Imagine a place where the air feels fresh, the mornings are misty, and the views look calm and beautiful. Meghalaya in December will provide you with exactly that experience. The clear skies, soft sun, and the misty mornings, will make all the views even more magical. December is ideal for travellers who like nature, tranquil, and a slight adventure. One can walk through the forest, watch rivers and waterfalls, or visit peaceful villages, and Meghalaya offers all this in the most pleasant way possible. As you read ahead, imagine yourself exploring this peaceful place, and feel free to check a Meghalaya package if you're planning your trip soon.
Meghalaya Weather and Temperature in December
The Meghalaya weather in December is cool, refreshing and quite comfortable for travel. Days are sunny, skies are clear, and mornings and evenings are cold. The Meghalaya temperature in December is generally 10°C to 20°C, and this is ideal in terms of sightseeing, walks, and outdoor activities. The temperature may also decrease to about 5°C or even a little below at night, hence carrying warm clothes is essential.
December is also among the driest months, so there is less rain, and travel is safer than during the monsoon period. All in all, calm winter wind, cold mild climate, and winter sun make the month of December one of the best time to visit Meghalaya to appreciate its beauty.
Places to Visit in Meghalaya in December
In December, the state of Meghalaya turns serene, cool and ideal to tour the hills, rivers, waterfalls and villages. With good weather and clear skies, all destinations are made more beautiful and enjoyable.
1. Shillong
One of the most favourable places to visit in Meghalaya in December is Shillong. The city is relaxing and serene due to the cold winter winds, clear skies, and tranquil environment. You can visit places such as Ward Lake, Shillong Peak and local cafes, which are filled with a warm winter atmosphere. The weather is favourable, which makes sightseeing very comfortable. Whether you enjoy nature, food, or photography, Shillong offers a relaxed and beautiful experience that perfectly captures the charm of Meghalaya in December.
Location: East Khasi Hills district, about 100 km from Guwahati Airport (Assam).
Nearby Attractions: Ward’s Lake, Shillong Peak, Police Bazaar
Best For: Nature lovers, casual explorers, foodies
2. Cherrapunji (Sohra)
During the month of December, when the rains are gone, Cherrapunji becomes more beautiful with clear skies, as one can see the cliffs, valleys and waterfalls. Its cool weather during winter is ideal to visit sites like Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Caves, and scenic viewpoints around Sohra. The foggy mornings and sunny afternoons of Cherrapunji make it even more magical. Whether you are a nature lover or an adventure lover, it is one of the best winter experiences to have in Meghalaya.
Location: East Khasi Hills district, around 54 km south of Shillong.
Nearby Attractions: Nohkalikai Falls, Arwah Cave, Mawsmai Cave
Best For: Adventure lovers, landscape photography
3. Dawki & Umngot River
In Meghalaya, Dawki is a place that should be visited in December since the Umngot River becomes unbelievably transparent, serene and perfect for sightseeing during the winter. The crisp air and sunny skies make a boat ride on the clear, glassy water seem unreal, almost dreamy. The nearby hills are green and serene, which makes it an ideal location to relax, take photographs, and enjoy nature. Dawki provides a peaceful, cool retreat that reveals the actual beauty of Meghalaya during December and leaves the visitors with a memorable winter experience.
Location: West Jaintia Hills district, approximately 81 km from Shillong
Nearby Attractions: Dawki Bridge, Byrdaw Falls
Best For: Boating, riverside relaxation, photography
4. Mawlynnong Village
Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia, is even more lovely in Meghalaya in December. The fresh and pleasant air makes it the best place to walk down the hygienic lanes, stroll over living root bridges and enjoy the serene village setting. The greenery, the winter sun and the silence around it all form an ideal getaway from the bustling city life. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who visits Meghalaya during the month of December.
Location: East Khasi Hills district, around 78 km from Shillong
Nearby Attractions: Living Root Bridge, Sky View Point
Best For: Village walks, nature lovers, cultural travellers
5. Laitlum Canyons
The Laitlum Canyons have one of the most stunning sceneries in Meghalaya in December. The winter is with clear sky, cool winds, and peaceful atmosphere, which makes the canyon look even more dramatized and beautiful. The cavernous valleys and the hilly terrain, and the vast expanses provide the ideal background to take pictures and the serene nature trips. When you are a lover of scenic beauty, calm atmosphere and mountain air, you should consider this as one of the best places to visit Meghalaya during December.
Location: East Khasi Hills district, about 23 km from Shillong
Nearby Attractions: Umiam Lake, Ka Khoh Ramhah
Best For: Photographers, peace seekers, scenic lovers
Things to Do in Meghalaya in December
There are multiple things to do in Meghalaya in December; the cool weather and the clear skies make outdoor activities an enjoyable and peaceful experience.
1. Winter Nature Walks & Easy Trekking
Winter nature walks and easy treks are also considered to be one of the best activities to do in Meghalaya in December. You may stroll through pine forests in Shillong, walk the sacred paths of Mawphlang, or take a kind of stroll around the Laitlum area of hiking trails. There are also clear skies, soft sunlight, and a peaceful environment during December, which is ideal for slow, scenic walks. These are mild treks that allow you to connect with nature and enjoy the silence of winter, making December very special.
Entry Fee: ₹20 to ₹50 per person (Mawphlang Forest)
Tip: Start early for the best views
2. Boating & River Activities
Boating is a magical experience in Meghalaya in December, particularly at Dawki and Shnongpdeng. The winter is characterised by still winds, sunny skies and crystal water reflecting the hills around it as a mirror. You may take serene boat rides, go kayaking or just take time by the riverside. The winter sun and the cool air form a relaxing outside atmosphere. Boating is one of the most memorable activities you will likely experience after visiting Meghalaya in December, whether you like adventure or peaceful nature.
Boating Fee: ₹700 to ₹1,000 per boat ride
Tip: Visit before noon for the clearest water
3. Local market visits and winter shopping
Visiting local markets is an enjoyable and vibrant experience in the month of Meghalaya in December. You may pay a visit to Police Bazaar and Iewduh Market at Shillong, which are clogged with winter shawls, bamboo crafts, spices, handmade products, as well as festive items. At Sohra, one can find warm clothes and exclusive souvenirs at the local shops. You will be able to taste winter snacks, meet kind shopkeepers and experience the local culture. These vibrant markets provide an even closer look into the locals' lifestyle and the cheerful spirit of Meghalaya throughout December.
Best buys: Shawls, bamboo crafts and try local snacks
Tip: Bargain politely, mornings are less crowded
4. Winter Photography
Meghalaya in December is a beautiful experience when it comes to photography, especially Laitlum Canyons, Shillong peak and the numerous viewpoints above Cherrapunji. The winter sunlight is golden and soft, and it is the ideal weather to take pictures of the landscapes, morning mist, and colourful sunsets. Long walks in the photo are pleasant in the cool weather. With a mere phone camera, you can record beautiful pictures that could show the real beauty of Meghalaya during December. These silent panoramic experiences put photography among the best winter activities in this area.
Tip: Sunset at Laitlum is perfect for warm, golden photos
What to Capture: Misty morning hills, Sunset views, Local village scenes
5. Waterfall Viewing & Scenic Relaxation
Watching waterfalls in Meghalaya in December is a refreshing and peaceful experience. You can find powerful and picturesque waterfalls in Cherrapunji, flowing calmly around Shillong, such as Elephant Falls, and some mysterious places in the Jaintia Hills area. December is much clearer, with safer paths and clearer views, even though the flow of the water is not as high in comparison to the months of monsoon. The fresh winter air, hazy mountains and pleasant sunshine make every fall magical. This is an activity that embraces the beauty of nature in Meghalaya during December and offers the traveller a peaceful and scenic retreat to nature.
Entry Fee: Entry ₹100 per person (Elephant Falls)
Tip: Late morning or early afternoon gives the best visibility
Tips for Travelling to Meghalaya in December
The following simple tips on travelling will ensure that you travel to Meghalaya in December without any trouble or inconvenience. Whether it is packing warm clothes or organising your day, these tips will make your trip during the winter smoother and more enjoyable.
Bring the appropriate winter clothes
Smart layers should be packed when travelling in Meghalaya during December. The best clothes to wear in Meghalaya in December include warm jackets, sweaters, scarves, and comfortable shoes for walking.
Start your day early
The winter morning in Meghalaya is calm and free, thus the best time to do sightseeing, photographs and outdoor activities before the evening cold strikes.
Keep some rain protection
December is generally a dry month; however, there might be drizzles in hilly regions, so you should bring a little umbrella or a waterproof jacket.
Book a stay and transport early
During winter, there are a lot of travellers, and by booking hotels and cabs beforehand, it would make the journey smoother and more relaxed.
Stay hydrated and carry snacks
The cold weather in Meghalaya in December can make you less thirsty, yet the walks and climbing the hill can make you tired. Water and snacks will help you stay warm and comfortable.
Conclusion
A trip to Northeast India in winter is a relaxing, chilling, and natural experience. Travelling through hills, rivers, woods and peaceful villages makes it really memorable. Visiting Meghalaya in December adds an extra charm with its cool weather, clear skies, and soft winter sunlight. Comfortable climate allows sightseeing easily, either on a peaceful stroll, taking photos or spending time in nature with ease. The month of December is also a quiet one, and this is ideal for those travellers who are in need of a break from the hectic city life. So pack your bags and get ready to enjoy the peaceful charm and unforgettable beauty that Meghalaya offers in December.
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