Things to do in Meghalaya in summer| Zazabor

Introduction

Tired of the scorching summer heat? It’s time to escape to Meghalaya, one of India’s most breathtaking destinations. With its cool climate, lush green hills, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant tribal culture, Meghalaya offers the perfect summer retreat. Whether you’re an adventure junkie, a nature lover, or a cultural explorer, there’s something here for everyone.

In this guide, I will take you through the top 10 things to do in Meghalaya in summer, covering nature trails, cultural villages, and unforgettable outdoor adventures that will turn your vacation into a story worth telling.

1. Visit the Living Root Bridges of Cherrapunji & Nongriat

The iconic living root bridges are a marvel of bioengineering, formed by guiding rubber fig tree roots over the years. These bridges, found mostly in Cherrapunji and Nongriat, offer an unforgettable experience amid dense rainforests.

The Double Decker Root Bridge trek is a must-do, with 3000+ steps to descend (and climb back!).
Best visited early morning to avoid crowds and heat.
Extend the trek to Rainbow Waterfall for another half-day trek.
Wear good trekking shoes and carry a raincoat—it’s always misty here, even in summer!

2. Witness the Majestic Waterfalls

Meghalaya is home to some of the tallest and most picturesque waterfalls in India. During summer, the falls begin to swell with the monsoon showers, offering spectacular views.

Must-visit waterfalls:

Nohkalikai Falls: The tallest plunge waterfall in India.
Krang Suri Falls: A turquoise-blue cascade perfect for swimming and photos.
Wei Sawdong: A three-tiered beauty hidden in a dense forest.
Elephant Falls: Easily accessible and great for quick sightseeing near Shillong.

Pro tip: Visit waterfalls early in the day for the best light and fewer crowds.

3. Explore Mawsmai, Arwah & Siju Caves

Adventure seekers and geology enthusiasts will love Meghalaya’s natural limestone caves, many of which are among the longest in South Asia.

Mawsmai Cave: A well-lit and easy cave to explore near Cherrapunji.
Arwah Cave: Another cave at Cherrapunji known for fossils embedded in the limestone.
Siju Cave: Located in the Garo Hills, perfect for offbeat explorers.

Bring a flashlight, wear shoes with grip, and prepare for humid conditions inside the caves.

4. Boating on the Crystal-Clear Umngot River at Dawki

Ever dreamed of a boat floating on glass? Visit Dawki, where the Umngot River appears crystal-clear in summer, creating surreal mirror-like reflections.

Ideal for boating, kayaking, and riverside picnics.
The Dawki-Tamabil border between India and Bangladesh is also worth a quick visit.
Avoid weekends to skip long queues and crowded riverbanks.

Stay overnight in nearby Shnongpdeng for riverside camping under the stars.

5. Explore the Cleanest Village – Mawlynnong

Awarded the title of Asia’s Cleanest Village, Mawlynnong is a picturesque settlement with blooming gardens, bamboo dustbins, and zero litter.

Explore the village on foot and talk to friendly locals.
Visit the Sky View Point: a bamboo watchtower with panoramic views.
Walk on the single-living root bridge nearby.

This eco-conscious community is a shining example of sustainable tourism.

6. Trek Through the Sacred Forest of Mawphlang- David Scott Trail

The Sacred Grove of Mawphlang is not just a forest—it’s a sacred space protected by the local Khasi tribe for centuries. It’s a biodiverse haven of ancient trees, orchids, and herbs.

Explore with a local guide for insights into tribal beliefs and forest lore.
Trek in the picturesque David Scott Trail from Mawphlang to Lad-Mawphlang, which will take a full day.
Photography is allowed, but nothing must be taken out of the forest—not even a leaf.

It’s a mystical, tranquil place—perfect for meditation and nature walks.

Although off-season, if you spend a day at Kaziranga National Park is also worthwhile.

7. Explore Shillong – The Scotland of the East

Meghalaya’s capital, Shillong, is charming in summer with blooming flowers and cool breezes. It serves as the gateway to the state and deserves a few days of exploration.

Highlights:

Ward’s Lake: A peaceful spot for boating and walking.
Shillong Peak: Offers panoramic city views.
Police Bazaar: A lively hub for shopping and street food.
Umium Lake(Barapani): Speed Boat ride.

Don’t miss Shillong’s thriving café culture and live music scene, often compared to European hill towns.

8. Hike to the Laitlum Grand Canyon

The Laitlum Canyons, located just an hour from Shillong, are known for dramatic landscapes and foggy hilltop views.

The name translates to “End of the Hills.”
A moderate trek leads to ridges overlooking deep gorges and valleys.
Ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.

Pack water, wear trekking shoes, and get there early to avoid the mist covering the view.

9. Adventure Camping in Shnongpdeng

For an adrenaline rush, Shnongpdeng near Dawki offers a variety of water sports and camping experiences.

Top activities:

Cliff jumping
Zip-lining over the river
Snorkelling and kayaking

Stay in riverside tents or homestays and enjoy a BBQ under the stars. It’s perfect for backpackers and nature lovers alike.

10. Explore East Khasi & Jaintia Hills

Venture beyond the popular routes to discover hidden trails, lesser-known waterfalls, and untouched villages.

Visit Phe Phe Falls, Ialong Park, and Rymben River.
Engage with local guides for village stays and hiking tours.
Jaintia Hills is also rich in folklore, limestone formations, and unexplored cave systems.

This is Meghalaya off the beaten path—raw, unfiltered, and rewarding.

Conclusion: Your Meghalaya Summer Itinerary

Whether you have a week or a month, Meghalaya in summer offers you serene escapes, cultural experiences, and heart-pounding adventures. Here’s a suggested 7-day itinerary:

Day 1–2: Shillong city, Local market exploration, Laitlum Canyon, Ward’s Lake
Day 3–4: Cherrapunji (root bridges, caves, waterfalls)
Day 5: Mawlynnong and Dawki
Day 6: Adventure in Shnongpdeng
Day 7: Sacred Forest and David Scott Trail

Don’t forget to carry light woollens, rain protection, trekking shoes, and lots of curiosity. Be prepared for heavy rains as Meghalaya is one of the wettest areas in the world. During summer and monsoon, due to heavy rain and dense fog, the visibility becomes very poor, which makes every activity very challenging.

Add Assam to your itinerary and read: Assam Travel Guide – Top Destinations to Explore