Meghalaya is famously regarded as “the abode of clouds”, is one of the most exquisite states in North-East India offering a variety of sights, activities, food, and festivals to the tourists. It is endowed with majestic hills, dense forests, splendid valleys, picturesque lakes, caves, and waterfalls that offer a fabulous panorama view and the beautiful clouds blend to provide you with an eclectic experience, which will make it a remarkable journey. It is heaven on earth for those who are looking for a rendezvous with lush greenery and tranquility.
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Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya, and it is the most urbanized area in Meghalaya. Meghalaya is popularly well known for the place Cherapunjji, which receives one of the maximum rainfall and is the wettest place in the world. There are many popular places to visit in Meghalaya that will help to explore its history, culture, art, and lifestyle.
Places to Visit in Meghalaya
Shillong
Shillong is well known as the ‘Scotland of the East is the capital of Meghalaya, located at a height of 1496 meters above sea level. The magnificent landscape, picturesque Khasi Hills, the colorful city serve various adventurous outdoor activities such as rock climbing and boating. It also acts as the gateway to Meghalaya, offering a splendid landscape and the rich cultural heritage of the city combined to provide you with an incredible experience.
The most popular tourist spots in this city are Shillong Peak, Don Bosco Centre, Laitlum Canyons, Elephant Falls, and Mawjymbuin Caves. This place is endowed with pine trees, exciting mountain peaks, crystal clear lakes, the tallest waterfalls, breathtakingly beautiful golf courses, cafes, and museums. It is well known for its pleasant weather, heavy rainfalls, exquisite locations, and traditions. It is indeed a popular place to visit in Meghalaya.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji is the wettest place on the Earth, also famously known as Sohra located 50 km away from Shillong. It is also known for its double-decker living root bridge. This tourist place is the only land in the country to receive maximum rainfall throughout the year. The misty valleys and the waterfalls in the region make a long drive through Cherrapunji is ideal for those who love road trips. The picturesque panoramic views of the valley and waterfalls such as the famous Nohkalikai Waterfalls are amazing experiences to be had during the sunny winter days.
The most popular tourist spots in this place are Mawsmai Cave, Mawmluh Cave, Krem Phyllut Cave, Dain-Thlen Falls, Nohsngithiang Falls, Eco Park, Cherrapunji Theological College at Nongsawlia, Thangkharang Park and Khoh Ramhah or Basket of the Giant. Mawylyngnong is another popular tourist destination here, where visitors can explore the food and culture of the village. It is indeed one of the great tourist places in Meghalaya.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Tura
Tura is situated in the western part of Meghalaya, as the administrative headquarters of the West Garo Hills district. It is an eco-tourism hub of the state. It is situated 311 km away from Shillong. Everything about this tourist place is amazing. Many parts of this place, the valley situated at the foothills of Tura, have not seen human footprints. It is popularly known for its pristine beauty and biodiversity. It offers a magnificent view of waterfalls, caves and rivulets, and lush greenery.
The most popular tourist spots in this place are Tura Peak, Pelga Falls, Naphak Lake, Siju Caves, Wadagokgre, Rongbangdare Waterfalls, and Imilchang Dare Falls. The prime attraction of this place is the Nokrek National Park, it is home to various animals such as the leopard, golden cat, wild buffalo, pheasant, and many more reside. Tura Peak, part of a reserve forest, is an amazing meghalaya tourist destination for treks and sightseeing. It is indeed one of the impeccable tourist places to visit in Meghalaya.
Best Time to Visit: February to March
Williamnagar
Williamnagar is situated 244 km away from Shillong. It was formed in the former town of Simsanggre, which is established on the huge plains of the Simsang River. It is a paradise for those who are looking for a rendezvous with nature, bird watchers, and adventure. It is a perfect place to unwind and tranquillity. This place is a perfect destination for trekking lovers, hiking and draws numerous visitors throughout the year. It is also well known for its historical significance.
The most popular tourist spots in this place are Simsang River, Napak Lake, Naka-Chikong, Domre Falls, and Tasek Lake. An amazing abundance of natural beauty here makes it an enthusiast paradise. The pleasing beauty of this place has been uplifted by the beautiful Simsang River. It is indeed the best place to visit in Meghalaya.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Dawki
Dawki is a border town located in the south of Meghalaya and an excellent base to explore nearby Shnongpdeng and Darrang, famous riverside camps. A splendid river with crystal clear waters, it is one of the most picture-perfect tourist spots located in Meghalaya. It is a small town perched in the Jaintia Hills and is a border town between India and Bangladesh.
Dawki offers picturesque views of the Meghalayan landscape. The town is a nice vantage point for praising the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. You will explore a combination of cultures and changing topography as the hills merge into the plains of Northern Bangladesh. It is an ideal destination for tourist activities especially during the spring months as it hosts the boat riding competition on the Umngot River. The surrounding lush greenery, the cold water of the river, and the splendid suspension bridge on the River Umngot make it an incredible place to visit in Meghalaya.
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Nohsngithiang Falls
The Nohsngithiang Falls is situated at a distance of about 4km away from Cherrapunjee, is one of the tallest waterfalls in India, and is a major tourist destination in Cherrapunjee. Since it is located in the Mawsmai village of Meghalaya, it is also regarded as Mawsmai Falls. It falls from a height of about 1033 feet, split into seven different categories, giving it the symbol of Seven Sister Waterfalls. The beautiful waterfall is seasonal and plunges over hills only during the rainy season. It is one of the popular tourist places to visit in Meghalaya.
The magnificent waterfall cannot be entered into but creates an exquisite viewpoint to view the surrounding beauty of Mawsmai. The beauty of this fall is impeccable during sunset when the rays of the sun fall on it forming a perennial rainbow, which is also one of the incredible highlights of the place.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Meghalaya with the abundant greenery, scenic view, beautiful lakes, majestic hills, beautiful valley, amazing waterfalls, and every other tourist attraction is indeed a great place where you can spend the best vacation. The list of best places to visit in Meghalaya offers a great blend of nature and waterfall, where you can explore the natural greenery and view the picturesque scenery around you.
FAQ
What are the famous foods of Meghalaya?
The sumptuous foods of Meghalaya include Jadoh, Doh-Khlieh, Nakham Bitchi, Pumaloi, Pudoh, Minil Songa, Sakin Gata, and Kyat.
Why is Meghalaya famous?
Meghalaya is situated in northeast India, it is popularly known as the Abode of Clouds, falls in one of the richest biodiversity areas in the world. The beautiful monsoons, the rich traditional festivals, and the dramatic terrain are just some of the many things this place is popular for.
What are the languages spoken in Meghalaya?
The languages spoken in Meghalaya are Khasi, Pnar, and Garo with English being considered the official language of the State. Khasi language is the mother tongue of Meghalaya.