Meghalaya

Meghalaya, a northeastern state in India, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, lush hills, and vibrant culture. Known as the “abode of clouds,” it receives some of the highest rainfall in the world, resulting in lush forests, numerous rivers, and breathtaking waterfalls. Meghalaya is home to the living root bridges, a unique marvel of bioengineering by the local Khasi and Jaintia tribes. The state boasts rich biodiversity, with many rare and endemic species of flora and fauna. Its capital, Shillong, is a vibrant city known for its music scene and colonial architecture. Meghalaya offers a serene retreat into nature, with its picturesque villages and warm, hospitable people adding to its charm.

HOW TO PLAN A TRIP?

I have planned to visit Meghalaya for 7 days. So, here is the itinerary for meghalaya:

Day 1: Arrival in Shillong

⦁ Arrive in Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya.
⦁ Visit Ward’s Lake, a picturesque lake in the heart of the city.
⦁ Explore Police Bazar, a bustling market.

Day 2: Shillong Sightseeing

⦁ Visit the Don Bosco Museum to learn about the local culture and heritage.
⦁ Explore the Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city.
⦁ Visit the Elephant Falls, a beautiful waterfall located near Shillong.

Day 3: Shillong to Cherrapunji

⦁ Drive to Cherrapunji, known for its stunning waterfalls and lush greenery (about 2-3 hours).
⦁ Visit Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India.
⦁ Explore the Mawsmai Cave, a limestone cave known for its stalactites and stalagmites.

Day 4: Cherrapunji

⦁ Visit the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, a unique natural phenomenon.
⦁ Explore the Rainbow Falls, a picturesque waterfall.
⦁ Visit the Thangkharang Park for panoramic views of the Bangladesh plains.

Day 5: Cherrapunji to Dawki

⦁ Drive to Dawki, known for its crystal-clear Umngot River (about 2-3 hours).
⦁ Enjoy a boat ride on the Umngot River, known for its transparent waters.
⦁ Visit the nearby village of Shnongpdeng for adventure activities like river tubing and zip-lining.

Day 6: Dawki to Mawlynnong

⦁ Drive to Mawlynnong, known as the cleanest village in Asia (about 2 hours).
⦁ Explore the living root bridges and the picturesque village.
⦁ Visit the nearby Riwai Village to witness traditional Khasi culture.

Day 7: Mawlynnong to Shillong

⦁ Drive back to Shillong (about 3-4 hours).
⦁ Visit the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, a beautiful church in Shillong.
⦁ Spend the evening exploring more of Shillong or shopping for local handicrafts.
Depart from Shillong the next day.

This itinerary covers some of the highlights of Meghalaya, but there’s much more to see and do. Adjustments can be made based on your interests and the time you have available.

HOW TO REACH MEGHALAYA?

Meghalaya is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Here are the main ways to reach the state:

By Air:

– The nearest major airport is in Guwahati, Assam, which is about 125 kilometers away from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya.
– From Guwahati, you can either take a taxi or bus to Shillong, which takes around 3-4 hours depending on the traffic and road conditions.

By Rail:

– The nearest major railway station is also in Guwahati, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai.
– From Guwahati, you can take a taxi or bus to Shillong, which takes around 3-4 hours.

By Road:

– Meghalaya is well-connected by road to Assam and other neighboring states.
– You can drive to Meghalaya from Guwahati or other nearby cities.
– Alternatively, there are also bus services available from Guwahati and other cities to Shillong and other parts of Meghalaya.

Note: It’s advisable to check the current travel guidelines and restrictions before planning your trip, as these can vary depending on the prevailing situation.

PLACES TO VISIT

Meghalaya, a state in northeastern India, is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the main attractions in Meghalaya:

Cherrapunji (Sohra):

⦁ Living Root Bridges: Ingeniously woven by the local Khasi tribe, these bridges are made from the roots of rubber trees and are a unique engineering marvel.

⦁ Nohkalikai Falls: One of the tallest waterfalls in India, offering breathtaking views, especially during the monsoon season.
⦁ Mawsmai Cave: A limestone cave with impressive formations and easy access for tourists.

Shillong:

⦁ Shillong Peak: Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills, and is the highest point in Shillong.
⦁ Ward’s Lake: A beautiful man-made lake surrounded by a well-maintained garden, ideal for a leisurely stroll or boating.
⦁ Elephant Falls: A picturesque three-tiered waterfall located just outside Shillong.

Mawlynnong:

⦁ Cleanest Village in Asia: Known for its cleanliness and eco-friendly practices, Mawlynnong offers a glimpse into sustainable village life.
⦁ Sky View: A bamboo watchtower that provides stunning views of the village and surrounding landscape.

Dawki:

⦁ Umngot River: Famous for its crystal-clear water, which gives the illusion that boats are floating on air. It’s a popular spot for boating and photography.

Mawsynram:

⦁ Wettest Place on Earth: Receives the highest rainfall in the world and is surrounded by lush green landscapes and numerous waterfalls.

Jowai:

⦁ Krang Suri Falls: A beautiful waterfall located near Jowai, known for its turquoise blue water and scenic surroundings.
⦁ Nartiang Monoliths: An ancient site with an impressive collection of monoliths, reflecting the region’s rich history and culture.

Nongriat:

⦁ Double Decker Living Root Bridge: A unique double-decker bridge made from living roots, offering a challenging trek and a rewarding experience.

Laitlum Canyons:

⦁ The End of Hills: Offers dramatic views of the canyons and the surrounding countryside, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Balpakram National Park:

⦁ Biodiversity Hotspot: Known for its rich flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species, and is often referred to as the “Land of Spirits.”

Smit:

⦁ Cultural Hub: The cultural heart of the Khasi tribe, known for its traditional festivals, dances, and local cuisine.

These attractions make Meghalaya a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those interested in exploring the unique cultural heritage of northeastern India.

OFFBEAT PLACES:

Meghalaya is filled with lesser-known gems that offer unique experiences away from the more popular tourist spots. Here are some offbeat places in Meghalaya that you might find intriguing:

Kongthong Village

Whistling Village: Known for its unique tradition where each resident has a distinct whistling tune used to call them instead of a name.

Shnongpdeng

Umngot River: Less crowded than Dawki, this village offers crystal-clear river views and activities like boating, kayaking, and camping.

Syntung

Secret Waterfall: A relatively unexplored waterfall offering a serene environment, perfect for nature lovers and trekkers.

Ranikor

Fishing and Boating: Known for its tranquil river and beautiful landscapes, Ranikor is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts and those looking for a peaceful retreat.

Laitlum Grand Canyon

Hidden Trails: Offers breathtaking views of the canyons and valleys, with lesser-known trails that provide a sense of adventure and solitude.

Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Biodiversity: A sacred grove protected by the local Khasi tribe, featuring rich biodiversity and ancient rituals.

Laitkynsew

Root Bridges: Home to several living root bridges that are less frequented by tourists, offering a more intimate experience with nature.

Smit Village

Cultural Insights: Experience the traditional lifestyle and customs of the Khasi trie, including local festivals and cuisine.

Langshiang Falls

Offbeat Waterfall: Located near Sangriang village, this waterfall is one of the less visited yet stunning waterfalls in Meghalaya.

Nongkhnum Island

Second Largest River Island in Asia: An untouched paradise with pristine beaches, waterfalls, and a serene environment.

Krem Puri

Longest Sandstone Cave: Discovered relatively recently, this cave is the longest sandstone cave in the world and offers an exciting spelunking experience.

Mawlyngbna

Adventure Activities: A hidden gem for adventure lovers, offering activities like zip-lining, kayaking, and fossil hunting.

Lum Kyllang

Mystic Rock: A giant rock formation surrounded by folklore and offering panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

Thangkharang Park

Scenic Views: Provides a spectacular view of the plains of Bangladesh and is home to the magnificent Khoh Ramhah rock formation.

Mawphu Village

Traditional Khasi Village: Offers a glimpse into the traditional Khasi way of life, with opportunities to participate in local activities and enjoy the serene landscape.
These offbeat destinations in Meghalaya offer a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventurous activities, perfect for those looking to explore beyond the usual tourist trail.

ACTIVITIES TO DO IN MEGHALAYA:

Meghalaya is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and culture seekers. Here are some of the top activities to do in Meghalaya:

Trekking and Hiking

⦁ Nongriat Trek: Hike to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge through dense forests and picturesque landscapes.
⦁ David Scott Trail: A historical trail that offers stunning views and an immersive trekking experience.
⦁ Laitlum Canyons: Trek to the edge of the canyons for breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings.

Exploring Caves

⦁ Mawsmai Cave: A popular limestone cave near Cherrapunji with impressive formations.
⦁ Siju Cave: Known for its bat population and stunning stalagmites and stalactites.
⦁ Krem Puri: The world’s longest sandstone cave, perfect for spelunking and adventure.

Waterfall Visits

⦁ Nohkalikai Falls: Witness one of India’s tallest waterfalls and enjoy the scenic beauty.
⦁ Seven Sisters Falls: Best visited during the monsoon, offering a majestic view of seven segmented falls.
⦁ Krang Suri Falls: Enjoy swimming in the turquoise blue waters and relaxing by the falls.

Boating and Water Activities

⦁ Umngot River in Dawki: Experience the crystal-clear waters by boating, kayaking, and snorkeling.
⦁ Bara Pani (Umiam Lake): Enjoy water sports like kayaking, boating, and fishing in this scenic reservoir.

Camping and Outdoor Adventures

⦁ Shnongpdeng: Camp by the Umngot River, enjoy bonfires, and stargazing.
⦁ Mawlyngbna: Engage in adventure activities like zip-lining, kayaking, and camping amidst nature.

Cultural Experiences

⦁ Visit Mawlynnong: Explore Asia’s cleanest village, interact with locals, and learn about their sustainable lifestyle.
⦁ Attend Local Festivals: Participate in traditional festivals like Nongkrem Dance Festival and Shad Suk Mynsiem to experience the rich cultural heritage.

Exploring Sacred Forests

⦁ Mawphlang Sacred Forest: Take a guided tour through this biodiversity-rich forest, learning about the local flora, fauna, and traditional rituals.

Wildlife and Bird Watching

⦁ Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary: Spot various species of birds, animals, and butterflies.
⦁ Balpakram National Park: Explore the rich biodiversity and unique rock formations, known as the “Land of Spirits.”

Village Stays and Homestays

⦁ Experience Rural Life: Stay in traditional Khasi, Garo, or Jaintia villages to get a firsthand experience of local customs, food, and lifestyle.

Photography and Scenic Drives

⦁ Shillong to Cherrapunji: Enjoy a scenic drive with numerous viewpoints and photo opportunities.
⦁ Dawki to Mawlynnong: A picturesque route through lush greenery and quaint villages.

Shopping for Local Crafts

⦁ Police Bazaar and Bara Bazaar in Shillong: Shop for traditional handicrafts, hand-woven shawls, bamboo artifacts, and local spices.

Food Tours

⦁ Savor Local Cuisine: Try traditional Meghalayan dishes like Jadoh, Doh-Khlieh, Tungrymbai, and Nakham Bitchi at local eateries and homestays.

Meghalaya offers a diverse range of activities that cater to different interests, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for every traveler.

 

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