Nestled in the Northeastern part of India, the state of Meghalaya is also rightfully known as the Land of the Clouds. This state is also of historical and cultural significance seeing as traces of ancient people residing here have been discovered which is a major attraction and reasons to visit Meghalaya.
Meghalaya is mostly covered by high-end plateaus, lush forests, and valleys. Additionally, with the amount of rainfall that it receives every year, it is believed to be the wettest place on earth.
Rich in flora and fauna, Meghalaya is home to several species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. It has two national parks and three wildlife sanctuaries that are home to these animals and provide protection to them.
The variety of wildlife, highlands, and scenery is without a doubt the main reason to visit Meghalaya. It also provides multiple other options like adventure sports, trekking, and camping options which are great add-ons.
If you are longing to check off Meghalaya from your bucket list then we have just the reasons to visit Meghalaya for you to go ahead.
10 Reasons to visit Meghalaya this season:
1. Explore the wettest place in the world – Mawsynram
A quaint village located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, on the surface, Mawsynram looks like a simple village but its peaceful vibe is what makes it such a popular tourist destination in Meghalaya.
Owing to the heavy rainfalls it receives, it has also earned the title of being the wettest place in the whole world. There is a famous cave in this village that has wonderful displays of stalagmites which is indeed a reason to visit Meghalaya. The mountain roads leading to the destination are adorned with lush greenery, blooming orchids, and mesmerizing waterfalls.
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2. The beauty of Seven Sister Falls
Just as the name suggests, it is a beautiful union of seven different waterfalls falling together to offer the most magical view.
Falling across the cliffs, with the water reflecting the sunlight and combusting into vibrant colors will show you one of the most breathtaking views you have ever seen.
The water falls from a height of nearly about a thousand feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in India. It is a must-visit when visiting Meghalaya as it is surely a natural marvel of India.
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3. The Sacred Mawphlang Forest
Mawphlang forest is considered to be sacred because it is believed that the local deity, Labasa resides here. The harmony in this forest area has been preserved by the local Khasi tribes for around thousands of years. The forest has collections of old trees, medicinal herbs, and even monoliths.
According to local beliefs, Labasa never allows anyone to take anything out of this place, not even a flower or a stone. If anyone does, they are punished by death.
This place indeed has a fascinating fable associated with it which is also an interesting reason to visit Meghalaya.
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4. Trek to Double-decker Bridge
Nongriat is one of the popular places to see in Meghalaya that you should not miss at any cost. It is famous for its double-decker bridges which were built from the roots of large trees by the local Khasi tribes.
You have to climb around a thousand steps in order visit to a place but the experience is surely worth all the hardships. The picturesque surrounding will amaze you to the peak.
Make sure to wear comfortable trekking shoes and even though the journey may be tiresome, it will be worth it. You can also stop along the waterfalls that will fall along the way to refresh yourself with a splash of cool water and a spectacular view.
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5. Float on the turquoise waters of the Dawki River
This place is at a distance of 95 km from Shillong and near the Bangladesh border. It is one of those iconic landmarks that pops into one’s head when one thinks of Meghalaya.
One of the main attractions of Dawki is the Umngot River. The water is crystal clear, and you will be able to see the riverbed if you take a glimpse.
Boat rides are a common adventure activity here and the reason is that because of how clean and transparent the river is, it gives the illusion that the boats are floating in the air.
Activities like snorkeling, rafting, and fishing in the Dawki River are one of the reasons to visit Meghalaya.
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6. Trek to the Laithlum Canyon
Located at a distance of 22 km from the capital, this is a perfect place for adventure seekers and trek lovers.
A natural wonder with beautiful streams flowing through its vast expanse, it is nestled in the Smit Valley and offers panoramic views of the entire valley.
You will also find colorful orchids on your way and the trail adorned with greenery eventually leading you to ivory clouds is one of the most beautiful trekking trails. It is one of the best reasons to visit Meghalaya.
Another interesting attraction of Laithlum Canyon is the 3000-Step-Stairway that adventure enthusiasts wish to tick off their bucket list.
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7. David Scott Trail
A muddy trail with a few rocky sections and spectacular scenery that leads to the Mawphlang forest is a great hiking option for thrill seekers when visiting Meghalaya.
The total length of the track is 17 kilometers, which can be an easy start for a novice trekker. It was named after the British administrator who operated at this place.
This track was, and also currently, is frequented by horse carts. The trails are comparatively steep and so provide just the perfect amount of thrill along with beautiful meadows and scenery along.
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8. Umiam Lake
Nestled in vicinity of Shillong, Umiam lake is the epitome of beauty. Locally known as Dam sait, it is the largest artificial lake known with a depth of around 53 meters.
The greenery around, and the peacefulness of this tourist attraction in Meghalaya is a must-visit. Apart from offering scenic vistas, Umiam Lake also hosts numerous water activities such as kayaking, water cycling, scooting, and boating.
Nearby is a garden called the Lum Nehru Park which can be a great add-on. To experience the most of it, don’t miss out on indulging in boating, water sports, trekking, and even fishing at the lake. These experiences are such an attraction and provide exciting reasons to visit Meghalaya.
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9. Visit the “Scotland of the East” – Shillong
The name Shillong arises whenever people talk about taking a trip to the northeastern part of India. Places to see in Meghalaya will surely start from this scenic town of Meghalaya which is one of the most famous hill stations in India.
Located at an elevation of 1500 meters, this place is a combination of manicured gardens, sparkling waterfalls, and Eden-like forests.
The Don Bosco Centre for indigenous culture also depicts the cultural richness of the native people of the place. The famous Elephant falls is located in the southwestern part of the city.
A journey to this place will surely make you think that how rightfully the Britishers named this place Scotland of the East.
10. Explore Asia’s cleanest village – Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong Village is indeed the best-kept secret of Meghalaya. It has now become renowned and has become one of the most popular tourist spots.
Along with being Asia’s cleanest village, it is also known as God’s Garden. The village is extremely conscious about being eco-friendly and cleanliness is like a life-mantra here.
Not even a single piece of trash can be found, which is very unlike in metropolitan cities. This pureness and clean air are what make it a perfect reason to visit Meghalaya.
Some of the must-have experiences in Mawlynnong include visiting the balancing rock and peaking through the tree top viewpoint. You can also indulge in sightseeing along with feasting on local food.
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The list of the reasons to visit Meghalaya can go on for eternity. But we hope that you don’t wait that long to visit this beautiful paradise. Hop on for this destination!
This is extremely well written ❤️
Meghalaya is the gem of Northeast India.
True that.
paradise on earth, beautiful pics.