Meghalaya, one of the Seven Sister States of Northeast India, is a beautiful place to discover. Meghalaya is a Sanskrit word that means “Abode of Clouds” and the place is true to its name. The state is famous for dense forests, heavy rainfall, stunning waterfalls, breathtaking living root bridges, undiscovered caves, rich biodiversity, and tribes. All these things offer a long list of places to visit in Meghalaya.
Each tourist place will surprise you with something unique. Here is the list of significant places to visit in Meghalaya that you must explore.
Beautiful Places that you Shouldn’t Miss in your Meghalaya Travel
1. Shillong
If you are looking to vacation in the nature surrounding area then Shillong is the best option for you. It is Scotland of the East and is one of the most popular places to visit in Meghalaya. Shillong is the destination that is on everybody’s list when you are planning to visit Northeast India. The pleasant climate, forested hills, scenic natural beauty, serenity, and tranquillity are what attract tourists to this place. You can find the descendants of the Mylliem, Khyrim, Mallaisohmat, Maharam, Langrim, and Bhowal tribes in Shillong. Crystal clear lakes, magnificent waterfalls, glorious mountain peaks, museums, beautiful golf courses, and cafes, and there are various reasons to visit Shillong. The beautiful city is also considered the escape to Meghalaya.
Shillong Peak, Lady Hydari Park, Elephant Falls, Lakes, Don Bosco Museum, and Laitlum Canyons are a few famous places to visit in Shillong.
2. Cherrapunji
Known as the wettest place on earth after Mawsynram, as it receives rainfall throughout the year it is located in the East Khasi Hills, 50 kilometers from Shillong, Cherrapunji is known for caves waterfalls, lush valleys, living root bridges, and captivating natural beauty. Tourists from across the world come here to visit and witness the stunning Double Decker Living root bridge, which is one of its kind. The waterfalls of Cherrapunji are some of the longest in India, and you must see them during your Trip to Meghalaya.
Mawsmai Cave, NohKalikai waterfall, Seven Sisters falls, Kynrem falls, the garden of caves, and Krem Mawmluh are a few major attractions of Cherrapunji.
Distance from Shillong: 50 kilometers
3. Jowai
Located at a distance of 66 kilometers from Shillong in the district of Jaintia Hills. The town is known for its breathtaking views and rural environment. It is a place in Meghalaya where you can experience the culture and traditions of the state and learn about its heritage. Much like Cherrapunji, it is a place where you can come close to nature in its raw form through boasting lakes, waterfalls, valleys, and scenic drives. The town is famous among tourists visiting Meghalaya for festival celebrations like Chad Sukra, Laho Dance, and Behdeinkhlam. Thadlaskein lake, Syntu Ksiar, and Lalong park are famous places in Jowai.
Distance from Shillong: 66 kilometers.
4. Tura
An unexplored part of the Garo Hills is another place to visit in Meghalaya. Tura is a small town is in western Meghalaya and is an eco-tourist hub of Meghalaya. Located 311 kilometers from Shillong, Tura is still connected with its Garo roots. Where Shillong is growing to be a multi-cultural place in Meghalaya, Tura is a place to explore the undisturbed natural attractions and biodiversity of the state. This place in Meghalaya is heaven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Tura Peak, Nokrek National Park, Siju Caves, and Pelga Falls are a few must-visit places in and near Tura.
Distance from Shillong: 311 kilometers
5. Nongpoh
Another destination in Meghalaya is Nongpoh. Located in the middle of Guwahati and Shillong, it is a little town in the East Khasi Hills. Nongpoh is at the distance of 51 kilometers from Shillong and 60 kilometers from Guwahati, making it a must-visit place in Northeast India. The gorgeous town is located on the plains of Brahmaputra and is a popular stop for tourists traveling from Shillong to Guwahati. The townlet is famous for its picturesque environment, gushing rivers, pleasant weather, and lush greenery to make your trip comfortable. Lum Sohpetbneng, Dwar Ksuid, Lum Nehru Park, and Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary are a few attractions in Nongpoh.
Distance from Shillong: 51 kilometers
6. Mawsynram
Mawsynra, the wettest place on earth, is one of the famous places to visit in Meghalaya that you must add to your Meghalaya travel itinerary. It is located at a distance of 61 kilometers from Shillong and is a delight for nature lovers. From all the places in the list of Meghalaya tourist places, it is the rainiest landscape and witnesses rainfall throughout the year. “Maw” in the name of this village is a Khasi word that means stone and symbolizes megaliths exhumed in the Khasi Hills. Mawsynram is known for the formation of stalagmite in the form of Shivalinga.
Distance from Shillong: 60 kilometers
7. Williamnagar
This destination is located at a distance of 244 kilometers from Shillong and is another popular Tourist Place in Meghalaya. Williamnagar is the headquarters of East Garo Hills and was named after Captain Williamson, the first Chief Minister of Meghalaya. The area has abundant flora and fauna and is filled with scenic rivers and mountains. The beautiful town Williamnagar is located near the plains of Simsang River around the former town Simsanggre. If you want to see the countryside of the state, then add Williamnagar to the Meghalaya travel package.
Distance from Shillong: 244 kilometers
8. Mawlynnong
Awarded as the cleanest village in India by Discovery India, is another famous place to visit in Meghalaya. Mawlynnong isn’t only the cleanest village in India but is also a place with a 100% literacy rate and a place that believes in women’s empowerment. Mawlynnong is among the exotic locations in Meghalaya you will come across. From stunning root bridges to cascading falls, scenic views, and a clean environment, the place welcomes visitors with everything it has. You will find bamboo bins across the village. You can find many traditional houses made of bamboo here to stay here.
Distance from Shillong: 77 kilometers
9. Baghmara
If you are a wildlife enthusiast, then add Baghmara to your Meghalaya travel packages. Located at the India-Bangladesh border, 287 kilometers from Shillong, Baghmara is rich in flora and fauna and boasts numerous picturesque lakes, rolling hills, and rivers. Nestled in the South Garo Hills, this town attracts many tourists yearly. Baghmara Reserve Forests, located 4km from the main town, will let you discover the diverse flora and fauna of the region. The Balphakram National Park is another place near Baghmara where you can explore the region’s wildlife. Siju Cave, the third longest cave in India, is another famous tourist attraction in Baghmara.
Distance from Shillong: 287 kilometers
10. Nongstoin
This is the headquarter of the West Khasi Hills, which is one of the offbeat tourist places in Meghalaya. The place is surrounded by immense natural beauty and is a paradise for nature lovers. When in Meghalaya, one must visit this picturesque destination which is located at a distance of 93 kilometers from Shillong. Nongstoin will bewitch you with color-changing sprawling hills and many famous tourist attractions, but Nongkhnum Island tops the list. Kyllang Rock, Mawthadraishan Peak, Weinia Falls, Thum Falls, War Lake, and Pamphyrnai Lake are some tourist attractions in Nongstoin.
Distance from Shillong: 93 Kilometers
Meghalaya is the perfect destination for those who want to soak in nature, seek inner peace, and experience exploration. A vacation in Meghalaya will not disappoint anyone. Book customized Meghalaya Travel Packages with TRISOJ to explore the dense forest, hilly terrains, caves, and culture of Meghalaya.
