Things to do in Meghalaya

Basic info

Dawki River is a famous river in the small border town of West Jaintia Hills. Nestled beautifully between India and Bangladesh, Dawki River is a major tourist attraction along with the city Dawki which is a popular trade center for both the countries. Besides being a major business hub, the city as well as the river is famous for tourism scene. People from all over the country come down to try boating

in the clear water of Dawki River.
Blessed with beauty and greenery, the surrounding is reflected in emerald green and aqua blue hues in the crystal clear water making it a spectacular sight. The cool water with picturesque flora all around the river makes it a perfect subject for nature photography. The Jaintiya Hills and Khasi Hills are reflected on the mesmerizing emerald green color of the river.

Tourist attractions

The main attraction of the place is the crystal clear water that allows the travelers to see through its bottom. The underwater life is quite prominently visible and one can see tiny fishes swimming around at the bottom. The boat

ride is another of the tourist attractions which gives the impression of the boat flying over the river and not floating on it. The water is so clear and transparent that the shadow of the boat can be seen at the bottom of the river.

Things to do

Boating is a must to-do thing while visiting Dawki River. There is one boat riding competition held during the spring months which is quite famous. Nature lovers can have a grand time

Boating is a must to-do thing while visiting Dawki River. There is one boat riding competition held during the spring months which is quite famous. Nature lovers can have a grand time

Basic info

Considered as one of the finest museums of Asia, the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures (DBCIC) is a major tourist attraction for its exclusive glimpse of the lifestyle of the people of northeast India which reflect multicultural glimpse. The complex comprises of the Don Bosco Museum, library for research on indigenous cultures, a media hall and a conference hall. The museum is run by the Salesian of Don Bosco of the Catholic Church.
The Don Bosco Museum is a seven-floor building with 17

galleries exhibiting cultural artifacts and paintings of the 8 states of the northeastern region including Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura. The mind-blowing collection of attire, accoutrements, weapons, ornamentation and rare photographs perfectly complement the purpose of the museum. The use of multimedia using the art of technology in the museum is praiseworthy and must check-out. The newly introduced skywalk offers a 360 degree view of the beautiful city of Shillong.

Tourist attractions

Tourists are the most attracted to the main galleries which gives an insight into the beautiful and diverse cultural richness of the eight northeast states all under one roof. Documents and exhibits of various cultures, arts and crafts of these states are guaranteed to allure the

tourists with their exclusivity and diversity which, at one point, converges to similarity in something or the other. The Language Gallery, the Photo Gallery, the Agriculture Gallery and the Musical Instruments Gallery are among the most prominent tourist attractions of the museum.

Things to do

One must visit the exhibitions organized from time to time. The library, known as Otto Hopfenmueller Library, houses books and resources related to the various aspects of Northeast India which is a must visit for all.

One must visit the exhibitions organized from time to time. The library, known as Otto Hopfenmueller Library, houses books and resources related to the various aspects of Northeast India which is a must visit for all.

Basic info

Meghalaya’s Double Decker Living Root Bridges are the man-made natural wonders trained by the local inventive members of the Khasi tribe. Located in the deep northeastern India, these bridges are not built, but are grown. The bridge is named JingkiengNongriat Double Decker Living Root Bridge or more commonly the Umshiang Double Decker Living Root Bridge or simply just the Double Decker Root Bridge, where the root bridges are grown out of Indian Rubber Tree. It is 3 km long and hanging at a height of 2400 feet. To ornament the

entire enthralling ambience, the Umshiang River flows beneath the bridge.
The root bridges are trained by the Khasi tribe to grow from the roots of ancient rubber trees which provide a stable alternative to wooden bridges. It takes around 15 years for a new root bridge to grow strong enough to bear the weight of people crossing it. The unique thing of these bridges is that they would grow and strengthen even more over time. The tangled webs of roots look ultimate eerie in nature and gives a picture straight out of fantasy world.

Tourist attractions

The formation of the root bridges is a unique sight and the formation history is even more exclusive. The major tourist attraction is a 200-years old natural bridge that allows only 50 people to cross over it at a time. The variety of flora and

fauna surrounding the bridge is mesmerizing a sight. The trekking and hiking down the bridge is gruesome yet extremely adventurous. The natural pool under the bridge is a must checkout for its clean water untouched by pollution and urbanization.

Things to do

While the very sight of the bridge is sure to sweep off your feet with its amazingly refreshing and exclusive charisma, the entire ambience is out of the world. Take a trek down from the bridge to the natural pool to take a dip into its clean water to

While the very sight of the bridge is sure to sweep off your feet with its amazingly refreshing and exclusive charisma, the entire ambience is out of the world. Take a trek down from the bridge to the natural pool to take a dip into its clean water to

Basic info

Elephant Falls in Upper Shillong is one of the most visited tourist destinations which hold the prime attention of the tourists. Situated at the outskirts of the main city of Shillong around 12 km off from the fast city life, Elephant Falls is a three-tier waterfall set in the dingles of the rock. The excellence and beauty of Elephant Falls is increased manifold by the two falls namely the WirPhang Falls and the Wei Iaplam Falls. However, the Elephant Falls rules with its vigor, volume and elegance.
The first fall is huge and hidden between trees. The second tier

of the fall is tamed and almost negligible in winter as the water level recedes. The tallest and the most prominent is the third and last fall which is characterized by clear water flowing over dark jutting rocks found in several shapes and sizes. The falls is originally and locally known as “KaKshaid Lai PatengKhohsiew” meaning three steps waterfalls in Khasi language. The current name is given by a British traveler who found a rock too similar to an elephant lying to the left of the third tier of the waterfalls. Sadly, the rock was destroyed in an earthquake in 1897.

Tourist attractions

The huge waterfall with its water flowing in three different ways in the three stages is a unique sight to behold. Among the three, the last one is the most impressive which can be climbed down to the serene pool formed at the bottom. Though photography

is allowed, but swimming or getting deep into the pool is discouraged by the authority and hence, demarked with a rope. The excursion down the main waterfall is an adventurous one which could take around 30-40 minutes and not a very difficult one to try.

Things to do

It is a pure bliss to observe the foaming white water gurgling down the stony steps to settle down in the cool pool at the bottom. Nature lovers would enjoy the greenery on the sides of the

It is a pure bliss to observe the foaming white water gurgling down the stony steps to settle down in the cool pool at the bottom. Nature lovers would enjoy the greenery on the sides of the

Basic info

Lady Hydari Park situated in Shillong is dedicated to the first woman of Assam – the Lady Hydari. She was the wife of Assam’s first British Governor Sir Nicholas Dodd Beatson Bel. The mini museum was established to focus on the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Constructed in a typical Japanse style, it is a mini zoo that houses 140+ reptile species and 73 species of birds, flowers and a spacious garden to name a few of the major attractions. The dried skin of a giant python hanging on the wall is among

the most noticeable exhibits.
The round shapes of the hedges with circular design elements, willow trees with their leaves almost sweeping the ground and the numerous small ponds scattered all throughout the garden all have a distinct Japanese influence. The paved walkways of the park make it easier for the visitors to take a round of the total park walking through the manicured lawns. The visitors are exclusively attraction to the huge variety of flora ruled by an impressive collection of rhododendrons and orchids.

Tourist attractions

If you come to Shillong during winters or spring then spending a lazy afternoon in the Hyadari park lawns is the perfect way to relax. This is inarguably the best place for

children in Shillong for its well-maintained ambience and well-chosen inhabitants. The mini zoo inside the park is the actual attraction for its exclusivity in Shillong and its surroundings.

Things to do

The park might look small in size, but there are so much to do inside it. There is a small lake with pelicans, duck and colorful fish in it and you may amuse yourself by feeding them. There

The park might look small in size, but there are so much to do inside it. There is a small lake with pelicans, duck and colorful fish in it and you may amuse yourself by feeding them. There

Basic info

Laitlum Canyons are a remarkable natural environmental formation perched atop the East Khasi Hills of Shillong. The meaning of the name literally means “The End of Hills” or “The End of The World”, due to its position which is nestled in the embrace of majestic hills and valleys. The Laitlum Canyons offers the best and the vast, verdant and fascinating panorama of Meghalaya that could be viewed and admired.The location is a 45 min drive from

Shillong, and possesses a serene ambience due to its less crowded and less commercial environment. The secluded spot is a tourist’s favorite who is looking for some quiet and peaceful moment to refresh his soul. The fog that envelops, the mist that refreshes and reticent surrounding that cools down the mind and eyes of the travelers offer a vibrant spectrum of hues that stands out especially during sunrise and sunset, making the place even more mesmerizing.

Tourist attractions

Often called the amphitheatre of Meghalaya, the scenic hill slopes and unending and stretched till one’s vision can reach up to.From earthy browns and verdant greens to blushing reds at dawn and dusk, the spot keeps the travelers glued to the area for several hours. The Laitlum Canyons is a trekker’s

paradise with a difficult terrain which is not recommended for the beginners. However, the best views in the world and the freshest breathable air allures everyone to go hiking. The gurgling streams of Laitlum and its quaint wooden bridge force the tourists to stand and stare at the magical landscape surrounding them.

Things to do

There is nowhere a better place to explore the dreamy clouds that this. One can experience at Laitlum Canyons why Meghalaya is called the abode of the

There is nowhere a better place to explore the dreamy clouds that this. One can experience at Laitlum Canyons why Meghalaya is called the abode of the

Basic info

The Mawsmai Caves or the Caves of Meghalaya is group of caves located in the Jaintia, Khasi Hills and Garo Hills districts in the Indian state of Meghalaya. Considered amongst the longest caves in the whole world, and one of the ten longest and deepest caves in India, the caves are naturally formed by rugged limestone structures, which is most widely visited by tourists from all over the country and abroad. The Mawsmai Caves are located around 6 km from Cherrapunjee, and are the only caves in

Meghalaya that are lit inside to let the tourists experience the natural stalagmites and stalactites formations in awe. The caves are very long, though accessible till only 150 m for the tourists. The limestone formations have taken several forms, shapes and sizes inside the cave offering an imaginative aura of as many life forms as possible. The natural wonder stands out for its magnificence and years of natural abrasion and underground water storage which makes the limestone structures take the different forms.

Tourist attractions

The major tourist attraction is the different structures formed by limestone which leave the tourists to their own world of imagination. The beautiful maze of caves is indeed a breathtaking experience especially for the travelers who go through the

opening till it is allowed, that is for the first 150 m. The availability of proper illumination inside the cave, the organized cave exit plan and the steps constructed in 2000 make it a perfect adventurous gateway offering the glimpse of life in the underground.

Things to do

One can explore the cave by traveling through the passage to have a look around the stalagmite and stalactite formations. It certainly is a thrilling experience and a unique

One can explore the cave by traveling through the passage to have a look around the stalagmite and stalactite formations. It certainly is a thrilling experience and a unique

Basic info

This is all about the wettest place on earth – Mawsynram, the bearer of the Guinness World Record. This village in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya receives the highest rainfall in the world with an average of 11,872 millimetres (467.4 in). The name of the village is derived from the Khasi word Maw, meaning stone.
The mesmerizing village is located at an altitude of 1400 m above sea-level. Surrounded by hills and floating clouds

overhead, the alignment of the village makes it responsible for the heavy rainfall that it receives throughout the year. The rainfall is so strong that the villagers use a thick layer of grass over their roof to make their houses sound-proof. The village of Mawsynram is exceptionally beautiful because of its sliding slopes, lush green mountains, blooming orchids, gushing waterfalls and ofcourse, the immensely rich rain that makes the village stand out.

Tourist attractions

While watching the heavy rainfall through the year remains one of the major tourist attractions, the fascinating living bridges spanning the rain-soaked valleys make it a tourist

hotspot. The beautiful natural surrounding clad in green carpet is a beauty to behold. The local huts and houses clad in thick layer of grass is also something to see and click pictures of.

Things to do

The visitors are suggested to carry umbrellas and raincoats while visiting Mawsynram to avoid getting drenched. However, if you want to get soaked in rain water, let Mawsynram be your most preferred place.

The visitors are suggested to carry umbrellas and raincoats while visiting Mawsynram to avoid getting drenched. However, if you want to get soaked in rain water, let Mawsynram be your most preferred place.

Basic info

The Nohkalikai Falls is the tallest plunge waterfall in India located near Cherrapunji, Meghalayaabout 1.5 Km from the Sohra-Shella road and further 3 km down the Nohkalikai road. Falling from a height of 1115 feet, the waterfall is fed by the rainwater which cascades down to a gorge forming a spectacular pool in turquoise green. The fall is considered as the pride of Meghalaya and gushes in its best form during the rainy seasons when the rainwater gets collected on the summit of a small plateau, and keeps on

decreasing substantially during the drier months.
The Nohkalikai Falls is best viewed from the Nohkalikai viewpoint, which is located 4.2 km from Cherrapunji town.The waterfall is the fifth highest and one of the tallest plunging waterfalls in the country which is an ideal escape for the nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The name of the waterfalls means ‘Jump of KaLikai’ in Khasi language, which carries a tragic story of a widowed woman of the same name who had jumped off the cliff after her daughter was killed.

Tourist attractions

The Nohkalikai Falls is one of the most photogenic waterfalls in India where the water remains uninterrupted from the highest point to the foot making it a popular tourist attraction. The single drop falls from the boundary of the cliff makes it look like a white thread with a backdrop of green woods. Though the area is often covered

with fog and mist making it a difficult view, the summer and monsoons are the most preferred times to visit the waterfalls. The most beautiful view and adventurous spot is, however, at the base of the waterfall which can be reached by the steps built by the Meghalaya Tourism Department to allow tourists down to various other viewing points.

Things to do

The waterfall is a must visit spot for the adventure lovers. While the nature lovers and photography freaks can have a gala time exploring the nature with eyes and

The waterfall is a must visit spot for the adventure lovers. While the nature lovers and photography freaks can have a gala time exploring the nature with eyes and

Basic info

The Nohsngithiang Falls or the Seven Sisters Falls is a seven segmented waterfalls which are located in the East Khasi Hills 1km from Mawsmai Village. Among the tallest falls in India and the fourth heighest waterfall in India, the height of the main falls is 315 m (1035 feet) and covers a total width of 70 m. The uniqueness of the falls lies in the fact that the enormous force of the gushing water is a combined creation of the seven

separate streams flowing down in full speed and vigor.
The Nohsngithiang Falls is a mesmerizing sight to behold surrounded by thick green rainforests and white cloud floating on the peak of the mountains making the entire surrounding a spellbinding view. The waterfall is often hidden behind misty clouds, but when it is visible under the shining sun, one can witness different hues appearing in the water which makes a water rainbow drawn over it.

Tourist attractions

It is a sight to behold and preserve when the mighty waterfall gush down from 1035 feet and the sunlight creates a prismatic effect on it giving it a spectacular angle. The water literally glows and glitters under the sun rays, and the water keeps changing in

color from sunrise to sunset. One has to be lucky to catch a rainbow in sight – one of the major benevolence of the nature. Tourists are spellbound by the waterfalls as well as the green and white backdrop which gives the entire region a different look altogether.

Things to do

Photography is one of the to-dos which a visitor must carry on to preserve the memories of the beautiful scene. Nature lovers are awestruck with the uniqueness of the region which

Photography is one of the to-dos which a visitor must carry on to preserve the memories of the beautiful scene. Nature lovers are awestruck with the uniqueness of the region which

Basic info

One of the highest points of Meghalaya, Shillong View Point is one of the most popular tourist attractions located at an altitude of 6,446 feet. The spot is exclusively popular for its magnificent sweeping 360-degree panoramic view of Shillong. The Himalayan Ranges are captured the best from here and people flock down to capture the mesmerizing view of the surrounding from this point.
There is the provision of telescope from local tour providers which can be

used to get a closer glimpse of the lush green mountains covered in forests of rich vegetation and fauna. The radar station of the Indian Air Force is also viewable from here and you need to seek permission from the Air Force Station to access the peak. Legends say that the patron deity ‘Leishyllong’ had her abode on this hill and still remains here to guard the city against all the odds and evils. Interestingly, the city of Shillong derives its name from the goddess.

Tourist attractions

The enthralling beauty of the surrounding which captures mountains, lush green flora and the colorful city below in a perfect panoramic view is something that accounts for the huge

footfall in the region. Enjoy the romantic view and weather of the region as the mountain top overlooks with esplanades and observation towers offering sweeping vistas of the entire city.

Things to do

One must carry their own binoculars or telescopes to catch the perfect view from the closest possible. Though telescope facilities are available at reasonable rates from the localites, it is better to carry your own apparatus to avoid the rush. During the monsoons, Shillong View Point is a

One must carry their own binoculars or telescopes to catch the perfect view from the closest possible. Though telescope facilities are available at reasonable rates from the localites, it is better to carry your own apparatus to avoid the rush. During the monsoons, Shillong View Point is a

Basic info

Umiam Lake or Barapani Lake is a reservoir located in the hills around 15 km north of Shillong. Created in 1960s for damming the Umiam River, it is spread over 220 sq km as the principle catchment area of the lake including the dam. It was built by the Assam State Electricity Board with the main purpose of storing water for hydroelectric power generation.
The Barapani Lake and its surroundings are a treat to the eyes of the tourists and is

often the most preferred spot for picnic. Sprawled over a huge area, the lake is a treat for nature lovers. With the enthralling views of the beautiful location snuggled in the hilly backdrop, the lake is a perfect choice for tourists who want to get cozy with nature amidst cool ambience. The surrounding of the lake is clad in emerald green of the hills at the backdrop as well as in electric blue of the sky that reflects perfectly in the clear water.

Tourist attractions

Tourists are allured with the surroundings of green meadows and vibrantly colorful flowerbeds that make the lake one of the most beautiful spots of Meghalaya. The well-maintained ambience and the cleanliness are assured by the state

tourism department to develop and improve it to match the taste of global travelers. Different water sports and activities like kayaking, water cycling, scooting and boating are few of the major tourist attractions of the Umiam Lake.

Things to do

Get ready to be spoilt for choice at this tourist destination – there are options of kayaking, sailing, boating, water cycling and scooting to name a few. Not to miss the horseshoe-shaped construction right in the middle of the town. Also counted as

Get ready to be spoilt for choice at this tourist destination – there are options of kayaking, sailing, boating, water cycling and scooting to name a few. Not to miss the horseshoe-shaped construction right in the middle of the town. Also counted as

Basic info

Coming straight out of the fairy tales is the Umngot River – the cleanest river of India. The emerald river flows along the small border town of Dawki in Meghalaya, and is one of the major tourist attractions. The river draws attention for being so clean that one can actually see till its bottom from the center of it.
It is a two hour drive from Shillong to Dawki. The river flows in the natural divide between Jhantia and Khasi hills. The crystal clear water with a boat sailing over it gives

an impression that the boat is floating and not sailing. One cannot figure out the water surface, especially in a picture. Not just being the cleanest, but the river along with its surrounding is also a stunning one. The rich vegetation clad in lush green flora is a beauty and visual treat pleasing your mind and soul. It is a beautiful experience to watch the emerald green water shining under the sun and a number of colorful boats lined across the banks perfectly complementing the entire ambience.

Tourist attractions

The exceptional beauty of the river is the major tourist attraction. One has to be there in person to believe how clear the river water is. It is not everywhere that you experience your

boat floating in space while the actual river is flowing beneath. Capturing the hues of green and blue in the surrounding is another spectacular sight that grabs the eyeballs of one and all.

Things to do

Boating is a must in the Umngot River to experience the clean water. It is a paradise for the photographers as well as for the nature lovers. The river water gives an essence

Boating is a must in the Umngot River to experience the clean water. It is a paradise for the photographers as well as for the nature lovers. The river water gives an essence

Basic info

Tourist attractions

Things to do