Places to visit in Meghalaya – A Surreal Trip Into the Abode of Clouds

Meghalaya, a hilly-state based in North East India, is one of the seven sister states of India. When translated, Meghalaya means the abode of clouds. Staying true to its name, this charming state will leave you spellbound by its lush green valleys, dense forests, high rainfall, and also by its varied bio-diversity. Meghalaya has more than just the thunderclouds and green landscapes. Surrounded by the Khasi, Garo and Jaintia hills, Meghalaya offers you an experience of the unspoilt natural beauty. From majestic hills, cascading waterfalls to beautiful valleys, there is a myriad of places to visit in Meghalaya. 

Top 10 Places to visit in Meghalaya

Here’s a list of top places in Meghalaya that you must never miss on your next trip to the state.

1. Cherrapunji
2. Balpakram National Park
3. Shillong
4. Elephant Falls
5. Living Root Bridge
6. Mawlynnong Village
7. Nohkalikai Falls
8. Tura
9. Kyllang Rock
10. Umiam Lake

1. Cherrapunji

Cherrapunji is one of the wettest places on earth. It’s also the place that receives the highest rainfall in India. The Dain-Thlen, Kynrem, and Nohkalikai waterfalls are the popular waterfalls of Cherrapunji and they attract thousands of tourists every year. 

Major attractions in Cherrapunji include Living-Root bridges, Mawsmai cave, mesmerising waterfalls, Eco-park and the garden of caves. Visiting Cherrapunji is a must when it comes to the best tourist places to visit in Meghalaya.

2. Balpakram National Park

Second, on our list of top places in Meghalaya is the Balpakram National Park. This National Park is as a traveller’s paradise. This place is also referred to as the ‘Land of Spirits’ by the tourists and locals. 

In this National Park, you get to spot animals like Red Panda, Wild Buffalo, Elephant, Tiger, Deer, Leopards, Wild Cows, Marbled Cat, etc. It also a paradise of all wildlife enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

This park is one of the must-visits in Meghalaya. Tourists often compare this place to the Grand Canyon in the USA.

Also read: Norek National Park, Meghalaya

3. Shillong

Shillong is fondly known as the Scotland of the East. It is one of the most popular tourist places in Meghalaya that surely finds its place on everyone’s itinerary. Far from the busy life, it has forested hills, pleasant climate, scenic beauty which attracts many tourists and trekkers from around the world. The local tribes residing in Shillong are Khyrim, Mylliem, Maharam, Mallaisohmat, Bhowal, and Langrim.

Some of the famous tourist spots in Shillong include Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Lady Hydari Park, Wards, Lake, and Don Bosco Museum. 

Shillong is a popular gateway to Meghalaya as the main airport of Meghalaya is in Shillong. You will find plenty of things to do in Shillong to make your holiday memorable. 

4. Elephant Falls

The dense forests of the evergreen Meghalaya spread all around the state. Meghalaya is also known for its amazing waterfalls. Elephant Falls is the highlight of Meghalaya. It has an elephant-like stone at its foot and hence obtained the name Elephant falls. This falls is one of the most popular falls in the North-East and is one of the most mesmerizing places in Meghalaya.

The majestic Elephant falls is called as ‘Ka Kshaid Lai Patang Khohsiew’ by the Khasi people. It means ‘The Three Step Waterfalls’ since this falls comprises of three wonderful falls in progression. 

5. Living Root Bridge

The Living Root Bridge is a well-known bridge made up of roots of an Indian rubber tree and it is one of the most visited places of Meghalaya. Situated in Cherrapunji, this bridge is 3 km long and is at a height of 2400 feet. The Living Root bridge is the oldest natural bridge made around 200 years ago. 

As you walk along the bridge, enjoy the view of the Umshiang river flowing beneath the bridge. It is one of the scenic walks in North East India. If you are on your Honeymoon, do not miss out to visit this place in Meghalaya. 

6. Mawlynnong Village

Holding the pride of being the cleanest village in Asia, the Mawlynnong village is located in the East Khasi Hilla. It is one of the most exotic locations in Meghalaya. From gorgeous waterfalls and root bridges to a clean environment and scenic view, this village invites you with everything that is fundamental to make your Meghalaya excursion pivotal. Apart from this, there are numerous bamboo houses where you’ll need to have at least one-night stay. This village is a must-visit place in Meghalaya. You will be surprised to see how clean it is. 

7. Nohkalikai Falls

The Nohkalikai Waterfalls is the 4th most noteworthy waterfalls on the planet. It falls from about 335 meters from a verdant cliff to the ground into a tidal pool, giving the depiction of gigantic and extraordinary heavenliness. This waterfall is the pride of Meghalaya and is one of the most wonderful and terrific falls in the nation. This waterfall is one of the best places in Meghalaya.

8. Tura

Tura is one of the most visited places in Meghalaya and this is because of its serene environment. It is located in Garo Hills and it is filled with wonderful places to visit. Tura is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. It boasts undisturbed biodiversity and is shrouded with the fragrance of mountains and greenery.

Nokrek National Park and Siju Caves are notable attractions that you must visit on your trip to Tura.

9. Kyllang Rock

This extraordinary giant rock made out of red stone is about 78 km away from Shillong. Kyllang Rock is in the West Khasi Hills of Meghalaya and is 5400 ft above sea level. It has a width of around 1000 ft and is a mammoth square of granite stone. A climb to the highest point of Kyllang Rock allows you to cherish the brilliant scene of the encompassing zone.

Also read: Things to do in Meghalaya

10. Umiam Lake

Umiam Lake is a stunning man-made lake that is about 15 kilometres north of Shillong. The lake was formed after a dam was developed to produce hydroelectric power. The picturesque Umiam Lake is enclosed by lavish green East Khasi slopes that make for an encompassing sight for nature lovers. The dawn at the lake is a treat to witness with naked eyes and something that shouldn’t be missed. You can also take a long boat ride in the lake, and can also appreciate drifting and different water-sports.

Not just these, the other places in Meghalaya include Don Bosco Museum, Baghmara, Mawsmai Cave, Umiam Lake, Jowai, Nongpoh, Dawki and Williamnagar. Meghalaya is the ideal destination for the one who loves mountains and also for the one who is constantly seeking for some inner peace.

Also read: Best time to visit Meghalaya

If you are looking for some peace among the snowy mountains, you should definitely consider holidaying in Meghalaya. Check-out the trending Meghalaya packages and book your vacation to Meghalaya, right away with Pickyourtrail. Believe me, you won’t be disappointed.