One of the seven sister states of North East India, Meghalaya means abode of Clouds is not less than a paradise for travelers. Set in the snowy mountains, lush greenery, and cloudy weather, it is on the bucket list of every traveler and nature enthusiast. Its breath-taking hills, lush valleys, exquisite lakes, waterfalls, an array of flora and fauna, living root bridges, and high rainfall attracts tourism throughout the year. Apart from sightseeing locations, the tribal culture and tradition of Meghalaya are unique and worth exploring.
October to June are the best time to visit the state. The monsoon season is not safe due to the high rainfall in the state. It offers a plethora of places to visit, here we are with the top 5 places to visit in Meghalaya. Check out Below,
1. Shillong
One of the most picturesque hill stations, Shillong is a must-visit place of Meghalaya packages in North East India. It is perched at an elevation of 4900 Ft above sea level amidst Khasi hills. The capital of the state, Shillong is also known as Scotland of East due to its rolling hills around the town. It is home to captivating landscapes, lush valleys, crystal clear lakes, waterfalls, dense forests, landmarks, museums, ancient cultures, and traditions that make it an ideal vacation destination with family, friends, and loved ones. You can explore several places to visit like Umiam Lake, Lady Hydari Park, Laitlum Canyon, elephant falls, Don Bosco Museum, Shillong golf course, all saints cathedral, Ward’s lake, and Shillong peak (the highest point in the state at an altitude of 6,450 Ft). If you are an adventure enthusiast and nature lover then Do not miss out on trekking at the David Scott trail. Located at a distance of 25 Km from Shillong, it is among the best trekking trails in India. Umroi airport at a distance of 25 Km is the nearest airport to the city.
2. Cherrapunji
Nestled amidst the East Khasi Hills, Cherrapunji is an enchanting town at an elevation of 4,690 Ft above sea level. Also known as Sohra, it is famous for its limestone caves and living root bridges made of rubber trees. It is abundant with misty mountains, lush valleys, dense forests, stunning caves, picturesque waterfalls, and dramatic landscapes. A road trip to Cherrapunji is a delight for nature lovers witnessing the scenic charm of the town. Some sightseeing attractions in the Town are Nohkalikai waterfalls, Mawsmai cave, Mawsmai falls, Dainthlen waterfall, Krem Phyllut, The eco-park, and Mawsynram. Currently The second wettest place on Earth, Cherrapunji faces heavy rain throughout the year. It was once recorded as the wettest place on the Earth in the Guinness Book of world records. The state capital Shillong is located at 55 Km and the nearest major Airport is Guwahati Airport at 181 KM from the town.
3. Mawlynnong village
Situated at an elevation of 4,906 Ft above sea level, Mawlynnong village is located at the Indo Bangladesh border in the East Khasi Hills district. Once declared as the cleanest village of Asia, this village is among the most serene and calm places in Meghalaya. Famous as God’s Own Garden, It is truly a green paradise on earth. The stunning natural beauty, lush greenery, and cleanliness will leave you awe-struck. A viewing tower of about 85 Ft is the most popular attraction in the village. From the top of the Tower, You will get panoramic views of the lush village, dense forests, flora & fauna, and Bangladeshi landscape as the village is at the Indo Bangladesh border. Apart from cleanliness, The lifestyle of the village, Khasi tribe, and culture are not less than attractions. It is also known for women’s empowerment.
Plan a picnic and spend a day at this cleanest village near the international border. It is well connected to the state capital Shillong at a distance of 78 Km.
4. Living root bridges
The mind-blowing human-made creation, Living root bridges are the major tourist attraction added in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Root bridges were invented and grown centuries ago by Khasi and Jaintia tribes. They made these bridges by the entanglement of roots of ancient Indian rubber bridges that can hold 50 people at a time. There are many root bridges majorly located near Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong. The most stunning living root bridge in Meghalaya is the Double decker root bridge that was made around 200 years ago. Located at a distance of 25 minutes from Cherrapunji, This bridge begins from the tiny little villages of Nongriat and Tyra in the East Khasi hills. You have to go for a moderate to Difficult trek of about 3000 steps to reach this extraordinary human-made creation. Imagine Sparkling Umshiang river beneath the bridge, surroundings of tropical forests, and pleasant climate, you are walking along the bridge. It will be one of the most scenic and unforgettable walks of your life.
5. Balpakram national park
Spread in an area of 220 square Km, Balpakram national park is located in the South of Garo hills at an elevation of 3000 Ft. Set close to the International border of Bangladesh, this national park was inaugurated in 1987.
Home to a wide range of flora and fauna, there are mammals like barking deer, Asian golden cat, Bengal tiger, red panda, wild water buffalo, and Indian elephant Visit: Best Snow Chains for Tires..
You can spot various species of birds at the lakes and rivers in the park. Biodiversity in Meghalaya, Balpakram is a must-visit place with family and friends. Famous as Land of Spirits, It is a perfect place for wildlife explorers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.
You can indulge in activities like hiking, trekking, bird watching, and photography at the wildlife reserve. It is located at a distance of 219 Km from the state capital Shillong.
Meghalaya is indeed a perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation away from the hustle-bustle. Check Thrillophilia reviews and book your ideal getaway to the Northeastern state Meghalaya.
