Welcome to Meghalaya, and explore the best things to do in Meghalaya, a tucked away gem of the northeastern region of India where the geographical terrain is more surreal. Surrounded by almost prehistoric hills and greens, this area is a true treasure trove for all lovers of nature, and history. Namely, travel attractions in Meghalaya include amazing waterfalls, incredible caves among other attractions to make your trip one of a kind.
From one extreme, those people who love some excitement will always have a go as there are things that they would consider as thrilling, to the other extreme where some visitors just want to get some quiet time with some stunning views of nature, Meghalaya will not disappoint them. In this guide, we will look at some of the things to do in Meghalaya that visitors can do in this magical destination that will enable him/her to have the best of the journey. Here comes the adventure, strap on your seat belts and let the voyage begin, to discover the picturesque landscapes and a plethora of colors of a vibrant culture.
Most popular things to do in Meghalaya
Ready to explore things to do in Meghalaya? Below is some of the glimpse of some of the best things to do in Meghalaya that you should consider adding to your travel list. All of such tours are sure to reveal the beauty and charm of this beautiful state.
1. The majestic Nohkalikai falls
Nohkalikai falls is one of the most beautiful places in Meghalaya and it is one of the tallest plunge waterfalls in India. It is located nearby Cherrapunji and it is a magnificent waterfall which has more than 340 meters in height and cascades into a beautiful pool of green color. The top is great to look at and the vistas are even better and there are more things to do in Meghalaya. One can see beautiful forests as well as hills fabulously wrapped in mist. Just don’t forget to pack a camera so that you can be stunned and astonished at the unprecedented beauty in front of your eyes.
2. Living Root Bridges
Being a wonder of nature and an amazing geographical formation, Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya are interesting for tourists visiting this bridge can be included in the list of things to do in Meghalaya. These bridges are bio-structures which are constructed with the help of roots of rubber trees and have been developed, repaired, and reconstructed by the Khasi tribe people. The most famous of those is the Double Decker Root Bridge in Nongriat which can be reached by doing a rather long and tiring hike but if you make it to the end you’ll be rewarded with a sight like no other.
3. Mawsmai Caves
There is always something fascinating for those who are in love with caves or enjoy Mother Nature’s creation. Trekking to Mawsmai Caves in Cherrapunji is one of the best things to do in Meghalaya. These are limestone caves with wonderful examples of stalactites and stalagmites and it takes you to a whole new different world. The caves are not very complex and are easy to maneuver, which makes it easier to have a sneak peek of the geological form of the region.
4. Umngot River
In their pursuit to get the much-needed serenity, and unchallenging water conditions, Dawki and the Umngot river are ideal. It is known for the purity of its aqua; due to this it gives an illusion that the boats are sailing in the air. Go on a boat and take time to tour around, or if not, find a spot along the river and spend your time there among other things to do in Meghalaya.
5. Explore Shillong and its Boomling Culture
Meghalaya’s capital city, Shillong, is colorful culturally and beautiful visually. Visit the local markets that offer the widely accepted tourism, souvenir handicrafts and the mouth watering native foods. It is also important not to fail to visit one of the city’s most important features, the Shillong Peak, which provides a view of the entirety of Shillong as well as its neighboring areas. The components of local festivals and cultural events are also fruitful ways for learning and experiencing the performance of Khasi’s music and dance. Therefore, it comes under the best things to do in Meghalaya.
6. Trek of the famous Elephant Falls
Another place that is a must visit is the Elephant Falls which is situated at the outskirts of the city of Shillong. These three-tiered waterfalls are located in the region of a rock formation that looks like an elephant; the water falls from the upper level into the middle tier and then drops down to the base and into a pool. The surroundings of this place are beautiful; it would be perfect to take a break here and have some nice photos taken. And trekking to this amazing falls can be considered as one of the best things to do in Meghalaya.
7. Traveling to Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places in the world, provides some of the most beautiful vistas in Meghalaya. Whether it is the majestic rock, or the picturesque view of the waterfalls, or the green carpet of hills, Cherrapunji is actually full of beautiful sites. Ensure that you take time to visit some of the water falls, live root bridges which are spread across the landscape among other things to do in Meghalaya.
8. Visit the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures
Of culture, the aspects of which can be explored to the fullest in Meghalaya, visiting to the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures in Shillong is a must things to do in Meghalaya. This museum expresses the facet of cultural demography through histories, pieces and installations. It is particularly unique to familiarize with the various indigenous tribes and their culture.
Conclusion
Meghalaya is one of the most beautiful tourist places in India and is yet to be explored in totality with the same treatment as given to Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, etc. and things to do in Meghalaya are walking through caves that have been around for hundreds of years or watching water falling from a great height or shopping in bazaars of Meghalaya, every moment for a tourist is going to be special.
Capture a Trip, a travel company which focuses on making Client’s journey as comfortable as possible when planning it can make your dream come true. Please let them organize and plan on their own so that you have ample time to appreciate and capture everything that Meghalaya has in store to offer. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the best season to travel to Meghalaya?
The climate is the most favorable during the period of October to April and thus is considered the best period to visit Meghalaya.
2. Is there anything one has to do before entering the state of Meghalaya?
The Indian visitors don’t require permits for visiting Meghalaya while the foreign visitors require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for visiting some regions of Meghalaya.
3. To travel to Meghalaya we need to know the best modes of transport and routes used to access this region?
The best ways of getting to Meghalaya are by air to Shillong or Guwahati and then road transport. Surprisingly, Guwahati City which is relatively nearer and possesses comparatively better connectivity is the nearest major city.
4. Is it safe to travel to Meghalaya?
Yes, Meghalaya is safe for tourists, however, there are a few cases of some unsafe places. Although, it is always advised to take local advice, and also always check the travel advisories just before traveling.
5. Which food should I eat in Meghalaya?
Traditional recipes, which one should definitely try are Jadoh (meat with rice), Tungrymbai (fermented soybean) and Khasi special pork preparations.
