Exploring Meghalaya: Uncovering the Hidden Gems of North East India

Introduction

Are you tired of going to the same old tourist spots that everyone talks about?

Do you want to explore a hidden paradise that’s off the beaten path?

Look no further than Meghalaya, a state in North East India that’s full of hidden gems waiting to be uncovered.

From the breathtaking waterfalls and living root bridges to the peaceful Mawlynnong village, known as the cleanest village in Asia, Meghalaya has something for everyone. Join me on a journey through this unexplored paradise as I share my experiences and insights into the beauty of Meghalaya.

Get ready to be amazed and fall in love with the hidden treasures of North East India.

Discovering the Beautiful Landscapes of Meghalaya

If you’re planning a tour of the north-eastern region of India, Meghalaya should definitely be on your list of places to visit.

This state is known for its lush greenery and mesmerizing natural beauty, especially in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills.

The hilly terrain of this region is dotted with cascading waterfalls, pristine lakes, and picturesque villages.

These hills also offer adventure sports like trekking, rock climbing, and caving, making it a haven for adventure enthusiasts.

The pleasant weather throughout the year makes it an ideal destination for tourists looking to escape the scorching heat of the Indian summer.

All in all, Meghalaya is a perfect mix of nature, adventure, and culture, making it a great destination for those who want to explore the lesser-known corners of India.

Meghalaya is an excellent destination for tourism, with a wealth of natural beauty and adventure activities for travelers of all kinds.

From the rugged mountains that punctuate the skyline to the lush rainforests that thrive on the slopes, Meghalaya offers a diverse range of landscapes to explore.

Visitors can traverse across the rolling hills, trek deep into the jungle, or raft down crystal-clear rivers.

The state is also home to many cascading waterfalls, sacred lakes, and scenic viewpoints that offer stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Meghalaya has something special to offer every traveler.

It is a perfect blend of mesmerizing landscapes, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality that makes it an unforgettable destination for anyone who visits.

Places you can visit in Meghalaya

Shillong

Shillong, also known as the Scotland of the East, is a favorite destination for tourists visiting Meghalaya.

Its lush green hills, temperate weather, and  views draw visitors from all corners of the world who seek a respite from the hustle and bustle of city living.

Shillong is home to a number of renowned attractions that are frequented by tourists.

These include the Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Lady Hydari Park, Wards Lake, and Don Bosco Museum.

The indigenous population of Shillong comprises several tribes such as Khyrim, Mylliem, Maharam, Mallaisohmat, Bhowal, and Langrim.

Shillong serves as the entry point to Meghalaya since the primary airport of the state is situated there.

During your vacation, engage in numerous activities in Shillong to create unforgettable memories.

Experience the mesmerizing natural beauty, renowned landmarks, and scenery of East central Meghalaya.

Delight in the Shillong Peak, Don Bosco Museum, Ward’s Lake, and other attractions like Elephant Falls and Sweet Falls.

Discover the rich heritage at the Air Force Museum and All Saints Cathedral.

Choose from comfortable accommodations like Tripura Castle, Pinewood Hotel, Hotel Polo Towers Shillong, and The Loft – Executive Inn. Plan your visit between September to May for the best experience.

Umiam Lake

Located 15 kilometers north of Shillong, Umiam Lake is a breathtaking reservoir that was created for the purpose of producing hydroelectric power through the development of a dam.

Surrounded by the stunning East Khasi hills, this man-made lake is a feast for the eyes of all who appreciate nature’s beauty. The sunrise at Umiam Lake is a sight not to be missed and one that will remain etched in your memory forever.

Visitors have the opportunity to embark on a lengthy boat excursion across the lake, while thrill-seekers can enjoy the rush of drifting and engaging in various water-based activities.

Mawsmai Cave

Undoubtedly, the Mawsmai Cave stands out as the most delightful among all the caverns in the region.

The lush greenery inside the cave catches one’s attention immediately. While the length of the cave is merely 150 meters, it offers an insightful peek into life underground, even though it may not be the longest cave compared to others in the vicinity.

Mawsmai cave is an incredible cavern situated in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, a mere 6 km distance from the heart of Cherrapunjee.

Nohkalikai falls

One of the highest plunge waterfalls in India, Nohkalikai falls cascades down from a lush cliff to the ground, creating a sight of immense and exceptional beauty.

The waterfalls are a source of pride for the state of Meghalaya and stand as one of the most stunning and grand waterfalls in the country.

Nestled amidst the lush evergreen Khasi Hill rainforest lies a waterfall that cascades into a vibrant tidal pool, its serene blue hue rivaling that of the dusky evening sky.

It’s no wonder that visiting this location is one of the top must-dos in Meghalaya.

Don Bosco Museum

The cultural history of the state is a subject that attracts numerous tourists.

In Shillong, the Don Bosco Museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the way of life of Northeast India.

This historical center spans seven floors and features 17 galleries showcasing different aspects of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Moreover, the collections exhibited in these galleries feature an extensive array of artifacts, including artworks, antiques, clothing styles, weapons, and intricate handiwork.

These objects offer valuable insights into the unique ways of life and cultural practices of the various tribes and individuals living in Meghalaya.

Notably, the Don Bosco Museum has earned a reputation as being one of the top-ranking museums in Asia.

Dawki

There’s no doubt that Dawki is a beloved destination among tourists in Meghalaya.

With its crystal-clear river and picturesque surroundings, it’s no wonder why Dawki is often seen all over Instagram.

If you’re planning a trip to Meghalaya, be sure to add Dawki to your list of must-visit places.

Besides being a popular tourist spot, Dawki also holds significance as a bustling trade hub, situated between India and Bangladesh.

Mawphlang Sacred Forest

The Mawphlang Sacred Forest in the Nongrum region of Meghalaya is a tropical rainforest that boasts of abundant flora and fauna.

Old trees that reach up to 1000 years old tower over the forest, creating a breathtaking view that showcases the natural beauty of Meghalaya.

Local communities hold this forest in high regard due to its mythological significance, making it a sacred place to them.

Nature enthusiasts are sure to find the forest an incredible retreat, making it a popular destination among all the tourist spots in Meghalaya.

Shillong peak

Shillong’s top attraction is the Shillong Peak, a highly recommended destination for tourists who visit the city. This spot offers an exceptional overview of Shillong, and it’s surrounded by greenery and stunning landscapes that will captivate your senses.

Shillong Peak, towering at 6449 ft or 1965 m above sea level, commands a commanding view of Shillong from its highest point.

From here, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city, the majestic Himalayas, the spectacular waterfalls, and even the plains of Bangladesh.

Tourists are offered the opportunity to use a telescope to get a closer look at the stunning landscape.

Hiking towards the crescent-shaped Shillong Peak is a must-do for unparalleled vistas, yet the trail is frequently surrounded by thick mist.

Wei Sawdong Waterfalls

Situated 54 km away from Shillong and 12.9 km from the renowned Nohkalikai Falls, lies this hidden gem.

Although accessible by car up to a certain point, it is impossible to catch a glimpse of the falls from the main road.

This means embarking on a steep trek of approximately 200 meters or 20 minutes to finally reach your destination.

Initially, your path leads up to a precarious ascent formed of bamboo, logs, and rock.

Here and there, you may encounter ladders. Portions of the trail may be slick and muddy if there has been rainfall recently.

In addition, you could come upon some large boulders that require traversing. Having a guide along with you will make the journey considerably easier.

Elephant falls

Situated next to Shillong, the Elephant Falls is a beloved tourist attraction in the North-East. They are named after a stone that resembles an elephant at their foot.

Three layers of the falls can be accessed by visitors from various vantage points. The falls were named by the British due to the elephant-shaped rock found beside them.

In 1897, an earthquake caused the complete disintegration and washing away of the stone.

If you desire to relish some time amidst nature and preserve awe-inspiring moments as memories, then Elephant Waterfalls proves to be an exceptional destination.

Local Khasi people named the Elephant falls as ‘Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew’, meaning ‘The Three Step Waterfalls’ due to their three consecutive falls that captivate anyone who sees them.

The first waterfall cascades widely amidst thick trees.

During winter, the second waterfall dwindles down to a few strands of water, almost unnoticeable due to the low water levels.

On the other hand, the third waterfall is the most striking and visible among the three. It stands tall and clear, flowing like a sheet of milk over the dark rocks in the background.

Many visitors find this waterfall to be the most impressive out of the three.

Before embarking on further explorations in Meghalaya, Elephant Falls serves as an excellent midway destination.

This picturesque waterfall, situated just 12 km from Shillong, the state capital, is among the most frequented attractions in the region.

Krang Shuri

Krang Shuri waterfall, in contrast to the steep and narrow falls seen in Southern Meghalaya, presents a distinctive charm.

This waterfall showcases a serene stream that unexpectedly cascades down and transforms into a beautiful curtain of flowing water that drenches a cave.

Krang Shuri’s charm is reminiscent of that of the Jungle Book, visible even from a distance.

Festooned by thick woods, it features stunning waterfalls with crystal-clear blue waters that remain visible throughout the summertime.

Descending towards Krang Shuri offers a delightful stroll, taking you through an expansive field before gradually leading you amidst an array of bushes and foliage.

Upon reaching the falls, you’ll find railings enhancing the view, and it’s worth asking about available boating options.

One can find an intimate spot called Upstream that is perfect for camping, enclosed by verdant foliage and the soothing flow of a nearby river.

If the weather is peaceful and bright, one can cool off in the pool’s cascading waterfalls, but it is best to rent a life jacket beforehand.

Photographers will undoubtedly savor roaming around the nearby hills to search for different angles to capture as there are numerous opportunities.

Ensure your safety by staying attentive to your footing and selecting shoes with reliable traction, as the rocks that surround the water may present a hazard.

Reaching Krang Shuri is an adventure in itself as it includes a scenic 90-km drive from Shillong via the NH6 and NH206, where highways meander around the rolling hills dotted with tiny villages and towns.

Foodies will be spoilt for choice as there are numerous local eateries to tantalize their taste buds.

Final Say

In conclusion, Meghalaya is a land of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

It’s a perfect destination for anyone in search of peace, tranquility, and adventure.

The state’s natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality of its people make it a must-visit place in North East India.

Exploring Meghalaya is not just about admiring picturesque landscapes and hidden treasures, but also about immersing oneself in an array of unique experiences.

Whether you are a solo traveler or traveling with family and friends, Meghalaya offers something for everyone.

So pack your bags, get ready for an adventure of a lifetime, and uncover the hidden paradise that is Meghalaya.

Secure your spot in Meghalaya’s mesmerizing landscapes by booking your adventure now