Top 10 Places to Visit in Meghalaya:
- Shillong: The capital city known for its scenic beauty, markets, and cultural heritage.
- Cherrapunji (Sohra): Famous for its high rainfall and stunning waterfalls like Nohkalikai Falls.
- Mawsynram: Known for receiving the highest annual rainfall in the world.
- Dawki: Home to the crystal-clear Umngot River, ideal for boating and kayaking.
- Mawlynnong: Often called “Asia’s Cleanest Village” and known for its living root bridges.
- Nongriat: A village with the famous Double Decker Living Root Bridge.
- Jowai: The largest town in Meghalaya’s Jaintia Hills, known for its serene lakes.
- Williamnagar: A town in the East Garo Hills district with scenic landscapes.
- Balpakram National Park: Known for its unique flora, fauna, and dramatic landscapes.
- Nokrek National Park: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its biodiversity and the red panda.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Meghalaya is from October to April when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall and lush green landscapes, making it unique for nature enthusiasts.
How to Reach:
By Air: Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport) is the main airport in Meghalaya, but it has limited connectivity. The nearest major airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, which is well-connected to major Indian cities. From there, you can reach Meghalaya by road.
By Train: Meghalaya does not have its own railway network. The nearest major railway station is Guwahati Railway Station in Assam. From there, you can reach Meghalaya by road.
By Road: Meghalaya is well-connected by road to neighboring states. National highways and state highways provide access. You can also reach Meghalaya by inter-state buses.
Major Connectivity Options:
- From Guwahati: Guwahati in Assam is the main gateway to Meghalaya. You can reach Shillong and other parts of Meghalaya by road from Guwahati.
- From Kolkata: You can reach Guwahati by air from Kolkata, with regular flights available. From Guwahati, you can continue your journey to Meghalaya.
FAQ:
1. Is Meghalaya safe for tourists? Meghalaya is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s essential to take standard safety precautions and be cautious in remote or less-traveled areas.
2. Are there any COVID-19 restrictions for travelers? Check the latest COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions before planning your trip, as they may change over time.
3. What is the local cuisine of Meghalaya like? Meghalayan cuisine includes dishes like Jadoh, Tungrymbai, and various preparations of pork and rice. Bamboo shoots and local herbs are commonly used ingredients.
4. Is English widely spoken in Meghalaya? While Khasi and Garo are the main languages, English is commonly understood and spoken in urban areas and tourist destinations.
5. Are there any cultural festivals in Meghalaya worth attending? Meghalaya celebrates various festivals, including Shad Suk Mynsiem, Wangala, and Behdeinkhlam, which showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage.
6. What are the adventure activities available in Meghalaya? Meghalaya offers trekking, caving, river rafting, and outdoor exploration in its lush green landscapes. Caving is particularly popular due to the presence of extensive cave systems.