If you were to translate the literal meaning of the state’s name, it is “the abode of clouds.” Yes, you heard that right! Meghalaya is one of the best states in the Indian North-Eastern region. From panoramic sights to beautiful cuisines, there is a range of everything for every traveler. You might be an avid adventurer or a wildlife lover; a nature lover or a foodie- Meghalaya has something for everyone.
Here is a meticulously designed list of the 8 best places to visit in Meghalaya:
1. Elephant Falls, Shillong
Seven sisters are well known for a lot of things but the prevalent amongst them are the endless places offering unfathomable natural beauty and adventure activities. One place that offers a perfect melange of both these things at the Elephant Falls situated in Shillong.
It is a picture-perfect place where you will find solo, couple, and family travelers flocking throughout the year. It is located only 12 km from the capital city of Meghalaya and is an amazing place to be at. You can trek to this point and enjoy taking a dip in the puddles around. So while you plan on visiting Shillong, keep this attraction somewhere on the top of the list.
2. Cherrapunji
One of the finest places in Meghalaya and probably the most visited place in the North-East is the amazing hill station village of Cherrapunji. There are a lot of wonderful attractions in and around this hill station but what makes it popular is the amount of rain it experiences per year.
Cherrapunji is the second wettest place on earth. But that doesn’t stop people from visiting here throughout the year. The only thing you need to make sure of is to keep a raincoat or umbrella in your bag whenever you head out on exploring the village.
3. Living Root Bridge
The double-decker Living Root Bridge is a nature’s marvel that keeps people astonished when they visit here. Located in the Umshiang Village of Meghalaya, nestled amidst the dense forest of Cherrapunji- the Living Root Bridge is an awe-inspiring place.
A lot of adventure junkies visit here throughout the year and they get themselves clicked at the bridge. But the credits don’t just go to nature’s creation. The Khasis are the ones who have trained these roots to grow in such a way that the natural bridge could be created. Astonishing, isn’t it? Check it out yourself!
4. Umiam Lake
This is a man-made lake that was created in 1960sover the Umiam River to create a dam. But now, this man-made beauty has become a wonderful tourist attraction in the city of Shillong. The best time to visit here is during sunrise because of its location at a high altitude.
Adventure enthusiasts to family travelers, everyone loves to visit here and enjoy their time. If you are here during the peak season you might get a chance to see a few families enjoying a picnic around the lake. It’s peaceful, enchanting, and worth visiting.
5. Nohkalikai Falls
Water falling from a gorge of 115 m, Nohkalai falls is the tallest waterfall in Meghalaya. Surrounded by dense forest, this is an amazing and top-notch site in Cherrapunji. People from around the country visit here to witness the beauty, serenity, and peacefulness offered.
There is a tale behind the name of this fall which makes it even intriguing. Nevertheless, Nohkalikai Falls is an absolute amazing place for visitors and shouldn’t be missed at any cost.
6. Dawki River
You might have heard of a place in North-East India where the person sitting on the boat can see the river bed. Remember? Dawki River is the one this statement talks about. Dawki River is one of the places in Meghalaya that intrigues people a lot. It is another marvel of nature that is well-preserved by the people of the town of Dawki.
The green crystal clear water of this river flows steadily through the towns making people feel amazed. This is one place that cannot be described or appreciated enough. You will have to visit here to know what it has in store.
7. Mawlynnong Village
Mawlynnong Village is one of those shimmeringly clean places in India that replicated the olden days. It is known to be the cleanest place in Asia and this is one of the reasons why people get interested to visit here.
This beautiful village is tucked away beautifully in the East Khasi Hills. You can visit here between March and June which is also the peak season of this place.
8. Māwsynrām
Do you love spending time in the rain? Taking a romantic walk in the rain? Or playing in the puddles? If any of these things interest you and you have already planned to visit Meghalaya on your next trip; do visit Māwsynrām.
Receiving approximately 10,000 millimeters of rainfall each year, Māwsynrām is the wettest place on earth. It is filled with vegetation throughout and this makes it even better for adventurers and nature lovers.
Know here: Things to do in Meghalaya | Best time to visit Meghalaya
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