Welcome to Meghalaya — The Abode of Clouds
Tucked away in the northeastern corner of India, Meghalaya is a paradise of misty mountains, cascading waterfalls, pristine rivers, and vibrant tribal culture. Nicknamed “The Abode of Clouds”, Meghalaya is also lovingly called the “Scotland of the East” due to its cool climate, rolling hills, and colonial-era charm. Whether you’re chasing clouds in Cherrapunji, walking across living root bridges, or boating over crystal-clear waters in Dawki, Meghalaya offers a rich tapestry of adventure, serenity, and cultural heritage. This Meghalaya travel guide will give you a brief idea about Meghalaya – what to see, what to do what to keep in your memory about Meghalaya.
Combine your Meghalaya trip with Assam
Geography and Formation
Formed on 21st January 1972, Meghalaya was carved out of Assam and comprises three main regions:
- Khasi Hills
- Jaintia Hills
- Garo Hills
Covering 22,430 sq km, it borders Bangladesh to the south and west, and Assam to the north and east. The capital city, Shillong, sits at an altitude of about 1,500 meters, offering pleasant weather throughout the year. With an annual average rainfall of 12,000 mm, Meghalaya is the wettest state in India, home to some of the highest recorded rainfalls on Earth.
Culture and People
Meghalaya’s population is predominantly tribal, consisting mainly of:
- Khasi
- Garo
- Jaintia
These ethnic groups are largely Christian and follow matrilineal traditions. Their culture is rich in folk music, dance, wood carving, and handloom weaving. Festivals like Shad Suk Mynsiem and Wangala showcase traditional rituals, costumes, and community bonding.
You’ll be welcomed with warm smiles, bamboo houses, and stories of mythical forests and sacred groves.
Discover Meghalaya’s cultural richness
Biodiversity and Wildlife
More than 70% of the state is forested, mostly subtropical in nature. Meghalaya is a biodiversity hotspot, home to:
- Rare orchids
- Medicinal plants
- Hill birds and butterflies
Key protected areas include:
- Nokrek Biosphere Reserve (West Garo Hills)
- Balphakram National Park (South Garo Hills)
- Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary
- Siju Wildlife Sanctuary
- Baghmara Reserve Forest
Spot one-horned rhinos near Meghalaya
How to Reach Meghalaya
By Air:
- Shillong Airport (Umroi) – 30 km from the city (limited flights)
- Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati) – 103 km away, well-connected
By Train: The nearest railway station is Guwahati (103 km), which is accessible from all major Indian cities.
On Road: Meghalaya is best explored by road. Taxis and buses are available from Guwahati to Shillong and beyond. The scenic highway route offers panoramic views of the Khasi hills.
Top Tourist Destinations in Meghalaya
1. Shillong – The Capital City and Scotland of the East
With its colonial charm, pine forests, and rock music culture, Shillong is Meghalaya’s beating heart.
Highlights:
- Shillong Peak – Panoramic city views
- Elephant Falls – A must-see cascading wonder
- Ward’s Lake – Paddle boats and walking trails
- Don Bosco Museum – Insight into Northeast India’s tribal cultures
- Police Bazaar – Great for food, fashion, and local handicrafts
- Umium Lake (Barapani) – Perfect for speed boating and lakeside picnics
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Stay Options: All categories of hotels and boutique homestays
Nearby Places: Cherrapunji, Mawphlang
Check current weather in Shillong
2. Cherrapunji (Sohra) – Land of Waterfalls and Living Bridges
Once the wettest place on Earth, Cherrapunji is famous for its abundant rainfall and natural marvels. Its hills and caves are sacred to the Khasi people.
Major Attractions:
- Nohkalikai Falls – India’s tallest plunge waterfall
- Double-Decker Living Root Bridge – A trekker’s delight
- Mawsmai and Arwah Caves – Natural limestone formations
- Eco Park & Dainthlen Falls – Great for families
- Krem Phyllut – One of the longest caves in India
Ideal Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
Stay Options: Eco-resorts and homestays
Nearby: Mawlynnong, Dawki, Mawphlang
3. Mawphlang Sacred Forest – The Soul of Khasi Spirituality
The Mawphlang Sacred Grove is an ancient, protected forest believed to be inhabited by spirits. No plant or stone can be removed from here—a testament to the Khasi people’s reverence for Nature.
Things to Do:
- David Scott Trail – A scenic trek through hills and streams
- Heritage Village – Explore traditional Khasi hut designs
Ideal duration: Best for Day Trips
Stay Option: Camping during treks
Nearby: Laitlum Canyons, Shillong
4. Laitlum Canyons – Meghalaya’s Grand Canyon
Just 24 km from Shillong, Laitlum Canyons offers breathtaking views, ideal for sunrise or sunset treks. Known for its name meaning “End of Hills,” this location is peaceful yet dramatic.
Activities:
- Trekking and Mountain Biking
- Visit Rosang Village – A hidden gem nestled within the hills
Duration: Half-day visit
Stay: No overnight stays necessary
Nearby: Mawphlang, Dawki
5. Mawlynnong – Asia’s Cleanest Village
Awarded the title “Cleanest Village in Asia”, Mawlynnong is a pristine example of eco-conscious living. Community-driven tourism and strict sanitation norms make it a model for rural sustainability.
Must-See:
- Sky Walk Viewpoint – Panoramic views built entirely of bamboo
- Living Root Bridge – Short and accessible trek
- Bophill Falls
Time Needed: 1–2 hours
Nearby: Dawki, Cherrapunji
Stay: Not necessary, but a few homestays are available
6. Dawki – Where the River Runs Crystal Clear
Located on the Indo-Bangladesh border, Dawki is famous for the Umngot River, often called the cleanest river in the world. A boat ride here feels like gliding through air.
Top Activities:
- Boating on the Umngot River
- Ziplining
- Camping at Shnongpdeng
- Border town walk along the Radcliffe Line
Ideal Duration: 1 full day
Stay Options: Riverside camping is recommended for a full experience
Nearby: Mawlynnong, Jowai
Nearest places to visit: – Jowai.
Extend your Northeast India itinerary to Tawang
Meghalaya Travel Itinerary Suggestion (6 Days)
Day 1: Arrival in Shillong – City tour, sunset at Shillong Peak
Day 2: Cherrapunji – Caves, waterfalls, overnight stay
Day 3: Mawlynnong – Living root bridge, drive to Dawki
Day 4: Dawki – Boating, camping at Shnongpdeng
Day 5: Mawphlang & David Scott Trail
Day 6: Laitlum Canyon sunrise, departure
Best Time to Visit Meghalaya
- October to April: Clear skies, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor adventures
- May to September: Lush green beauty, but heavy rainfall might disrupt plans
Travel Tips for Meghalaya
- Carry waterproof shoes and quick-dry clothing if travelling during the monsoon
- Respect tribal customs, especially in sacred forests
- ATMs and fuel stations are limited in rural areas—prepare accordingly
- English and Hindi are widely understood, but learning a few Khasi phrases is appreciated
Instagram-Worthy Spots
- Umngot River – Dawki
- Double-Decker Root Bridge – Nongriat
- Laitlum Canyons
- Ward’s Lake – Shillong
- Sky View – Mawlynnong
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re seeking adventure, serenity, or cultural immersion, Meghalaya offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From trekking the ancient David Scott Trail to sipping local rice beer under a starry sky in a Khasi village, Meghalaya is where stories unfold at every turn.
Plan your trip, respect the land and its people, and let the clouds carry you to a destination that feels like nature’s own sanctuary.
