Top 5 National Parks in Meghalaya – A Must Visit

The word Meghalaya translates into the ‘cloud dwelling’ as the state is blessed with breathtaking clouds and natural bounties in addition to some of the great National Parks. In Meghalaya, there are some top national parks that provide a peaceful experience. These National Parks are home to rare flora and fauna, variety of orchids, exotic fruits and vegetables along with medicinal plants. Meghalaya receive’s the highest amount of rainfall in the whole country. Wondrous waterfalls, picturesque hills, wildlife sanctuaries and caves are some of Meghalaya’s top attractions. 

Overview

While Meghalaya literally translates into the ‘cloud dwelling place,’ there is also a lot of natural beauty to be experienced on its land. The state is home to many wildlife parks and sanctuaries, from stunning flora to exotic fauna, which preserves nature in its raw form. These are the parks you shouldn’t miss along with a visit to Meghalaya’s waterfalls, scenic mountains and other attractions.

Locals here are predominantly inhabited by three tribes-Khasi, Pnar and Garo, and are very friendly. English is the state’s official language so international travellers need not worry.

Also Read: Festivals in Meghalaya – Into the Celebrations of Mesmerizing Meghalaya

Couples can take a romantic trip enjoying the pleasant climate, friends and families can relax in the nature lap in cities like Shillong and adventure enthusiasts can take on the challenge of trekking through Meghalaya ‘s challenging terrains. Shillong, Tura, Jowai, Cherrapunjee, Nongpoh, Baghmara are some of Meghalaya’s celebrated tourist destinations. To be more specific, Wards Lake, Lady Hydari Park, Sweet Falls, Butterfly Museum, Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Cave, Thangkarang Park, Eco Park, Khoh Ramhah, Green Rock Ranch are all places to visit in Meghalaya. When it comes to taking something back, you’ll be satisfied with your bag of moments turning into memories plus you can also take along the brilliant handicrafts that are made of this state ‘s residents. Overall, this overwhelmingly beautiful, green and alive state makes for a perfect holiday destination and is fully enjoyable by everyone!

Best time to visit Meghalaya

No matter what time of year, you will be welcomed by Meghalaya with amazing views worthy of a lifetime. Mostly this state experiences only two seasons — the monsoon and the winters. Monsoon temperatures range from 10 to 30 degrees, while winters dive down to or even below 2 degrees. During October to June, the best time for sightseeing in Meghalaya is when the climate is pleasant, and the views are stunning.

Also Read: Why You Should Visit Meghalaya In June

Getting Around

Meghalayan people usually use the bus for local commuting. The buses are available in all parts of the state and at a regular frequency. The major cities are also very well connected. Except for this, the yellow and black unmetered taxis can also be boarded for an internal voyage. You can check your ride ‘s estimated rate from any locale or hotel you ‘re staying in.

Top 5 National Parks in Meghalaya

1. Nokrek National Park

The Nokrek National Park is located about 45 kilometres from the town of Tura, which lies in the hills of Garo. The park is well known for sheltering the Hollock Gibbons, a rare species. A vast number of wild elephants can be found in the park, and it is well known that the park is the land of the ‘ape-man’ who is known to pay frequent visits. Besides the park’s exuberant fauna, it is also home to various kinds of useful plants, which are found especially in this region. The place is renowned for its well-kept forest tracks along with the beautiful ancient limestone caves found here.

Also Read: Places to visit in Tura, Meghalaya – Top 9 Places to visit in Tura

2. Balpakram National Park

The National Park of Balpakram is well known for its immense archaeological and geological value. Apart from being also known for the unique red panda, the park is the breeding ground of leopards, langurs, boars and the rarely found, golden cat. The word ‘balpakram’ has the literal meaning of ‘a place where there are perpetual winds.’ It is located roughly 167 kilometres from Tura.

3. Siju Bird Sanctuary

The Siju Bird Sanctuary is located near the Simsang River which flows alongside the park. A good variety of rare and endangered species of birds such as the Siberian ducks can be found near the river which makes for an enigmatic view. In particular, this bird sanctuary is a must-visit since you won’t find any other sanctuary like this that only caters for birds. The grey hornbill and the peacock pheasant are just a few more birds you can find here.

Also Read: The Mesmerizing Cherrapunji Waterfalls in Meghalaya

4. Nongkhyllem Sanctuary

The Sanctuary of Nongkhyllem spreads over an area of about 29 square kilometres and is famous as a breeding ground for various rare species including reptiles, animals, birds and other fauna. The Sanctuary is located in the Meghalaya district of Ri-Bhoi and you will find here a wide variety of fauna such as Bengal tigers, black bears, leopards and many more other animals such as the necked hornbill and the brown hornbill bird that are on the brink of extinction.

5. Baghmara Reserve Forest

Located in the middle of the South Garo Hills, the Baghmara Reserve Forest is very close to the town of Bhagmara. In this forest, you will discover a wide range of flora and fauna including wild elephants, langurs, rare pitcher plants along with some wildflowers. You’ll also be witnessing the Garo community that lives here in their unique way.

Plan your trip with Pickyourtrail

Meghalaya is far more than just cloud dwelling, it is one of the most important habitats of wild and endangered flora and fauna found in the country’s North-East region. From beautiful lakes and streams to waterfalls and wild pineapples, the State has much to offer. Visit Meghalaya to see the merging of exotic and unique species indigenous to the area! To the benefit, having the help of a reputed travel agency adds. Starting with DIY itineraries to have one-stop-shop for all travel needs, Pickyourtrail not only guarantees seamless and trouble-free ride but holds the cost-effectiveness under check at the same time. Log in to Pickyourtrail International Tour Packages for more information. 

FAQ’s