MEGHALAYA TRIP – How to Plan and What to do? A Complete Guide
- Ashish Thakur
- Apr 8
- 15 min read
There isn't any doubt that Meghalaya is one among our favorite places. Situated in the hills of the japanese sub-Himalayas, Meghalaya is one of the maximum lovely states of India. In Sanskrit, Meghalaya translates into ‘dwelling house of clouds’ and it's far rightfully referred to as so. Claimed to be one of the wettest locations on this planet, Meghalaya sees the hide and are searching for played among the solar and rains. Discover the best waterfall in Meghalaya, where nature's beauty cascades in breathtaking splendor, creating an unforgettable experience.
Nohkalika Falls at Cherrapunji
Surrounded by way of the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo Hills, Meghalaya gives simple and unspoiled splendor to its site visitors. The nation boasts of tremendous natural splendor, cascading waterfalls, glowing smooth rivers, herbal caves and a colorful cultural historical past. From the fabulous waterfalls of Cherrapunjee to the clean waters of Umngot, Meghalaya is actually an area midway between heaven and earth.
We like to visit Meghalaya over and over once more and want you to visit the state additionally. Read directly to know more approximately this place and the way you can plan an excellent Meghalaya ride.
Where is Meghalaya?
Meghalaya travel Guide
Meghalaya is located within the northeastern a part of India. Meghalaya become carved out of the nation of Assam and stocks its borders with Assam and Bangladesh in the west and south.
Meghalaya Trip – Is it safe to visit Meghalaya?
Walking round Langkawet
Meghalaya is possibly one of the safest states that we've visited. The human beings are friendly and could always be prepared that will help you.
Meghalaya is likewise one of the safest places for girls to journey. Being a matrilineal society, crimes towards women aren't plenty seen here. I even have travelled solo in Meghalaya in distant places like Tura with none worry. Meghalaya is one of the states wherein I feel quite at domestic in the course of solo tour as well.
How to Reach Meghalaya?
Meghlaya roads - the signpost showing the distance in our Meghalaya bike trip
Just like the different northeast states, Guwahati bureaucracy the entry point of Meghalaya as nicely. Shillong is the maximum essential and the capital town of Meghalaya. Your Meghalaya experience will possibly begin from Shillong itself.
Shillong has a domestic airport this is related by means of flights from Kolkata, Guwahati and New Delhi. However, the pleasant way to go into Meghalaya could be to arrive at Guwahati and then circulate on to Shillong.
The nearest railway head is Guwahati. You will get shared jeeps and cabs just out of doors the Guwahati Railway Station at Paltan Bazar. You will even get shared jeeps and cabs from Khanapara in Guwahati. Buses are also available from the ASTC Bus Stand outdoor the railway station. Regular buses are also to be had from ISBT, Beltola in Guwahati. Unveil the magic of the famous falls in meghalaya, where crystal-clear waters plunge into serene surroundings, making it a must-visit natural wonder.
Meghalaya Tourism_ Incredible India
Helicopter offerings also are available from Guwahati to Shillong. But we propose you to take the road. Shillong is best one hundred km from Guwahati and the roads are quite properly and scenic as it follows an uphill force thru lush greenery.
Guwahati Airport to Shillong (small car): INR 2200
Guwahati Airport to Shillong (big automobile): INR 3000
Guwahati Railway Station to Shillong (small automobile): INR 2000
Guwahati Railway Station to Shillong (large automobile): INR 2700
Shared Sumos from Guwahati Paltan Bazar to Shillong Anjali Stand: INR two hundred-250.
Shared Cabs (Swift) from Guwahati Paltan Bazar to Shillong Anjali Stand: INR 300-350.
Local Transport in Meghalaya
Your first prevent in Meghalaya journey will perhaps be Shillong. From Shillong, you need to go to exclusive places.
Moving round Shillong
Buses and Yellow Taxis are available for travelling to numerous destinations within the city. Tourist Taxis are available in Shillong for nearby sightseeing as well as for long-distance excursions.
The Main Taxi Stand is on the Police Bazar Stand. From right here you'll get shared yellow taxis to specific destinations within the city. City buses are also to be had for going round in Shillong.
The Meghalaya Tourism Office is placed at Police Bazar itself. You can e book town excursions and numerous different sightseeing tours from there. They conduct excursions to Cherrapunjee, Mawlynnong, Dawki and different locations as well. You also can rent vehicles for going round from the Tourism Office.
How to reach Shillong from Guwahati
Moving round cities in Meghalaya
You can rent automobiles for touring to numerous locations in Meghalaya from the Police Bazar Taxi Stand.
If you want to tour by means of shared vehicles, the Sumos are available from Bara Bazar Sumo Stand close to Ïewduh. Shared Sumos to different destinations like Dawki, Kongthong, Nongstoin are also to be had from there.
For offbeat locations, the number of shared jeeps is quite much less. So if you need to journey round Meghalaya by shared vehicles, maintain a while in hand and get to know about the car timings ahead.
Bike Renting at Shillong
You can discover Meghalaya on a bike just like we did and experience the journey on the road. The main roads are quite accurate in Meghalaya and riding is pretty exciting. Shillong has a number of motorcycle leases from where you can get scooters and motorbikes for lease.
The condominium corporations commonly take a deposit quantity depending on your trip and also you also must put up one of your Identity proof in authentic there. They will return the ID as soon as you come the motorbike. They also offer one helmet with the motorcycle. You also can ask for any other helmet at a nominal more price.
The price for scooty or scooter is INR 600-800 in keeping with day (with out petrol)
For Bikes, it is INR one thousand-1200 per day, and for Royal Enfield, the condo is typically INR 1500-1800 consistent with day.
What is the Best time to go to Meghalaya?
Kongthong Meghalaya Tourism
Meghalaya has a tropical climate. The pleasant time to visit is the winter months from October to March. But in case you need to peer the waterfalls in their complete glory, go to on the end of the wet season or just after it, i.E among August to the beginning of October.
Meghalaya is one such place in India that is beautiful in all of the seasons. While our favorite time to visit is for the duration of the monsoon, the opposite seasons are similarly mesmerizing. When you need to move for a Meghalaya experience really relies upon on what you want to do.
April to June (Summer)
The climate is pleasant at some point of this time and the temperature stays cool. Summer is absolutely a peak season for a Meghalaya trip. This is a great time to head exterior and explore. This is also a very good time to do caving. However, the waterfalls may have less water. The Seven Sister Waterfalls in Cherrapunjee may be infrequently seen throughout this time. It seems like small strips of water cascading down the mountain cliff, throughout the summer time.
July to September (Monsoon)
Monsoon arrives in Meghalaya in June itself. However, from July it's miles top monsoon. Since Meghalaya is one of the wettest places on earth, it receives a whole lot of rainfall. Monsoon in Meghalaya is without a doubt stunning. Everything appears lush and green and the waterfalls get a life of their own. The clouds and fod renders a mystique and charm to the location.
Cherrapunjee and Mawsynram are specifically beautiful at some point of this time. However, you'll possibly no longer get the clear water at Umngot River at Dawki throughout this time. Caving is also not advocated during this time.
In brief, in case you like to tour at some stage in the rain, we would really advocate you for a Meghalaya experience. However, be organized for bouts of showers from time to time. Also, do bring your rain wear during this time.
October to November (Autumn)
This is one of the best seasons to visit Meghalaya. The rains have stopped, however the after results of rain are nonetheless there with greenery anywhere and lively waterfalls. The climate is sunny and funky, ideal for outdoor activities and treks.
December to February (Winter)
The climate remains quite simply bloodless; however, the days are a piece warm. The mornings are usually foggy. Winters also are a good time to explore and do all of the outside sports like trekking and caving. This is also an awesome time to go to Dawki. You will see the crystal clean waters of the river for which Dawki is so well-known for.
Places to go to to your Meghalaya Trip
1) Shillong
Meghalaya tour Guide
Shillong, the capital of the kingdom is a hectic, modern-day and lively city with a colourful population. There is lots of British impact in the structure of Shillong. With the lovely hills around and the variety of lakes, Shillong is known as the ‘Scotland of East’. Police Bazar is the busiest factor in Shillong with a hectic marketplace. Most of the main hotels in Shillong are found round Police Bazar. You can use cozycozy to find a cheap lodging to your trip to Meghalaya. Shillong has a few nice cafes that still offer track. Shillong is the region of song fanatics.
Attractions in Shillong: Plenty of locations to visit here – Ward’s Lake, Lady Hydari Park, Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Shillong Golf Course, Smit, Laitlum Canyons, Bishop & Beadon falls and Umiam Lake.
2) Cherrapunji
Sunset at Nohkalikai Falls Sohra
Cherrapunji or Cherrapunjee, also called Sohra is located round 60 km from Shillong. You can visit Cherrapunji from Shillong and come lower back in a day. There are excursions performed via the Meghalaya Tourism for Cherrapunji. But we advise a night time live on the location. Shared cabs to Cherrapunjee are available from Bada Bazar in Shillong. The Yellow Sumos take you to different locations in Meghalaya.
Cherrapunjee changed into said to be the wettest vicinity on this planet earlier than Mawsynram took over. Naturally, the region is extremely good all through the monsoons.
Meghalaya journey Guide
Attractions in Cherrapunji: The Nohkalikai Waterfalls is the fourth highest waterfall within the global and makes for a grand sight. The Seven Sister Falls, Wei Sawdong Falls and Dainthlein Falls also are really worth journeying. The Mawsmai and Arwah caves are other locations that you should go to. Amazing stalactites and stalagmite formations are found in these caves.
From Cherrapunji, you may go to Mawsynram, the wettest location on the earth and the Khasi monoliths.
3) Nongriat Trek
Nongriat Double Decker Root Bridge
The captivating enjoy of Cherrapunjee is the go to to the Double Decker Root Bridge in Nongriat village. The route from Tyrna is the less difficult one to attain Nongriat, however you need to descend as many as 3500 steps to attain the village. Once you're at Nongriat, the problem will appear not anything in comparison to the views and hospitality you may acquire there. It is really helpful to stay for an evening at Nongriat if you wish to do the Double Decker Living Root Bridge Trek.
4) Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong Asia's cleanest village
Mawlynnong is declared to be the cleanest village in Asia. The region is round 80 km from Shillong and a journey to Mawlynnong and Dawki may be carried out in a day maintaining your base at Shillong. Like Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya Tourism conducts tours to Mawlynnong as well. Mawlynnong has a number of homestays as properly where you can stay for the night.
The village is extraordinarily smooth and well-maintained, having bamboo dustbins at places. With greenery all around and colourful plants and orchids blooming, Mawlynnong absolutely looks wonderful.
Attractions in Mawlynnong: There is any other single decker Living root bridge in Riwai village. There is a balancing rock that you could visit. The Skywatch is a tall bamboo structure that allows you to climb atop and have gorgeous perspectives of the Bangladesh plains from there.Mawlynnong Asia’s cleanest village
five) Mawphlang
Budget Travel Guide to Meghalaya
Around forty five km from Shillong, the Mawphlang Sacred Groves is situated within the East Khasi Hills. Once you reach the location, you may see rolling inexperienced plains, dense forests amidst the backdrop of blue skies. You can get a shared sumo to Mawphlang as nicely. There are lodging alternatives at Mawphlang in case you need to live there for the night time. A sacred grove is a small wooded area location taken into consideration sacred via the Khasi tribe. The sacred grove typically has a number of medicinal flowers and herbs and exceptional plant species.
Attractions in Mawphlang: The sacred grove, Khasi Heritage Village.
Mawphlang is likewise the starting point of the David Scott Trail.
6) Dawki
Meghalaya journey Guide
All the beautiful pictures of reflections of united states boats on crystal clear water that you have seen are likely taken on the Umngot River in Dawki. Situated at the border of Bangladesh, Dawki is the ultimate town at the Indian side earlier than the Bangladesh border. You can attain Dawki with the aid of a shared Sumo from Bada Bazar in Shillong.
You can stay at Dawki or move forward to Shnongpdeng, some other stunning hamlet on the banks of Umngot River. There are some of homestays at Shnongpdeng and tenting options also are available at each Dawki and Shnongpdeng.
Attractions at Dawki & Shnongpdeng: A quantity of water sports like u . S . A . Boat experience, scuba diving, cliff jumping and fishing.
Offbeat places to go to in Meghalaya Trip
There are some of places which can be unexplored and offbeat. Here we are writing approximately some. More more targeted manual, examine our article on Offbeat and Unexplored Places in Meghalaya.
1) Mawlyngot
Mawlyngot Travellers Nest
Mawlyngot is a stunning village amidst green tea gardens and a serene ecosystem. The tea gardens, tea factories are places of interest here. Read extra about our experiences at Mawlyngot.
2) Mawlyngbna
Boating can be finished at Mawlyngbna _ Meghalaya motorbike trip
Mawlyngbna is a place for journey seekers. The Travellers Nest is the most effective region of accommodation right here. Situated amidst the forests, the Travellers nest has simplest two cottages. Camping can also be organized right here. You can move hiking, go to the waterfalls and pass kayaking within the lake.
Three) Kongthong
Kongthong Whistling village in Meghalaya
Kongthong is a completely thrilling vicinity in Meghalaya. Situated among two well-known ridges, getting to Kongthong is an adventure in itself. The unique subculture of Kongthong’s inhabitants is they do not call out to every other the usage of their names, they alternatively sing out names which are given to each man or woman of the village at youth. Kongthong is also known as the Whistling Village of Meghalaya.
Four) Umden
Umden Travellers Hut Meghalaya Trip
Umden is situated within the Ri-Bhoi district and is known for its eri silk production. Here you may witness all of the steps in sericulture beginning from rearing of silkworms to spinning and reeling of silk to yarn manufacturing and dyeing and subsequently to weaving. The village itself is in reality beautiful nestled in a serene valley.
5) Nongkhnum Island
Nonghknum Islang Meghalaya journey Guide
The street to Nongkhnum Island is long, but the view that you get right here compensates all your hassle. It is the largest river island in Meghalaya and is situated near Nongstoin. The island with clear waters of the river is a serene vicinity with infrequently any soul. You also can pass tenting at the river island.
6) Tura, Garo Hills
Budget journey guide to Meghalaya
Tura is the second one most important town in Meghalaya after Shillong. Located within the Garo hills, Tura gives fantastic eco-tourism options and the flora and fauna sanctuaries in this place have exciting natural world. Siju Caves, one of the longest cave systems in India, also lies close to Tura.
Overnight Buses to Tura are to be had from Shillong Polo Ground. Sumos also are available within the morning. Tura is also on hand from Guwahati. Hotels and homestays are to be had in Tura.
Attractions in Tura: The whole Garo Hills are complete of many interesting places. The Tura top, Nokrek National Park, Rongbang Dar Waterfall are few of the locations near Tura well worth travelling. Other thrilling locations consist of the majestic Balpakram National Park and gorge, Pelga Falls, Siju Caves and Naphak Lake.
Know the People of Meghalaya
Babu Derma of Khasi community in Kongthong village
Places end up livelier due to its human beings. Meghalaya is no exception. The location is the home to a few tribes – Khasi, Jaintia and the Garos. The Khasis occupy the Khasi hills of important Meghalaya, the Garos occupy the western Garo Hills at the same time as the Jaintias occupy the Jaintia hills of eastern a part of the country.
At gift maximum of the tribes have embraced Christianity, but they have no longer forgotten their age-antique customs. A commonplace trait of the three tribes in Meghalaya is they predominantly comply with a matrilineal machine in which lineage and inheritance are exceeded through women of a circle of relatives. The nation has a liking to tune and that can be seen in severa rock bands.
All the 3 tribes are pretty close to nature. They have preserved their historic forests and groves. Their concord with nature can be seen within the numerous root bridges which can be found throughout the state.
Wangala Festival Tura Meghalaya North East India
The people are also quite keen on track and dance and that may be meditated of their festivals. The Khasi and Jaintia tribes reward nature, land, waterfalls, hills and rivers in their songs. The Garo folks songs are more often than not based totally on agriculture, marriage, daily life and unique occasions.
What to Eat to your Meghalaya Trip?
Pork roast - locations to devour in Cherrapunjee
If you are a foodie, then you'll actually love Meghalaya. Jadoh is the staple meals within the Khasi region and is effortlessly available. Various arrangements of pork, fish and hen also are available here. If you want some exquisite Khasi cuisine in Shillong, I would endorse you to head to Trattoria. This is a small eatery in Police Bazar and serves delectable Jadoh and different Khasi dishes. Food is exceptionally cheap in Meghalaya.
Jadoh in Meghalaya
You can also test out the cafes in Shillong. They serve fantastic coffee and meals gadgets.
For the relaxation of the traveller destinations, there are small restaurants and eateries all along wherein you'll get true meals. Do not assume fancy eating places in those places aside from Shillong. In the smaller places and villages, you'll possibly live at homestays and your meals could be arranged with the aid of your homestay.
Vegetarian fares also are to be had in Meghalaya. Please observe that Meghalaya, like the different northeastern states, are predominantly non-vegetarian. So in maximum of the locations, you'll get a selection of non-veg objects. Vegetarian items might be gift, but you won't get a variety there.
Khasi cuisines
Rice is an vital part of their food regimen. They make a preparation of sticky rice and feature it for breakfast. Lunch and dinner additionally incorporates of rice.
Where to live throughout the Meghalaya trip?
Lakeside Resort Langkawet
You can stay at resorts or homestays on your Meghalaya ride.
Shillong and Cherrapunji have some of resorts of numerous budgets. You may even discover homestays and hostels in Shillong. Homestays are also available in Cherrapunji.
For places like Mawlynnong, Dawki, Kongthong and others, you need to rely upon homestays.
How a good deal does it value on a Meghalaya Trip?
Police Bazar, Shillong, Meghalaya Travel Guide
Meghalaya, in standard, is pretty cheap and it is easy to backpack throughout the country spending as less as INR 800-1000 consistent with day. You may even spend less. Hostels are to be had in Shillong. Local shipping and meals at nearby eateries are reasonably-priced.
If your budget is higher, there are high stop accommodations for stay and you may tour in luxurious via automobile. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the meghalaya waterfalls, where the rush of water and lush landscapes come together in perfect harmony.
Meghalaya Travel Guide (FAQs Answered)
What is Meghalaya well-known for?
Meghalaya is famously referred to as the “Abode of clouds” and is mainly famous for being the house to the wettest region on the planet. Meghalaya is also famous for its waterfalls, caves, dwelling root bridges and colorful festivals. The nation is likewise well-known for its huge form of orchids.
How many days are sufficient for a Meghalaya ride?
Five days are best for a Meghalaya ride where you will visit the fundamental attractions of the state. You can spend 2 days in Shillong, 1 day in Cherrapunji and every other day in Mawlynnong (the cleanest village in Asia) and Dawki. You can compress your Meghalaya trip to a few to four days through planning successfully, however it will be a hurry.
Is Meghalaya secure for travelers?
Meghalaya is one of the most secure places to journey in India, mainly for solo ladies guests. Meghalaya follows a matrilineal society, because of this that the family lineage is taken from the mom’s aspect. Women are empowered and crimes towards ladies are not usually seen. The locals are helpful to tourists and so is the nearby police pressure.
What is the satisfactory time to visit Meghalaya?
Meghalaya is an all-weather vacation spot. However, the excellent time to visit is at some stage in the summer season (April to June) and throughout the Autumn (October to November) when the weather remains cool and sunny, best for outside activities.
How tons will it value for a Meghalaya trip?
Meghalaya is quite reasonably-priced to tour. You will discover hostels in Shillong and homestays at less expensive costs. Food and local transport are also pretty cheap. For a backpacking Meghalaya journey, you can spend as little as Rs800-1000 consistent with day or maybe less.
What can I purchase in Meghalaya?
Meghalaya is well-known for bamboo handicraft items. Shillong has a number of shops wherein you'll find handicraft gadgets. You can also buy stoles and shawls. Various organic merchandise like spices, honey and tea are grown in Meghalaya that you may buy.
What ought to I put on in Meghalaya?
For spring and summer time, wear light cotton garments preferably during the day. For monsoons, you must bring your raincoats and rain jackets and right footwear. Winters are pretty chilly, so deliver your woolens and jackets.
Meghalaya is quite a elegant nation. Men and women are tuned into the modern style tendencies. So you can put on something in the range of propriety.
More pictures to convince you for a Meghalaya Trip
Langkawet Church
Elephanta Falls, Shillong
View from Shillong Peak, Meghalaya Travel Guide
Dawki, Meghalaya Travel Guide
Krang Suri Falls on the manner towards Shillong within the MEghala Bike journey
Arwah Caves Cherrapunjee
Clear pool close to Nongriat
Laitlum canyon Meadows
Tea Gardens at Mawlyngot
Offbeat places in Cherrapunjee
Nohkalikai to Nongriat hiking direction
I can best reiterate that we surely love to explore and tour to Meghalaya. Hope this blog will help you plan your Meghalaya journey. If you want any help, drop us an e mail or remark under. We could be satisfied to help.
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