Most Desirable Places To Visit In Meghalaya For Memories Galore

Northeast India’s “gateway”, Meghalaya, is equally popular with its metaphor, the “Abode of Clouds.” Meghalaya is a unique place with a lot of tourist attractions and is a beautiful state with unmatched natural beauty in all its forms. The state is home to many waterfalls, caves, and lakes from north to south and east to west. There are several places to visit in Meghalaya for the region’s ultimate exploration making this one of the best Christmas and New Year destinations.

The best part is that these tribes, who have long practised matrilineal culture and kept the places to see in Meghalaya intact set an example by coexisting peacefully with nature and refraining from exploiting it for personal gains. Their unique selling points include:

• The incredible living root bridges; 
• The highest level of cleanliness; 
• Calling each other by singing along; 
• Numerous other activities.

With all of its incredible, unimaginable ways, it truly is the most beautiful state to visit in India. Suppose you are willing to see the wettest place on earth. Strolling through a sacred forest and swimming in chilly mountain streams sound appealing. In that case, any Meghalaya tourist spot is undoubtedly the destination you must visit this year.

1. Cherrapunji

Because of the anticipated high annual rainfall, Cherrapunji is the wettest place on earth. The Dain-Then, Kynrem, and Nohkalikai Waterfalls—known collectively as the famous waterfalls of Cherrapunji—draw as the most sought-after tourist places in Meghalaya from all over the world. Some of the best waterfalls in Meghalaya are in Cherrapunji, making it a popular spot. 

The main attractions are the Living-Root Bridges, Mawsmai Cave, Seven Sisters Falls, Eco-Park, and so on. Due to its location in a forest, there aren’t any luxurious accommodations available, but you can find Meghalayan Resorts and other hotels surrounded by nature that are ideal for trips with friends and family. Whenever you visit there, you include it in your Meghalaya sightseeing itinerary.

2. Balpakram National Park

Balpakram National Park, regarded as a traveller’s paradise is an essential place to visit Meghalaya. Often a part of the best national parks in Meghalaya, any tourist who visits this area to explore the diverse biodiversity of Balpakram National Park refer to it as the “Land of Spirits.”

A heaven for wildlife lovers and photographers, you can witness the presence of creatures like the Red Panda, Wild Buffalo, Elephant, Tiger, Deer, Leopards, etc. The Indian Bison, the Sterow, and the Lesser Panda are some rare species that make this park one of the most visited tourist attractions in Meghalaya.

3. Shillong

Shillong, also denoted as “Scotland of the East,” remains one of the most popular and one of the  best places to visit in Meghalaya. It has forested hills, a pleasant climate, and scenic beauty that draw many tourists from around the world to this place, far from the bustle of their daily life.

Shillong Peak, Lady Hydari Park, Wards Lake, and the Don Bosco Museum are some of the unexplored places in Meghalaya. Tourists develop a new feeling of affinity knowing about the Shillong’s native tribes Khyrim, Mylliem, Maharam, Mallaisohmat, Bhowal, and Langrim et al. Due to mesmerising Meghalaya‘s primary airport location, Shillong is also regarded as the state’s entry point. The city offers a wide variety of activities for a memorable vacation and is the facilitator of beautiful places in Meghalaya that bring the region into the global limelight.

4. Elephant Falls

Meghalaya is famous for its impressive waterfalls. It is a state that always remains green, with dense forests covering the entire region. That is why it remains one of the most famous tourist places in Meghalaya. The elephant-shaped stone at the foot of Elephant Falls is one of the region’s true natural wonders. The best thing to do in Meghalaya is to visit this waterfall—considered a well-known northeastern landmark.

 The nearby Khasi people refer to the majestic Elephant Falls as “Ka Kshaid Lai Patang Khohsiew,” which means “The Three Step Waterfalls,” because they are composed of three magnificent falls that progress one after the other. The first waterfall, the largest of the three, is tucked between two tall trees. Elephant Falls thus remains the famous Meghalaya tourist spot for every visitor.

Due to retreating water levels, the subsequent fall diminishes to thin strands of water and is essentially insignificant in the winter. The third waterfall, the most visible to the unaided eye, is the tallest, and the rocks in the background are being struck by clear water streaming like a sheet of milk. This scenic waterfall in Meghalaya is indeed one of the most beautiful places due to its majestic surroundings and picturesque views.

5. Double-decker Living Root Bridge

The double-decker living root bridge made of Indian rubber tree roots is well known and found in Cherrapunji, Meghalaya. At a height of 2400 feet, the bridge is 3 km long. Crossing the bridge gives the most beautiful feeling while the Umshiang River flows beneath it. Only 50 people can be accommodated at a time, despite being the oldest natural bridge dating back about 200 years. If you are honeymooning, make sure you explore it as one of the most beautiful places to see in Meghalaya that should remain imprinted in your mind and soul forever.

Tyrna is the bridge’s starting point; it will cross the Umshiang Waterway throughout its journey. It takes a little bit of effort to get there exactly. Incredible 3500–3600 steps are required to descend to the bridge from Tyrna, the base town located 20 kilometres from Cherrapunjee, the main town. It is one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya. It indeed still remains one of the unexplored places in Meghalaya.

6. Don Bosco Museum

Meghalaya state’s cultural history is a topic that many visitors are very interested in. The seven-story Don Bosco Museum in Shillong is a historical attraction with 17 galleries that feature exhibits that walk visitors through Northeast India’s way of life. Don Bosco Museum is the high search volume tourist place in Meghalaya today.

Furthermore, these galleries feature various artwork, antiques, clothing styles, weapons, and painstakingly crafted items that depict the traditions and cultures of the different tribes and individuals in Meghalaya. Another accolade bestowed upon the Don Bosco Museum is that it is among Asia’s finest. It is one the most popular tourist attractions in Meghalaya.

7. Kyllang Rocks

The spectacular Kyllang Monolith, a gigantic red stone rock in the West Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, is located between 78 and 82 kilometres from Shillong. The Rock, a giant square of granite stone that is a part of the Khasi legends and appears lovely in appearance, is located 5400 feet above sea level and has a width of about 1000 feet. Kyllang Rocks is one of the essential famous Meghalaya places you’ll know.

You can appreciate the breathtaking view of the surrounding area by ascending Kyllang Rock to its highest point. Kyllang Rock reportedly has a gorgeous landscape, and ancient Red Rhododendrons surround Meghalaya sightseeing. On its northern side, the gigantic dome is covered in rhododendrons but is cut off from the south.

8. Mawlynnong Village

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Asia’s most spotless village is none other than the Mawlynnong village. One of Meghalaya’s fascinating places to visit Meghalaya and spend the day is here. It welcomes you with everything you need to make your Meghalaya excursion crucial, from lovely waterfalls and root bridges to a neat and clean environment and a picturesque view. In addition, you’ll need to stay in one of the many bamboo houses nearby to help you acclimate to the area.

9. Baghmara

The Baghmara Reserve Forest, home to langurs, elephants, and other avian and mammal species, is a beautiful place in Meghalaya where you enjoy wildlife. It is mere 4 km from Baghmara town. The Siju Caverns, the third-longest cavern network on the Indian subcontinent, are perfect for those who want labyrinths. They are made up of countless chambers and mazes. Baghmara is the most beautiful Meghalaya tourist spot you can’t ignore. 

In particular, the “Princess Di’s Chamber,” a magnificent arrangement of limestone rocks, is breathtaking and a truly mesmerising place to see in Meghalaya. If all of this wasn’t enough, the Siju Bird Sanctuary offers to keep fans of avian life enthralled by bringing the rarest species to the area during the wintertime.

10. Nohkalikai Waterfalls

Nohkalikai Falls, the world’s fourth highest waterfall and probably the best place to visit in Meghalaya plunges 335 metres from a lush cliff to the ground, creating the impression of a vast and extraordinary heaven. The falls, which are the pride of the state of Meghalaya, are among the most magnificent and fantastic falls in the country.

The Khasi Hill’s evergreen rainforest is cared for, and the falls, which are streaming in all their glory, may plunge into a tidal pond that is as blue as the sky at dusk. The best time for these famous places to visit Meghalaya is now.

11. Mawsmai Cave

Mawsmai Cave is without a doubt, one of the most popular tourist places in Meghalaya, as well as enjoyable caves in the region. Inside the cavern, there is plenty of vegetation to catch the eye. The cave’s 150-metre length, while not the longest in comparison to other shelters in the area, most likely allows you to catch a glimpse of underground life. Mawsmai Cave in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills is an incredible cave that can be found just 6 km from Cherrapunjee’s centre.

12. Umiam Lake

15 kilometres north of Shillong, where the lovely artificial Umiam Lake is located and remains one of Meghalaya’s famous places. After a dam was built to generate hydroelectric power, the lake took on its current shape. It makes for a captivating sight for nature lovers to see the picturesque Umiam Lake surrounded by lush East Khasi slopes. Take advantage of the opportunity to see the sunrise at the lake with your own eyes. Tourists can take leisurely boat rides in the lake, and thrill-seekers will enjoy water sports like drifting as part of their adventure-filled Meghalaya sightseeing.

13. Tura

The peaceful surroundings of Tura make it the best place to visit in Meghalaya. Tura, a wildlife enthusiast’s and nature lover’s paradise, is situated in the Garo Hills. The distance between Tura and Nokrek National Park is 12 km. The leopard, golden cat, wild buffalo, and pheasant are just a few of the many species found here. As part of your trip to Tura, you must see Siju Caves.

14. Jowai

One more popular tourist destination in Meghalaya is Jowai. It is the most popular among all tourist places in Meghalaya, which is situated in the Garo Hills. The region is renowned for the diversity of its heritage and culture. Learn about people’s culture and live in the area as they do. The lakes in this town rank as some of the best places to visit in Meghalaya’s most breathtaking tourist attractions. Spend time contemplating life at Thadlaskein Lake while taking in the tranquil surroundings.

15. Laitlum Canyon

Laitlum Canyon, tucked away in the East Khasi Hills, is a paradise on earth. This dreamland is a Meghalaya tourist spot with low-flying clouds, expansive green landscapes, and breathtaking views. This location is ideal for you if you love nature and enjoy relaxing amidst it. Adventurers will also like their visit to this location because of the 3000-step staircase, which offers exciting adventure as major tourist attractions in Meghalaya.

16. Mawsynram

Mawsynram has the wettest environment out of all the Meghalaya famous places. This village receives enormous amounts of rainfall all year long and is surrounded by lush and green hills. Beautiful landscapes, swooping clouds, foggy skies, and incredible waterfalls are all present and correct in the village. Mawsynram, one of Meghalaya’s most distinctive tourist destinations, receives nearly 11,872 millimetres of rain annually.

For those who enjoy the outdoors and seek peace of mind, here are innumerable beautiful places to see in Meghalaya. Travelling to Meghalaya for vacation is a must if you’re looking for peace among the snow-capped mountains. We promise not to let you down. There is much more to explore in the unexplored places in Meghalaya, which WanderOn can help you discover.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Tourist Places to Visit in Meghalaya

1. In Meghalaya, what is well-known and worth exploring?

The mesmerising beauty of Meghalaya is well known. Travellers worldwide are drawn to the area by the many tourist attractions. Meghalaya’s famous places to visit while travelling include Nohkalikai Falls, Umiam Lake, Cherrapunji, Root Bridges, Laitlum Canyon, Mawsynram, and Shillong et al.

2. In Meghalaya, which villages must a tourist visit?

 The exquisite beauty of Meghalayan villages is well known as the best Meghalaya tourist spots. The most recommended villages in Meghalaya are Mawlynnong Village, Laitlum Canyon, Nongriat Village, Jowai Village, and Mawlai, among others. These are must-see Meghalaya sightseeing locations.

3. For what dish is Meghalaya known?

While exploring the most popular places to see in Meghalaya, you must try local recipes like Jadoh, Dohkhlieh, Nakham Bitchi, Pumaloi, Bamboo Shoots, and Momos. Rice accompanied by spicily prepared fish and meat makes them delicious.

4. Where in Meghalaya should families go for the best travel experiences?

Some of the top places to visit Meghalaya for family travel include the following:

• Shillong
• Balpakram National Park
• Elephant Falls
• Don Bosco Museum
• Mawphlang Holy Forest

5. Where in Meghalaya should a couple go for a romantic getaway?

For a romantic getaway, Meghalaya is indeed an ideal location. The following are a few of the most beautiful places in Meghalaya or Meghalaya famous places to visit for a perfect honeymoon retreat:

• Cherrapunji
• Mawlynnong Village
• Nohkalikai Falls
• Umiam Lake
• Williamnagar, etc

Written By : WanderOn