Meghalaya has been known by several as the land of living roots bridges and now you know why this is one of the most enchanting places that you will find in Northeast India.
From foggy mountains to waterfalls, from clean and clear streams to thick forest , from mysterious caves to charming villages, Meghalaya has it all. For holiday, adventure trip, family tour, and whatever your requirement is, Meghalaya has everything.
All you need is a little to plan accordingly, right from choosing the perfect time to travel to the top destinations to travel in Meghalaya which will make your trip memorable.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Meghalaya?
October- November when the rainy season has ended, the hills are a vibrance of green with full waterfalls and low hanging, clouds perfect weather to travel to the hills and sightseeing.
January- February ills are dry, and the weather is cold with complete visibility to go trekking and sightseeing, and you can click pictures before the crowds arrive.
March – May is the mild month with the perfect weather in the hills. The hills are in full bloom with fresh leaves and greenery, and the crowd is not yet there.
The months of monsoon rains is the time when the hills and the forest is in full emerald green glory with misty green hills, and full waterfalls.
Places to Explore in Meghalaya
A Meghalaya trip can include a combination of famous attractions and offbeat destinations. Here are some of the places worth adding to your travel planner.
Shillong
Shillong is considered the best place to start your journey to Meghalaya. There is a combination of urban and natural beauty at Shillong.
Some of the attractions here are Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Ward’s Lake, Umiam Lake, and Laitlum Canyons. Some products of local origin are available in the market of Police Bazar.
Cherrapunji
The region is famous for its series of waterfalls, caves, valleys and wetlands.
Among the most popular attractions in this region are Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sister Falls and Mawsmai Cave.
Additionally, adventure lovers also flock to this region of the country owing to its trekking paths and living root-bridges.
Dawki
However, the best part of Umngot River, which you travel to visit its crystal clear waters and a key feature of the Dawki experience are boat trips through the channel and the surrounding landscape beauty.
Dawki is close to the Bangladesh border and, thus, is a must include, amongst your road trip plans, along with Mawlynnong.
Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong, you can take a walk around the village, witness the view around the village and have the experience of being at a peaceful place. This place is also perfect for the ones who are interested in rural tourism and local culture.
Nongriat and the Living Root Bridge
There’s nothing more charming in this part of the state than the Double-Decker Living Root Bridge. This incredible example of bio-engineering can locally be found in the region.
What must be done to get to this amazing work of nature is climb some steps through a difficult trail. Take your comfortable shoes and enough water with you.
Jowai and Krang Suri
The main attractions in Jowai as well as in Jaintia Hills are the scenic beauties found here.
Some natural attractions at the waterfalls Krang Suri, you will be able to observe green forests along with the blue waters. This is one of the places suitable for those who enjoy scenic beauty, without the amount of people going to other tourist sites of Meghalaya.
How to Get Around Meghalaya
Keeping in mind the Meghalaya travel planning, transports form an essential part as most of the sites are dispersed in different corners of the state.
Private taxis are most suitable to explore the state and for taking a road trip with family or friends, it is best to choose any Guwanati to Shillong Taxi Service where you have the liberty to customize your trip, take breaks at scenic spots, and visit a few locations rather than rushing for each and every attraction.
Transportation methods like bus and taxi sharing can be treated as a comfortable experience. Although traveling via bus with travelers is feasible.
Suggested Meghalaya Itinerary
Itinerary in Meghalaya can be completed in 5 to 7 days for first time visitors.
1) On the first day, tourists will go through Shillong town visiting several places namely Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls and Police Bazaar
2) On the second day, tourists will visit Shillong Peak, and Laitlum Canyons of Shillong.
3) Day three involves a trip from Shillong to Cherapunji where tourists will visit waterfalls, caves and viewpoints.
4) Sightseeing of Sohra (Cherapunji) on day four.
5) Day five travels from Sohra (Cherrapunii) to Dawki with sightseeing on the way.
6) Day six visiting Mawlynnong and villages nearby.
7) Day seven i f there is still enough time and energy left, travel back to Shillong and do more sightseeing in Shillong before leaving Shillong/Guwahati.
What to Pack for Meghalaya
You need to be prepared for any variation in weather. Take comfortable walking shoes if you want to .
trek, visit caves or waterfalls. Also take a water proof bag for your gadgets or electronics, personal medicines, your glasses, cap, water bottle, raincoat or umbrella, sunscreen and mosquito repellent spray etc. During winter take some warm clothes to pack in your bag.
Travel Responsibly
Meghalaya Tourism is Special due to the Natural Beauty of Meghalaya. Therefore visitors should retain the right over nature by responsibly preserving the natural resources and do not damage the natural formations while exerting in nature.
Do not use plastics, do not throw trash in the trash, be responsible in your actions and try to have some knowledge about the culture of the locals of the places you visit before the historical places of the region.
When you travel around the villages be cautious of the rules to follow so that you may inform the locals about taking their pictures.
Conclusion
From the scenic views of Shillong, the stunning waterfalls of Cherrapunji, the crystal-clear river of Dawki to the root bridges of Nongriat, there is everything for an unforgettable journey in Meghalaya
A little research about your season of visit, transportation and sufficient time will certainly make your tour an easier one. A Meghalaya travel guide will definitely assist you to plan a trip to top destinations in Meghalaya.
