Meghalaya is a state in the northeast of India. Its name means “the place where clouds live.” With Shillong as its capital, it is a popular hill station with beautiful views of the Khasi and Jaintia hills, natural wonders like waterfalls and living root bridges, and the beautiful Umngot river and other lakes and water bodies that add to its charm and beauty. Meghalaya is a state that is right next to Assam and Bangladesh. It is a paradise for people who love nature.
In Meghalaya, the most rain has been recorded in the town of Mawsynram. It gets more rain than another town in Meghalaya, Cherrapunji, by a few millimeters, which makes its name, “abode of clouds,” make sense. Meghalaya is a place where tourists can get a taste of what it’s like to live in the woods, since 70–80% of the state is covered with forests. So, here is a list of a few places you should see on your next trip to this beautiful state.
1. Double Decker Cherrapunji, Living Root Bridge
Up until recently, Cherrapunji had the most rain of any place in the country. This two-story root bridge is another unique thing you can find in Cherrapunji. This bridge is 3 km long and 2400 feet high. It is made of the roots of the Indian rubber tree. It is 200 years old and is one of the oldest bridges.
2. Umiam Lake
Campers and picnickers often go to the lake and the area around it. Some of the many things you can do here are rock climbing, rappelling, and ziplining.
3. Mawsmai Cave
This cave is another tourist attraction. It is 6 kilometers from Cherrapunji. It’s only 150 meters long, but there are a lot of plants around it. The cave is very dark and narrow, so going through it is an adventure. The stalactites and stalagmites add to the drama, so this trip is full of excitement.
4. Laitlum Canyon
Most people who visit Meghalaya do so to go trekking. One of the most famous treks in this area is the Laitlum Canyon trek. It’s a short hike that takes about 4-5 hours and ends with some of the most beautiful views. You can see everything from green meadows to blue clouds with a misty look. If you are new to trekking, you shouldn’t go here during the monsoons. Plan a hike so that you reach the top by 5 p.m. at the latest. Make sure you do this trail at either sunrise or sunset to get the most out of the beautiful view at the top.
5. Balpakram National Park
This National Park is very close to the International Borders. It is south of the Garo Hills in Meghalaya. Balpakram is called the “land of eternal winds.” The tentative World UNESCO Heritage List includes this park.
6. Elephant Falls
This beautiful waterfall is 12 kilometers from Shillong in Meghalaya. The falls are surrounded by a lot of greenery, and the rushing water makes for a great atmosphere for visitors.
7. Nongpoh
A small town called Nongpoh is near the east Khasi hills. It gives visitors a treat for their eyes with its lush green landscapes and rivers with moving water. You can also visit a few parks and a wildlife sanctuary.
