Places to visit in Meghalaya
Meghalaya Tourist Places
Meghalaya, known as the ‘abode of clouds’ is a wonderful state in the northeastern part of India. Shillong is the state’s capital and also its largest city. There are various Meghalaya Tourist Places, the best of which includes Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki, Mawsynram, Mawlynnong and Jowai.
Places to visit in Meghalaya are unique and many are yet to be explored. Meghalaya is known as one of the wettest places in India and is well known for its mountains, waterfalls, peaks and caves.
Cherrapunji in the East Khasi hills district is well known for its Living Root Bridges. It is also known as ‘Sohra’. Shillong is the largest town in Meghalaya with Shillong Peak being the highest point and a significant IAF station in the Khasi Hills from where visitors can have a glance of the city with the bird’s eye view.
Elephant Falls, Laitlum Canyons, Mawlynnong Village and Living Root Bridges are a must explore in Meghalaya. The state’s breathtaking vistas will stay with the tourists long after the tour ends. Our list of Meghalaya’s famous places will help you in exploring the state in a better way.
Best places to visit in Meghalaya includes:
Lakes: Umiam Lake and Wards Lake
Parks: Eco Park and Lady Hydari Park
Waterfalls: Krang Suri Falls, Wei Sawdong Falls, Elephant Falls
Caves: Mawsmai, Arwah and Siju Caves
Museums: Don Bosco Museum, Butterfly Museum
Major Meghalaya Tourist Places include:
Shillong
Cherrapunji
Mawlynnong
Dawki
Jowai
There are more famous places to visit in Meghalaya that you’re going to explore in this blog. Along with its natural beauty, Meghalaya is known for its incredible people, gushing waterfalls, caves, and gorgeous scenery. This blog will provide everything you need to know about the famous places of Meghalaya.
Following are the must visit Meghalaya Tourist Places
1 Laitlum Canyons
The view at Laitlum Canyon reminds visitors of the Scottish Highlands. It is one such spot that offers the bird-eye view spanning over deep green valleys and hills, which makes it a must visit place in Meghalaya. It is not only a boon for nature and photography enthusiasts but also a paradise for trekkers. Visitors can engage in an amazing trek of about 8.8 kilometres from Laitlum to Smit Village, witnessing nature at its best.
To witness a clear view of the valleys in Laitlum Canyons, visitors are advised to visit the destination in the afternoon rather than in the morning or evening. However, a foggy view of the place can be witnessed by the tourists during morning and evening time, which is a delight to witness. Laitlum Canyons is a perfect escape to relax and is indeed a peaceful destination worth visiting in Meghalaya.
2 Double Decker Living Root Bridge
Location: Nongriat Village, Tyrna, Cherrapunji.
Timings: 6 am to 5 pm
Route: Simple route from Tyrna which is about 12 kilometers from Cherrapunji
3 Krang Suri Falls
There is a small entry fee which is about Rs.50 and around Rs.100 for life jackets. One cannot go into the falls without a life jacket. Vehicles can be parked in the parking area from where stepping down the stairs for about 10-15 minutes will lead you to these breathtaking falls.
4 Mawlynnong Village
Fostering cleanliness, dustbins are made out of bamboo sticks. Banning of plastic bags and smoking makes the village worthy. Streets are bordered with thatched Khasi huts. Mawlynnong Waterfalls, Balancing Rock and Single Living Root Bridge of Riwai are the top attractions of Mawlynnong Village and also one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya. For experiencing rural life you can stay in the village for a night. There are no hotels available but guest houses and homestays are there for a comfortable overnight stay.
5 Garden of Caves
We can reach the Garden of Caves by road from Shillong. There are no hotels and eateries present. It is advisable to carry one’s own food and enjoy the charm of the region.
Location: Laitryngew-War, Laitmawsiang, Cherrapunji, Meghalaya 793111.
Timings: 8:00 am to 5:30 pm
6 Mawphlang Sacred Forest
The best time to visit Mawphlang Sacred Forest is in autumn. The mild and steady climate makes it easy and even more beautiful. There are picturesque forest trails, monoliths, Khasi Heritage Village and David Scott Trail which are worth exploring. You can reach the forest by road from Shillong.
Timings: 8 am to 5:30 pm
Entry fee: Rs.20 per person and Rs.20 for camera
7 Nohkalikai Falls
Location: East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, India
Entry fee: Rs.20 per person and extra Rs. 20 for camera
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
8 Phe Phe Falls
There are various activities that visitors can indulge into including hiking and swimming. The place is adorned with unique floral plants as well. There is a stone bridge, although the river is usually crossed by kayak. Following the bridge, there is an open plateau built of igneous rocks. Phe Phe falls is at a distance of about 75.8 kilometres from Shillong and about 20.6 kilometres from Jowai. It is undoubtedly a must visit destination in Meghalaya.
9 Nongjrong
10 Seven Sisters Waterfall
The best time to see the Seven Sisters Waterfall is during the monsoon and winter season. Although the falls also look beautiful during other seasons as well. Therefore, it is among the best places to visit in Meghalaya and is one of the most loved Meghalaya tourist places.
Location: Cherrapunji, Meghalaya, India
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm
11 Lady Hydari Park
For children, there is a play area in the park. The presence of a museum and a zoo makes the park prominent. The park also provides a lot of photography opportunities. The park can be explored in about 1.5 hours. We can reach the park by walking from the police bazar, or by hiring a taxi.
Location: Lower, Lachumiere, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm (closed on Monday)
Entry fee: Rs.10 per person and Rs.10 for camera
12 Elephant Falls
The Elephant Falls is amazing and is a great tourist spot which attracts many foreign tourists as well. Elephant Falls shares its name with another waterfall situated in Vietnam known as ‘Thác Voi’ which is equally amazing.
Although Elephant Falls is accessible year round, it is best visited during the monsoon season as the waterfall is at its peak and looks more beautiful during that time. This place is undoubtedly among the best places to visit in Meghalaya and is not to be missed, while you travel to Meghalaya.
13 David Scott Trail
This trek is about 16 kilometres which can be covered in one day. This trial route is divided into several trekking routes, one of which connects Mawphlang and Lad Mawphlang. The trek includes cascading waterfalls, typical Khasi villages and scenic valleys. The trekking can be done in both directions while starting the trek from Mawphlang makes it more of a descending trail.
The altitude of the trek is 4,892 feet. It takes about 4 hours to finish the trek. The best time to trek David Scott Trail is during non monsoon seasons as during monsoons slopes might become slippery. The trek is a gradual descent and a flat walk and also gradual ascent. It is better to carry water bottles. It is no less than a treat for trekking enthusiasts and is considered to be one of the popular Meghalaya tourist places.
14 Mawkdok Dympep Valley
Location: 23.5 kilometers from Cherrapunji
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Zip-lining Cost: Rs.400-800 per person
15 Mawsynram
The area receives the highest rainfall, and the people use tall grasses to make their dwellings soundproof and to avoid rains. Some must visit locations include Mawjymbuin Cave, Jakrem Hot Water Spring and Mawlyngbna. The months of April and June are ideal for visiting Mawsynram. Mawsynram is a destination not to be missed when in Meghalaya and is among the most loved Meghalaya tourist places.
16 Mawsmai Falls
The best time to visit Mawsmai Waterfall is during the monsoon season.
Location: Cherrapunji, Meghalaya, India
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm
17 Dainthlen Falls
18 Dawki Tamabil (Bangladesh Border)
Tourists can reach here by all means of travel. Thus, a visit here is highly recommended and worth it.
19 Shillong Golf Course
Shillong Golf Course is situated at an altitude of 5,200 feet. As it is located in a scenic valley, people not well-versed in golf can also enjoy the place because of its surroundings. This is also famous for being a picnic spot. It is a perfect place to spend relaxing afternoons. Therefore, it is one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya.
Entry Fee: Free.
Location: Kachari Road, Shillong, East Khasi Hills, 793001
Timings: 5 am to 8 pm
20 Thangkharang Park
Location: Sohra, Thangkharang Road, Meghalaya
Timings: 7 am to 4 pm
Entry: Rs.20 per person
21 Wei Sawdong Falls
Location: Cherrapunji, Meghalaya, 793108.
Timings: 8am to 5pm
22 Umngot River (Dawki River)
The months from October to April are ideal for visiting the Umngot River. The weather is spectacular throughout the spring season. Tourists can reach Umngot River by all means of travel. If you’re ever in Meghalaya, you should definitely visit Umngot River as it’s one of the most beautiful locations.
23 Wahkaba Falls
Wahkaba Falls is situated just beside the road and it requires a few steps to reach the falls. Visitors can go to the edge of the falls but need to be very careful as it is a windy place. Safety barriers are also there to guard against mishaps. On the way to Wahkaba Falls there is a small waterfall. As these falls are rain fed, the best time to visit the fall is during the rainy season. Wahkaba Falls is accessible 24 hours and is a must-visit spot.
Location: Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
Entry Fee: Rs.10 per person
24 Moopun Waterfall
The PWD road is only 300 metres away from the peak of Moopun Falls. Below the falls, there is a natural swimming pool which is about 75 feet long and 50 feet wide. Another appealing place is “Dem Khla”. which lies 500m from the falls and faces the Myntdu River. The word ‘dem’ signifies repose, while the word ‘khla’ indicates tiger. It is also known as the ‘Tiger Resting Place’. One can reach this falls by all means of travel. Therefore, it is a must visit place in Meghalaya.
25 Krem Mawmluh
The entrance is so narrow that one needs to squeeze through it to get inside. Certain sections of the cave are fully underwater, and streams run through it during the monsoon season.
The cave is too deep which contains passages, formations, deep pools, a few belly crawls and few climbs. Only 1/4th of the cave gets sunlight, the other part is dark. Due to the environment inside the cave, people with respiratory diseases are advised not to undertake the cave’s journey. Guides are available and they also provide boots and suits before going into the cave. Thus, it is a treat for adventure lovers and is a must explored place in Meghalaya.
Location: 3.5 km from Cherrapunji bus stand.
Timings: 7:30 am to 4 pm
Entry Fee: Rs.200 for guide
26 Tyrshi Falls
27 Mawsmai Cave
Location: Situated approximately 4 kilometres from Cherrapunji, in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya.
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: Rs.20 for adults, Rs.5-10 for children
28 Butterfly Museum
The Butterfly museum is situated at Riatsamthiah Jaiaw which is about 2 kilometres from the Police Bazar. It is closed on Sundays. The time required to explore the museum is about 1-2 hours. It is considered among the best places to visit in Meghalaya and should be in your bucket list.
Location: Near Christian Academy School, Riatsamthiah, Shillong, Meghalaya.
Timings: 10 am to 4 pm
Entry Fee:Rs.50 to Rs.100
29 Don Bosco Museum
The whole museum needs half a day for the viewers to check their interests. This cannot be seen in a hurry. Don Bosco Museum is in hexagonal shape and is a seven storeys historical complex with 17 galleries. It is also referred to as the architectural pride of Shillong. The goal of this museum is to encourage cultural intelligence and awareness. It is more of a holistic education centre than sightseeing. This place is enjoyed by the people of all ages and is worthy of a visit.
Location: Malwai Phudmuri, Malwai Mawdatbaki, Shillong, Meghalaya
Timings: 9 am to 4:30 pm
Entry fee:
Rs.100 for Indian adults and Rs.50 for students
Rs.200 for foreign adults and Rs.150 for foreign students
Note: Students must carry their identity cards.
30 Kharmih Varieties Spot
The best travel and food options can be experienced here. You can visit nearby places like Nohkalikai Falls and Mawsmai Falls etc. It also has a park, swimming pool and much more options to enjoy. Tourists can take their own stuff and cook, which is the best option that tourists would love to have. Everything inside is chargeable, but the service is top-notch. That makes your experience here at Kharmih Varieties Spot entirely different.
31 Kynrem Falls
Location: Sohra, Thangkharang Road, Meghalaya
Timings: 7 am to 4 pm
Entry Fee: Rs.10 per person
32 Shillong Peak
It takes less than an hour to explore the region completely. The breathtaking view of the towering Himalayas, green woods, cascading waterfalls, and dense meadows is enjoyed by visitors. It is thought to be among the most popular Meghalaya tourist places. People of all ages find the walk up to Shillong Peak easy because it is not particularly difficult. Shillong Peak is the perfect place for get-togethers and fun times with family and friends.
33 Rynji Falls
Rynji Falls is accessible by road. You can hire a cab from Khliehriat to reach Cham Cham. Umroi Airport is the nearest airport to reach Rynji Falls. It is approximately 24.5 kilometres away from Khliehriat.
34 Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary
The park has become broken and rugged due to continuous flow of the rivers. The lowest part of the sanctuary is 200 metres above sea level whereas the highest part is 950 metres above sea level in eastern and southern regions. In the southern side of the Sanctuary, there is a natural lake named ‘Birbah’.
Approximately 29 square kilometres make up this biodiverse zone, which is home to about 300 bird species, 50 mammal species, and 25 reptile species. The borders are surrounded by semi-evergreen forests, tropical moist deciduous woods, and montane grasslands. The animals here include Bengal Tiger, Black Bear, Clouded Leopard, Hoolock Gibbon, Wild Dog, Asiatic Elephant, etc. This is a wonderful place to witness amazing flora and fauna amidst nature in Meghalaya.
35 Thangsning Falls
36 Eco Park
Eco Park is one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya and is situated near Seven Sisters Falls. There is a railing in the park which guides the way. The park has a peaceful and calm environment. The park also has small eateries and souvenir shops for refreshment. The park offers activities like boating, swimming, gardening lectures which have specific entry fees.
Location: 3 km from Cherrapunji
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm
Fee: Rs.20 per person
Note: During unfavourable weather conditions, the park shall remain close.
37 Air Force Museum
It’s a popular destination for families with small children. You must visit this place if you wish to teach your kids about the nation’s Air Defence Force or if you want to learn more about it yourself. Information on the country’s military forces, particularly the valiant pilots of the Indian Air Force, can be found here.
The Air force museum is located at a distance of 12.1 kilometres from Shillong. Visitors are recommended to carry their id proofs which are collected and will be given while leaving the museum. It is closed on every Monday and on public holidays. Therefore, it is among the best Meghalaya tourist places to explore.
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
38 Borhill Falls
It gives a panoramic view and an incredible experience to the spectator. The falls are among the most picturesque locations in Meghalaya because of their captivating vistas and the surrounding lush flora. It is best to visit Borhill Falls during the rainy season in order to witness their beauty in full potential. A visit to this waterfall should be on your list when in Meghalaya.
Location: Mawylnnong-Lynghat, Riwai-Dawki
39 Prut Falls
Prut Falls is a recently added locus to the list of the identified beauties of nature, so it’s a less visited sight by the explorers but if you once explore the astounding beauty of this lake you will definitely admire it.
There are definitely some water sports available in the Prut Falls with very minimal charges such as cliff jumping and swimming. In fact the water always remains cold in every weather and gives a soothing vibe to the body. The water is only a little deep so you can easily stand straight, putting your feet inside the cool water.
Location: Laitduh, Meghalaya
40 Lyngksiar Falls
Lyngksiar Falls got its name from a rare orchid ‘tiew lyngksiar’ having golden petals and is said to be found only around this area. This exquisite glory is so pleasant to the souls of all the tourists as it attracts people from every corner.
The waterfall cascades down gracefully which satisfies the eyes of the onlookers. Though during the monsoon season around April to August the water will appear a bit muddy because of the tremendous rainfall it receives but still it looks beautiful. But the serene view can be seen in the winter months which will definitely soothe your heart and soul. A visit to this waterfall is highly recommended when in Meghalaya.
41 Bishop Falls
Along with it, Beadon Falls flows down into a deep canyon of the Umiam River, which runs through the Suna valley. A hydroelectric powerhouse functions at the downwards of this waterfall. It is surrounded by huge rocky mountains and dense forests. Do not forget to click the photographs at this beautiful place. There is no entry fee to witness this amazing waterfall.
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
42 Police Bazar
The top most buying list follows shawls, bamboo handicrafts, and organic products. When buying something from a street vendor, visitors can apply their bargaining skills. This is a very accessible site that is mostly full of people. Cafe and restaurants lake Cityhut, Jiva sizzlers, Eden Restaurant, Bread Cafe are famous here. Glory’s Plaza and Megha Emporium, Khasi Emporium are some other famous places for shopping. Shillong and its markets are the best places to visit in Meghalaya.
Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: No fee
43 Ever Living Museum
The museum has a gallery where collections of stones, wood and fossils are found. It depicts one’s love for nature, culture, tradition and also history. Miniature baskets, fish traps, filters and many more items are there in the handicrafts area. The Ever Living Museum is located at a distance of about 8-10 kilometres from Shillong. This place is enjoyed by people of all ages and is a recommended spot to visit in Meghalaya.
Location: Mawshbuit-Sweet Falls Road, East Khasi Hills District.
Timings: 11 am to 5 pm (closed on Good Friday, Christmas and Easter)
Entry fee: Rs.50 for Adults and Rs.20 for Children and Rs.30 for Students
Time Required: 1-2 hours
44 Umiam Lake
The main attraction of this beautiful place is its water sports and adventurous activities like kayaking, water cycling, boating, etc. Umiam lake due to its overwhelming beauty, picturesque and panoramic surroundings, is compared to the beautiful lakes of Scotland. Travellers from all over the world love to visit this mesmerising and serene place. Infact this place also has a treasure of different varieties of flora and fauna.
This mesmerising lake is lined by roads and bridges which is definitely one of the most important reasons why Guwahati – Shillong route (NH-6) is soothing to the heart of every passerby. Therefore, Umiam Lake will definitely prove to be the best place to visit in Meghalaya, and it should definitely be on your bucket list.
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Weather in Meghalaya
Meghalaya has the most pleasant weather with an average temperature of 24-25°C, as it is a hilly state with abundant rainfall. During monsoons, the beauty of waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and flora enhances, making it no less than a paradise. Due to the magnificent weather of Meghalaya during the monsoon, the fog over the mountains make the entire region appealing.
The winter season in Meghalaya is dry and Meghalaya tourist places are well explored during this season, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 12-16°C during the day and falling to below 10°C at night. However, one of the most striking features of Meghalaya’s winters is that it is the sunniest time, making it possible for everyone to take advantage of many outdoor activities and sun exposure.
Season | Temperature |
---|---|
Summer(April-June) | 15°C-25°C |
Monsoon(July-September) | 24°C-33°C |
Winter(October-March) | 4°C-16°C |
Meghalaya One Day Tour
Adventure Activities in Meghalaya
Travel Guides for Visiting Meghalaya
Frequently Asked Questions about Places to Visit in Meghalaya
There are various famous places in Meghalaya. Following are the must-visit places in Meghalaya:
Elephant Falls: A beautiful three-tier waterfall in Shillong, attracting people from all over the world with its beauty.
Double Decker Living Root Bridge: This unique and astounding root bridge is located in Cherrapunjee. One of the most adorable things about it is its ever spreading roots, because of which it is called the ‘Living Root Bridge’.
Laitlum Canyons: Regarded as one of the best places for trekking in Meghalaya, Laitlum Canyons allures people from far off places with its amazing landscape.
Mawlynnong Village: It is regarded as the ‘Cleanest Village of Asia’ and is a must visit place in Meghalaya.
Meghalaya is famous for its numerous tourist spots which are renowned all over the world. Meghalaya is home to the tallest and most beautiful waterfalls like Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, Dainthlen Falls, etc. It is also home to some longest and deepest caves like Mawsmai Cave, Mawjymbuin Cave and many more.
5 days and 4 nights are enough for an excursion in Meghalaya. In five days you can explore the major visiting spots in Meghalaya. You can have a look at our Best of Meghalaya Tour Package which is for 5 Days and 4 Nights.
Meghalaya can be visited in all the seasons. For nature lovers monsoon can be the best time to visit as during this time the waterfalls are at their best and look beautiful. Although for adventure lovers winter time can be the best time for trekking and water sports activities as trekking paths would be comfortable and rivers would be clean during this time of the year.
You can plan a Meghalaya trip for 5 days and 4 nights for an excursion in the following manner:
Day 1: Guwahati Pickup – Shillong Sightseeing
Day 2: Witness Laitlum Canyons – Krang Suri Falls
Day 3: Head to Mawlynnong – Dawki and spend Overnight Camping in the Dawki Shnongpdeng
Day 4: Cherrapunjee Full Day Tour
Day 5: End of the Tour
You can also have a look at our Best of Meghalaya Tour Package which is for 5 Days and 4 Nights.
People in Meghalaya typically use buses for local transportation. The buses are readily available and run frequently throughout the state with great links between the major cities. You can also use taxis for internal transportation.
The state of Meghalaya has low crime rate as compared to other parts of India. Thus, it is safe for solo travellers especially female travellers to travel in Meghalaya.
If you’re on a budget-friendly trip, reserve a 4-day Meghalaya Tour with us, including standard lodging and a sedan car. Give us a call to receive the greatest offers and savings on a low-cost Meghalaya trip.
Yes, you can cover some of its major spots in 3 days. In order to cover all the major places, you can plan a 4 Nights 5 Days Trip to Meghalaya.
Meghalaya is home to numerous waterfalls flowing down its hills. Below listed are some breathtaking waterfalls in Meghalaya that are worth witnessing:
-Seven Sisters Falls
-Elephant Falls
-Dainthlen falls
-Wei Sawdong Falls
-Nohkalikai Falls
-Krang Suri Falls
-Phe Phe Falls
Everyone enjoys shopping, and Meghalaya cheerfully provides for our needs in this regard. Shillong is usually the most visited place when it comes to shopping. Many stores around the state offer a variety of items that you can buy for your loved ones. Here are a few locations that you really must visit:
-Lewduh (market also known as Bara bazar)
-Police Bazar
-Meghalaya Handicrafts
-Laitumkhrah
-Purbashree
-Khadi Gramodyog
Meghalaya’s famous places are Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki, Jowai, Tura. Famous Meghalaya Tourism Villages are Mawphlang, Kongthong, Nongjrong, Umden and Mawlynnong.
The state of Meghalaya is open to tourists and at present there are no specific protocols to follow post COVID. Earlier e-invite was mandatory with a negative RT-PCR report but now all these are not required.
No, Meghalaya tourism does not require a permit in order to enter Meghalaya.
Sophie fruit, Khasi Mandarin and Cherrapunjee Oranges and Bananas are some of the renowned fruits in Meghalaya and are of very good quality.
Meghalaya produces bamboo goods and other distinctive native handicrafts that you can purchase. Additionally, Meghalaya offers high-quality indigenous products, including good-quality honey and turmeric. The police bazar has many gift shops. You can get yourself one as a souvenir of your Meghalaya tour.