For all the times that you looked up at the sky and thought it would be so cool to be amidst the clouds, we have a solution for you (and it doesn’t have to be a permanent one). You don’t even have to leave the country to experience it. Nestled in the Northeast corner of India is one of the seven sisters of the country – Meghalaya. To translate it literally, the place is famously known for being “the abode of clouds”.
Leave the city life behind and temporarily embrace the life surrounded by tall mountains, verdant forests, and breathtaking valleys. Meghalaya is one of those states that has an everlasting gloomy vibe and carries the promise to show you unfiltered nature. It’s also home to one of the longest and most complex cave structures in all of India. So, if a little bit of a thrill with a side of nature and tranquillity sounds appealing to you, you should visit Meghalaya. We’ve made things even more simple for you and made a list of things to do in Meghalaya for a memorable holiday.
5 Things To Do In Meghalaya For A Memorable Holiday
1. Take A Stroll Through The Living Root Bridge
Missing the Living Root Bridge when you’re in Meghalaya is like going to Singapore in not visiting the Gardens By The Bay. And for all of those imagining live roots that twist around your ankles and hands, that’s not what these are. A living root bridge is when two rubber trees are planted on either side of a river and they grow in a way to meet each other in the center. They take about a decade to grow and can live up to 500 years. Another fun fact? As time passes, these root bridges only grow stronger and sturdier.
Meghalaya just happens to be a place in India where you can walk along the root bridges and get an exhilarating experience. You can trek through a forest area that’s covered in greens with a river flowing underneath you and a path of roots made just for you! Some of the famous Living Root Bridges for you to enjoy are in Nongbareh, Dawki, Padu, and Sohra. Rest assured that the photos you click here are going to be something right out of a fairytale that takes place in the woods.
2. Boat Along The Umiam Lake
Add Shillong to your itinerary and we have just the place for you to visit there! Umiam Lake is a man-made reservoir that is enveloped in tranquillity. Imagine yourself gently gliding on a boat, the calm water reflecting the azure sky above. Gentle ripples form in your wake, and the distant hills cast a picturesque backdrop. Here, on Umiam Lake, time seems to slow down, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
Boating options cater to diverse preferences. You can choose a leisurely paddle boat ride, enjoying the gentle exercise and the opportunity to truly appreciate the lake’s serenity. For a more thrilling experience, opt for the many water rides they have for the brave ones.
Prices:
- Pedal boat/canoe/kayak (30 mins) – INR 20
- Skiing- INR 200,
- Scooter- INR 50,
- River bus- INR 50,
- Yachting- INR 100
3. Catch The Sunrise From Shillong Peak
For a truly unforgettable experience in Meghalaya, rise before the sun and embark on a trek to Shillong Peak. As the highest point in Shillong, it offers a panoramic vista that transforms into a breathtaking spectacle during sunrise.
Be aware that due to its location on an Air Force base, security at Shillong Peak is strict. Thorough checks are conducted at the entry gates, and photography is not permitted for security reasons. However, the memories you capture with your eyes will surely be more vivid and long-lasting than any photograph. You’ll never forget the feeling of watching the sun climb higher and the entire city of Shillong awakening right at your feet.
4. Visit The Town Of Dawki
Nestled amidst the lush hills of Meghalaya, Dawki is a charming town that promises a delightful escape into a world of scenic beauty and cultural intrigue. Located on the border between India and Bangladesh, Dawki offers a unique blend of experiences, captivating visitors with its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant local life, and historical significance.
To get a spike in your adrenaline, you can try out some of the adventure activities like kayaking, ziplining, and spelunking. Or immerse yourself entirely in the Khasi and Jaintia culture as you explore local dishes like Doh Khlieh (pork dish) and Jadoh (rice porridge with meat), all bursting with authentic flavors.
5. Explore The Siju Caves
Concealed within the verdant embrace of Meghalaya’s Garo Hills lie the Siju Caves, a labyrinthine network of limestone caverns whispering tales of time and nature’s wonders. Also known as Dobakhol, meaning “bat cave” in the local dialect, Siju boasts a reputation as one of the longest cave systems in Asia, and arguably the most well-researched cave system in India.
Thankfully, exploring the Siju Caves doesn’t require spelunking expertise. A well-maintained pathway leads visitors through a section of the cave, showcasing the most captivating formations. However, venturing deeper requires the guidance of experienced local guides who possess the knowledge and equipment to navigate the more challenging sections.
Summing Up
We’re done listing all of the exciting things to do in Meghalaya in this shortlist. Including all of these places in your itinerary would assure you explore a part of India that’s unknown to many with its vast cave system and the Living Root Bridges. You’re going to get a whole lot closer to nature by the end of it and also have memories of a very exciting trip!
FAQs
What Is The Best Time To Visit Meghalaya?
April and June are the best time to visit Meghalaya.
What Is The Famous Food In Meghalaya?
Some of the famous foods in Meghalaya are Jadoh, Nakham Bitchi, Pumaloi, Tungrymbai, etc.
How Many Days Are Enough In Meghalaya?
A trip of 5-7 days should be enough to visit Meghalaya.
Do Indians Need Permit To Visit Meghalaya?
Meghalaya announced that travelers visiting for longer than 24 hours will be required to furnish a document stating their visit purpose. You will need an Inner Line Permit to visit the state.
What Is The Local Drink Of Meghalaya?
People make Kyat, a locally made fermented rice beer, which is a famous local drink of Meghalaya.
How To Reach Meghalaya By Flight?
By flight, you can arrive at Shillong Airport which is a domestic airport.
How Many Living Root Bridges Are There In Meghalaya?
There are about 100 Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya.
