Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji is considered as one of the wettest places on earth as the highest rainfall is predicted during the year. Tourists from all over the world come here to see Dain-Thlen, Kinrem and Nohkalikai falls which are popular waterfalls of Cherrapunji. The city contains some of the best waterfalls in Meghalaya.
Living-Root Bridge, Mawsmai Cave, Seven Sisters Falls, Eco-Park and Garden of Caves are the major attractions here. As it is located in the jungle, it does not have a luxury stay option, instead you will find some resorts and hotels in the lap of nature in Meghalaya which will be perfect for a stay with family and friends.
Specialties: Enchanting atmosphere and plethora of attractions.
Attractions: Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Nohkalikai Waterfalls, Wakaba Falls, Krem Mawmluh Living
Places: Jeeva Resort Cherrapunji, Saimika Resort, Polo Orchid Resort Cherrapunji
Balapakram National Park
If you are in Meghalaya then you must visit Balapakram National Park, it is considered a tourist’s paradise. The place is known as the ‘Land of Spirits’ by many tourists who come here to explore the rich biodiversity of the Balapakram National Park.
A paradise for all wildlife enthusiasts or wildlife photographers as you can spot animals like red panda, wild buffalo, elephant, tiger, deer, leopard, wild cow, marble cat etc. Some of the rarer species include the laser panda, Indian bison, and the stero. .
One of the best places to see in Meghalaya, tourists often compare this pace to the Grand Canyon of the USA. It is one of the best national parks in Meghalaya and you can easily find budget-friendly accommodation here.
Feature: Rich biodiversity
Location: Garo Hills, West Meghalaya
Shillong
The Scotland of the East, Shillong is one of the most popular Meghalaya tourist destinations in the northeast that is on everyone’s checklist. Away from the busy life, it has forested hills, pleasant climate, natural beauty that attracts many tourists from all over the world.
Some of the famous tourist spots in Shillong include Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Lady Hydari Park, Wards, Lake and Don Bosco Museum. Local tribes in Shillong are Khirim, Mylim, Mahram, Mallaisohmat, Bhowal and Langrim.
Shillong is also considered as the gateway to Meghalaya as the main airport of Meghalaya is located in Shillong. You will find plenty of things to do in Shillong to make your holiday memorable.
Specialties: Natural beauty, popular landmarks and breathtaking views.
Attractions: Shillong Peak, Don Bosco Museum, Wards Lake, Elephant Falls, Sweet Falls, Air Force Museum, All Saints Cathedral
Accommodations: Tripura Castle, Pinewood Hotel, Hotel Polo Towers Shillong, The Loft – Executive Inn
Location: East Central Meghalaya
Elephant Falls
Evergreen Meghalaya that has dense forests all over the state is also known for its amazing waterfalls. The beauty of Meghalaya is elephant-like stone at the feet of Elephant Falls. One of the most popular waterfalls in the North-East, one of the best things to do in Meghalaya is visiting here.
The majestic Hathi Falls was described by the nearby Khasi people as ‘Ka Ksaid Lai Patang Khohsiv’, which signifies ‘Three Step Waterfalls’, as the falls consist of three wonderful cascades. The first of the three waterfalls is tucked between thick trees and wide.
The subsequent fall reduces to a thin strand of water and is practically negligible in winter due to the receding water table. The third and most visible waterfall to the naked eye is the highest waterfall with clear water flowing like sheets of milk hitting the rocks in the background. With majestic surroundings and picturesque views, this waterfall is one of the most sought-after places to visit near Shillong.
Feature: Surrounded by greenery and offers stunning views.
Location: 12km from Shillong
Double-decker living root bridge
Located in Cherrapunji, Meghalaya, a double-decker living root bridge is famous for its bridge made of Indian rubber tree roots. The bridge is 3 km long at a height of 2400 feet. The most scenic experience is when the Umxiang River is flowing under the bridge and you are walking over it. This is the oldest natural bridge built around 200 years ago but can only seat 50 people at a time. You must visit this place on your Meghalaya honeymoon.
The bridge starts from the town of Tirna and crosses the Umxiang waterway during its venture. Reaching a certain location is somewhat like a trek. Going down to the bridge is an incredible 3500-3600 steps each way to the scaffold and once again to the base town of Tirna, which is 20 kilometers from the main town of Cherrapunji. It is one of the must-see places in Meghalaya.
Feature: Oldest natural bridge
Location: Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
Don Bosco Museum
Many tourists are very interested in knowing the cultural history of the state. Don Bosco Museum, located in Shillong, is a 7-museum historical center with 17 galleries that take you on a journey of life in Northeast India.
In addition, these galleries display a wide array of expressions, antiques, types of clothing, weapons and handicrafts that showcase the lifestyle and culture of the various tribes and individuals of Meghalaya. The Don Bosco Museum is also hailed as one of the best in Asia.
Specialties: A thorough presentation of the cultural history of the state.
Location: East Khasi Hills, Shillong, Meghalaya
Kailang Rock
Somewhere within a range of 78 km from Shillong, an exceptionally large rock made of red stone, the Kilang Rock is located in the West Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. The rock which is 5400 feet above sea level and has a width of about 1000 feet is a huge square of granite stone which is a part of Khasi legends and looks beautiful in its shape.
By climbing to the highest point of Kailang Rock, you can admire the magnificent view of the area. Surrounded by age-old red rhododendrons, Kilang Rock is said to be an unusually attractive area. The massive dome is closed on its southern side but on the northern side it is full of rhododendrons and shrubs.
Feature: One of the highest points in Meghalaya.
Location: West Khasi Hills, Shillong, Meghalaya
Mawlinong village
Asia’s cleanest village? Yes, Mawlinong village. It is one of the most exotic day trips in Meghalaya. From beautiful waterfalls and root bridges to clean environment and scenic views, this town invites you with everything basic to make your Meghalaya tour a highlight. In addition, there are numerous bamboo houses where you will need to stay to further adapt to the location.
Feature: Encompasses beautiful landscapes and scenic surroundings.
Location: East Khasi Hills, Shillong Homestay
Baghmara
Every wildlife enthusiast should visit this place which is just 4 km from Baghmara town, Baghmara Reserve Forest which is home to elephants, feathered creatures and langurs. For labyrinth lovers, there are the Siju Caves, the third longest cavern framework in the Indian subcontinent with endless mazes and chambers.
The amazing limestone formations within the caves, known as the ‘Princess de Chamber’, are particularly sensational. As if this was not enough, the Siju Bird Sanctuary entices winged animal enthusiasts with rare species that migrate here during the winter.
Specialty: Homes exotic wildlife.
Location: South Garo Hills
Nohkalikai Falls
The 4th most remarkable waterfall on the planet, Nohkalikai Falls cascades 335 meters from a verdant cliff to the ground depicting a vast and extraordinary paradise. The pride of the region of Meghalaya, the waterfall is one of the most amazing and majestic waterfalls in the country.
Caressed amidst the evergreen rainforests of the Khasi Hills and flowing in all its glory, the waterfall plunges into a tidal lake that is as blue as the evening sky. This autumn is one of the best places to visit in Meghalaya.
Feature: A heavenly place with exquisite natural views.