Why Visit Meghalaya?
Meghalaya, meaning "The Abode of Clouds," is a mesmerizing blend of misty hills, cascading waterfalls, and rich tribal heritage. Known as the "Scotland of the East," it's home to UNESCO-listed living root bridges, the rainiest place on Earth (Cherrapunji), and a unique matrilineal society.
Natural Wonders
Living Root Bridges, crystal-clear rivers, and breathtaking waterfalls that will leave you spellbound.
Unique Landscapes
From the wettest place on Earth to Asia's cleanest village, Meghalaya offers landscapes unlike anywhere else.
Cultural Richness
Experience the fascinating Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia tribes with their matrilineal traditions and warm hospitality.
How to Reach Meghalaya
Meghalaya is well-connected by air, road, and rail via Guwahati in Assam. Here are all your transportation options:
By Air
Shillong Airport (Umroi): Limited flights from Kolkata and Guwahati.
Guwahati Airport (120km away): Better connectivity with major Indian cities.
From Guwahati: 3-4 hour scenic drive to Shillong via NH6.
By Road
From Guwahati to Shillong: 100km (3-4 hours) via NH6 with Umiam Lake views.
Shared Taxis: Sumo/Maxi cabs available (₹300-500 per seat).
Self-Drive: Rentals available but beware of steep, winding roads.
By Train
Nearest Major Station: Guwahati Railway Station.
From Guwahati: Shared taxis or buses to Shillong (3-4 hours).
Important Trains: Rajdhani Express, Brahmaputra Mail, Northeast Express.
Transport Options Within Meghalaya
| Transport Type | Details | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Taxis (Sumo/Maxi) | Most common mode between towns | ₹300-500 per seat |
| Local Buses | Economical but slower | ₹100-200 |
| Self-Drive Cars | Available for rent in Shillong | ₹1500-2500/day |
| Private Taxis | For personalized tours | ₹2500-4000/day |
Must-Visit Attractions
From natural wonders to cultural gems, here are the top places you can't miss in Meghalaya:
Double Decker Living Root Bridge
Location: Nongriat Village (near Cherrapunji)
Specialty: Two-tiered natural bridge formed by intertwined roots over centuries
Difficulty: 3000 step trek (moderate difficulty)
Best Time: October to April
Dawki River & Umngot River
Location: Dawki (near Bangladesh border)
Specialty: Crystal clear waters where boats appear to float in air
Activities: Boating, photography, border view
Best Time: November to March
Mawlynnong - Asia's Cleanest Village
Location: East Khasi Hills (90km from Shillong)
Specialty: Impeccably clean village with bamboo waste bins
Attractions: Sky view point, living root bridges
Best Time: Year-round
Best Time to Visit Key Attractions
| Place | Highlights | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Double Decker Root Bridge (Nongriat) | UNESCO-listed natural wonder | October-April |
| Dawki River | Transparent boat rides | November-March |
| Nohkalikai Falls | India's tallest plunge waterfall | Monsoon (June-September) |
| Mawlynnong Village | Asia's cleanest village | Year-round |
| Mawsmai Cave | Ancient limestone caves | October-May |
Where to Stay in Meghalaya
From budget homestays to luxury resorts, here are the best accommodation options across Meghalaya:
Budget Accommodations (₹500-2000/night)
Mawlynnong Homestays: Experience village life (~₹800-1500/night)
Shillong Hostels: Zostel and other backpacker options (~₹500-1000/bed)
Guest Houses: Clean basic rooms throughout state (~₹1200-2000)
Luxury & Unique Stays (₹3000-10,000/night)
Ri Kynjai Resort: Lakefront luxury near Shillong (~₹8000+)
Cherrapunji Tree Houses: Elevated stays in rainforest (~₹4000-6000)
Mawphlang Eco Cottages: Traditional Khasi-style (~₹3000-5000)
Booking Tips & Recommendations
Best Areas: Shillong for convenience, Cherrapunji for nature
Advance Booking: Essential in peak season (Oct-Apr)
Unique Experience: Try at least one night in a village homestay
Get Booking AssistanceKhasi Language Guide
While English is widely spoken, learning a few Khasi phrases will enhance your experience and help you connect with locals:
Essential Khasi Phrases
Note: English is widely understood in tourist areas. Hindi works in cities but less so in villages.
Traveler Experiences
Don't just take our word for it - here's what fellow travelers say about their Meghalaya adventures:
"The living root bridges were unlike anything I've seen before. The 3000-step trek was challenging but absolutely worth it. Our guide from the local Khasi community made the experience even more special with his stories."
"Dawki River's crystal clear waters took my breath away. It's hard to believe such places exist in India. We combined it with a visit to Mawlynnong village which was impeccably clean and welcoming."
"Staying in a treehouse in Cherrapunji during monsoon was magical - falling asleep to the sound of rain on leaves. Meghalaya's landscapes are straight out of a fantasy novel."
Plan Your Meghalaya Adventure
Ready to explore the Abode of Clouds? Contact us for personalized travel planning and bookings:
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