As one of the seven sister states, Meghalaya has a lot of clouds and rivers flowing through it. Meghalaya is a wonderful state with Scottish scenery and Indian charm, located between Assam and Bangladesh. Meghalaya, which means "Abode of Clouds," is noted for being one of the world's wettest places.
Meghalaya, with its enormous hills, valleys, countless lakes, mesmerising waterfalls, pitch-dark caves, and sacred woods, has no shortage of tourist attractions. Panorama views, foggy hills, terraced slopes, flowing waterfalls, and serpentine rivers should all captivate you.
Meghalaya may hypnotise you with its hills, valleys, lakes, caves, and waterfalls, which, when combined with the lovely clouds, give it a very tranquil and attractive appearance. It is well-known for Cherrapunji, a location with one of the world's highest rainfalls. Mawsynram, which is fewer than 100 kilometres from Cherrapunji, has surpassed Cherrapunji as the wettest place on the planet. As evident by the richness of British architecture, Shillong retains a lot of British colonial influence. Shillong, the state capital, is the most densely populated city in the state.
The Khasis (the largest group), Garos, and Pnars, who rely on agriculture for their livelihood, make up the majority of the state's population. The Khasi (Central range), Garo (Western range), and Jaintia (Western range) are the three primary mountain ranges in the state (Eastern range). The majority of tourist attractions are located in the Khasi Hills.
If you want to see Asia's cleanest village, make a point of visiting Mawlynnong. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya, is a spotless village on the India-Bangladesh border, featuring a bamboo dustbin on every street corner for environmentally responsible rubbish disposal. March and July are the finest months to visit Meghalaya since the weather is very pleasant.
Also known as Sohra in Meghalaya, was once the wettest place on Earth and is now famous for its double-decker living root bridge. The abundant flora and natural features of this sub-divisional city, around 50 kilometres from Shillong, are well-known. The Dain-Thlen, Kynrem, and Nohkalikai waterfalls, which are considered Cherrapunji's most famous waterfalls, attract visitors from all over the world. Popular attractions include living-root bridges, Mawsmai cave, Seven Sisters Falls, an eco-park, and a cave garden.
It is one of the most prominent Meghalaya tourist attractions in the Northeast, regarded as the "Scotland of the East." The city is named after the Lei Shyllong, an idol worshipped atop the Shillong Peak. Shillong, at 1496 metres above sea level, provides reprieve from the country's heat. Shillong, Meghalaya's capital, is home to several waterfalls. Shillong is noted for its exhilarating mountain ranges, pristine lakes, breathtakingly beautiful golf courses, museums, and zoo. The city's well-known tourist attractions are Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Lady Hydari Park, Wards, Lake, and the Don Bosco Museum. Shillong's native tribes include the Khyrim, Mylliem, Maharam, Mallaisohmat, Bhowal, and Langrim.
Mawlynnong village has been dubbed the "Cleanest Village in Asia" by a tourist newspaper, as well as having a nearby live root bridge. The settlement, dubbed "God's Own Garden," is a great example of community-based ecotourism. Locals have constructed a stunning Sky View platform made of bamboo atop the forest's tallest tree, which stands about 80 feet tall.
Balpakram means "country of endless winds," and the park is full of lovely grace and breathtaking landscape. Located 167 kilometres from Tura in Meghalaya's southern Garo Hills. This is one of Meghalaya's most popular tourist destinations. Tourists frequently compare this site to the United States' Grand Canyon. This National Park is home to animals such as the Red Panda, Wild Buffalo, Elephant, Tiger, Deer, Leopards, Wild Cows, Marbled Cat, and more. It's also a photographer's and nature lover's dream come true. The "Land of Spirits," as it is known among visitors, is a popular nickname for this region.
Dawki is a small city on the Indian-Bangladeshi border that also functions as a commerce crossroads. The Umngot River, which has crystal pure water, is what attracts visitors to Dawki. And when we say crystal clear, we mean so transparent that you can see your boat's shadow floating down the river. The Dawki Bridge, a river-spanning suspension bridge, is another reason to come here.
If you appreciate rain, Mawsynram is the place to go to get your fill, if not more. It is recognised as the world's rainiest site because it receives an average yearly rainfall of 11,872 mm, allowing you to step into the clouds and be drenched in an infinite stream of rain. In this picturesque community surrounded by lush nature, clouds coexist with humans. It's positioned atop the Khasi Hills' highest ridge. There are numerous waterfalls with diverse vegetation to be discovered.
Tura is one of Meghalaya's most popular tourist destinations, owing to its tranquil setting. It is situated in the Garo Hills and has many interesting places to visit. Tura is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It is surrounded by the scent of mountains and greenery and boasts untouched biodiversity.
Kyllang Rock, a rare giant rock made of red granite located 78 kilometres from Shillong, is a giant dome in the West Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. The Rock, which is 5400 feet above sea level and has a diameter of about 1000 feet, is a massive granite block that is said to be part of Khasi folklore.
The Khasi tribe's sacred plant grove is located in Mawphlang. It's brimming with medicinal plants. Members of the tribe also offer animal sacrifices and burn the remains of their ancestors inside. A Khasi Heritage Village, with various styles of mock tribal huts, is located next to the sacred forest.
Jowai, located in the Garo Hills, is another well-known tourist destination in Meghalaya. The area is known for its unique blend of heritage and culture. Learn about the local history when experiencing the local way of life. The lakes in this town make it one of the most amazing places to visit in Meghalaya. Spend a few hours contemplating life while gazing out over Thadlaskein Lake.
Located just 4 kilometres from Baghmara town and home to elephants, winged creatures, and langurs, this is a must-see for any wildlife fan. The Siju caverns are the Indian subcontinent's third-longest tunnel system, with countless mazes and chambers for labyrinth fans. A lovely limestone rock arrangement can be found within the cavern.
Meghalaya, one of India's seven sisters, is a beautiful hill state in the country's northeast. Meghalaya is a culturally and historically rich state. The province is home to a diverse range of art and craft forms. Throughout the state, numerous tribes celebrate various holidays with enthusiasm and joy. The people of the area love to dance and listen to music. Meghalaya is a land that is home to a diverse range of tribes and races.
The Hynniewtrep people, also known as the Khasi, Jaintia, Bhoi, and War, are members of the Proto Australoid Monkhmer race who dwell largely in the areas of East Meghalaya. They were among the first ethnic groups to arrive on the Indian subcontinent. The Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia are the three main tribes of the state, with the Khasi and Garo being the most well-known.
Seventy percent of the population follows Christianity. The remaining 30% is made up of Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains. Shillong is home to people from many different clans, tribes, and religions, while the remainder of the state is dominated by the major and smaller tribes mentioned above.
The most widely spoken and official language in the state is English. The state's other primary languages are Khasi and Garo. In addition to English, Meghalayans speak a number of other languages. Panar, Tiwa, Baite, and Nepali are just a few of the languages spoken in Meghalaya. In cities, the majority of people speak English, although in rural areas, individuals speak a diversity of languages.
The matrilineal system is a Meghalayan tradition that sets them apart. This system is virtually completely unknown throughout the rest of the country. Women inherit all of society's possessions and are the family's head under this one-of-a-kind arrangement. This highlights the fact that women in Meghalaya have a completely different position than women in other countries.
Fairs and Festivals of Meghalaya:
Meghalaya, a small state in India's north eastern region, is home to more than thunderclouds and a huge green environment. Its people are its lifeblood, and its music and dancing are its spirit. The people of Meghalaya are always polite and welcoming, and they enjoy all of the festivities. The event wouldn't be complete without the folk music and dancing that tie everything together. The following are noteworthy:
Meghalaya cuisine consists primarily of rice and vegetable curries, as well as fish and meat. People in Meghalaya have a specific cooking style that is dependent on the state's food supply. In addition, Meghalayan cuisine is separated into three unique styles: Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia.
Some of the most well-known dishes are listed below:
Shopping may be a very soothing activity. The joy is increased when done in a green area like Meghalaya. So, on your next visit to this great state, remember that there are some fantastic things to see and do that you won't find anyplace else in India. So keep an eye out for the places on our list when you're out shopping in Meghalaya.
By Air – Shillong is India's only city with no airport. The nearest airport to the hill station is Umroi Airport near Barapani, which is around 25 kilometres distant. As a result, there is a lack of communication with other cities. The nearest major airport is Guwahati, which is roughly 125 kilometres distant and has links to many places across India. You can take a taxi from Guwahati to Shillong.
By Railway – Aizawl does not have a railway station. The closest possibilities are Manu (75 km) and Silchar (180 km), from which you can rent a cab and go to the city.
By Road – The Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) provides great connectivity inside the state as well as to neighbouring states. Shillong and Guwahati are connected by the NH40 highway. You can hire a cab for the entire day or for a few short excursions around the area if you wish to go sightseeing.
