Meghalaya is a state in India’s northeastern region. It is well-known for its scenic landscapes, rolling hills, lush woods, and breathtaking waterfalls. The state is home to some of the country’s most outstanding natural treasures, which makes it a popular destination for visitors.
In addition to its natural marvels, Meghalaya has a rich cultural past. There are several tribes, each with its customs and traditions. Visitors to Meghalaya can immerse themselves in the state’s rich cultural legacy by visiting villages, attending festivals, and enjoying local food.
Check out the following 8 places in Meghalaya to explore in April:
1. The Elephant Falls
The Elephant Falls is situated near Shillong. It is among the most famous falls in the Northeast. It is a tourist’s delight, with three waterfall tiers visible from various vantage points. Because of an elephant-shaped stone on one side of the cascade, the British people named it Elephant Falls. But after an earthquake in 1897, the stone cracked and was washed away. Elephant Waterfalls is an excellent location to spend time in nature while capturing beautiful photos for your souvenir.
The stunning Elephant Falls is also known as ‘Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew’ by the native Khasi. It refers to ‘The Three Step Waterfalls,’ since these falls consist of three breathtaking falls. Elephant Falls is an excellent place to stop before traveling across Meghalaya.
How can you get there?
- By Road: You may take a bus from Guwahati to Shillong. Then, you can book a cab.
- By Train: The nearest train station is Guwahati Railway Station which is 103 kilometers from the falls. You can take a cab after reaching.
- By Air: Book a cab from Guwahati Airport. The waterfall is 127 kilometers from the airport.
2. National Park of Balpakram
You must visit Balpakram National Park, which is known as a traveler’s paradise. This location is also known as the ‘Land of Spirits’ by many travelers that come here to discover the rich biodiversity of Balpakram National Park.
This place is a nature enthusiast’s or wildlife photographer’s dream because you can see species such as the Red Panda, Deer, Wild Buffalo, Elephant, Tiger, Leopards, and more. Indian Bison, Lesser Panda, and Sterow are endangered species found here.
It is one of the top sites to visit in Meghalaya. Travelers sometimes compare it to the Grand Canyon in the United States. It is one of Meghalaya’s most incredible national parks, and you can easily find budget-friendly hotels here. Read Also: Wildlife National Parks in Northeast India
How can you get there?
- By Road: Take an MTDC or private bus or cab from Guwahati. Then book a cab.
- By Train: Take a cab or a bus to Tura from Guwahati Railway Station. Then by Sumo, you can reach there.
- By Air: Fly to Guwahati Airport and then take a bus or cab to reach there.
3. Dawki
Dawki is situated on the border of Meghalaya. Every year, it attracts a significant number of water sports lovers. It is one of the most significant locations to visit in Meghalaya because of its location, the Umngot River, and the surrounding villages of Shnongpdeng and Darrang. The clear water of the Umngot River is the most popular tourist destination of all.
Dawki is in the West Jaintia Hills District, approximately 82 kilometers from Shillong. It is the ideal place to see the fusion of Indian and Bangladeshi topography and culture. It is one of the magnificent sights you should not miss is the night view of the neighboring nation with lights across the dark river.
How can you get there?
- By Road: You can use public transport or book a cab from Shillong, which is 86 km from the river.
- By Train: Book a bus or a cab after reaching Guwahati Railway Station. Your destination is 177 km from the Railway station.
- By Air: Take a cab after you arrive at Guwahati Airport. Dawki is 200 kilometers from the river.
4. Double Decker Living Root Bridge
You’ve probably seen photographs of it on the internet. This bridge is well-known. This 3-kilometer-long growing root bridge is located at an elevation of 2400 feet. Visitors take a seven-hour journey through the Cherrapunji forests to reach the location of this famous bridge.
This bridge is an amazing illustration of how beautiful things could be if people and nature worked together. Tourists flock to Meghalaya to see this attraction. While there are several fantastic living root bridges in Meghalaya, some of which are thought to be over 500 years old, this double-decker one stands out. You must walk across this bridge for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as it is one of the most unique locations to visit in Meghalaya.
You must walk across this bridge for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as it is one of the unique locations to visit in Meghalaya. Read More: A Travel Guide to Meghalaya’s Living Roots
How can you get there?
- By Road: Take a bus from Shillong’s Sohra Bus Station (63 kilometers from the bridge) to Cherrapunji, then book a cab to Tyrna Village. The journey can continue from there.
- By Train: Book a train ticket to the nearest Guwahati Railway Station, which is 154 kilometers from the bridge. Then you can take a taxi to Tyrna Village. From there, you need to trek.
- By Air: Book a cab to Tyrna Village after reaching Guwahati Airport. Then you can start trekking. The distance between the bridge and Guwahati airport is about 177 km.
5. Umiam Lake
Umiam Lake is a popular location for water sports. It is situated on the Guwahati-Shillong road, and you can easily see it when traveling from Guwahati to Shillong on the first day of your vacation.
The lake, which is one of the best sites to visit around Shillong, is part of the Umiam Dam. It was built in the early 1960s for a hydropower project. At the north of the lake, you can also see the Umiam Stage I powerhouse, which has four nine-megawatt turbine generators.
The lake is flanked by beautiful green hills and is bordered by magnificent bridges. Umiam Lake offers a variety of water adventure sports, such as scooting, water cycling, boating, and kayaking.
How can you get there?
- By Road: Take a cab or drive from Shillong (17 kilometers from the lake) via the NH6 route.
- By Train: Take a cab from Guwahati Railway Station (79 kilometers from the lake).
- By Air: Take a taxi from Guwahati Airport (103 kilometers from the lake).
6. The Mawsmai Cave
Mawsmai Cave is undoubtedly the most wonderful location in the region. The cave has a lot of vegetation to catch one’s eye. The cave’s length is about 150 m, which isn’t the longest compared to other caves in the area.
But it will provide a glimpse of underground life. Mawsmai Cave is located approximately 6 kilometers from the heart of Cherrapunjee. It is an outstanding cave in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills.
How can you get there?
- By Road: You can drive from Shillong (58 kilometers from the caves) or take a bus to Cherrapunji (the closest bus stop to the caverns is 4 kilometers) and then book a cab.
- By Train: You can book a taxi once you arrive at Guwahati Railway Station. The distance between the railway station and the Mawsami cave is about 149 km.
- By Air: Reach Guwahati Airport and then book a cab. It will be a 172 km journey from the airport.
7. Mawsynram
Mawsynram is known as the wettest place on the planet. It is a charming village located 61 kilometers south of Shillong. It is a nature lover’s paradise and the ideal weekend getaway location. Mawsynram just beats Cherrapunjee as the wettest location in India.
Mawsynram’s ‘Maw’ is a Khasi word that means ‘stone .’It represents the unique stone structures discovered in the Khasi Hills region. The town is renowned for its massive stalagmite formation, which resembles a ‘Shivling ‘. Mawsynram is located in the East Khasi Hill area of Meghalaya and is approximately 1400 meters above sea level.
Mawsynram’s rains were so intense that local people had to spread thick grass to soundproof their homes from the thundering rainfall.
How can you get there?
- By Road: Buses run daily or Shillong (60 km away) to Mawsynram. You can also reach there by your vehicle.
- By Train: Book a cab from Guwahati Railway Station (151 kilometers from the settlement).
- By Air: Guwahati Airport is the nearest airport (175 kilometers from the settlement). Book a cab once you arrive.
8. Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong is Asia’s cleanest village. It has gained a worldwide reputation in recent years. It is 79 kilometers from Shillong and is another excellent spot to experience the Khasi people’s well-preserved customs.
You will be astonished to observe how every village inhabitant, from a child to the old, has kept the community immaculate. You will discover an eco-friendly dustbin in every corner of the village, and you will enjoy exploring every inch of the site, surrounded by pristine nature.
How can you get there?
- By Road: From Shillong, you can drive or rent a car. The village is 73 km from Shillong.
- By Train: Take a cab from Guwahati Railway Station (164 kilometers from the settlement).
- By Air: Fly to Guwahati Airport (187 kilometers from the settlement) and then take a taxi.
Conclusion
We have listed the Top 8 Best Places to Explore in Meghalaya above. Meghalaya is ideal for those who enjoy mountains and seek inner peace. If you want to find serenity among the snow-capped mountains, Meghalaya is a great place to visit. You will not be disappointed.
Further Reading:
- Top 8 Places to See in Meghalaya in March 2024
- Meghalaya Top 8 Trekking Destinations
- 9 Popular Food of Meghalaya that You Must Try
- Top 8 Famous Hill Stations in Meghalaya
- Meghalaya 7 Famous Historical Destinations
- 5 National Parks In Meghalaya Every Traveller Must Visit
- 10 Places to See in North East India August 2024
- The Ultimate Guide to North East India for Solo Travelers
