Meghalaya

Land of Clouds, Waterfalls, and Living Traditions

Meghalaya, in Northeast India, is known for its rolling hills, dense forests, living root bridges, and abundant rainfall. The state is rich in tribal cultures, ancient monasteries, limestone caves, and scenic landscapes, offering a mix of adventure, nature, and cultural experiences.

Beautiful waterfall surrounded by forests in Meghalaya

Heritage Towns & Cultural Places of Meghalaya

Shillong

The capital city of Meghalaya, known for colonial architecture, scenic viewpoints, and vibrant cultural hubs.

Cherrapunji

A historic town famous for waterfalls, living root bridges, and centuries-old Khasi traditions.

Mawlynnong

Asia’s cleanest village, known for its well-preserved Khasi culture, traditional lifestyle, and community heritage.

Nongstoin

A town surrounded by rolling hills and rivers, with traditional markets and local charm.

Religious & Spiritual Centers

Mawphlang Sacred Grove

An ancient sacred forest preserved by Khasi tribes for spiritual and ecological purposes.

Shillong Cathedral

A prominent Christian pilgrimage site in Meghalaya, famous for its striking Gothic architecture and serene atmosphere.

Khasi Temples

Village temples and sacred spaces that reflect Khasi tribal customs, rituals, and traditional festivals.

Jaintia Hills Spiritual Sites

Ancient temples, shrines, and sacred groves in the Jaintia Hills, deeply connected to local legends and beliefs.

Sacred Sites & Ancient Traditions of Meghalaya

Thadlaskein Sacred Grove sacred forest in Jaintia Hills Meghalaya

Thadlaskein Sacred Grove

An ancient sacred forest in Jaintia Hills, preserved by local tribes for spiritual and ecological importance.

Nongkhnum Island largest river island in Meghalaya with hills and rivers

Nongkhnum Island

Largest river island in Meghalaya, known for waterfalls, scenic rivers, and tribal settlements.

Ancient cave temples at Mawblang in Meghalaya

Mawblang Cave Temples

Hidden limestone caves with small shrines used by local communities for rituals.

Natural Landscapes & Scenic Attractions

Lush green hills and clouds in Cherrapunji Meghalaya

Cherrapunji

Clean and green Mawlynnong village surrounded by lush hills

Mawlynnong Village

Nohkalikai Falls cascading into a deep green gorge

Nohkalikai Falls

Dense sacred forest of Mawphlang preserved by Khasi tribes

Mawphlang

Most Visited Locations

Wildlife & National Parks

Meghalaya is home to dense forests, rare plant species, and a variety of wildlife. Its protected parks and reserves shelter elephants, hornbills, and other unique animals.

01

Nokrek National Park

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with tropical forests. Home to elephants, red pandas, and rare flora.

02

Balphakram National Park

Hilly park known as the “Land of Spirits” by locals. Rich in biodiversity and tribal legends.

03

Siju Cave Wildlife Zone

Limestone cave ecosystems with bats and rare reptiles. Nearby forest areas support mammals, birds.

Cultural Experiences & Tribal Heritage

  • Home to Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia tribes
  • Traditional festivals like Nongkrem and Wangala
  • Tribal music, dances, and handwoven textiles
  • Village life and rituals offer deep cultural insight
Tribal culture and traditional lifestyle in Meghalaya
Traditional handloom weaving in Meghalaya

Cuisine & Handicrafts

Cuisine

  • Rice, pork, bamboo shoots, and fermented foods
  • Dishes like Jadoh, Dohneiiong, and Tungrymbai
  • Simple flavors with locally sourced ingredients

Handicrafts

  • Weaving, bamboo and cane crafts
  • Stone and wood carvings
  • Traditional musical instruments and tribal art

 

Best Time to Visit Meghalaya

October to April

Pleasant weather with clear skies. Best for sightseeing, trekking, and cultural tours.

March to May

Warm months with green landscapes and blooming flowers. Ideal for exploring villages, waterfalls, and adventure activities.

June to September

Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall. Waterfalls, rivers, and greenery are at their most spectacular, but travel can be challenging.

Natural beauty and cultural attractions of Meghalaya

Why Visit Meghalaya

Meghalaya offers a rare combination of waterfalls, hills, forests, and tribal cultures. From living root bridges and sacred groves to clean villages and misty landscapes, the state invites travelers to experience nature, adventure, and deep-rooted traditions.