Meghalaya

Meghalaya, which means ""abode of clouds"" in Sanskrit, is a northeastern state of India known for its scenic beauty, unique culture, and rich biodiversity. Meghalaya tourismis all about stunning waterfalls, verdant hills and a range of adventure activities such as caving, trekking, and more.

Places to Visit in Meghalaya

Here are the top 5 tourist places in Meghalaya:

Shillong

Shillongis the capital city ofMeghalaya Indiaand is known for its colonial charm, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Some popular destinations in Shillonginclude Umiam Lake,Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, and the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures.

Cherrapunji

Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra, is famous for being one of the wettest places on Earth. It is home to numerous waterfalls, including the Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, and Dainthlen Falls. When you search ‘tourist spot Meghalaya’on Google, you will come across lush green hills and cascading waterfalls of this state which will be a delightful experience for nature enthusiasts.

Tura

Tura is a town located in the Garo Hills and is known for its scenic beauty and wildlife. It is among the famous tourist places in Meghalaya. Some popular destinations include Tura Peak, Nokrek National Park, and Pelga Falls.

Jowai

Jowai is the headquarters of the Jaintia Hills district and is known for its scenic beauty, heritage sites, and unique culture. Jowali is among the top Meghalaya tourist attractionsand include Syntu Ksiar, Tyrshi Falls, and Thadlaskein Lake.

Nongpoh

Nongpoh is a small town located in the Ri-Bhoi District. Known for being one of the natural tourist places in Meghalayaand offering serene surroundings, Nongpoh features popular destinations including Lum Nehru Park, Umlawan Cave, and the Umiam River.

Best Time to VisitMeghalaya

Thebest time to visit in Meghalayais during the winter months of November to February when the weather is pleasant, and the rainfall is minimal. This is the ideal time to explore the natural beauty of the state, including its breathtaking waterfalls, serene lakes, and lush green valleys. The temperature during this period ranges between 5°C to 20°C, making it comfortable for tourists to indulge in outdoor activities like trekking, caving, and rock climbing. The summer months of March to June are also a good time to visit for those who don't mind a little rainfall, but it can get quite humid and hot.

Food to Try inMeghalaya

This state offers a variety of unique and flavorful cuisine that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Some of the must-try Meghalaya famous foodinclude Jadoh, a traditional Khasi dish made with rice, pork or chicken, and spices, and Tungrymbai, a fermented soybean dish that is spicy and delicious. Bamboo shoots are a popular ingredient in many Meghalayan dishes, and you can try them in dishes like Bamboo Shoot Fry or Bamboo Shoot Pickle. When it comes to restaurants, some of the most famous ones in Meghalaya are City Hut Family Dhaba in Shillong, known for its delicious Indian and Chinese cuisine, and Jiva Veg Restaurant in Cherrapunji.

Festivals in Meghalaya

This state is known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse festivals, which reflect the state's traditional beliefs and practices. One of the most famous festival of Meghalayais the Nongkrem Dance Festival, which is celebrated by the Khasi tribe in November each year. It is a harvest festival that involves dance performances by young Khasi women dressed in colourful traditional attire. The Wangala Festival, also known as the 100 Drums Festival, is celebrated by the Garo tribe in honour of the Sun God in November. Another important festival is the Behdienkhlam Festival, which is celebrated by the Pnar tribe in July to invoke the blessings of the gods for a good harvest.

Culture in Meghalaya

It is a state with a diverse cultural heritage, and its unique culture can be attributed to the various tribes that inhabit the region. The Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes are the most prominent and have their own distinct cultures, customs, and traditions. The traditional attire of the Khasi and Jaintia people is the Jainsem, while the Garos are known for their elaborate beadwork and handwoven clothes. The state is also famous for its music, with the Khasi and Jaintia tribes having their own unique musical styles and there are many famous temples in Meghalayasuch as Mawsynram and Artiang Durga Temple. The people of this state are also known for their love of nature and their respect for the environment.

Adventures in Meghalaya

Caving

This state is known as the ""caving capital of India"" and the Krem Mawmluh cave is one of the most popular spots for caving enthusiasts. This cave system is believed to be one of the longest in the country and offers an exhilarating adventure.

Trekking

The living root bridges of this state are a marvel of engineering and a unique natural wonder. Trekking through the dense forests of the region, you'll come across these bridges that have been formed by weaving the roots of rubber trees over a period of decades.

Waterfall Rappelling

Meghalaya is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country and is a great place for adventure sports like waterfall rappelling. Experience the thrill of descending down a towering waterfall as the water cascades around you.

Conclusion

Meghalaya’s unique cuisine, warm hospitality, and scenic beauty make it a memorable place to visit. With its diverse range of experiences, from adventure sports to cultural festivals, it is a must-visit destination for any traveller.