Meghalaya is one of the most rewarding places to visit in Northeast India because of the clean rivers, living root bridges, waterfalls pouring off every cliff and Khasi villages where life still moves at its own pace. If you are planning your first trip here, you’re probably wondering where to start amidst all the beautiful places to visit in Meghalaya.
At Wild Hill Adventure, we have spent years guiding first-time visitors through this state. Most people land in Guwahati, cross into Meghalaya, and have about 5 to 7 days. That is enough to cover the best of it if you plan well. This guide covers the top 10 places to visit in Meghalaya for first-time travelers
Shillong: The Starting Point
Shillong is where almost every trip to Meghalaya begins. It sits at about 1,500 meters above sea level, roughly 3 hours by road from Guwahati airport. The climate stays pleasant through most of the year, and the town has enough infrastructure to make it a comfortable base for exploring the rest of the state.
Spend a day walking through Police Bazaar for local food and supplies. Visit Ward’s Lake if you want a quiet morning, and drive up to Shillong Peak for a wide view of the surrounding hills. The real value of Shillong is its location. You can day-trip to almost all of the places to visit in Meghalaya such as Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong and Dawki from here without changing hotels.
Cherrapunji and Its Waterfalls
Cherrapunji which is also called Sohra is about 2 hours south of Shillong. It held the world record for rainfall for decades and you can see why. The entire landscape is built around water with waterfalls running off limestone cliffs in every direction during monsoon season.
Nohkalikai Falls is the one you should not skip. At roughly 340 meters, it is one of the tallest plunge waterfalls in India.
You can see it from a viewpoint that sits right at the cliff edge. During and just after monsoon, the volume of water is staggering. Seven Sisters Falls (Nohsngithiang) is another major stop best viewed from the Mawsmai side in the late afternoon light.
The Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat
The Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat village is the single most iconic sight in all of the places to visit in Meghalaya. Getting there requires a trek of about 3,500 steps down from Tyrna village, near Cherrapunji. The return climb is the hard part. Plan for 4 to 5 hours round trip if you are reasonably fit.
Tips for the Nongriat Trek
- Start early, ideally by 7 AM, to avoid the afternoon heat on the return climb.
- Carry at least 2 liters of water and wear shoes with good grip.
- If you want to stay overnight, there are basic homestays in Nongriat village that serve simple meals.
Dawki and the Umngot River
Dawki sits on the India-Bangladesh border, about 3 hours from Shillong. The Umngot River here is famous for water so clear that boats appear to float in mid-air. You have probably seen the photos and they’re not edited! The water is really that transparent, especially between October and March when the river runs low and clean.
Laitlum Canyons for Panoramic Views
Laitlum Canyons are about 30 minutes east of Shillong, and they give you one of the widest views in the state. The canyon drops steeply into a green valley below, with a stone staircase leading down to a small village. You do not need to do the full descent to enjoy it. The viewpoint at the top is enough for most visitors.
Wari Chora
Wari Chora is a narrow canyon carved into limestone by a stream near Mawsynram. You wade through knee-deep water between rock walls that rise close on both sides, with sunlight filtering in from above.
It feels like stepping into a slot canyon in the American Southwest, except this one is in the Khasi Hills and almost nobody knows about it yet. The walk through the canyon takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on water levels and is one of the most unique places to visit in Meghalaya.
Wei Sawdong Falls
Wei Sawdong Falls is a three-tiered waterfall tucked into the hills near Cherrapunji. The lowest tier drops into a bright turquoise pool surrounded by dark rock and green moss. It is less famous than Nohkalikai or Seven Sisters, which makes it one of the more peaceful and less crowded places to visit in Meghalaya.
Reaching the falls requires a steep descent of about 1,200 steps from the road. The trek takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes going down and about an hour coming back up.
Mawphlang Sacred Forest
Mawphlang Sacred Forest is about 25 km from Shillong, and it is one of the most overlooked places to visit in Meghalaya. This forest has been protected by the local Khasi community for centuries. You are not allowed to take anything out not even a leaf or a pebble. The rule is enforced by local belief, and it has worked. The forest is dense, mossy and feels completely untouched.
Mawsynram, the Wettest Place on Earth
Mawsynram holds the current Guinness record for the highest average annual rainfall. It is located about 15 km from Cherrapunji, and most visitors skip it because Cherrapunji gets more attention. That is a mistake. Mawsynram is quieter, less touristy and the landscape is equally dramatic making it a must-see on your list of places to visit in Meghalaya.
The main attraction here is the Mawjymbuin Cave which houses a large Shivalinga-shaped stalagmite formed by centuries of dripping water.
Jowai and Krangsuri Falls
Jowai is the main town in the Jaintia Hills, about 65 km from Shillong. It does not get the tourist traffic that Cherrapunji or Dawki sees which is part of its appeal among all the places to visit in Meghalaya. Krang Suri Falls, about 35 km from Jowai is one of the most stunning waterfalls in the state. The water drops into a turquoise pool where you can swim.
Elephant Falls Near Shillong
Elephant Falls is the most accessible waterfall near Shillong, about 12 km from the city center on the way to Shillong Peak. The name comes from a rock at the base that once resembled an elephant before an earthquake destroyed it. Elephant Falls is a good option for families or travelers who do not want a long trek but still want to see one of the popular places to visit in Meghalaya.
How to Plan Your First Meghalaya Trip
Best Time to Visit Places in Meghalaya
October to April is the most comfortable window. The rain eases off, rivers clear up, and temperatures range from about 5 to 22 degrees Celsius depending on the altitude. The monsoon months of June to September bring heavy rain and occasional road closures, but the waterfalls are at their peak so just be sure to check the weather forecast when planning your trip. March and November are the sweet spot if you want a balance of good weather, green landscapes and cover all the places to visit in Meghalaya
Getting Around to Meghalaya
Fly into Guwahati (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport) and hire a car to Shillong, which takes about 3 hours. Self-driving is possible but the roads in southern Meghalaya are narrow and winding. A hired cab with a local driver is the safer, more comfortable option. Working with a local operator like Wild Hill Adventure helps with route planning, vehicle arrangements, and access to guides who know the area well.
Plan Your Meghalaya Trip with Local Experts
If you want help putting together an itinerary that covers the best places to visit in Meghalaya without the guesswork, Wild Hill Adventure has numerous options for trips based on your dates, budget and interests. We handle vehicle bookings, local guides and all the logistics so you can focus on the trip itself.
Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit in Meghalaya
- What are the absolute must-see places to visit in Meghalaya for first-time travelers?
The top spots for a first visit are Shillong, Cherrapunji, the Double Decker Root Bridge, Dawki, and Mawlynnong. These five cover the highlights of the state and are well connected by road from Shillong.
- How many days do I need to visit the best places in Meghalaya?
Five to seven days is ideal. Five days covers the essentials, while seven days lets you explore places like Jowai, Mawphlang Sacred Forest, and Laitlum Canyons at a relaxed pace.
- What is the best time to visit places in Meghalaya?
October to April is the best window. The weather is dry, rivers are clear, and roads are in good condition. November and March offer the best balance of pleasant weather and green scenery.
- Is Meghalaya safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Meghalaya is generally safe for solo travelers, including women. The Khasi and Jaintia communities are welcoming, and tourist areas like Shillong and Cherrapunji have adequate facilities. Basic precautions apply as with any travel.
- Do I need permits to visit places in Meghalaya?
Indian citizens do not need permits for Meghalaya. Foreign nationals need a valid visa. If you plan to visit the Dawki border area or restricted zones in neighboring states, check for any area-specific requirements in advance.
- How do I get to Meghalaya from Guwahati?
Fly into Guwahati airport and drive to Shillong, which takes about 3 hours via NH6. You can hire a cab, take a shared taxi from Paltan Bazaar, or arrange a pickup through a local tour operator.
- Can I visit Meghalaya during the monsoon?
You can, but expect heavy rain, occasional road disruptions, and limited river activities so you might not be able to cover most places to visit in Meghalaya. The upside is that the waterfalls are at full power and the landscape is intensely green. Carry waterproof gear and plan flexible days.
- Is the trek to the Double Decker Root Bridge difficult?
It is moderately challenging. The 3,500-step descent is manageable, but the return climb is tough if you are not used to hiking. Start early, carry enough water, and consider an overnight stay in Nongriat to break up the effort.
- What food should I try in Meghalaya?
Jadoh (pork rice), doh khlieh (pork salad with onions), and tungrymbai (fermented soybean chutney) are Khasi staples. Shillong has good cafes and restaurants serving a mix of local and continental food.
- Are there budget accommodation options in Meghalaya?
Yes. Shillong has hotels and hostels starting from INR 500 to 1,500 per night as of 2026. Homestays in villages like Nongriat and Mawlynnong cost around INR 300 to 800 and include meals.
- What should I pack for a Meghalaya trip?
Pack layers for cool mornings, a good rain jacket, sturdy walking shoes with grip, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle. If you plan to trek to the root bridge, bring a small daypack with snacks and an extra shirt.
- Is Meghalaya good for family travel?
Yes. Places like Shillong, Elephant Falls, and Mawlynnong are easy for families with children. The root bridge trek may be too demanding for very young kids or elderly travelers, but most other spots are accessible.
- Can I combine a Meghalaya trip with other Northeast states?
Absolutely. Guwahati connects you to Assam, and from there you can reach Kaziranga, Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, or Kohima in Nagaland. A 10 to 14 day trip can cover Meghalaya and one additional state comfortably.
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