Did you know that the famous painter Vincent Van Gogh once said, “If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere”? And if you wish to “feel” his words, a trip to Meghalaya can make it happen. The “abode of the clouds” is a nature-lover’s dream come true, as it blows your mind with sparkling waterfalls, dense forests, exotic spices and fruits, mysterious caves, and tranquil lakes. It is also home to the cleanest village and the wettest place on earth! Whether you love leisurely travelling, adventurous treks, adrenaline-fuelled activities or hours of nature photography, Meghalaya will steal your heart the moment you set your eyes on it. So, read on about the 30 top places to visit in Meghalaya that you just cannot miss.
1. Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Cherrapunji
#1 of 30 Places to Visit in Meghalaya
If you want to start your Meghalaya trip with something awe-inspiring, the Double Decker Living Root Bridge (Umshiang), nestled in the verdant forests of Cherrapunji, fits the bill perfectly. Suspended at a height of 2400 feet and 3 km in length, this iconic bridge was created by joining the roots of two ancient rubber trees. The creative credit goes to the Khasis, who “train” the roots of many such trees (for 10 to 15 years) to grow in a way so that bridges can be formed. Umshiang Root Bridge, however, is the most well-known, owing to its size and the astonishing way it marries science and nature. It is also robust enough for you to cross the quietly flowing Umshiang River.
- Best time to visit: March to May
- Ideal duration: 3 – 4 hours (approx.)
- How to reach:
- By Air: Fly to Guwahati Airport (177 km from the bridge) and hire a taxi to reach Tyrna Village, from where you need to trek.
- By Train: Reach Guwahati Railway Station (154 km from the bridge) and hire a cab to reach Tyrna Village. Trek from there.
- By Road: Board a bus from Sohra Bus Stand in Shillong (63 km from the bridge) to reach Cherrapunji and then get a taxi to reach Tyrna Village. You can trek from there.
2. Elephant Falls, Shillong
#2 of 30 Places to Visit in Meghalaya
Originally named after a rock that resembled an elephant, during the British era, this stunning waterfall is composed of three falls. While the first fall is a broad one and concealed by trees, the second one is weak. However, the third one catches the eye with milky white water happily cascading over rocks that are covered in fern. With thick vegetation on either side, Elephant Falls can be accessed by carefully descending along slippery and steep steps. The good news is that, you will find benches at the first and second level of the waterfall, where you can unwind, click pictures and soak in nature’s unparalleled beauty.
- Best time to visit: January to April
- Ideal duration: 1 hour
- How to reach:
- By Air: After flying to Guwahati Airport (127 km from the falls), you can hire a taxi.
- By Train: Guwahati Railway Station (103 km from the falls) is the nearest train station. After reaching it, take a cab.
- By Road: From Guwahati, you can board a bus to reach Shillong (the nearest bus stand to the falls is at 11 km). Then, hire a taxi.
3. Umngot River, Dawki
#3 of 30 Places to Visit in Meghalaya
At a time when the world is battling with pollution, getting the chance to see a crystal-clear river where boats seem to float in mid-air is sheer good fortune. Umngot River, reflecting the lush greenery on either side, is like a fairyland where you can spot colourful fishes without diving into the cool waters. The pebbled bed of the river is effortlessly visible to the naked eye too. You can go boating or kayaking to find out how it feels to glide over glassy waters or camp on a bank. Flanked by Khasi and Jaintia hills, the emerald-green river sparkles magically under the sun. If you take a boat ride, you might also come across secret alcoves and short streams in the hills on either side, while you listen to the twitter of birds. No wonder, it is among the best places to see in Meghalaya.
- Best time to visit: November to May
- Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: Once you fly to Guwahati Airport (200 km from the river), hire a taxi.
- By Train: First, reach Guwahati Railway Station (177 km from the river) and then board a bus or take a cab.
- By Road: You can either drive down from Shillong (86 km from the river) or take a bus to reach Dawki (nearest bus stand to the river is at 5 km) and then take a cab.
4. Mawlynnong Village
#4 of 30 Places to Visit in Meghalaya
Mawlynnong, nestled in the East Khasi Hills, is not just famed for being the cleanest village in India, but it is also lovingly called God’s Own Garden. Everyone in this picture-perfect village, be it a child or an elderly, knows the importance of hygiene, sanitation and neatness. In fact, children happily clean up the streets before they head to their schools. The village encourages rainwater harvesting and bans the use of plastic and the practice of smoking. The icing on the cake comes in the form of fragrant fruit orchards, dense greenery and playful streams. You will also fall in love with the quaint European vibe of the Church of the Epiphany and the awe-inspiring living root bridge of Nohwet.
- Best time to visit: March to June
- Ideal duration: 1 – 2 days
- How to reach:
- By Air: You can fly to Guwahati Airport (187 km from the village) and then hire a cab.
- By Train: After reaching Guwahati Railway Station (164 km from the village), hire a taxi.
- By Road: You can drive or hire a car from Shillong (73 km from the village).
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5. Umian Lake, Shillong
Created in the early 1960s, by building a dam over the Umiam River, Umiam Lake is essentially a reservoir with breathtaking surroundings. Nestled in the verdant East Khasi Hills, the lake is a major attraction for those who love watching the sun come up. It’s a peaceful little getaway for picnics, where you can spend quality time with dear ones while admiring the lofty coniferous trees all around. The azure waters allow adventure seekers to enjoy boating, canoeing, kayaking, skiing and yachting. You can ride a water scooter or river bus for that extra thrill. The water of the lake is not only used for generating electricity, but also for irrigation, drinking purposes and fisheries.
- Best time to visit: March to June
- Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: Once you fly to Guwahati Airport (103 km from the lake), hire a cab.
- By Train: Reach Guwahati Railway Station (79 km from the lake) and then take a taxi.
- By Road: Drive or take a taxi from Shillong (17 km from the lake) and follow the NH6 route.
6. Nohkalikai Waterfalls, Cherrapunji
#6 of 30 Places to Visit in Meghalaya
Boasting a height of 115 feet, Nohkalikai Falls is known to be India’s tallest plunge waterfall and one of the most beautiful places in Meghalaya. A gem that is nestled in the green lap of East Khasi Hills, the waterfall descends from a plateau and is fed by rain. It forms a gorgeous green pool at the bottom, which can be accessed via a flight of stairs. It is a sight to behold, especially when the plateau is shrouded with mist. The legend associated with the waterfall is a heartbreaking one though, which probably makes its beauty surreal. It is believed that Likai, a woman who remarried after her husband’s death, could not shower her second husband with enough love as she used to be preoccupied with her daughter. Driven by jealousy and anger, the second husband killed the little girl and cooked a meal with her flesh, which Likai, unknowingly, consumed after a gruelling day. But, when realisation dawned on her, she jumped to her death from the place where the Nohkalikai Waterfalls originates.
- Best time to visit: September to October
- Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: Fly to Guwahati Airport (169 km from the falls) and hire a taxi.
- By Train: After you reach Guwahati Railway Station (146 km from the falls), take a cab.
- By Road: You can drive down from Shillong (55 km from the falls) or hire a taxi.
7. Mawsynram
Remember those childhood days when you used to get wet in the rain, splash in puddles, and run home for hot snacks? A visit to Mawsynram will help you relive that magic. Considered to be the wettest place in the world, it receives the maximum rainfall in our country. The average is, in fact, around 467.4 inches! Naturally, the town is a stunning green escapade from the city bustle, with streams, caves and falls for the ardent explorer. The Mawjymbuin Cave is a special attraction, owing to a pair of udder-shaped stalactites suspended over a big stalagmite.
- Best time to visit: September to May
- Ideal duration: 1 – 2 days
- How to reach:
- By Air: Guwahati Airport (175 km from the village) is the nearest airport. Once you reach it, you can hire a cab.
- By Train: After reaching Guwahati Railway Station (151 km from the village), hire a taxi.
- By Road: Buses ply regularly from Guwahati (154 km from the village) or Shillong (60 km from the village) to Mawsynram or you can drive too.
8. Mawsmai Caves, Cherrapunji
Isn’t there something mysterious, strange and wondrous about caves? The Mawsmai Caves, formed from limestone, will especially make your jaw drop with their strange curves, swirls, grooves, and cragginess. They get ample natural light for you to get around without torches, during the day. While tourists can explore up to 150 metres, the rest of the caves are closed. But, you will still get the chance to admire nature’s handiwork and what water’s abrasion can do. The stalactites and stalagmites inside the caves grab eyeballs with their unusual forms. Bats and many insects have made these caves their home, and that adds to their wild beauty. Note that you might have to bend and squeeze in some places while exploring the maze of caves here.
- Best time to visit: August to September
- Ideal duration: 1 hour
- How to reach:
- By Air: Fly to Guwahati Airport (172 km from the caves) and then take a taxi.
- By Train: Once you reach Guwahati Railway Station (149 km from the caves), taking a cab is ideal.
- By Road: You can drive from Shillong (58 km from the caves) or board a bus to reach Cherrapunji (nearest bus stand to the caves is at 4 km) and then hire a taxi.
9. Krem Liat Prah
Considered to be India’s longest natural cave and among the major Meghalaya points of interest, Krem Liat Prah is a curious and striking gem that has a length of 25 km currently. Nestled in the lush green Jaintia Hills, this cave is expected to get longer as other caves get linked to it through the Abode of the Clouds Expedition project. Its mammoth trunk passage, called the Aircraft Hangar, is especially amazing, as it boasts unusual rock formations, protrusion, ridges and curves. Made of sandstone and limestone, Krem Liat Prah looks absolutely mystical and will live in your memory for years to come.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Ideal duration: 2 – 3 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: After flying to Guwahati Airport (198 km from the cave), you need to hire a taxi.
- By Train: You need to reach Guwahati Railway Station (175 km from the cave) first and then hire a cab.
- By Road: Buses are available from Shillong to Jowai (60 km from the cave). Once you reach Jowai, hire a taxi.
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10. Seven Sisters Falls or Nohsngithiang Falls, Cherrapunji
#10 of 30 Places to Visit in Meghalaya
The rainy season is the best time to visit this dramatic waterfall that descends from a height of 315m and is among the tallest falls in the country. As the name suggests, it has seven segments that are fed by rainwater and gush powerfully over limestone cliffs in the East Khasi Hills. The verdant green surroundings and the play of sunlight on the cascading water (watch out for the rainbow effect), make for an enchanting view.
- Best time to visit: June to September
- Ideal duration: 1 hour
- How to reach:
- By Air: Flying to Guwahati Airport (155 km from the falls) and then hiring a taxi is the best option.
- By Train: You can reach Guwahati Railway Station (190 km from the falls) from any major city and then take a cab.
- By Road: You can board a bus from Shillong to reach Cherrapunji (the nearest bus stand to the falls is at 4 km) and hire a cab then. Or, you can drive from Shillong.
11. Lady Hydari Park, Shillong
#11 of 30 Places to Visit in Meghalaya
Every now and then, you need a quiet place to collect your thoughts and relax. Lady Hydari Park, with its Japanese style garden and a smattering of ponds, is one such place. You can spend some time watching vibrant fishes and cute ducks in the lake here. Artistically drooping willow trees, manicured hedges, neat walkways and clumps of orchids and rhododendrons draw photography enthusiasts to this sprawling park. There is a play area for little ones and a small zoo too. Named after the wife of Muhammed Saleh Akbar Hydari, the last Assam governor to be appointed by the British, this verdant park houses a museum, where you can learn about Meghalaya’s interesting biodiversity.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: It is best to fly to Guwahati Airport (120 km from the park) and then hire a cab to reach Shillong and the park.
- By Train: After you reach Guwahati Railway Station (97 km from the park), take a taxi to get to Shillong.
- By Road: Buses ply on a daily basis from Guwahati to Shillong (nearest bus stand to the park is at 3 km).
12. Balpakram National Park
Nestled in the beautiful and green South Garo Hills, Balpakram National Park has an impressive area of 220 sq. km. If you wish to experience a rendezvous with Indian elephants, barking deer, red pandas, Bengal tigers, or wild water buffaloes at an elevation of more than 900m, this is the place to visit. The dense vegetation is mostly tropical deciduous and subtropical, and you can catch sight of various colourful and twittering birds too. Pitcher plants have made this park their home, in case you are curious about carnivorous plants. This park is not just ideal for hiking and trekking, but you will also get to admire thrilling views of deep canyons, cliffs and waterfalls. That’s not it! A Schima wallichii tree here, with a mysterious depression in its trunk, has given rise to a legend that spirits find shelter in it before they head to their final destination. Shivers, right?
- Best time to visit: November to May
- Ideal duration: 3 – 4 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: First, fly to Guwahati Airport (118 km from the park) and then take a bus or taxi to reach Tura (72 km from the park). From there, hire a Sumo.
- By Train: Once you reach Guwahati Railway Station (135 km from the park), hire a taxi or board a bus to reach Tura. Then, take a Sumo.
- By Road: From Guwahati (131 km from the park), take a MTDC or private bus or taxi to reach Tura. Next, hire a Sumo.
13. Dainthlen Falls, Cherrapunji
#13 of 30 Places to Visit in Meghalaya
Overwhelming is the best word to describe what you will feel when you visit Dainthlen Falls, where gorgeous white water plunges from a height of 90m, in all its foamy beauty. It not only makes for amazing pictures, but the tricky walk that takes you to the viewpoint is also exciting. A bridge has been built over the stream formed by this waterfall, which you can cross or use as a backdrop for photography sessions. The legend associated with the falls is also unique. It is believed that once upon a time, Thlen, a massive demonic python, was terrorising the locality with its power and greed. However, a few men, brave of heart, caught the serpent and used a large stone to destroy its hood near this waterfall. In fact, you can find snake carvings on the rocks in the area, acting as a reminder of the price that greed and evil have to pay.
- Best time to visit: September to October
- Ideal duration: 1 hour
- How to reach:
- By Air: Hire a taxi after you fly to Guwahati Airport (167 km from the falls).
- By Train: Once you reach Guwahati Railway Station (145 km from the falls), you can get a cab.
- By Road: Board a private or state-run bus from Guwahati to reach Cherrapunji (the nearest bus stand to the falls is at 11 km). Then, hire a taxi.
14. Nartiang Monoliths
If unusual or surreal places tickle your traveller’s mind, the garden of monoliths in Nartiang, Jaintia district, is one of the amazing places to visit in Meghalaya. Large and tall monoliths pepper the garden as a sign of respect to past kings. Serpentine paths will take you through these unique monoliths so that you can take a good look around. It’s a heritage site, with flat monoliths or dolmens dedicated to women, and the upright ones or menhirs dedicated to men. The tallest monolith looms in the centre, making for an arresting sight.
- Best time to visit: March to June
- Ideal duration: 1 hour
- How to reach:
- By Air: First, fly to Guwahati Airport (177 km from the monoliths) and then hire a cab.
- By Train: After you reach Guwahati Railway Station (153 km from the monoliths), take a taxi or bus.
- By Road: You can either board a bus from Guwahati (156 km from the monoliths) or drive down from Shillong (61 km from the monoliths).
15. Ward’s Lake
#15 of 30 Places to Visit in Meghalaya
Pretty as a picture, Ward’s Lake is the brainchild of Assam’s British-era chief commissioner, Sir William Ward. The tranquil lake, shaped like a horseshoe, is surrounded by quaint cobbled walkways and has a charming wooden bridge over it. The garden surrounding the lake is a riot of colours, with a variety of orchids blooming in profusion, while lofty trees offer soothing shade. You can feed the fishes and ducks that have made the lake their home, from the bridge or while boating. Apart from clicking memorable pictures, you can quench your thirst and delight your taste buds at the cafeteria here.
- Best time to visit: September to May
- Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: Take a taxi after you reach Guwahati Airport (120 km from the lake).
- By Train: After reaching Guwahati Railway Station (97 km from the lake), take a bus or taxi to reach Shillong.
- By Road: You can board a bus or hire a taxi from Guwahati to reach Shillong (the nearest bus stand to the lake is at 1 km).
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16. Nokrek National Park, Tura
A part of the gorgeous green West Garo Hills, Nokrek National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. With an area of 47.48 sq. km., the sprawling park is close to Tura Peak and home to red pandas, Asian elephants, marbled cats, tigers, macaques and several species of birds. The vegetation here is diverse and stunning. You will find beautiful and exotic orchids blooming as well. There are several trails inside the park that are ideal for hiking or trekking if you are seeking adventure. You can also relax near one of the waterfalls, click photos and breathe in the fresh air.
- Best time to visit: October to May
- Ideal duration: 2 – 3 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: You can fly to Guwahati Airport (170 km from the park) from Kolkata, Agartala, Delhi or Jorhat and then hire a taxi.
- By Train: Reach Guwahati Railway Station (160 km from the park) from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata or Bangalore and hire a cab then.
- By Road: Board a private or state-run bus from Guwahati and then take a taxi to reach the park (the nearest bus stand is at 15 km).
17. Mawkdok Dympep Valley
#17 of 30 Places to Visit in Meghalaya
Imagine being flanked by densely forested hills on both sides, and staring at the breathtaking V-shaped abyss they form – that’s Mawkdok Dympep Valley for you! The vantage point from where you can soak in unforgettable views of the vivid green valley lies on the Shillong – Cherrapunji Road. Most tourists capture panoramic shots from Duwan Sing Syiem Bridge. Absolutely untouched by civilisation, the valley intrigues with its play of light and shade when mists or clouds swirl over it. Enjoy hot Maggi or other goodies at the café nearby and try ziplining across the valley if you need an adrenaline rush.
- Best time to visit: October to February
- Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: After flying to Guwahati Airport (145 km from the valley), you can hire a cab.
- By Train: First reach Guwahati Railway Station (121 km from the valley). Then, take a taxi, or board a bus to Shillong and then hire a taxi.
- By Road: You will get many buses from Guwahati to reach Shillong (the nearest bus stand to the valley is at 28 km). Then take a taxi.
18. Arwah Cave, Cherrapunji
Does trekking through a gigantic cave, dotted with unique limestone formations and mysterious fossils (believed to be a million years old) sound exciting? Well then, Arwah Cave is definitely among the intriguing places to see in Meghalaya. Whether you like time travel or are an adventure junkie, this cave, nestled in the dense Law Shynna Forest is a goldmine! Besides the stalactites and stalagmites here, you will come across a stream too. Owing to ridges, undulations, dark crevices, and strange tunnels, you might have to squeeze through tight spaces or even crawl at times to explore many parts of this cave. However, it will make for an experience of a lifetime, as long as you carry torches.
- Best time to visit: October to February
- Ideal duration: 2 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: You can first fly to Guwahati Airport (167 km from the cave) and then hire a cab.
- By Train: Once you reach Guwahati Railway Station (143 km from the cave), hire a taxi to cover the distance or board a bus to reach Cherrapunji and then take a taxi.
- By Road: Buses ply regularly from Guwahati and Shillong to Cherrapunji (the nearest bus stand to the cave is at 4 km).
19. Wah Kaba Falls, Cherrapunji
#19 of 30 Places to Visit in Meghalaya
A single look at Wah Kaba Falls is enough to realise why the locals believe that two fairies live here. It seems as if it has suddenly appeared, like magic! That is because, plunging from the top of a steep rocky cliff, this spectacular waterfall is a seasonal one. The crystal clear water drops by about 170 m to 190 m, into a gorge, and is a sight to behold during monsoons. To reach the viewpoint, you need to hike a bit, which makes for an adventurous experience. Surrounded by lush greenery, this waterfall is a perfect place for vacation photos.
- Best time to visit: June to September
- Ideal duration: 1 hour
- How to reach:
- By Air: Hire a taxi after flying to Guwahati Airport (160 km from the falls).
- By Train: After reaching Guwahati Railway Station (138 km from the falls), you can either take a cab or board a bus to Cherrapunji and then take a taxi.
- By Road: Buses ply frequently from Guwahati or Shillong to Cherrapunji (the nearest bus stand to the falls is at 8 km). You can then take a taxi.
20. Rainbow Falls
Straight out of a fairytale, Rainbow Falls is a must-visit in the remote village of Nongriat. As the name suggests, you can see a beautiful rainbow when the sun shines on the rushing water. Nestled amidst lush green hills, the trek to this waterfall is rocky and a little steep. You will, however, feel immense satisfaction when you reach the spot and take a dip in the gorgeous pool at the bottom, surrounded by big boulders. Make sure you carry dry food and water with you and try and stay for at least a night in the Nongriat Village, so that the trek doesn’t tire you out.
- Best time to visit: October to February
- Ideal duration: 5 – 6 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: You can fly to Guwahati Airport (170 km from the falls) and then hire a taxi.
- By Train: After reaching Guwahati Railway Station (146 km from the falls), get a cab.
- By Road: Buses ply regularly from Guwahati to Cherrapunji. From there, you can take a bus to reach Tyrna Village (18 km from the falls). Then, take a cab.
21. Khoh Ramhah
A mammoth and distinctly conical rock, Khoh Ramhah can arrest your attention instantly. As far as legends go, it is believed that the rock is essentially a fossilised basket owned by an evil spirit. Nonetheless, Khoh Ramhah is a famous viewpoint and looks magical when it’s misty or cloudy. On a clear day though, you might be able to catch a glimpse of Bangladesh from here. A stream flowing through the rock becomes a lively waterfall, which you can spot from the Sohra Shella Road. Surrounded by verdant greenery (especially during the rainy season), Khoh Ramhah, also called Pillar Rock or Mothrop, is a laidback spot for picnics as well.
- Best time to visit: June to September
- Ideal duration: 2 – 3 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: Once you fly to Guwahati Airport (178 km from the rock), you can get a cab.
- By Train: First reach Guwahati Railway Station (155 km from the rock) and hire a taxi then.
- By Road: Board a bus from Guwahati to reach Cherrapunji (10 km from the rock) and then take a taxi.
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22. Kynrem Falls
#22 of 30 Places to Visit in Meghalaya
Breathtaking is the word that best describes Kynrem Falls, nestled in the green environs of Thangkharang Park, in the East Khasi Hills. Cascading from a height of 1000 feet, this three-tiered waterfall is the 7th highest in the country and among the most beautiful places in Meghalaya. It is especially wild during the monsoon season. If the weather is misty, the waterfall looks all the more enticing. There is a viewing deck from where you can click some amazing pictures and relax afterwards in the garden or picnic area.
- Best time to visit: October to December
- Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: Fly to Guwahati Airport (185 km from the falls) first, and then hire a taxi.
- By Train: You can hire a cab after reaching Guwahati Railway Station (161 km from the falls)
- By Road: Board a bus from Guwahati or Shillong to reach Cherrapunji (16 km from the falls) and then get a cab.
23. Tyrshi Falls
If you are up for exploring some offbeat beauty spots, head to Tyrshi Falls, close to Jowai and cocooned in the lap of Jaintia Hills. Milky white water, gushing powerfully over rocks, makes for stunning pictures, with greenery all around. A charming arched bridge connects the falls with lush and fertile paddy fields of Pynthor Nein, and takes you to the very bottom of the waterfall. You can laze around, take a refreshing dip, and simply take a break from your fast life here.
- Best time to visit: June to October
- Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: After you fly to Guwahati Airport (174 km from the falls), hire a taxi.
- By Train: Guwahati Railway Station is 150 km from the falls. From the station, you can get a cab.
- By Road: Board one of the buses that ply from Shillong to Jowai (5 km from the falls).
24. Spread Eagle Falls
Resembling an eagle in flight, Spread Eagle Falls or Sati Falls is a scenic and tranquil getaway, with beautiful green surroundings. Cool water, rushing across steep and rugged rocks, form a large pool where you can splash around, unwind and feel at peace. This waterfall is also believed to be the widest in Shillong and makes for a lovely picnic spot. A part of the East Khasi Hills, this waterfall is one of the important places to visit in Meghalaya and will set your Instagram feed on fire!
Best time to visit: June to September
Ideal duration: 1 hour
How to reach:
- By Air: Guwahati Airport is the nearest airport at 122 km. From there, you can get a cab.
- By Train: After reaching Guwahati Railway Station (98 km from the falls), hire a taxi.
- By Road: You can board a bus from Guwahati to reach Shillong (the bus stand nearest to the falls is at 5 km). Then, take a taxi.
25. Ka Bri Ki Synrang or Garden of Caves
Let nature’s wide array of colours, textures and scents blow your mind at the Garden of Caves, which takes up 2.5 hectares of land area and is as close to paradise as you can get. Dotted with mysterious caves that rely only on the sun for light, rain-fed and pretty waterfalls, crystal-clear and shimmering pools, the garden is a wonderful enigma. Away from the city din, it is surrounded by thick jungles and has charming viewpoints in the form of bamboo bridges near the entrance. Some of the hotspots that you cannot miss here include Sum Syiem Falls, King’s Cave, Arsdad Falls, U Mawkhyllung or Baby Rock and U Mawdohnud or a heart-shaped rock.
- Best time to visit: August to September
- Ideal duration: 1 day
- How to reach:
- By Air: First, fly to Guwahati Airport (163 km from the garden) and then take a cab.
- By Train: After you reach Guwahati Railway Station (140 km from the garden), take a taxi.
- By Road: Buses ply regularly from Guwahati to Shillong. Once you reach Shillong (49 km from the garden), you can hire a cab.
26. Thadlaskein Lake
Massive and manmade, Thadlaskein Lake looks most enchanting when it reflects clear blue skies. Surrounded by dense forests and colourful blooms, this peaceful water body is also known as Pung Sajar Nangli. It is believed that Sajar Nangli, a medieval age leader, and his followers, were responsible for the lake when they dug the ground on which they rested after a long day. Close to the small and quaint village of Mukhla, the lake is held in high regard by local tribes, which offer occasional sacrifices as well. You can visit it to capture the natural beauty on your camera, enjoy a quiet picnic, or simply relax and breathe in clean air.
- Best time to visit: March to June
- Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: The easiest thing to do is fly to Guwahati Airport (169 km from the lake) and hire a cab.
- By Train: From Guwahati Railway Station (146 km from the lake), hire a taxi.
- By Road: You can board a bus from Shillong to reach Jowai (the nearest bus stand is 9 km from the lake). Then, hire a cab.
27. All Saints’ Church, Shillong
Counted among the oldest churches in Shillong, All Saints’ Church was constructed during the British era, in 1877. Though an earthquake ravaged the entire building in 1897, a new one was set up in 1902. The colonial architecture of this church is eye-catching and makes for beautiful photographs. The sharp steeple, gently sloping roofs and latticework on the external walls paint a pretty picture indeed. Surrounded by lofty trees and well-kept green lawns, this church is perfect for seeking spiritual bliss and is counted among the best places to visit in Meghalaya.
- Best time to visit: March to June
- Ideal duration: 1 hour
- How to reach:
- By Air: Hire a taxi after you fly to Guwahati Airport (120 km from the church).
- By Train: Reach Guwahati Railway Station (97 km from the church), and then get a cab.
- By Road: From Guwahati, take a bus to reach Shillong (the nearest bus stand to the church is at 2 km).
Explore the top 12 places in Guwahati
28. Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, Shillong
Flocked by both religious tourists as well as those who are passionate about architecture and history, Mary Help of Christians Cathedral was built by Catholic missionaries. Stained glass windows (made in France), elegant and high arches, artistic depictions of Christ’s sufferings in terracotta, and serene green surroundings, make it a grand tourist attraction. The modern gothic style building is set on sand, which is supposed to absorb shocks in case of an earthquake. Inside the cathedral, you will be awed by the different artworks portraying the lives of saints and scenes from scriptures.
- Best time to visit: March to June
- Ideal duration: 1 hour
- How to reach:
- By Air: Once you fly to Guwahati Airport (122 km from the cathedral), get a cab.
- By Train: You need to reach Guwahati Railway Station (98 km from the cathedral) first, and then hire a taxi.
- By Road: Board a bus from Guwahati, to reach Shillong (the bus stand nearest to the cathedral is at 4 km).
29. Siju Cave
Remember that fantastical story about Alibaba and 40 Thieves you read when you were a child? A look at Siju Cave will make you feel as if you are about to enter such a dark and mysterious den. Also known as Bat Cave, it is famed for its unique stalactites and stalagmites and houses some rare species of bats indeed. Though Siju Cave is nearly 4 km in length, most parts are impossible to access and flooded with water. This awe-inspiring limestone cave has a river running through it and is surrounded by the gorgeous greenery of Garo Hills.
- Best time to visit: October to May
- Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: At 193 km, Guwahati Airport is the nearest airport. You can hire a cab from there.
- By Train: Guwahati Railway Station is 209 km from the cave. Hire a taxi to cover the distance.
- By Road: You can take a bus from Guwahati or Shillong to reach Siju, or you can hire a cab.
30. Mawphlang Sacred Forest, Nongrum
Travellers pay heed – if you enter Mawphlang Sacred Forest, you cannot take anything from here, be it a dead log, dry leaf or a tiny rock! Getting goosebumps? Well, this sprawling and vivid green forest, which sprawls over 192 acres, is considered to be Labasa or the local deity’s abode. As per the local Khasi tribe, this divine spirit protects the forest as well as the community in the form of a tiger or leopard. Hence, you cannot do anything to upset the deity, or else ill luck might strike the offender. However, you can explore as much as you want, admire the thousand-year-old trees, medicinal plants, dense canopies, peaceful trails, and monoliths or stones where animals are sacrificed to appease the forest god.
- Best time to visit: September to October
- Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
- How to reach:
- By Air: Once you fly to Guwahati Airport (142 km from the forest), take a cab.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Guwahati Railway Station, at 118 km. After you reach it, hire a cab.
- By Road: Buses run from Guwahati to Shillong on a daily basis. After you reach Shillong (the nearest bus stand to the forest is at 27 km), hire a taxi.
Can’t wait to explore Meghalaya and its unusual beauty? Keep the above list handy, plan around a time when the climate will be perfect for you, and then go ahead with the bookings. Hotels in Meghalaya are of different kinds to suit all budgets and you will surely find something that makes your holiday a wonderful one.
