11 Popular Places to Visit in Garo Hills of Meghalaya: Best Guide

Discover Nokrek National Park with its unique wildlife and lush greenery, and don’t miss the Siju Caves with amazing limestone formations. If you love nature and adventure, this is the place for you! Also, visit the charming village of Baghmara for local traditions and stunning views that will make your Instagram shine!

So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the amazing places to visit in Garo Hills of Meghalaya with our Garo Hills Travel Guide! They are worth every moment you spend there!

Best Time to Visit Garo Hills of Meghalaya

• October to November: This is the post-monsoon period when the hills are lush and green, and the waterfalls are at their fullest. The temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, making it comfortable for exploration.
• December to February: Winter sets in during these months, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C to 15°C. This is a great time for those who enjoy cooler weather, and the clear skies provide stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
• March to April: As spring arrives, the weather becomes warmer, ranging from 15°C to 30°C. This is also the time when many local festivals of the Garos take place, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich culture of the Garo people.

How to Reach Garo Hills of Meghalaya

• By Air

The nearest airport to Garo Hills is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GUWAHATI) in Assam, which is about 220 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Garo Hills. Alternatively, there is a smaller airport in Tura, the largest town in Garo Hills, which is about 40 km away. However, flights to Tura may be limited.

• By Train

The nearest major railway station is Guwahati Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Guwahati, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Tura or other towns in Garo Hills.

• By Road

Garo Hills is well-connected by road. You can take a bus or drive from nearby cities:

• From Guwahati: The journey takes around 6-8 hours, covering approximately 220 km.
• From Shillong: Garo Hills is about 100 km away, and you can reach Tura in around 3-4 hours by taxi or bus.
• Local Transport

Once you arrive in Garo Hills, local taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses are available for getting around. Renting a vehicle can also be a good option for exploring the region at your own pace.

So, now that you know how to reach Garo Hills, you can plan your trip with ease!

Top 11 Places to Visit in Garo Hills of Meghalaya

Natural Attractions

1. Siju Caves

Welcome to the Siju Caves! The Siju Caves are one of the most significant and longest cave systems in India, located in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya. These amazing limestone caves are a natural wonder filled with fascinating rock formations. It’s like walking through a giant underground museum! Just remember to bring a flashlight; it can get pretty dark in there. 

The cave system extends over 4 kilometers, making it one of the longest in the country. Garo Hills is famous for its stunning natural sites, and the Siju Caves are definitely a must-visit.

2. Nokrek Biosphere Reserve

Next up is the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve! Nokrek Peak is the highest point in the Garo Hills and offers amazing views of the area. This UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve in Meghalaya is famous for its rich wildlife and unique ecosystems. You can find rare animals like the red panda and many types of birds here. 

As you walk through the beautiful greenery, watch out for special flowers and plants. Garo Hills is known for its amazing biodiversity, and Nokrek is one of its best spots among the famous hills of Meghalaya.

3. Pelga Falls

If you’re looking for a refreshing break, head to Pelga Falls! This beautiful waterfall is perfect for a picnic or just enjoying the cool water. It’s such a pretty place that you’ll want to take lots of photos! Just be careful on the rocks; they can be slippery! Garo Hills is famous for its beautiful landscapes, and Pelga Falls is a shining example.

4. Tura Peak

Let’s talk about Tura Peak, a gem in the Garo Hills that stands nearly 900 meters above sea level! This spot is a paradise for nature lovers, bird watchers, and photography enthusiasts. As you make your way up, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and might even spot amazing wildlife like hornbills and gibbons. 

The hike to Tura Peak is moderately difficult and usually takes visitors about an hour to ninety minutes to reach the top. As you climb, the thick vegetation changes into a cooler, temperate landscape, giving you amazing views along the way. Garo Hills is famous for adventures you’ll remember forever!

5. Balpakram National Park

Balpakram National Park is a must-visit destination in the South Garo Hills of Meghalaya! Located at an elevation of about 910 meters near the international border with Bangladesh, this park offers breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Balpakram is home to fascinating animals like barking deer, Bengal tigers, wild water buffalo, and even red pandas! Garo Hills is famous for its unique ecosystems, and this national park is one of the top places to visit in Garo Hills of Meghalaya!

Cultural and Historical Sites

6. Darga of Hazrat Shah Kamal Baba

For those interested in cultural experiences, the Darga of Hazrat Shah Kamal Baba is a significant spiritual site. Located near the India-Bangladesh border, this shrine attracts visitors from all walks of life who come to pay their respects.

The Dargah hosts a major annual festival, or Urs, which attracts devotees from near and far, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with devotion and celebration. This site showcases the unique blend of cultures that the famous hills of Meghalaya are known for.

7. Mir Jumla’s Tomb

Another must-visit historical site is Mir Jumla’s Tomb, which tells the story of the region’s past. This beautiful tomb, built in honor of the Mughal general Mir Jumla, is an excellent spot for history buffs. 

The architecture is captivating, and you can feel the history in the air. Visiting this site adds a touch of history to your adventure in Garo Hills, making it one of the intriguing places to visit in Garo Hills of Meghalaya.

8. Aminda Rangsa Art Village

Finally, don’t miss the Aminda Rangsa Art Village, a delightful place for art lovers! Here, you can explore local crafts and witness traditional art forms that reflect the culture of the Garo people, making it among the top things to do in Meghalaya. 

It’s a vibrant hub that showcases the creativity and talent of the community. Garo Hills is famous for its artistic heritage, and a visit to this village is a perfect way to experience it firsthand.

Adventure and Exploration

9. Asanang

Asanang is a beautiful village in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya, known for its serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

A highlight of visiting Asanang is that it hosts the Wangala Festival, also known as the 100 Drums Festival. Celebrated during the harvest season, the Wangala Festival showcases Garo traditions with lively performances, traditional dances, and music from various drums. It takes place in the first week of November.

10. Chitim Tim Dare

Chitim Tim Dare, also called Chitim Tim Noh, is a popular spot in the West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya, India. This place has a unique narrow gorge surrounded by tall cliffs and big boulders. The valley is about 200 meters long and 150 meters deep, with a small stream flowing through it.

Chitim Tim Dare is great for adventure activities like rock climbing, rappelling, and hiking. The cliffs and boulders are perfect for climbing, while the narrow gorge offers a fun challenge for hikers. Chitim Tim Dare is undoubtedly one of the top places to visit in Garo Hills of Meghalaya for adventure enthusiasts looking to embrace the beauty of the famous hills of Meghalaya.

11. Kata Beel

Kata Beel is a large, peaceful pond surrounded by palm trees in the Garo Hills. It is an excellent spot for fishing, angling, and picnics. The calm waters and green surroundings make it a great place for a peaceful day out. 

You can enjoy boating, have a picnic, or just relax and take in the lovely views. The area is home to many birds, making it perfect for birdwatching. Kata Beel adds to the charm of the places to visit in Garo Hills of Meghalaya, offering a nice mix of adventure and relaxation.

Festivals of the Garos 

• Wangala Festival: Also known as the 100 Drums Festival, this important harvest festival is celebrated in November. It features traditional music, dances, and vibrant costumes, marking the end of the harvest season.
• Baikho Festival: Celebrated in spring, Baikho honors the spirit of the harvest. It includes rituals for good harvests, along with dancing, singing, and feasting.
• Sangbangwlwi Festival: Held in January, this festival is dedicated to ancestors and spirits. It involves offerings, prayers, traditional dances, and communal feasting to seek blessings for prosperity.
• Chad Sikdare Festival: Celebrating the Garo New Year in early January, this festival marks the start of a new agricultural season with folk dances, music, and traditional games.
• Nongkrem Festival: Though mainly a Khasi festival, some Garos participate in this harvest celebration characterized by vibrant costumes and lively performances.

Where to Stay in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya

• Hotels: There are several hotels in Tura, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options. Some popular choices include:
• Hotel Polo Orchid
• Hotel Alpine Continental
• Lady Bird Hotel
• Homestays: Homestays offer a more authentic and immersive experience, allowing you to interact with local families and learn about Garo culture.
• Forest Rest Houses: The forest department operates a few rest houses within the reserve, offering basic accommodation.
• Camping: Camping is a popular option for adventure enthusiasts.
• Villages: Consider staying in a village homestay to experience the local culture and lifestyle.
• Eco-Lodges: Some eco-lodges offer comfortable accommodation in a natural setting.

If you’re wondering where to stay while exploring the stunning landscapes of the Garo Hills, these options provide a variety of experiences, making it easier to find the perfect place to stay.

Conclusion