Meghalaya, one of the 7 sister states of North-East India, with its pristine beauty, perpetual clouds, mists, huge waterfalls, limestone caves, lush green and dense forests, amazing living root bridges, will make you fall in love with it.

It is an ideal destination for everyone, be it individuals, couples, friends or families. With so many possibilities in Meghalaya, it’s difficult to compile a list but here are a few things you definitely shouldn’t miss!

1. Cherrapunji

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Described as the wettest place on the planet, Cherrapunji receives average of 11000 mm of rainfall annually. Located on a plateau above the surrounding valleys, it has spectacular views of dense subtropical rainforests. The interesting thing is that rains mostly in the night here, hence the work goes on as usual during the day.

2. Waterfalls

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With perennial rains, Meghalaya is home to countless waterfalls and one can have a gala time visiting all of them!

Nohkalikai Falls, at a height of 340 m, is the tallest plunge waterfall in the country. It is named after a woman, Likai, who committed suicide by jumping from here after she was fed the meat of her own child by her second husband.

The plunge waterfall falls off the cliff into the dense forest covered pool below is a sight to behold and its immensity is hard to explain in words.

Another spectacular waterfall is the Nohsngithiang Falls, also called as the Seven Sisters fall. It is a seven segmented waterfall and flows mainly in the rainy season, with its intensity decreasing otherwise. During monsoons, the whole cliff face is covered with the falls and reflects the sun in vibrant colors.

3. Caves in Meghalaya

Caving in Meghalaya

Located mainly in Jaintia and Khasi hills, Meghalaya has some very beautiful limestone caves and described as one of the top 10 caving sites in the world. Caving is a recreational sport of exploring caves.

These caves have huge calcite formations and you’ll get to see many stalactites and stalagmites as you explore the dark interiors. Devoid of any sunlight, your only source of light will be your helmet lamp. Some of these caves are unexplored making caving a raw and thrilling experience.

4. Living Root Bridges

Living root bridges

Meghalaya is home to living root bridges and the only place where you’ll get to experience these bio-engineered marvels. Roots of a particular type of fig tree are trained over years to form a sturdy bridge across a gorge or a river.

Some of these are over 100 feet long and usually take 15 to 20 years to become fully functional. One can encounter many of these while exploring Meghalaya.

5. Mawlynnong

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When visiting Meghalaya, one should not forget to visit the village of Mawlynnong, which is said to be the ‘cleanest village in Asia’. The little village, very close to the India – Bangladesh border is simply beautiful and is best explored on foot. It is home to the Khasi people who other than being nature lovers have many stories and folklore to share. You can even stay in the tree houses in the village.

Dawki, which is the India – Bangladesh border, is about 35 km away.

6. Wildlife

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Being a sub-tropical rainforest, you find abundant and unique wildlife in Meghalaya like Elephants, langurs, gibbons and many rare birds. Meghalaya is home to one of the rarest animals in the world – the Red Panda, also called as lesser Panda.

Meghalaya is a heaven for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers and there are plenty of opportunities to spot and click them.

7. Laitlum Canyon

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About 4-5 hour trek from Shillong, Laitlum Canyon gives you a bird’s eye view of the city. The terrain is slightly rough, but the panoramic views and the beauty experienced from the top are worth all the effort. For a clear view, visit in the afternoon as fog is present in the mornings.

To experience the amazing Meghalaya yourself, get in touch with us for a customized trip!

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