Literally translating as ‘Abode of the Clouds’, Meghalaya is one of the seven sister states that form the North Eastern part of India. Rich in terms of nature, culture and heritage, the state is also famous as the wettest region on earth. Though Meghalaya has been recently introduced to the railway map of India but it is still not connected to most of the Indian cities. So you need to take a train till Guwahati and be cautious to spot your train to avoid any confusion . Meghalaya is blessed with such untarnished natural bounties that travel bugs can spend a considerable time in exploring the state in its entirety and yet regret missing out something. Sublime villages, enchanting caves, gorgeous waterfalls, ancient root bridges and much more – that’s what paradisiacal Meghalaya can be summed to (if at all it can be!).
- Living Root Bridges – An ideal example of an amalgamation of nature’s beauty with man’s ingenuity, the popular living root bridges are spread across the dense valleys of the Khasi Hills. The tribal people of Khasi create these natural bridges out of the roots of rubber trees. The most unique and stunning of all is the Umshiang Double Decker Bridge that is supposed to be over 180 years old. To visit this matchless beauty one needs to go through a rigorous trek for several hours. But once you reach, you won’t regret the toil.
- Nohkalikai Waterfalls – Plunging down from a height of 1115 feet, Nohkalikai Falls is recorded as the tallest fall in India and fourth highest in the world. The name of the falls in Khasi language means “Jump of KaLikai”. Legend has it that this fall was named after a local woman named KaLikai jumped from here after being tricked into eating her own daughter. Despite the tragic legend associated with the waterfall, the mesmerizing views of the fall will leave you spellbound. The contrast of the surrounding lush forest and white falls weaves a misty, smoky look which is hard to resist.
- MawlynnongVillage – Listed as the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong is a quaint hamlet in East Khasi Hills and is an incredible instance of community-based ecotourism. Panoramic views, root bridges, unpolluted surroundings and warm hospitality of the locals – Mawlynnong is a must-visit place in your Meghalaya itinerary. The focal point of attraction of the village is the Sky Watch, a bamboo tower offering a sweeping view of the surrounding plains.
- Mawphlang Sacred Forest – With an incredible network of trees and medicinal plants that are several centuries old, the Mawphlang Sacred Forest is a heaven for nature lovers. The Khasi Heritage Village, located in proximity to the forest, is a great place to explore different types of mock tribal huts. David Scott trail, a scenic 16 km horse trail from British epoch, is something that you must not miss during your visit to the forest.
- Mawsmai Cave – Meghalaya is home to some of the mysterious cave systems and Mawsmai Cave is the most popular one. Approximately 6km from Cherrapunjee, this 150 meter long cave is well lit and maintained as a popular tourist attraction. As the light falls on the limestone walls of the caves, the innumerable hues flashing out is a sight to behold.
The state of Meghalaya flaunts pleasant weather throughout the year but if you wish to explore the hidden corners of the state, summer is the ideal time to do so. What are you waiting for? Do your reservations, pack your bags and get aboard!
