India is a country of beautiful states where you will get to see snow-clad mountains, lush green forests, river streams, and lake waterfalls. Today we are going to tell you about the beautiful places in India’s beautiful state of Meghalaya, which you must visit once.
Meghalaya, one of the most beautiful states of India, has many beautiful places to visit. But today we are going to tell about such beauty of Meghalaya. Which with its beauty remains the center of attraction among tourists.
For this reason, lakhs of tourists visit Meghalaya every year. In Meghalaya, you will get to see high mountains, waterfalls, lakes, caves, valleys, and natural beauty which mesmerizes the tourists visiting here.
The distance from Meghalaya to Shillong is about 111 kilometers. The state of Meghalaya was established on 21 January 1972. Meghalaya tourist destination is very famous for its beautiful mountain ranges, heavy rainfall, sunshine, high plateaus, breathtaking waterfalls, rivers, and meadows.
The Meghalaya plateau remains the center of attraction in the state. Meghalaya tourism consists mostly of tropical forests and birds, mammals, insects, and reptiles can be seen in the forests here.
Meghalaya was named by Dr. S P Chatterjee. Dr. S. P. Chatterjee was a Professor of Geography at the University of Calcutta.
The more beautiful this state is, the more beautiful the name of this state. Meghalaya is made up of two words in the Sanskrit language. Megh + Aalaya = Meghalaya. If the meaning of both these words in the Sanskrit language is taken out, then “Megh” means “Cloud”. And “alay” means “abode” i.e. “home”. So in this way, Meghalaya means “abode of clouds” or can also be called “house of clouds”.
Meghalaya Tourist Place has a lot of importance in terms of tourism. The gathering of tourists coming from far and wide keeps on visiting Meghalaya tourist places. Talking about information about Meghalaya, three ancient tribes reside in Meghalaya tourist places.
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Flora and Fauna in Meghalaya
Apart from 23 species of birds, many wildlife species are seen in the beautiful forests of the state of Meghalaya. Peacock Pheasant and Hoolock Gibbon are found in the state of Meghalaya. About 70% of the state’s area is forested, which also includes dense sub-tropical forests.
The forests of Meghalaya State are also known as the richest vegetation habitats in Asia. A part of Meghalaya’s forest is also known as a sacred forest area. Nokerek Biosphere Reserve Park in Garo Hills and Balfram National Park in South Garo Hills are known as the most beautiful parks in the state of Meghalaya.
The forest area of the state of Meghalaya displays a diversity of flowers, many types of parasites, succulent plants, epiphytes, and shrubs. The two most important varieties of the tree are Shorea robusta and Tectona grandis (Teak) found here. Vegetables, spices, and fruits are found in different types of plants.
A huge variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects are seen in the fauna found in the forests of Meghalaya. The mammal species here include bears, red pandas, elephants, civets, rodents, gaurs, mongooses, weasels, wild buffaloes, deer, wild boars, and many other animals.
A huge variety of bats can be seen in the state of Meghalaya. Reptiles, lizards, crocodiles, and tortoises are the major attractions here. 250 species of butterflies and more than 650 species of birds can be seen here. Apart from these, many animal and plant species are found in the forests of Meghalaya.
Beautiful places to visit in Meghalaya
Shillong
By the way, Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya state, is known for its beauty. But Shillong is such a beautiful mountainous region where lush green mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and clouds floating down in the air definitely mesmerize the tourists visiting here.
Located at a distance of about 98 km from Guwahati, this place is situated at an altitude of 1490 meters above sea level. If you like to roam in natural places, then definitely include this beautiful place in your list of places to visit. You can bring your girlfriend or family here for a walk.
Tura city
Tura city has become the most visited place in Meghalaya. Tura is well known for its beautiful tourist places and Nokerek National Park.
By the way, this beautiful national park is present at a distance of only 11 kilometers from Tura city. Due to this specialty of Tura, tourists come here for twelve months of the year to visit and look at the beauty of this place from close quarters. Here you can bring your family for a walk.
Doki
Meghalaya’s most beautiful river where the Dawki flows
Doki is considered one of the best and most beautiful tourist places in Meghalaya. Which is present between the border of India and Bangladesh. Doki is located in the Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya. You can also enjoy a boat ride on the beautiful river Umangot of Doki.
If you are a nature lover then you can come here and admire the natural beauty of Docky closely. The beauty of Doki doubles in monsoon. This place is located just 92 kilometers away from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. Here you can bring your girlfriend or family for a walk.
Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji is one of the most visited tourist places in Meghalaya by nature lovers. Cherrapunji also holds the record for the highest rainfall in India. Cherrapunji’s clean natural environment makes every tourist who comes here happy.
The cool air blowing from the mountains in Cherrapunji attracts tourists. Thelen Falls and Noh Kalikai Falls of Cherrapunji are among the famous tourist places. Which compels tourists to come to Cherrapunji.
Mawsai Cave
Mawsai Cave is considered to be one of the most attractive and popular places in Meghalaya. This beautiful Mavasai cave is present at a distance of only 7 kilometers from Cherrapunji.
Many types of beautiful naturally formed stones can be seen in this ancient cave like a bumpy maze. To see which tourists come here from far and wide. It is believed that the length of this cave is about 150 kilometers. You can enjoy yourself a lot with your partner here.
Nohkalikai Waterfall
This beautiful Nohkalikai waterfall in Meghalaya has the distinction of being the highest waterfall in the world. The height of this beautiful waterfall is about 332 meters. Which is the center of attraction for every tourist coming here.
Tourists come from far and wide to see this high and beautiful waterfall. The lush green and beautiful surroundings of this beautiful waterfall mesmerize the tourists. You can spend some moments of peace and relaxation by bringing your girlfriend or family here.
Mawsynram
Mawsynram is one of the most spectacular tourist destinations in the world. This place is like a paradise for rain lovers and nature lovers. mawsynram and Cherrapunji are close to each other. The meaning of mawsynram is derived from the Khasi word “Maw”, which means stone. The shape of this village is like that of Shivalingam and this village is known for collecting stalagmite.
Nongpoh Tourist Places
One of the famous places of Meghalaya, Nongpoh is a small town located in the north of East Khasi Hills. This place near the Brahmaputra plains is very popular as a Tharava before reaching Shillong. In this attractive place of Meghalaya, one gets to experience beautiful trees, a serene atmosphere, and a pleasant climate.
Jawai City
Among the places to visit in Meghalaya, Jawai tourist places are located in the Jaintia Hills. The attraction of Jawai is its beautiful setting and beautiful views that entice tourists. This place named Jawai is an unbroken mix of vast heritage and cultures, which reflects the lifestyle of the people. Thadlasken Lake and Lalong Park are famous tourist spots here.
Baghmara Tourist Place
Among the places to see in Meghalaya, Baghmara tourist place is not only rich in flora and fauna but also its other attractions include lakes, rivers, hills, and many places of natural importance. Baghmara is located at a distance of about 4 kilometers from the city of Meghalaya. Here is the Baghmara Reserve Forest. Where langurs, elephants, and birds live.
Meghalaya’s Best Tourist Place Williamnagar
The historic Williamnagar of Meghalaya, the headquarters of the East Garo Hills district, was named after Captain Williamson A Sangma, the first Chief Minister of the state of Meghalaya. During the year 1837, Grass put up the last resistance to the British invasion in the Garo Hills.
Elephant waterfall
Hathi Falls is a major tourist destination in Meghalaya and is one of the most popular falls in the North East state. Elephant Falls is a paradise for tourists. The British named this reservoir Hathi Jharna or Elephant Falls because of the shape of the elephant. However, this stone has been damaged due to an earthquake in 1897.
Jaintia Hills
Meghalaya’s Tourist Place Jaintia Hills is a land of majestic hills and is part of the former Jaintia Kingdom. This tourist place is full of rich natural flora and mineral wealth. Located in Meghalaya, this hill is an important part of many Patkai hills. This mountain range is spread across the Indo-Myanmar border. However, the Jaintia Hills are smaller hills than the Khasi and Garo Hills.
Umiam Lake
Umiam Lake is a man-made lake in Shillong places to visit. This lake is located in the north direction, at a distance of 15 km from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya’s north-eastern state of India. This lake is like a paradise for those people who are interested in the beauty of nature. It is a wonderful picnic spot.
Mawlynnang Village
The Mawlynnang village here remains the center of tourist attraction to see in Meghalaya. Mawlynnang village in the state of Meghalaya is also known as ‘God’s Own Garden. In the year 2003, this village attained the status of being the cleanest village in Asia. According to the 2014 survey, there were about 95 houses in this village. A 100% literacy rate has been observed among people dependent on agriculture. The main agriculture here was betel nut. Mawlynnang village of Shillong is also known as Cleanest Village in India.
Kailong rock
This tourist place of Meghalaya, Kailong Rock is about 78 kilometers from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya state. Here the Kailang Rock, a giant rock made of red granite, is a huge dome placed in the West Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. The height of this rock is 5400 feet above sea level and the width is 1000 feet.
Nohsingthiang Falls
The Nohsingthiang Falls, which are included in the tourist places of Meghalaya, is located at a distance of about 4 kilometers from Cherrapunji. This waterfall is one of the major tourist destinations of Cherrapunji. This waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in India and falls from a height of about 1033 feet. Nohsingithiang Falls is located in Mawsmai village of Meghalaya.
Balpakram National Park
Balpakram National Park, one of the tourist places in the state of Meghalaya, is a famous national park located at an altitude of about 3,000 feet above sea level near the Garo Hills. The word Balapakram means ‘taken from the land of the everlasting winds. Balpakram National Park was established on 15 February 1986.
Khasi Hills
The Khasi Hills, which are included in the tourist places of Meghalaya, have been named after the Khasi tribe of Meghalaya. The Khasi hills are a part of the Garo-Khasi range and are known as a part of the Badi Patkai range of hills. Which is a range of hills in the northeast region on the border of India and Myanmar. Asia’s second largest river island “Nongkhum Island” is also in this attractive place.
Lady Hydari Park
Lady Hydari Park in Meghalaya tourist destination is the favorite place of every tourist visiting here. The park has been dedicated to the first lady of the province, “Lady Hydari”. This huge park is also known as a beautiful mini zoo. 73 bird species and more than 100 reptiles can be seen together in Lady Hydari Park.
Double Decker Living Root Bridge
The double-decker Living Root Bridge included in the tourist destination of Meghalaya is 3 km long and situated at an altitude of 2400 feet. The Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Meghalaya promotes more popularity and attracts tourists.
Don Bosco Museum
Don Bosco Museum to visit in Meghalaya is a one-stop place to collect collective information about the entire North East India. There is a theme museum, costumes, handicrafts, regional artwork, ornamentation, photographs, and weapons are collected in the museum. This museum is a seven-storey building.
Festival of meghalaya
Nongkarma Dance Festival
Nongkarm Dance Festival is one of the major festivals of Meghalaya state, which is a five-day festival held every year in the month of November. The Nongkarma Dance Festival is celebrated by the Khasi tribe as a thanksgiving to the harvest. The festival begins with the sacrifice of a goat. The word Nongkrem means “goat-killing ceremony” is Nongkrem. At this festival, unmarried girls and boys get to see beautiful dance.
Wangala Festival
The Wangala Festival is a two-day festival celebrated in Meghalaya. This festival is dedicated to Lord Suryanarayan. This is the biggest traditional festival for the Wangala Garo tribes. This festival is celebrated at the end of autumn at the time of every harvest. The harvest festival is organized every year in the second week of November. On the occasion of this festival, people like to dance day and night. The main attraction of the Bangla festival is the 100 drums or drums.
Bedinkhalam festival
Bedinkhlam Festival Celebrated by the Jaintia tribe of Meghalaya, this festival is very popular in Meghalaya. Bedinkhalam Festival is celebrated to chase the demon of Cholhera. This festival of Meghalaya is celebrated every year in the month of July on the occasion of sowing. Apart from these, some other festivals of Meghalaya include Lahu, Nongkhilam and Shad Suk Mansem, etc.
Food of Meghalaya
Meghalaya tourist places offer very tasty food here. If you are on a trip to Meghalaya, do not miss enjoying the food here. Local food available in Meghalaya includes Jado, Nakham Bichi, Dhokhle, Pumaloi, Bamboo Shoots, Momo, Dohe Gem, Tung Rimbai, Minil Tsonga, Herbed Pork and Apple, Rice Beer, Tongatap, Dohniyang, Misa Mach Poora, Egg Dal, Melim Apart from Chicken, Pudoh, Momos, Jalebi and Tungrimbai, etc. you will also find many items to improve your taste buds and quench your stomach’s hunger.
Best time to visit Meghalaya
October to March is considered the best time to visit Meghalaya. During this time the weather is also pleasant for tourism. Although you can go in any season throughout the year, the best time is from October to March.
How to reach Meghalaya
You can choose between flight, train, and bus to travel to Meghalaya tourism.
How to reach Meghalaya by Flight
If you have chosen the air route for the trip to Meghalaya, then let us tell you that Meghalaya does not have an airport of its own. So take a flight to Guwahati airport and from there you can reach Meghalaya via local means here.
How to reach Meghalaya by Train
If you have chosen the rail route to visit Meghalaya tourist places, then let us tell you that Guwahati railway station is the nearest station. From Guwahati Railway Station, you will reach Meghalaya via local means here.
How to reach Meghalaya by Bus
Meghalaya is well connected to all major cities by road. So if you have planned to visit Meghalaya by bus or your personal means, then you will reach Meghalaya easily.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Meghalaya
1. Where is Meghalaya located?
Meghalaya is a state in northeastern India, bordered by Assam to the north and Bangladesh to the south. It is situated in the eastern part of the Himalayas.
2. What is the meaning of “Meghalaya”?
The word “Meghalaya” translates to “the abode of clouds” in Sanskrit. It aptly describes the region's mist-covered landscapes and abundant rainfall.
3. What is the capital of Meghalaya?
The capital of Meghalaya is Shillong. It is a vibrant city known for its scenic beauty, colonial architecture, and a thriving music scene.
4. What are the popular tourist attractions in Meghalaya?
Meghalaya is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and unique attractions. Some popular tourist spots include the living root bridges of Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia. Other attractions include Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Dawki River, and Mawphlang Sacred Forest.
5. What is the best time to visit Meghalaya?
The best time to visit Meghalaya is during the months of October to April when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is minimal. It is advisable to avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall that may hinder travel and outdoor activities.
6. How can I reach Meghalaya?
Meghalaya can be reached by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport), which is well-connected to major cities in India. The nearest railhead is Guwahati Railway Station, and from there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Meghalaya. Road connectivity is also good, and buses and taxis are available from neighboring states.
7. Is Meghalaya safe for tourists?
Meghalaya is generally considered safe for tourists. The local people are known for their warm hospitality. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions, follow local guidelines, and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling to remote areas.
8. What is the cuisine of Meghalaya like?
Meghalaya offers a unique culinary experience. The local cuisine includes dishes such as Jadoh (rice and meat), Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame), Tungrymbai (fermented soybean), and Nakham Bitchi (spicy dry fish). Don't miss trying the popular street food of Shillong, such as momos and jadoh.
9. Are permits required to visit Meghalaya?
Indian tourists do not require any permits to visit Meghalaya. However, for foreign tourists, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is necessary, which can be obtained from the respective authorities or online portals.
10. What are the adventure activities available in Meghalaya?
Meghalaya offers various adventure activities for thrill-seekers. You can go trekking in the scenic hills, caving in the numerous limestone caves, river rafting in the clear waters of Umngot River in Dawki, and camping in the picturesque landscapes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Meghalaya is a mesmerizing destination that captivates visitors with its ethereal landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. From the mist-covered hills and cascading waterfalls to the living root bridges and pristine lakes, Meghalaya offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast seeking thrilling activities or a nature lover in search of serenity, this abode of clouds has something to offer everyone.
The state’s capital, Shillong, with its colonial charm and vibrant music scene, adds to the allure of Meghalaya. Exploring the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong, and witnessing the magnificent living root bridges in Cherrapunji are experiences that showcase the harmony between man and nature.
Meghalaya’s culinary delights, with its blend of flavors and local ingredients, provide a gastronomic journey for food enthusiasts. The warm and welcoming nature of the locals adds an extra touch of warmth to your visit.
To make the most of your trip, it is advisable to plan your visit during the favorable months when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is minimal. Whether you choose to trek through lush green landscapes, delve into the mysteries of ancient caves, or immerse yourself in the local culture, Meghalaya promises to leave you with cherished memories.
So pack your bags and embark on a journey to Meghalaya, where nature’s wonders and cultural riches await. Discover the magic of the abode of clouds, where every corner is filled with awe-inspiring beauty. Experience the tranquility, embrace the adventure, and create memories that will last a lifetime.