the Khasi people. The surrounding rainforest, swollen streams, and misty atmosphere make it a magical experience during the monsoon.
• Rainbow Falls: A further trek from the Double Decker Bridge, Rainbow Falls is a pristine waterfall that is even more spectacular during the monsoon.
• Trekking and Hiking: The journey to Nongriat involves a challenging trek, but the lush green surroundings and the thrill of the adventure are worth it, especially during the monsoon. This is renowned as one of the best treks in Meghalaya.

9. Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Mawphlang Sacred Forest, located near Shillong, is a biodiversity hotspot that is protected by local Khasi beliefs:

• Nature Walks: Explore the dense forest with a local guide who will explain the cultural significance and the diverse flora and fauna. The monsoon rain adds a mystical quality to the forest.
• Cultural Experiences: Learn about the Khasi tribe’s traditions and their deep connection to nature. The monsoon season is a great time to witness these practices in action.

10. Balpakram National Park

Balpakram National Park, located in the South Garo Hills, is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty:

• Wildlife Watching: The park is home to numerous species of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and rare orchids. The monsoon season brings the forest to life, making it an ideal time for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Scenic Views: The rolling hills, deep gorges, and dense forests of Balpakram offer breathtaking views, especially when shrouded in monsoon mist.
• Mythology and Legends: The park is steeped in local legends and mythology, adding an element of intrigue to your visit.