Meghalaya Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in Meghalaya, India. Explore the culture, food, and natural wonders of this North-Eastern Indian state.
- Introduction to Meghalaya
- List of Places to Visit in Meghalaya
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Meghalaya
- Best Things to Do in Meghalaya: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Meghalaya
- Food and Drink Scene of Meghalaya
- Where to Stay in Meghalaya: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Meghalaya: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Meghalaya
- Best Time to Visit Meghalaya
- Do’s and Don’ts of Meghalaya
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Meghalaya: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Meghalaya
- Where to Go Next from Meghalaya: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Meghalaya
Meghalaya, located in the North-Eastern region of India, is a hilly state known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The state is bordered by Assam to the north and Bangladesh to the south. Shillong is the capital city of Meghalaya and is also known as the “Scotland of the East.”
List of Places to Visit in Meghalaya
If you’re looking for a refreshing escape from the chaos of city life, Meghalaya is the perfect destination. Here are some of the must-visit places in Meghalaya:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures
Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures is a museum that promotes and preserves the rich cultural diversity of the North-Eastern region of India. The museum has seven floors and showcases the various aspects of North-Eastern culture, including art, music, food, and dress.
- Mawphlang Sacred Forest
Mawphlang Sacred Forest is a preserved forest that is considered sacred by the Khasi tribe. The forest is home to a wide range of flora and fauna and is an excellent place to learn about the traditional beliefs and customs of the Khasi people.
Natural Attractions of Meghalaya: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Living Root Bridges of Cherrapunjee
The living root bridges of Cherrapunjee are a unique marvel of engineering made entirely of living tree roots. These bridges are over 500 years old and were built by the Khasi tribe to cross the numerous streams and waterfalls in the area.
- Umiam Lake
Umiam Lake is a man-made reservoir located near Shillong. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and is an excellent place for boating, kayaking, and fishing.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Meghalaya
Meghalaya is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the state:
- David Scott Trail
The David Scott Trail is a 16 km-long trek that passes through stunning landscapes and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Dawki-Meghalaya-Bangladesh Border Route
The Dawki-Meghalaya-Bangladesh Border Route is a 96 km-long stretch and is perfect for a long bike ride. The route passes through numerous small towns and villages and offers scenic views of the Bangladesh border.
Best Things to Do in Meghalaya: Activities and Tours
- Caving
Meghalaya is known as the “Caving Capital of India” and is home to over 1,000 caves. Mawsmai Cave, Krem Mawmluh, and Krem Liat Prah are some of the most popular caves for exploration.
- River Rafting
River Rafting in Meghalaya is an exciting adventure that takes you through rapids and waterfalls. The Umngot River in Dawki is a popular destination for river rafting.
Week-Long Itinerary for Meghalaya
Day 1: Arrive in Shillong and explore the city’s cultural heritage and food scene.
Day 2: Visit Mawlynnong Village, Asia’s cleanest village, and explore its pristine natural beauty.
Day 3: Trek to the 7 Sisters Waterfalls and explore the surrounding forests and hilltops.
Day 4: Visit the Living Root Bridges of Cherrapunjee and explore the caves and waterfalls in the vicinity.
Day 5: Kayak and boat on Umiam Lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
Day 6: Explore the sacred forests of Mawphlang and learn about the traditional beliefs and customs of the Khasi people.
Day 7: Visit Laitlum Canyon, a spectacular viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Food and Drink Scene of Meghalaya
Must-Try Dishes
- Jadoh
Jadoh is a traditional Khasi rice dish that is cooked with pork or chicken and flavored with ginger, garlic, onions, and spices.
- Dohneiiong
Dohneiiong is a popular pork dish that is prepared with black sesame seeds, ginger, garlic, chilies, and other spices.
Local Beverages
- Tea
The hills of Meghalaya are famous for their tea plantations. The tea in Meghalaya has a unique taste due to its geographical location and is a must-try for tea lovers.
- Kyat
Kyat is a rice beer that is brewed traditionally by the Khasi tribe. It has a sweet and sour taste and is a popular local drink.
Where to Stay in Meghalaya: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Meghalaya offers a range of accommodation options for travelers, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay in Meghalaya:
- Ri Kynjai Serenity By the Lake
Ri Kynjai is a beautiful resort located on the banks of Umiam Lake. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and is known for its luxurious amenities.
- Mawlynnong Guesthouse
Mawlynnong Guesthouse is a budget-friendly option that allows travelers to experience the traditional way of living in Meghalaya. The guesthouse is located in the heart of the cleanest village in Asia.
What to Buy in Meghalaya: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Bamboo Handicrafts
Meghalaya is known for its intricate bamboo handicrafts, including baskets, mats, and furniture.
- Spices
Meghalaya produces a variety of high-quality spices such as turmeric, ginger, and black pepper. These spices are a must-buy for food enthusiasts.
Local Culture and Customs of Meghalaya
The Khasi tribe is the largest indigenous community in Meghalaya, and their cultural practices have a significant influence on the region’s cultural heritage. Meghalaya is known for celebrating the ‘Nongkrem dance,’ a traditional dance form performed by the Khasi tribe during the Nongkrem festival.
Best Time to Visit Meghalaya
The best time to visit Meghalaya is between October and June, when the weather is pleasant and dry. The monsoon season, from June to September, can make travel difficult due to landslides and floods.
Do’s and Don’ts of Meghalaya
Do:
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Respect the local culture and traditions.
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Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious and conservative areas.
Don’t:
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Smoke or drink in public places.
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Litter or pollute the environment.
Safety and Health
Safety in Meghalaya
Meghalaya is generally a safe destination to travel to. However, keep an eye out for pickpockets and do not venture into unknown areas alone at night.
Health in Meghalaya
Make sure to carry sufficient quantities of prescribed medicines while traveling to Meghalaya. Always use bottled water for drinking and avoid eating street food.
Getting to Meghalaya: Transportation Options and Logistics
Meghalaya is well-connected with major Indian cities by air, road, and rail.
Airports Near Meghalaya
Shillong Airport is the nearest airport to Meghalaya and is well-connected to major Indian cities.
Bus Stations Near Meghalaya
Meghalaya is well-connected to major Indian cities via roads. The nearest bus stations are in Guwahati and Silchar.
Other Options
Taxis, shared cabs, and rental cars are available for hire to explore Meghalaya.
How to Get Around in Meghalaya
The best way to get around in Meghalaya is by hiring a taxi or traveling by shared cabs. Public transport, including buses, is also available but may not be very reliable.
Where to Go Next from Meghalaya: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Kaziranga National Park, located in the neighboring state of Assam, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its one-horned rhinoceros.
- Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh
Chittagong Hill Tracts in Bangladesh is known for its picturesque landscape and cultural diversity.
Conclusion
Meghalaya is a state that offers something for everyone, from adventure enthusiasts to food lovers. It is a great way to escape the chaos of city life and explore the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of North-Eastern India. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can now plan your perfect trip to Meghalaya. Happy travels!
