Meghalaya Tourism: Visit Root Bridges, Caves & Waterfalls
Overview of Meghalaya
Meghalaya is a state in Northeast India. It is called the 'Abode of Clouds'. The clouds here hang very low.
It has high green hills and deep valleys. Big waterfalls flow down from these hills. The sound of water is heard all around.
Local tribes have made special bridges. These bridges are made from living tree roots. They are strong and very unique to see.
Entry Details and Timing for Meghalaya
You do not need a special permit for Meghalaya. But you should always carry a valid ID card. Some areas near the border may ask to see it.
Most shops in towns open around 10 AM. They usually close by 8 PM in the evening. The markets are full of nice local crafts.
A good trip here needs about one week. This gives you time to travel between spots. The roads can be winding, so plan your days well.
What To Expect at Meghalaya?
You will find many amazing places to see here. The views are of green hills and lush valleys. The air is fresh and feels very clean.
The local food is simple but tastes very good. You can try tasty rice and meat dishes. The local people are very warm and will greet you with a smile.
This state also offers a lot of adventure. You can go for long treks on forest trails. You can also explore some very deep caves. Many caves are still not fully known. There are many fun things to do for visitors. Tourists love the outdoor fun here. You can also relax by a calm lake.
History of Meghalaya
Meghalaya became a full state on January 21, 1972. Before that, it was a part of the state of Assam. It was made to give the local tribes their own state.
The Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo are the main tribes. They have a rich history and a very old culture. Their stories are passed down by word of mouth.
This land has a unique matrilineal system. This means that family names pass down from the mother. This makes the culture here very special in India.
Why Meghalaya is Known For
- Meghalaya is known for its very heavy rainfall. Two places here are the wettest spots on Earth. They are Cherrapunji and Mawsynram.
- It is famous for its amazing living root bridges. The Khasi and Jaintia tribes grow these bridges. They guide tree roots across rivers to form a bridge.
- The state has a huge network of caves. These caves are some of the longest in all of India. Caving is a popular sport for people who like thrills.
- It is also known for its super clean villages. These villages show how people live close to nature. They keep their homes and streets very tidy.
More About Meghalaya Scenery
The scenery here is truly stunning and beautiful. The hills are covered in a thick green blanket. Fog often rolls through the low valleys. It makes the whole place look like a dream.
Waterfalls are a key part of the beautiful view. They fall from great heights with a lot of force. The pools at the bottom are clear and have a blue tint. The sound of the waterfalls is very loud and strong.
The sky in Meghalaya changes all the time. One moment it is bright and sunny. The next moment it is grey and full of clouds. Sunsets paint the sky in bright red and orange. At night, the sky is full of stars. This is because there are no big city lights nearby.
Architecture and Style of Meghalaya
The traditional houses in Meghalaya are built for the rain. They are often made of wood and strong bamboo. These materials are found in the local forests.
Roofs are sloped so the heavy rain can run off. Some homes are built up on stilts. This protects them from the damp ground and floods. This style is very smart and simple.
In cities like Shillong, you can see old British style. These buildings have large windows and slanted roofs. They remind you of the colonial past. Modern buildings are now made of concrete. But many local people still prefer the old ways of building.
Best Time to Visit Meghalaya
The best time to visit Meghalaya is from October to June. During these months, the weather is mostly dry. The skies are clear and the sun is out. This is a great time for sightseeing and treks.
Winter is from December to February. It can get quite cold, so please bring warm clothes. Spring, from March to June, is very pleasant. The flowers are in full bloom during this time.
Monsoon is from July to September. The state gets very heavy rain then. The waterfalls are at their most powerful. But travel can be hard due to landslides. So, plan well if you come at this time. To avoid crowds, travel on weekdays. Weekends can get very busy with tourists.
How to Reach Meghalaya
The easiest way to reach Meghalaya is by air. The main airport is Umroi Airport near Shillong. It has flights from some other Indian cities. The bigger airport is in Guwahati, Assam. It is about 100 km away from Shillong.
From Guwahati, you can hire a private taxi. You can also take a shared cab or a public bus. The drive to Shillong takes about three hours. The road is scenic and goes through hills. This is the main way to enter the state.
There is no train station in the state. The nearest big railway station is in Guwahati. It connects to all major cities in India. Our Shillong guide suggests booking a car in advance. This will make your journey from Guwahati very smooth.
Travel Tips for Visiting Meghalaya
- Wear comfortable shoes. You will do a lot of walking and trekking.
- Carry water bottles. It is key to stay hydrated on your trips.
- Follow the local rules. The people here have their own customs.
- Stay safe at the spot. Do not go too close to waterfall edges.
- Respect the Meghalaya environment. Do not leave any trash behind.
- Bring good clothes for all types of weather.
- Do not bring banned items like single-use plastic.
Top Attractions In or Near Meghalaya
- Double Decker Living Root Bridge: This spot in Cherrapunji is a must-see for all visitors.
- Nohkalikai Falls: This is one of India's tallest and most powerful waterfalls with a great view.
- Dawki river: This river has water so clear you can see the stones at the bottom.
- Mawlynnong village: This place is famous for being Asia's cleanest village and is lovely to walk through.
- Mawsmai Cave: This is a limestone cave that is easy to explore with lights inside to guide you.
- Umiam Lake: This is a huge man-made lake that is a key part of Meghalaya tourism.
