Meghalaya Tour Plan | Best Meghalaya Itinerary | Complete guide to Meghalaya

Summary

This travel guide takes you on a 6-day adventure through Meghalaya, a scenic gem in North East India, known for its waterfalls, lakes, and cultural heritage. Starting from Guwahati and Shillong, the journey covers the wettest place on Earth, Cherrapunji, with stunning waterfalls like Nohkalikai, and the famous Double Decker Root Bridge. Visit Mawlynnong, Asia’s cleanest village, explore crystal-clear waters in Dawki, and end with the hidden treasures of Garo Hills. This itinerary is packed with natural beauty, unique cultural experiences, and practical travel tips for an unforgettable Meghalaya trip.

Takeaways

• 😀 Meghalaya is known as the 'Abode of Clouds' and is famous for its beautiful waterfalls, lakes, and scenic landscapes.
• 😀 The best time to visit Meghalaya is between October and April, but if you plan to explore during the monsoon, Khasi and Jaintia Hills are ideal.
• 😀 Guwahati in Assam is the nearest railway station, and Shillong in Meghalaya is the closest airport. Both are easily accessible by public or private transport.
• 😀 Umiam Lake, an artificial lake created to deal with water shortages, offers a beautiful stop en route to Shillong.
• 😀 Shillong, also known as the 'Scotland of the East,' is a great place to stay, with vibrant celebrations during Christmas and New Year.
• 😀 Cherrapunji, once the wettest place on Earth, still receives heavy rainfall, even in the summer. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking waterfalls like Nohkalikai.
• 😀 Nohkalikai Waterfall is the tallest in India and has a tragic story attached to it, making it a unique and memorable site.
• 😀 Mawlynnong Village, known for its cleanliness, is also famous for the Double Decker Root Bridge, a remarkable natural structure formed by intertwined tree roots.
• 😀 The Arwah Caves in Cherrapunji offer a fascinating exploration of limestone rock formations, but some paths can be narrow and challenging.
• 😀 Dawki in Jaintia Hills is renowned for the crystal-clear waters of the Umgot River, where visitors can enjoy boating.
• 😀 Wari Chora in Garo Hills offers a unique experience with rugged terrain, secret waterfalls, and a glimpse of tribal culture, making it a perfect spot for adventure and exploration.

Q & A

What is the best time to visit Meghalaya for a trip?

The best time to visit Meghalaya is from October to April. However, if you are planning to explore the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, you can visit during the monsoon season as well. Avoid visiting Garo Hills during this time due to frequent rainfall.

How long does it take to travel from Guwahati to Shillong?

It takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours to travel from Guwahati to Shillong by road.

What is Umiam Lake, and why is it significant?

Umiam Lake is an artificial reservoir located on the way to Shillong. It was created to address water shortages during summers and offers a beautiful view of the Khasi Hills. It is a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Why is Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra, famous?

Cherrapunji, formerly known as Sohra, is famous for being one of the wettest places on Earth. It receives heavy rainfall even during the summer, making it a unique place to visit.

What are the key attractions to visit in Cherrapunji?

In Cherrapunji, you must visit the Dainthlen Waterfall, which has three stages, and the Nohkalikai Waterfall, the tallest in India. You can also explore Mawsmai Caves, known for their stunning rock formations.

Can I explore caves in Meghalaya? What are the famous ones?

Yes, Meghalaya is known for its caves. The famous ones include the Mawsmai Caves in Cherrapunji and the Arwah Caves. These caves are safe to explore and provide a fascinating glimpse of geological formations.

What makes the Double Decker Root Bridge special?

The Double Decker Root Bridge in Tyna Village is a natural bridge made from the roots of living trees. It is a unique example of local craftsmanship and nature’s beauty, and it requires a 5,500-step trek to reach.

How much time should I spend exploring Mawlynnong village?

You should plan to spend 1-2 hours exploring Mawlynnong, Asia's cleanest village. It offers a peaceful atmosphere with scenic views, local churches, and homestays.

What is Dawki known for?

Dawki is known for its crystal-clear water, particularly in the Ummgot River. It is located on the border with Bangladesh and is a popular spot for boating, providing breathtaking views of the riverbed.

How difficult is the trek to Wari Chora in Garo Hills?

The trek to Wari Chora in Garo Hills is relatively challenging, with a 1km descent through rugged terrain. The experience is rewarding with stunning views and hidden waterfalls. Make sure to be prepared for the trek.