Meghalaya
The Abode of Clouds - where nature creates living bridges, rivers run crystal clear, and ancient forests hold sacred secrets. Experience one of India's most enchanting destinations.
Why Meghalaya?
Meghalaya, meaning "Abode of Clouds," is one of India's most enchanting states. This northeastern gem is home to the famous living root bridges - natural engineering marvels created over centuries by training fig tree roots across rivers. These bridges grow stronger with age, some over 500 years old.
Experience Cherrapunji (Sohra), one of the wettest places on Earth with spectacular waterfalls, and Dawki, where crystal clear waters of the Umngot River create an illusion of boats floating in air. Visit Mawlynnong, voted Asia's cleanest village, and explore charming Shillong with its colonial architecture and vibrant music scene.
Living Root Bridges - Nature's Engineering
The Khasi people have trained the aerial roots of rubber fig trees for centuries to create these remarkable living structures. The most famous is the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat village - reaching it requires a trek of 3,500+ steps through lush forests, but the reward is witnessing one of nature's greatest marvels.
Cherrapunji - Land of Waterfalls
Once the wettest place on Earth, Cherrapunji (locally called Sohra) is home to spectacular waterfalls. Nohkalikai Falls, India's tallest plunge waterfall at 340 meters, cascades dramatically into a blue-green pool. The Seven Sisters Falls and Mawsmai Caves add to the wonder.
Must-Visit Places
Shillong & Around
Shillong Peak (viewpoint), Ward's Lake, Don Bosco Museum, Lady Hydari Park, Elephant Falls, Umiam Lake (Barapani), Police Bazaar (shopping and nightlife).
Cherrapunji Region
Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, Mawsmai Caves, Eco Park, Double Decker Living Root Bridge (Nongriat), Nohsngithiang Falls, Thangkharang Park.
Dawki & East Khasi
Dawki River (Umngot River boating), Mawlynnong (Asia's cleanest village), Sky Walk, Bangladesh border viewpoint, Shnongpdeng (camping and adventure sports).
Sacred & Cultural
Mawphlang Sacred Forest (ancient protected grove), Nartiang Monoliths (largest in world), Laitlum Canyons (Grand Canyon of Meghalaya).
Meghalaya Highlights
Sample Itinerary: 7 Days in Meghalaya
Day 1: Arrive Guwahati - Drive to Shillong
Arrive at Guwahati Airport, drive to Shillong (3-4 hours). Stop at Umiam Lake for photos. Evening explore Police Bazaar and enjoy local music scene.
Day 2: Shillong Sightseeing
Visit Shillong Peak, Ward's Lake, Don Bosco Museum, Lady Hydari Park, and Cathedral of Mary Help. Evening at local cafes.
Day 3: Shillong to Cherrapunji
Drive to Cherrapunji visiting Elephant Falls en route. Explore Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, Mawsmai Caves, and Eco Park.
Day 4: Living Root Bridge Trek
Early morning trek to Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat (3,500 steps each way). Swim in the natural pool. Return by evening.
Day 5: Dawki & Mawlynnong
Drive to Dawki for crystal clear river boating. Visit Mawlynnong, Asia's cleanest village and climb the Sky Walk. Bangladesh border viewpoint.
Day 6: Mawphlang Sacred Forest
Visit the ancient Mawphlang Sacred Forest with a local guide. Drive back to Shillong. Evening free for shopping.
Day 7: Departure
Drive to Guwahati Airport for your flight home. Optional: Visit Kamakhya Temple if time permits.
Essential Meghalaya Travel Tips
Physical Fitness
The living root bridge trek involves 3,500+ steps. Prepare with regular walking/climbing exercises. The trek takes 4-5 hours round trip.
Rain Preparedness
It can rain any time in Meghalaya. Carry a rain jacket/poncho, waterproof bags for electronics, and quick-dry clothing.
Respect Local Culture
Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia tribes have unique customs. Ask permission before photographing locals. The sacred forest has strict rules.
Carry Cash
ATMs are limited outside Shillong. Carry sufficient cash for smaller towns and villages. UPI is becoming more common but not universal.
Ready to Explore the Abode of Clouds?
Let us plan your perfect Meghalaya adventure - from living root bridges to crystal clear rivers.