Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Meghalaya

Welcome to Meghalaya, the abode of clouds. You are confronted with gently rolling hills in every shade of green that you can imagine in every direction you turn.

Besides, pristine waterfalls cascading down the mountains and dense jungles are sure to appeal to your sensory delights. Advance a little closer, and you will be mesmerized by so much granary that it will be hard to divert your gaze elsewhere.

A heaven for nature lovers, Meghalaya has captured the attention of tourists from India and beyond.

Tucked in the northeastern corner of India, it shares its border with Assam and Bangladesh. There is no paucity of tourist hubs in Meghalaya that does not deserve attention. In every bend of the road, a panoramic view awaits you.

Also Read: Wild Life Places to Visit in Assam

This state is also the home to 3 main tribes Khasi, Par, and Garo. English being the official language, foreigners will have little cause for concern. The state has a lot to offer to nature lovers, family vacationers, and adventure tourists.

Trekking through the difficult terrains of Meghalaya can be quite a challenge. Stated to be one of the wettest states, Cherrapunji topping the scale of Meghalaya offers tourists an opportunity to revel in the mysteries of nature.

So make Meghalaya your next stopover and cleave it to us to update you about the best places to visit in Meghalaya in the state worth visiting.

Best Places to Visit in Meghalaya

Mawlynnong Village

Just a few km from Shillong lies the quiet little village of Mawlynnong, acclaimed to be “the cleanest village in the whole of India .”It has even earned the nickname of God’s garden. The village is a living testimony of the sustainable efforts made by the governments to promote eco-tourism.

The onus of maintaining the cleanliness of the village lies on the locals themselves. Bamboo garbage beans are lined up on every street and corner to maintain hygiene. The villagers are also aware of rainwater harvesting and the importance of education. The village has even fostered a high literacy rate of 100 percent.

Also Read: Historical Places to visit in Madhya Pradesh

Since the village lies near the Bangladesh border, you can enjoy the view of Bangladesh from the top of the bamboo treehouse with a sky view platform.

Arguably the most noteworthy attraction of Mawlynnong is the living root bridge. This bridge demonstrates the resilience of the local people who have interconnected the Ariel route of the giant rubber trees to make aerial bridges. So strong are these bridges that they can hold 50-60 people at once.

Cherrapunji

Cherrapunji is one of the few places in India that receive rainfall throughout the year. Tucked away in the East Khasi Hills, this small town is locally called Sohra or Churra or the land of the oranges. Cherrapunji offers a splendid view of its neighboring country Bangladesh.

Despite being the wettest state in India, this region has an acute scarcity of drinking water, and the locals have to travel far to fetch fresh water. The excessive rainfall has washed away the soil’s top layer, resulting in denudation of the land and the surrounding area.

The major attraction of Cherrapunji is the living root bridge. The bridge depicts the craftsmanship of the locals. Cherrapunji offers numerous trekking trails. The most popular route is that which leads to Double Decker living root bridge.

Dawki-Shnongpdeng

An hour’s drive from Mawlynnong lies the town of Dawki, famous for the Umngot river. It is a small town close to the Bangladesh border. The total lack of security in this place, despite the presence of the International Radcliffe line, makes it easy for the locals of either country to intermingle.

Dawki is the best town from where tourists can venture to Shnongpdeng and Darrang, the two famous riverside villages. The crystal clear river water Ymngot is excellent for scuba diving or river cruise rides, whichever catches your fancy.

Tourists can also participate in various outdoor activities like camping, fishing, or swimming. The place is frequented by campus and nature lovers hoping to encash the scenic beauty of this spot.

Mawsynram

Mawsynram is renowned throughout the world as the wettest place on the earth. The region receives an average of 12 mts of rainfall per year. This accounts for the lush green carpets of dense vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and the patter of rain constantly.

The region is indeed a tribute to nature’s bounty. It is hard to take your eyes off the abundance of flora and fauna collections. The prime attraction, however, is the Botanical garden. The garden is rich in several varieties of indigenous plants. It even houses an aviary with rare and exotic birds.

A little distance from Mawsynram lies Dwarksuid, a small pool lined up with lotus-shaped rock. Tourists also flock to Mawjymbuin cave to behold the idol of Shiva linga. Another place worth mentioning is Symper rock. The tourist gets a 360-degree view of the surrounding area from atop the rock.

Jowai

As more and more visitors have taken to exploring previously unchartered territories, Jowai has found a place in the travel plans. This small town in the eastern part of Meghalaya steals the show for being Meghalaya’s cultural and commercial hub.

It has a rich history dating back to Pnar kings. Jowai is a place to get acquainted with the local culture and visit the myriad scenic spots. The must-visit tourist attraction in Jowai is undoubtedly Syntu Ksar. Apart from its historical significance, it also houses a monument dedicated to Kiang Nong Bah, a freedom fighter.

The other places of interest are one 19th-century church named Jowai Presbyterian Church, Phadlaskein Lake, Lalong Park, and Sacred Groves.

Anyone keen to imbibe this place’s local essence ought to visit it during the Behdeimkhlam festival held in July. This festival symbolizes the rich cultural legacy of the Pnar tribes.

Baghmara

Baghmara lying on the Indo-Bangladesh border, boasts of the magnificence of flora and fauna and many lakes, rivers, and rolling hills. Bordered by the South Gharo hills on one side and the Sensing river on the other, it is a popular tourist spot.

The main attraction of this place is the Balphakram National Park. Just 4 km from the heart of the town lies the Baghmara Reserve forest. This forest is home to elephants, birds, and languors. For the more adventurous, there are the Siju caves. 

This cave features the third-largest cave system in India. The caves are dotted with labyrinths and chambers. They are an excellent site, especially The Princes Di’s chamber.”

Tura

Meghalaya is a feast for nature lovers, and Tura is no exception. This small town perched on the Garo Hills is known for its scenic beauty. The city lies adjacent to a forest, and wild animals are often known to stray into the town.

Tura uniquely appeals to wildlife enthusiasts and people keen to soak in the local ambiance of the place.

The hundred drums festival is celebrated here during the Wangala season. There is also the Nokret National Park and the Chandigre Village Resort run by the locals. The resort is all about highlighting the local culture and distinctive cuisine of the Garo community.

If you embark on a road trip from Shillong, we strongly recommend you take the SH 1 route. This highway captures the best scenic landscapes of the Garo hills.

Williamnagar

Formally called Simsanggre, it was later christened Williamnagar after captain Williamson A Sangma, the then Chief Minister.

This bursting town is the district headquarters of East Garo hills. The town is immensely beautiful and enjoys a pleasant climate throughout. This lures tourists who come yearly to witness the annual Samsung festival held in December. A festival is a fun event with plenty of singing, dancing, and fashion shows thrown in.

Another major draw of this town is the riverside picnic by the banks of Naka Chikong. Naka Chikong is a huge rock structure brimming with fish all year round. However, the locals believe anyone who touches the rocks makes the fist disappear. The local villagers celebrate a fishing festival named Nathok Wari yearly.

Shillong

Shillong is a mesmerizing hill station and the capital city of Meghalaya. It derives its name from U Shillong, a deity residing in the mountains surrounding this grand city. 

This city has a strong western influence, probably because of the missionaries and the Europeans who make this their permanent home.

Also Read: Picturesque Hill Stations in Bihar

Aptly referred to as “Scotland of the East,” the place is a picture postcard of cascading waterfalls, lush pine trees, and crystal clear lakes. Besides its breathtaking scenery, Shillong is a gateway to the whole of Meghalaya.

The jovial and vibrant vibes of the place lure many tourists from India and beyond. It is also the home of many young and talented musicians. The best places to see in Shillong, Meghalaya are Elephant Falls, Lady Hydari Park, and the Don Bosco museum, to name a few.

Historical Places in Meghalaya

Stone memorial of U-law Thodur-Brew

This monument is made up of a substantial megalithic Stone. Situated in the Jaintia hills, the place is devoted to local tribes. 

There is one menhir that has a height of 9 meters. They are assembled in three, four, five, or seven rows. 

Megalithic Bridge on the Um-Kumbeh

This bridge is situated on the Jaintia hills. Mar Phalangaki and U Luh Lyngskor Lamare built the bridge. Massive stone slabs were used to construct the bridge. 

It is said that the bridge was constructed when the Jaintia king gave the order for stones. 

Khasi heritage Village

Khasi Village is located around 27 kilometers from Shillong. The village covers an area of about 8 acres. 

The village shows the tradition, culture, and lifestyle of the Khasi tribes. The rooms are decorated in Khasi style, including bedrooms, kitchens, etc. 

The visiting time is from the morning, 8 AM to 6PM.

David Scott Memorial Stone

David Scott Memorial Stone is in Cherrapunji. The monument was built in memory of worker David Scott who worked Devotedly for an East India Company. 

He was then appointed the Governor-agent General on the North-East Frontiers of Bengal. 

The homage is engraved on the pillar of the monument. Many tourists visit this place to pay tribute and also for trekking. 

Kiang Nangbah

This privileged monument is built in the memory of the great Jaintia Patriot, U Kiang Nangbah. He fought for his land selflessly. It is situated on Syntu Ksiar along the Myntdu river. 

Every year, various tourists come from around the world to visit this location to honoring Nangbah.

Nartiang Monoliths

Nartiang Monoliths were constructed in the Jaintia hills to tribute to Jaintia kings. 

It is the world’s tallest monolith.

These monoliths contain a rich collection of menhirs and dolmens. 

This monument opens at 6:00 AM and gets closed at 6:00 PM. 

Megalithic Bridge on the Um-Nyankanah

This bridge is located halfway between Jarain and Jowai. The bridge is situated in the district of Jaintia hills. 

The bridge is very well supported by sturdy stone pillars. The Jaintia kings who ruled these lands during the Middle Ages built the bridge according to the locals. 

It took 100 years to build the bridge. The kings constructed the bridges to facilitate trade and communication and be used by the army. 

Haunted Places in Meghalaya

Sweet Falls

Sweet Falls is a waterfall located in Shillong, around 5 kilometers from Happy Valley. Here, the water descends from a height of about 96 meters. 

The perilous arrangement of the waterfall prohibits many tourists. The place is beautifully surrounded by palm trees, eupatorium, rubus, ferns, etc. 

Local communities believed this place to be dangerous and haunted. It is said that “If people go in odd numbers, they’ll return in even .”Moreover, the place has witnessed several suicides and mysterious deaths. 

NohKaLikai Falls

NohKaLikai Falls is the tallest waterfall in Meghalaya, situated in Cherrapunji, where the water falls from the height of 1,115 ft. 

A pool is formed by the falls, which get green color from the lush greenery. 

The place is haunted because a woman jumped to the waterfall when she came to know that her second husband chopped her daughter off and served her the meal. Engraved in deep sorrow, she committed suicide. 

But this incident never stops visitors from witnessing the magnificent view the place offers. 

Dawki

The green waters of Dawki give a picturesque view of the surroundings and the water. Riding a boat across the crystal clear waters of the Umngot River is a beautiful experience. 

The story behind this place is about two sisters who raced on earth across the Sumrah valley. 

After a long time, the younger sister won the race, but the elder sister couldn’t bear the insult and decided to live there forever. Her younger sister also provoked her to do the same, returning to Dawki. 

Balpakram National Park

Balpakram National Park is located near the southern part of Garo hills. This national park in Meghalaya is very close to the international border of Bangladesh. 

It is said that this national park is home to many dead supernatural spirits. This place is also called ‘The Land of Spirits’ and is of great religious significance. 

But many tourists visit the place to witness mind-blowing natural views 3,000 feet above sea level. 

It is also advisable for the trekkers to be careful and should not awaken those dead spirits. 

Meghalaya Unexplored Places

Langkawet

A gem of unconventional Meghalaya, Langkawet is a perfect dreamland. After a long day of finishing the Nongriat Trek, Langkawet offers an ideal break. 

A small village called Langkawet can be found in East Khasi Hill’s Pynursla Block. The location is pure bliss because of the surrounding green hills.

Langkawet may be similar to any location you may have imagined while reading bedtime fairy tales.

The lakeside resort Langkawet is where you can stay and have fun.

Mawryngkhang or Bamboo Trial

This, also known as the Bamboo Trail, is the newest addition to Meghalaya’s adventure activities and is situated in the Pynursla subdivision.

The Mawryngkhang Trek is regarded as Meghalaya’s most  terrifying trek. In reality, a bamboo trail and skywalk have been constructed to cross the Wahrew River. Until it reaches Mawkhlieng Cliff and then finally to the top of U Mawryngkhang, the trail gradually ascends while hugging the cliff.

Mawryngkhang is mentioned in an intriguing piece of Khasi folklore. At the village of Wahkhen, the trek begins. The town is lovely in and of itself, and the trek is rewarding.

 Mawlyngot

Mawlyngot is about 45 kilometers from Shillong, and you can get there by renting a car. Buses and shared sumos are available from Lewduh, Shillong, to Mawlyngot. Offbeat locations in Meghalaya: Travelers’ Nest Mawlyngot.

The area is surrounded by peaceful villages and lovely tea gardens. Mawlyngot also has a compelling tale to tell. The village was once just a plain place, but after tea plantations were established, things improved for Mawlyngot. You can go on day hikes and take walks through the tea gardens at Mawlyngot. 

 Kongthong

Kongthong in Meghalaya is a truly fascinating location. It is a small village tucked away in the east Khasi hills, surrounded by nature and far from the outside world. Kongthong is also referred to as the whistling village because people here use tunes rather than names. This oral tradition has been passed down through the generations.

In the Kongthong village, whenever a child is born, the mother writes a lullaby that becomes that child’s identity for the rest of their life. Each child’s rendition is distinctive. The lullaby doesn’t have any words; it’s just a hum that only the villagers can understand. 

Nongkhnum Island

The largest river island in Meghalaya and reputedly the second largest in India is Nongkhnum Island. The final stretch of roads on Nongkhnum Island, located far from civilization, is in appalling condition. You won’t regret coming here, though, once you arrive at the destination.

The longest river in Meghalaya, Kynshi, was split into Phanliang and Namliang Rivers, creating the river island. Blue rivers, a lovely sandy beach, waterfalls, and total seclusion are all yours to enjoy. Given that they are in the same direction, visiting Mawphanlur and Nongkhnum Island can be combined.

Natural Places in Meghalaya

 Umiam Lake

This lake is the best place to visit in Shillong. Which is about 15 km away. Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani, offers you the chance to spend an incredible day full of views. You can participate in various adventure sports, including skiing, scootering, and kayaking. Lumpongdeng Island is the name of the island on the opposite side of the lake. You should also go to the houseboat where you can unwind while listening to the birds chirping. 

Laitlum and Smit

 This location is undoubtedly one of Meghalaya’s natural wonders and is relatively unexplored. The location is beautiful to look at.

Laitlum appears to have been plucked straight out of a fairy tale, with its imposing canyons and long stretches of lush meadows. This location, which is relatively close to Shillong, is frequently disregarded by visitors. There weren’t many tourists there when we went. 

Laitlum’s canyons are well-known. The surrounding vegetation is breathtaking. Smit village, which is nearby and significant to culture, is also there. The Nongkrem Dance is held annually in Smit, the home of traditional kings of the area.

Phe Phe Falls

One of the most stunning waterfalls in Meghalaya is Phe Phe Falls. The distance between Jowai and this waterfall, which leads to Krangsuri Falls, is about 20 kilometers. This waterfall has two levels and appears to be absolutely breathtaking. The second portion of the waterfall is visible if you climb to its summit.

Jowai and Phe Phe Falls are separated by 20 km. You can board shared sumo at the Shillong Anjali Taxi Stand and travel to Jowai. There are falls on the road that connects Jowai and Dawki. You can rent a car from Jowai, drive to the Falls, and stay at Paradise Adventure Camp, an adventure campsite close to Phe Phe Falls. 

Shnongpdeng

If Dawki seems too crowded, Shnongpdeng is the place to go in Meghalaya. Shnongpdeng, about 8 kilometers from Dawki, has all the tranquility and beauty of Dawki. It seemed like the ideal situation to awaken to the sound of birds chirping close to the Umngot River.

This village in the Jaintia Hills is the ideal location to enjoy water sports. You can go cliff jumping, kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling here. If none of these activities appeal to you, you can simply ride in the country boat on the crystal-clear waters of Umngot.

Umden 

The Meghalayan village of silk weavers is located in the Khasi Hills, Ri-Bhoi district. The journey to Umden, a lovely village encircled by the Khasi hills, is a long one through lovely valleys and fields. The town of Umden differs somewhat from the other Meghalayan locations. The picturesque village is well-known for producing eri-silk.

Here, you can observe the sericulture process and purchase a lovely scarf made of eri-silk. A type of silk called eri or endi is produced by silkworms that primarily eat a particular kind of castor leaf. As is customary in sericulture, the weavers do not kill the silkworms during the silk extraction process.

 Mawphanlur

Like a dream world, Mawphanlur. It’s definitely worthwhile to visit the village with the crystal-clear pools. The area’s water features offer a variety of water sports opportunities. Trekking to the nearby Mawthadraisan peak, from which you can see the Assam plains in all their glory, is another option.

The approximate distance from Shillong to Mawphanlur is 70 km. For transportation to this location, hire a car in Shillong. If you prefer another option, you can take shared taxis from Shillong to Nongstoin and get off at Markasa village.

Best Waterfalls in Meghalaya

Elephant Falls

Elephant Falls, a three-tiered spectacular cascade and one of Meghalaya’s most well-known waterfalls, is a natural beauty. The locals call this waterfall close to Shillong Peak “Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew,” which translates to “three-step waterfalls.” Shillong’s Elephant Falls, hidden among dense forests, appear stunning and exuberant during the monsoon season, specifically from October to December. Because of the enormous rock that lies at the waterfall’s base and resembles an elephant, the British called it “Elephant Rock.” The stone, however, is no longer there because an earthquake destroyed it. This location is 12 kilometers from Shillong city, and tourists and locals frequent it, especially on weekends.

Seven Sisters Falls

This seven-step cascade, also known as Nohsngithiang Falls or Mawsmai Falls, is one of Meghalaya’s most beautiful waterfalls. In India, this is one of the tallest waterfalls. Seven Sisters Falls drops 1033 feet over the limestone cliffs of the Khasi Hills. Visit this waterfall between July and September to see the brooks flowing at total volume. You will be in awe of the waterfall’s beauty as it cascades into seven streams, surrounded by lush, green forests.

Kynrem Falls

One of Meghalaya’s tallest waterfalls, Kynrem Falls, is situated inside Thangkarang Park, not far from Cherrapunji. It is ranked as India’s seventh-highest waterfall, cascading through three tiers from about 1003 feet. Kynrem Falls, located in the Khasi Hills’ verdant forests, exhibits its mesmerizing beauty in the post-monsoon and winter months. Pillar Rock, also known as Shiva Rock, is a popular attraction in this area. Locally known as Khoh Ramhah or Mothorp, this enormous rock is next to the falls. It provides a breathtaking view of the Meghalayan plains.

Nohkalikai Falls

One more stunning waterfall in Meghalaya, Nohkalikai Falls, is situated 7 kilometers away from Cherrapunji. It is India’s tallest plunge waterfall. The water forms a deep plunge pool forcefully cascaded down from a lofty height. The water is green in the summer and blue in the winter. One can ascend the stairs to the viewing gallery at the top for a bird’s-eye view of the waterfall and the gorgeous plunge pool.

Imil-Chang-Dare Falls

Imil-Chang-Dare Waterfall is breathtakingly beautiful and is located close to the Tura-Chokpot Road in the West Garo Hills district. These waterfalls can be seen cascading through a deep, winding bed of craggy rocks that opens to a broad, wide opening, their shimmering waters gushing down. These waterfalls in Meghalaya have some of the most breathtaking views anyone has ever seen as they cascade in a thick, milky white formation. One can jump in and float around with the exotic fishes in the plunge pool that forms underneath because of its unique beauty. In addition, it’s a fantastic location for a picnic with the family.

Tyrshi Falls

Tyrshi Falls, situated on the Shillong-Jowai Road, are frequently contrasted with Shillong’s Elephant Falls. Every drop of water falling from the cliff in these falls is infused with charm and magic. In the expansive landscape, one can see well-kept, lush, green paddy fields and gush, white waters violently falling down around them. Photographers have excellent opportunities to capture mother nature’s beauty at its finest at these falls. The paddy fields and the falls are connected by a charming arch bridge. The Pynthor Nein’s breathtaking views are unquestionably the icing on this already extraordinary experience.

Krang Suri Falls

Krang Suri Falls is also one of the most stunning and enchanting waterfalls. This natural wonder is renowned for its breathtaking views, which help many people feel less worn out. This waterfall, located in the American Civil Sub Division, is decorated with footpaths made of chiseled and graveling stones, enormous viewpoints from which one can take in the breathtaking beauty, and lush vegetation with thousands of different shades of green. The stones used to carve these footpaths come in various colors that the workers selected. Since no cement has been used to keep them intact, the placement of these is symmetrical, allowing one to see the actual shades.

Best Hills in Meghalaya

Some of the significant hills in Meghalaya are-

Arbella Peak

On the northeastern side of Tura, an exalted turquoise hill with a height of 989 meters above sea level can be seen. Arbella Range and Arbella Peak are the names of the hilly range and peak, respectively, on which it is situated. Driving to the peak takes you through heavily forested glades teeming with orchids and shrubs of unmatched beauty. Along with birds of every size and variety, the area is teeming with wildfowl and pheasants with eye-catching plumage and color. On the Arbella peak, a small rest house constructed by British colonists a century ago still offers visitors shelter from the elements.

Tura peak

Tura has a grand hill on its eastern flank. Overlooking Tura, it has a peak of 872 meters above sea level. According to local lore, the peak serves as a sacred dwelling place for the Gods. Before it acquired its current name, it was originally known as Dura, but the British mistook it for Tura. The Tura range has been designated a reserve forest because the Tura hill and its peak serve as Tura town’s water catchment area. The Tura Peak area includes a tourist bungalow, an observatory, a Cinchona plantation, and stunning views of the lower Brahmaputra Valley.

Khasi hills

The Khasi Hills, a group of hills located across the Indo-Myanmar border in northeastern India and named after the Khasi tribe of Meghalaya, are a part of the Garo-Khasi range and a greater Patkai hill range. These hills are renowned for housing the Sohra or Cherrapunjee scarp, one of the regions with the highest annual rainfall worldwide, with deep, lush valleys and conical peaks. This breathtaking region is the Nongkhum island, the second-largest river island in Asia. The Khasi Hills has earned the moniker “Scotland of the east” due to their dense forests and network of tributaries that eventually empty into the revered Brahmaputra.

Shillong Peak

The highest point in Shillong is titled Shillong Peak, which rises 19649 feet or 1965 meters above sea level. It provides a breathtaking vista of the Bangladesh plains, the Himalayas, the entire city, and its waterfalls. Tourists can use a telescope to get a bird’s eye view. It is highly advised to hike up to this semi-circular Shillong Peak for the best views, but it is frequently surrounded by dense fog.

1. Sohpetbneng
2. Diengiei
3. East Khasi Hills
4. Kyllang Hills

Best Caves in Meghalaya

Mawsmai caves

A whole other magnificent old cave can be found close to the Bangladesh border in Mawsmai village, about 6 km from the Sohra market.

Near the village crossing, the route to this cave passes through lush grasslands encircled by forests. There is a clearing where it ends. A concrete path cut through the jungle through this clearing leads visitors to the main cave entrance.

It is a completely lit cave. Thus, unlike in other Meghalayan caves, there is no need to bring a headlamp. The cave is divided into an old and a new section, with the latter having chamber formations and imposing large passages.

Kotsati Cave

In the middle of the Lumshnong village is where the Krem Kotsati’s cave entrance is located. This cave is used by villagers for washing, and access requires swimming through a stream.

The cave becomes inaccessible and submerged during monsoon season. This cave is well known for its incredible network of interconnected caverns. Krem Umtyongai, Krem Wahjajew, Krem Kotsati, Krem Umsynrang Liehwait, etc., are a few of the more significant caves.

There are 24 entrances total, some of which are vertical and some of which are horizontal. Each cave can be explored in no more than an hour from the door.

 Krem Liat Prah

The longest natural cave in the nation is in Meghalaya, giving it a special distinction. It is truly magical and is about 30 km long. Krem Liat Prah is one of 150 known and recorded caves in the Jaintia Hills area.

Due to its connections to other nearby caves, the length of this cave is likely to grow. This is the cave to visit in Meghalaya if you enjoy caving or spelunking.

The urge to get lost in nature and discover the deeper layers of Earth becomes too strong once you are inside this cavern. View the State’s milestone plateau in all of its majestic glory.

National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Meghalaya

Balpakram National Park

This mystical park is an integral part of Garo folklore. Legend has it that this unperturbed jungle, monstrous cliffs, and swiftly flowing rivers were the abode of “Mande Burung,” or the jungle stalker.

To the more rationalized visitor, this park offers a chance to see rare endangered species like the water buffalo and the red panda in their natural habitat.

This national park is a unique blend of mysticism and nature’s bounty. The view across the swift-flowing Simsang River is unparalleled. Although the park is comparatively tiny, its flora and fauna richness cannot be undermined.

The Nokrek National Park

Near 45 kilometers from Tura, the Nokrek National Park is located in the Garo hills. The Hollock Gibbon is one of the rare species that the park is known for protecting.

The park is well known for having a large population of wild elephants and for being the home of the “ape-man,” who is known to frequent the area. You can find a variety of plant species in this area. In addition to the fecund fauna that abounds there. Along with the stunning old limestone caves found here, the site is well known for its well-maintained forest trails.

The Nongkhyllem Sanctuary

The 29-square-kilometer Nongkhyllem Sanctuary is well known for being a breeding ground for many endangered species of birds, reptiles, and other fauna.

This Sanctuary is situated in the Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya. There is a wide variety of flora, including Bengal tigers, black bears, leopards, and many other animals, including the critically endangered brown and necked hornbill birds.

Best Things to do in Meghalaya

Hiking

Meghalaya offers some of the best nature walks through various terrains because of the variety of its topography. You can travel through the rainforest using living root bridges and riverfronts. You can only take these kinds of hikes in Meghalaya, and nowhere else in India will you find a rainforest so tranquil.

The hike is filled with beautiful scenery, and you will pass by numerous waterfalls, streams, meadows, jungles, and valleys. It is advised that you visit Meghalaya during its dry season, which is from November to February, to enjoy all the hiking and camping opportunities available there.

Golfing

There is a lovely golf course in Shillong, Meghalaya. You might consider this one of the best and most stunning golf courses you’ve ever seen. This golf course now has 18 holes, giving its visitors a wide range of golfing options. Additionally, the state and locals work together to preserve the land’s natural beauty. 

On this golf course’s far horizon, you can see pine trees at the height of 5200, one of the most well-liked activities there. Visitors to Meghalaya, even for a day, do not hesitate to partake in this activity. People frequently enjoy driving their boats along the crazy river course while following their guide’s instructions.

 In addition to this, people like to splash around in the river’s shallow area and jump from boulder to boulder. The river’s flow is so strong sometimes that you might even get swept away by it. The Feet above sea level is one of India’s oldest golf courses. People frequently come here to stay all day.

River Canyoning

In Sohra, river canyoning is a popular activity. Trekking is one of the most well-liked activities there. Visitors to Meghalaya, even for a day, do not hesitate to partake in this activity.

People frequently enjoy driving their boats along the crazy river course while following their guide’s instructions. In addition to this, people like to splash around in the river’s shallow area and jump from boulder to boulder.

The river’s flow is so strong sometimes that you might even get swept away by it. From November to February, the dry months of Meghalaya are the most popular times to visit if you want to go river canyoning.

Final Thought

Meghalaya is one of the most beautiful places with a strong interplay of nature and culture. Furthermore, it is also the safest place to travel, especially for women, since it follows a matrilineal society where women are afforded a higher status. Being well connected with the rest of India will pose no difficulty to the tourists hoping to explore Meghalaya.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)