Meghalaya is a beautiful hill state with green landscapes, attractive waterfalls, and lovable tribal culture. It is in northeastern India between Assam and Bangladesh, and its name, Meghalaya, translates to “abode of clouds.”

The name of the state is enough to tell that it has mist-covered hills and valleys. It is one of the most beautiful and underrated tourist destinations in India. However, it offers an ideal escape for nature lovers, trekkers, and cultural explorers for its peaceful vibe, cleanest villages, and adventure trails.

How to Reach Meghalaya – By Air, Rail, and Road

• The easiest way to reach Meghalaya is by airway. The nearest airport is the Guwahati airport (GAU) which is about 120 km from Shillong – the capital of Meghalaya. You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from the airport that drops you Shillong in some 3–4 hours.
• Shillong also has a small airport named Umroi Airport (SHL), but it is not well-connected to major cities and has limited flights.
• If you are travelling by train, the nearest major railway station is Guwahati Railway Station. Buses and cabs for Meghalaya are available from there too.
• The third option is a road trip that lets you witness the scenic views of the different cities of the state on the way.

Getting Around and Stay Options in Meghalaya

Getting around Meghalaya is easy. You can hire local taxis or opt for self-drive vehicles and comfortably visit the places. Shared taxis can also be an option as they would be economical. You can even book day tours or hire cabs by the hour for local sightseeing in Shillong or Cherrapunji. The accommodation options in Meghalaya include homestays, guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and a few luxury resorts too. You’ll find good lodging facilities in places like Shillong, Cherrapunji, and Mawlynnong in different budget ranges.

Best Places to Visit in Meghalaya and Why They Matter

Meghalaya boasts some of the most beautiful tourist spots. Let me talk about them a bit:

• Shillong is the state’s capital and is known as the “Scotland of the East”. It has Umiam Lake, Ward’s Lake, Shillong Peak, and the Don Bosco Museum to explore.
• Cherrapunji (Sohra) is famous for being one of the wettest places on Earth. It is also a home to spectacular waterfalls like Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters Falls. One of the most unique attractions here is the Double Decker Living Root Bridge. It is a natural bridge formed from the roots of ancient trees.

• Mawlynnong is a beautiful village and a must-visit place in the state. It has been awarded as the cleanest village in Asia and is a model of sustainable tourism. You can explore bamboo skywalks there and live with local families. It also offers panoramic views of Bangladesh.
• Dawki is also located near the India-Bangladesh border and is a great place to visit. It is popular for its crystal-clear Umngot River, where boating feels like gliding on glass.

• Laitlum Canyon is a lesser-known destination that offers dramatic views of the Khasi hills. They look fabulous during sunrise and sunset.

Top Things to Do in Meghalaya

Meghalaya is a home to adventure and nature. Check out the list of the activities you can do in Meghalaya.

• You can trek to the living root bridges.
• You can enjoy boating in the clear waters of Dawki.
• You can experience caving in Mawsmai and Liat Prah caves.
• The state has countless waterfalls to explore that could be best for you if you are a waterfall chaser.

• You can go camping near rivers and try zip-lining. You may also like to learn traditional Khasi cooking at local homestays.
• If you love different cultures, visiting tribal villages could be a great thing to do. You may also love attending local festivals like Shad Suk Mynsiem or Wangala. These activities shall offer deep insights into the indigenous traditions and music of the region.

Ideal Duration for a Meghalaya Trip

You can enjoy Meghalaya’s beauty and cover the main attractions in some 5 to 7 days. This duration is enough to explore Shillong, Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong, Dawki, and surrounding areas without rushing. If you’re an adventure enthusiast or a slow traveler, you can extend your stay to 10 days. This duration should allow you to venture deeper into offbeat destinations like Nongriat, Mawsynram, and Laitlum.

A Dreamy Destination You Shouldn’t Miss

Meghalaya is an experience of serenity, adventure, and cultural depth rolled into one. This Northeast jewel deserves a top spot on every traveler’s list for its natural charm, friendly locals, and clean surrounding. Plan your trip now and let the clouds guide your journey!