Are you looking for cool breezes, foggy mountains, and green scenery that will make you feel alive? Welcome to the world of beautiful hill stations in Meghalaya, where nature fills the skies with clouds, waterfalls, and all the roads lead to new adventures. Having been used as a popular getaway destination and a stress-free escape destination, the hills in Meghalaya are the best destination that you can visit to relax, explore, and be close to nature. Have a look at the Meghalaya tour package once, and you’ll realise that it feels like a dream, whether you are chasing a sunrise at the Shillong Peak, walking in the thick woods of Cherrapunji, or enjoying the serene valleys of Jowai. This guide will let you explore the best hill stations in Meghalaya, explain what you will do in the hill stations, and help you plan the trip that your heart has been craving for so long!
The 12 Best Hill Stations in Meghalaya
These are the most popular, scenic, and richest hill stations in Meghalaya, which offer breathtaking views and cool weather in a memorable experience.
1. Shillong
The most popular hill station in Meghalaya, and often the first destination for travellers looking to explore the state, is Shillong. It is also referred to as the Scotland of the East and is located on the hilly terrain with pine trees, waterfalls, and calm lakes. The weather is very good throughout the year, making it a perfect vacation spot from the hot plains. Ward Lake, Police Bazaar, and Don Bosco Museum are some of the main highlights. The nearby views also provide stunning sunset views. The vibrant culture of Shillong consists of music, cafes, and outdoor markets, making it a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Location: East Khasi Hills
Best Time: October to May
Things To Do: Enjoy the panoramic views at the Shillong Peak and a night out at Ward Lake.
How to Reach: It can be approached by road through Guwahati; the nearest airports are Shillong (Umroi) and Guwahati.
2. Cherrapunji (Sohra)
Cherrapunji, or as it is called locally, Sohra, is among the rainiest locations on earth and a landmark Meghalaya hill station. The clouds sail along the valleys like cotton, and the waterfalls fall from the cliffs into the green woods. The magical look of Cherrapunji is provided by the misty atmosphere and calm surroundings. The major attractions here are the Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Caves, and living root bridges in the neighbouring villages. It feels like entering a fantasy film as you walk through this place, fog, waterfalls, and forests are all parts of a magical scenery.
Location: East Khasi Hills
Best Time: September to May
Things To Do: Hike to the Living Root Bridges and view the thundering Nohkalikai waterfalls.
How to Reach: One has to first reach Shillong and then drive for around 2-3 hours.
3. Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong is a small yet pretty hill station in Meghalaya, which is the cleanest village in Asia. It is serene in beauty, well-maintained, and has plenty of greenery all around, all of which is so healthy and feels like you are in a garden of nature. The village looks like a picture book, with streams, little bridges, and views of the whole valley. Tourists can take a walk to the Sky Walk, which is a high bamboo platform where they can have stunning views of the plains and forests from a distance.
Location: East Khasi Hills
Best Time: October to April
Things To Do: Visit the cleanest village in Asia and have sky-walking views from the Bamboo Tower.
How to Reach: Approximately 45 hours by road from Shillong.
4. Jowai
Jowai is one of the most peaceful hill stations in Meghalaya, which is situated in the centre of the Jaintia Hills. It presents green fertile valleys, rivers, and soft hills, which appear to be murmuring mountain secrets. Jowai is a quiet resort where one can get away from the busy tourist trails and enjoy the rural life, small local markets, and small waterfalls. Krang Suri Falls is among the best places to visit in Jowai a beautiful area that appeals to visitors with its deep blue waters and beautiful rock formations.
Location: Jaintia Hills
Best Time: October to April
Things To Do: Go to the Krang Suri Waterfalls and enjoy the lake scenery at Thadlaskein Lake.
How to Reach: Road accessibility is available from Shillong or Guwahati.
5. Shillong Peak
Shillong Peak is not a stand-alone or separate hill station, but it is one of the most stunning lookout points in Meghalaya. What is visible on clear days at the top is forests, lakes, and the plains. The height of Shillong Peak is about 1,965 metres, which is the highest point around Shillong. It is an ideal place for taking pictures, picnics, and sunrise or sunset views. And you know the best part? When it is misty in the mornings, you seem to be standing on the clouds.
Location: Near Shillong
Best Time: September to March.
Things To Do: Take breathtaking 360-degree shots of the city of Shillong and the green hills of Meghalaya from the topmost point.
How to Reach: It is a short drive from the city centre of Shillong.
6. Nongpoh
Among the smaller, less well-known hill stations in Meghalaya, which is located along the Guwahati-Shillong road, is Nongpoh. The background has smooth hills, and the climate is cool and refreshing. It also serves as an excellent transit point when a visitor continues to the further parts of Meghalaya, as it is beautiful in terms of sightseeing and an opportunity to experience the local culture. Nongpoh feels comforting and relaxed, just right to go on a brief, tranquil mountain holiday before embarking on the steeper hills of the state.
Location: Ri Bhoi district.
Best Time: October to April.
Things To Do: Take scenic breaks at Umiam Lake and have fresh pineapples and home-grown snacks at highway markets.
How to Reach: Take a road trip to the airport of Guwahati or Shillong.
7. Mawsynram
Mawsynram, officially declared as one of the wettest places on earth, is a magical Meghalaya hill station, surrounded by clouds, waterfalls, and emerald green scenery. The mystical beauty of the place resembles a rainforest heaven because of the constant drizzle. Caves, rolling hills, and different wonders surround the village, creating a serene and undisrupted beauty to those who may wish to get away into nature and relax. The Mawjymbuin Cave is a well-known cave in which there is a naturally developed stalagmite that looks like a shivalinga, and which is an important attraction to explorers.
Location: East Khasi Hills district, 60 km away from Shillong.
Best Time: October to April, during which rainfall is moderate.
Things To Do: See the most magical rain-dipped scenery in the world and visit the most famous Mawjymbuin Cave.
How to Reach: Take a road or a flight to Shillong and then take a cab for a 2-hour scenic journey through East Khasi Hills to Mawsynram.
8. Tura Peak
Tura Peak is a high peak that is located in the midst of the Garo Hills, and one can view the vast forest cover, deep valleys, and other mountain ranges. It is among the most beautiful trekking observation points in Meghalaya that offer a serene and rejuvenating hike through a dense forest and singing birds. On top, there is an old shrine and the best scenery that makes hiking worthwhile. Its charm is enhanced by Tura town, below which is a mixture of culture, nature, and local life. Tura Peak offers the perfect off-beat hill station in Meghalaya with its peaceful setting, pleasant weather, and high biodiversity, and is also ideal for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers.
Location: Garo Hills region, close to Tura town, West Garo Hills district.
Best Time: October to March.
Things To Do: Hike to the peak to have a panoramic view of the Garo Hills and other forests.
How to Reach: It can be accessed by road (Tura) by travelling (around 6-7 hours) between Guwahati and Tura, and a local taxi/auto can be taken and walked up to Tura peak.
9. Dawki
Dawkiis renowned for its crystal clear river and boat tours around the Umngot River. It is also among the most scenic hill stations in Meghalaya, which has views of the highlands and a cool climate. The water is so crystal clear that it appears as if the sky is filled with water. The distant views are of empty hills and green trees. Dawki is the ideal place to visit when one wants to explore nature, calm, and beautiful scenery.
Location: West Jaintia Hills
Best Time: October to April.
Things To Do: Ride a crystal clear boat on the Umngot River.
How to Reach: Take a flight or drive up to Shillong or Guwahati, after which you can take a local transport to Dawki.
10. Laitlum Canyons
Laitlum Canyons, located on the Shillong Plateau, have wide horizons, deep gullies, and rolling green hills that seem endless as far as the eye can see. The location is as though the end of the world, and there are grassy hills, deep valleys, and an unusual feeling of calmness. The view of the sunset is beautiful with orange and violet colours. Laitlum will be the dream of those who love broad landscapes and peaceful hiking trails.
Location: Near Shillong.
Best Time: October to April.
Things To Do: Visit the cliffs and enjoy panoramic views of the valley and golden sunsets.
How to Reach: Drive over a short distance just near Shillong, after which you can walk to the observation points.
11. Jaintia Hills
Jaintia Hills are characterised by clean rivers, green meadows, and crystal clear blue water bodies that appear straight out of a postcard. It is also a culturally diversified region as it is inhabited by the Jaintia tribe with its specific traditions, festivals, and ancient heritage. The hills are one of the most scenic and adventure-friendly areas in Meghalaya, with Krang Suri Waterfall, Dawki River, and Umlawan Caves lying hidden within them. The highest peak of the Jaintia hills, with an elevation of approximately 1,631 m above sea level, is the Marangsih Peak. The Jaintia Hills have everything, be it peace, photography sites or adventure.
Location: Eastern Meghalaya.
Best Time: November-May.
Things To Do: Go sightseeing around crystal-clear rivers and waterfalls, such as Krang Suri, to have an adventure of a lifetime.
How to Reach: Driving (NH6) northwards to Jowai, the main sites are interconnected by local cabs; drive northwards to Jowai and then to the main sites.
12. Khasi Hills
The Khasi hills are known to be full of greenery, cool climate, and the rich Khasi culture. The famous attractions that can be explored here are Shillong, Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong and the globally renowned living root bridges. Green hills rolling, pine forest, and misty roads make it a dreamy environment throughout the year. The natural beauty is complemented by the warm hospitality of the Khasi tribe, the traditional music, food, and festivals. The Shillong Peak is the highest peak of the Khasi Hills with an elevation of 1,968 m above sea level. The Khasi Hills are the perfect location to have it all.
Location: Central Meghalaya.
Most Favourable: October to April.
Things To Do: Visit the great natural marvels, such as the living root bridges and take a tour around the lovely Khasi villages.
How to Reach: Reach Shillong via Guwahati via road, which is then followed by the use of taxis or local buses to cover various places within the Khasi Hills.
Conclusion
The hill stations in Meghalaya are amongst the best destinations in India. Starting with the legendary beauty of Shillong to the serene beauty of Jowai and Mawlynnong, they provide a cool climate, beautiful scenes, and relaxation from daily life. The hills of Meghalaya serve all types of travellers, whether you enjoy panoramic views such as the Shillong Peak or the cultural experience in the small towns. It boasts of green trees, mysterious fogs, and horizons that seem to extend to infinity, and the mountains never forget to make you realise that travelling is so special. Get ready to take your bags and look with an open heart at the beautiful hills of Meghalaya!
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