12 Best Villages In Meghalaya To Experience Local Culture

A Meghalaya Tour is not just about stunning waterfalls and caves; it’s also about exploring the beautiful villages in Meghalaya. These villages offer a true taste of rural life, where you can stay in homestays, enjoy delicious Khasi and Garo cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, they provide an unforgettable cultural experience.

For those seeking an offbeat adventure, Meghalaya rural tourism is the perfect choice. Some of the best places to visit in Meghalaya include its lesser-known villages, where you can walk on living root bridges, explore the cleanest village in Asia, or discover the unique traditions of the Garo people. These villages offer an opportunity to connect with nature and culture.

Let’s explore what the best village in Meghalaya has to offer so that you can plan your trip as per your preferences.

1. Mawlynnong – Asia’s Cleanest Village

Mawlynnong is one of the most famous villages in Meghalaya, known for its cleanliness and eco-friendly lifestyle, earning it the title of "Asia’s Cleanest Village." This charming Khasi village is filled with bamboo houses, neatly maintained gardens, and well-paved walkways. Every home has a bamboo dustbin, and plastic is strictly banned.

The community follows a self-sustained way of living, making it a model for rural tourism. Apart from its cleanliness, Mawlynnong offers stunning natural beauty, with lush greenery and breathtaking views of the Bangladeshi plains.

Location: Mawlynnong is located in the East Khasi Hills district, about 77 km from Shillong.

Activities To Do in villages in Meghalaya:

• Walk through the cleanest village – Explore the spotless lanes and admire the well-kept homes and gardens. You can also talk to the locals to understand their sustainable way of life.
• Visit the Living Root Bridge – A short trek to Riwai village leads to a unique living root bridge, grown from tree roots over centuries.
• Climb the Sky View Tower – A Bamboo Skywalk in the village offers a panoramic view of Bangladesh.
• Explore the Balancing Rock - Visit the unique naturally formed balancing rock just on the outskirts of the village.
• Experience Khasi Culture – Stay in homestays, taste local delicacies, and learn about Khasi traditions.

Read More