Meghalaya, also known as the "Dwelling of the clouds," is one of India's most beautiful and adventurous places to go explore. The place is full of hazy mountains, grand waterfalls, living root bridges and green valleys teeming with life. If you are captivated by the marvels of nature, then Meghalaya is for you. It has the top places on your bucket list. Here are some great sights to see in this fascinating state.
Shillong, the lovely capital of Meghalaya, is surrounded by green hills and beautiful landscapes. Go to the Shillong Peak, the highest spot in the city where you will get a breathtaking view of the surrounding valley. Elephant Falls, a famous three-tier waterfall,is another must-see place where you can enjoy the silent beauty of nature. Shillong also has a flourishing local culture, with vibrant local markets and traditional Khasi food to try.
Cherrapunjee receives some of the highest rainfall in the world, and doubles as home to these fascinating living root bridges. These natural wonders are formed by rubber trees' roots being woven over rivers and streams. The Double-Decker Root Bridge is one of the most characteristic sights that Meghalaya has to offer nature lovers and hikers. Here, you can also take in the fantastic Nohkalikai Falls— India’s tallest plunge waterfall — and soak up the refreshing atmosphere of the deep green forests.
Mawsynram, with this unofficial title of being the wettest place on earth, is the rain lover's paradise. The small village is always verdant, with product after product sprouting throughout an entire year. The caves in Mawsynram are legendary among adventure-seekers. For example, you can explore Mawjymbuin Cave, where a stalagmite formation looks just like a Shiva Lingam. The people of Mawsynram are living in a dreamland of drifting clouds and scattered rocks. This is their world.
Dawki is near the Bangladesh border and is home to the breathtaking Umngot River. This river is so clear that you can make out the bottom, so boats appear to float in midair. Riding a boat on this crystal-clear river is an experience you will never forget. Dawki is also a great place for camping, where you can get splendid views of both India and Bangladesh.
And with this motto, as the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong is a place where cleanliness and ecofriendliness are highly thought of. As you walk through the village, it feels like you are walking into a garden. The bamboo skywalk is designed by locals and gives a wonderful view of the beautiful wilderness around. Mawlynnong is also near the living root bridges, and offers a glimpse into the simple yet lovely lifestyle of the Khasi habitants.
Meghalaya is a wonderland of natural scenery, cultural charm, and exciting adventures waiting for you to enter. The special thing about each of Meghalaya's destinations is that they each carry a unique flavor, whether it be those crystal-clear rivers, living root bridges or vivid village life. Put on your backpack, tie your shoes and revel in discovering the marvels of Meghalaya- the "Home in the Clouds."