Known as the Abode of the Clouds, Meghalaya is famous for being the wettest place on earth. This naturally makes it a popular monsoon travel destination among the travelers who love nature and rain. It is one of the beautiful and possibly the most accessible north-eastern states of India, with abundance of natural attractions. The majority of the population is made up of tribal people — Khasis, Garos, and Pnars — who predominantly earn their living from cultivation. And if you are planning a trip to Meghalaya, here is a list of the must see destinations.
Living Root Bridges
Possibly Meghalaya’s most famous attraction, Living Root Bridges can be found near Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong. The Living Root Bridges are located deep in the dense tropical forest and shrouded in cloud and rain for much of the year. These astonishing man-made natural wonders are inventions from Khasi tribe.
Mawlynnong Village
In addition to having an easily accessible living root bridge nearby, scenic Mawlynnong is worth visiting for the fact that it was named the “Cleanest Village in Asia” by a travel magazine. Also dubbed “God’s Own Garden”, the village is an outstanding example of community-based eco tourism.
Caves
There are more than 1000 caves in the state! The most frequently visited cave is Mawsmai, near Cherrapunji (two hours from Shillong). It’s maintained as a show cave for tourists and is lit up all the way through. The other caves are more challenging to visit and are suited to caving expeditions with appropriate caving equipment. These include Siju, Mawmluh, Mawsynram, and Liat Prah (the longest cave in India).
Garo Hills
If you’re a nature lover who really wants to get off the beaten track, then head to the densely forested Garo Hills in the western part of Meghalaya. This vast area, which is home to the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve, Siju Wildlife Sanctuary and Balpakhram National Park, is pristine and full of biodiversity.
Elephant Falls
The Elephant Falls in Shillong will leave the travelers awestruck owing to the cascading waterfall. The structure on the black rocks resembles an elephant and hence the name. The best time to view the beautifully flowing water is during sunset when the light is slowly fading and the water shines. The untouched natural beauty and serenity is what makes this place a must-visit spot in Meghalaya.
Laitlum Canyon
If you are an adventure enthusiast, then Laitlum Canyon is the perfect place to be at. Ideal for trekker, this place should be put down in your list of best trekking destinations in north east. It might be a little difficult, but if you have the right tools with the help of local guidelines, this trek is surely going to be fun.
Nohkalikai Falls
Located near Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, Nohkalikai Falls are the tallest in India flowing from a height of 1115 feet (340 mt). It turns blue in winter and green in summer. The spectacular view of the falls is a treat to the eyes.
The call of the unknown land is exciting and however much you prepare by reading on the net, experiencing it is an out of the world feeling.
