Meghalaya, a tucked-away gem of the northeastern region of India, where the geographical terrain is more surreal, is surrounded by almost prehistoric hills and greenery. This area is a true treasure trove for all kinds of travellers, from nature lovers and adventure seekers. There are various things you can do in a Meghalaya tour package, including visiting amazing waterfalls, incredible caves, enjoying the sunset, exploring national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries for a perfect trip. In this guide, we will look at some of the best things to do in Meghalaya that visitors can do in this magical destination that will enable him/her to have the best of Meghalaya tour package. 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 a 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. Explore the National Park and wildlife sanctuaries
Meghalaya is a paradise for wildlife lovers; it offers an opportunity to explore its rich and varied flora and fauna, making it a dream come true for them. Meghalaya has some amazing locations where you can experience nature at its best, and observing wildlife is one of the best things to do there. Wildlife lovers should put Balpakram National Park, Nokrek National Park, Baghmara Reserve Forest, Siju Bird Sanctuary, and other locations on their must-see list. These wildlife sanctuaries in Meghalaya are well-known and should be visited by any nature lover, regardless of whether they are interested in seeing large beasts or uncommon birds.
2. Do Birdwatching
If you are a nature lover, then birdwatching is the best thing for you. It is a perfect paradise for nature lovers and a top thing to do when visiting Meghalaya. The region is home to a variety of colourful bird species such as the endangered rufous-necked hornbill, the Great pied hornbill, and other exotic bird species. Siju Bird Sanctuary, Nokrek Biosphere Reserve are the most famous birdwatching sites in Meghalaya, where you can sit, relax, and do birdwatching.
3. Enjoy boating
Meghalaya is a stunning state in Northeast India that is well-known for its verdant hills, tumbling waterfalls, and rich cultural legacy. Try boating on its serene waterways to fully appreciate its natural splendor. To truly appreciate Meghalaya's natural beauty, boating is a must. Explore the tranquil lakes in Meghalaya surrounding Sohra (Cherrapunji) for breathtaking scenery, float on the glistening Umngot River in Dawki for a one-of-a-kind experience, or glide over Umiam Lake for breathtaking views. Visit Meghalaya's top boating locations for a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a close-up look at the stunning scenery.
4. Watching sunset
Watching the sunset is the best thing you can enjoy in Meghalaya. Shillong Peak, one of the highest peaks in Shillong, is the perfect place to enjoy sunset and sunrise views, with the sky transforming into brilliant hues of orange and pink. Among the top things to do in Meghalaya, this is one of the best experiences that offers a peaceful retreat combined with unforgettable scenic views.
5. Enjoy water sports
This beautiful state is like a giant natural waterpark, tucked away perfectly in the northeastern part of India. It is a heaven for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers with its lush forest cover, dark caves, mountains, scenic valleys, rivers, and stunning waterfalls. Boating on the Umngot River, Kayaking in Umiam Lake, River Rafting in Dawki, Fishing in Thadlaskein Lake, and Waterfall Rappelling are some of the top water sports you can enjoy in Meghalaya.
6. Rock climbing
Rock Climbing in Meghalaya offers a mix of adventure and natural beauty. It offers challenges to climbers of all levels. Some of the top climbing spots in Meghalaya are Dawki, Shnongpdeng, Kyllang Rock and Cherrapunji. The best time to do rock climbing is during the dry season, from October to May when the skies are clear and the rocks are dry, providing a safe and enjoyable experience. Don’t forget to hire a guide for an unforgettable experience.
7. Shopping
Shopping in Shillong is an unforgettable experience that is greatly influenced by the state's culture. You will discover that each and every item on show at Shillong's local markets represents the distinct cultural uniqueness of the area. The city's markets, which feature everything from traditional women's attire and handbags to handcrafted native handicrafts, bear witness to the Khasai people's artistic heritage.
8. Try local cuisine
Meghalaya is well known for more than just its natural beauty; it has some of the best cuisine in the world. Meghalayan cuisine is incredibly intriguing, mixing elements of Indian cuisine, tribal cultures, and South Asian customs. Some of the delectable cuisines of Meghalaya are Jadoh, Dohkhlieh, Pudoh, Tungtap, Dohjem, and various others, which will make you satisfied.
9. Explore culture & festivals
Festivals in this enchanted state bring to life the distinct customs and tribal heritage of its citizens. Wangala Festival, Shad Suk Mynsiem, Nongkrem Dance Festival, and Behdienkhlam Festival are some of the most well-known festivals, showcasing vibrant music, traditional dances, and the profoundly spiritual traditions of Meghalayan people.
10. Discover the beautiful waterfalls
While on your Meghalaya trip, you can’t miss to explore the waterfall of Meghalaya. With so many amazing things to do in Meghalaya, visiting the waterfalls should be at the top of your list! Whether you want to take in the breathtaking sights or go on an adventure. The best time to witness waterfalls in Meghalaya is during the monsoon season, when the waterfalls, which range in size from little streams to strong cascades, are particularly stunning. Nokalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, Elephant Falls, Krang Suri Falls, Langshiang Falls, Dainthlen Falls are some of Meghalaya's must-see waterfalls.
11. Explore the 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.
12. Visit 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 world. This cave in Meghalaya is not very complex and are easy to maneuver, which makes it easier to have a sneak peek into the geological form of the region.
13. Visit 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.
14. 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.
15. Trek to the famous Elephant Falls
Another place that is a must visit is the Elephant Falls in 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.
16. 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.
17. 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.
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. There are various things to do in Meghalaya from walking through caves, watching water falling from a great height, shopping in the bazaars of Meghalaya, enjoying the cuisine, and many others. All these things is going to make your Meghalaya backpacking trip memorable and special. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and discover the top things to do in “abode of clouds”.
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.
