Meghalaya is known for its rich cultural heritage, lush green landscapes, and high rainfall. It's often referred to as the 'abode of clouds' due to its frequent and heavy rainfalls. Meghalaya boasts a variety of attractions such as living root bridges, clean villages like Mawlynnong, crystal-clear rivers, and beautiful waterfalls.
The best time to visit Meghalaya is typically from October to June. The weather during these months is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the outdoors. The monsoon season, from July to September, can be extremely wet due to the heavy rainfall, which might restrict outdoor activities.
Some must-visit places in Meghalaya include Cherrapunji (one of the wettest places on Earth), the Living Root Bridges, the clean village of Mawlynnong, Dawki River (known for its crystal-clear water), Nohkalikai Falls, Elephant Falls, and the capital city Shillong. The sacred forests, caves like Mawsmai, and the Balpakram National Park are also key attractions.
Yes, visitors can trek to the living root bridges, which are unique natural bridges formed by the roots of rubber trees. The most famous one is the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in the village of Nongriat. Treks to these bridges can be challenging and require a good level of fitness, but they offer a rewarding experience in the lap of nature.
Meghalaya offers various adventure sports, such as river canyoning, kayaking, rock climbing, trekking, and mountain biking. It is also famous for caving, as it boasts some of the longest and deepest caves in South Asia.
Vegetarian food is available in Meghalaya, especially in tourist-centric places and larger towns like Shillong. However, traditional Khasi and other tribal cuisines are predominantly non-vegetarian, so it might be a good idea for strict vegetarians to inform their hosts or restaurants in advance.
Tourists can buy a variety of souvenirs from Meghalaya, including handicrafts made from bamboo and cane, hand-woven shawls, traditional Khasi dresses, organic spices, and local tribal jewelry. Meghalaya is also known for its high-quality turmeric, particularly from the Jaintia Hills region.
As of the knowledge cutoff in 2023, Indian tourists do not require a permit to visit Meghalaya. However, foreign nationals may need to register with the Foreigners' Regional Registration Office (FRRO) upon arrival in India. It's always recommended to check the latest guidelines before planning your trip.
The principal local languages spoken in Meghalaya are Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia. English is also widely spoken, especially in educational institutions, government offices, and by the younger population, as it is the official language of the state.
Tourists can reach Meghalaya by air, with the nearest airport being in Shillong (Umroi Airport) and Guwahati (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport) in the neighboring state of Assam. Road access is well-developed, with regular bus, taxi, and private vehicle services available from Guwahati and other major nearby cities. There is no direct train connection to Meghalaya; however, the nearest railway station is in Guwahati.
