Meghalaya, translated as the ‘abode of clouds’, greets you with graceful clouds as you walk through the lush green valleys and hills. In the land of this northeastern state, intertwined vines of long-root bridges whisper the tales of centuries-old Indigenous traditions, and the crystal-clear rivers mirror the sky’s blue hues. Meghalaya is a classic illustration of nature’s unspoiled wonder nestled between Assam and Bangladesh. With 70 percent of its land cloaked in forest, you’re in for nature’s therapy and freshness at every turn in this wonderful land. Known as the ‘Scotland of the East’, and home to the ‘wettest region in the world’, ‘cleanest river in India’, ‘rock capital of India’ and ‘cleanest village in India’ — this state embraces numerous titles, fully living up to each. Here’s a roundup of the most beautiful tourist places in Meghalaya.

Best time to visit the most beautiful tourist places in Meghalaya

The ideal time to visit the best tourist places in Meghalaya is during the winter (October to February) and the summer (April to May). While it turns into a green paradise during the monsoon (late June to September), the torrential rains can disrupt most tourist activities with landslides and flooding.

How to reach Meghalaya

By air: While Umroi Airport in Shillong is closest to the tourist attractions in Meghalaya, it hosts very few flights. The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, is 113 km from Shillong, Meghalaya’s capital, and is well-connected with major Indian cities. It takes about four hours to travel from Guwahati to Shillong by road.

By train: Guwahati Railway Station is the nearest railhead, about 120 km from Shillong.

Most beautiful tourist places in Meghalaya

Shillong

The capital city of Meghalaya, Shillong seamlessly blends the natural spirit with a vibrant urban culture and is one of the top tourist places in Meghalaya. Its title, ‘Rock Capital of India’, caught our attention. A diverse hub for numerous local bands, artists and musicians, the city’s music scene features various genres, including indie rock, blues, folk rock and more. Every year, Shillong hosts two major music festivals that draw music lovers: the NH7 Weekender and the Woodstock Music Festival.

Shopping: Bara Bazaar and Police Bazaar are the most popular markets with multiple local shops and restaurants.

Places to visit: Umiam Lake, Shillong Peak (the highest point in the city), Elephant Falls, Don Bosco Museum, Lady Hydari Park, Laitlum Canyons, Shillong Golf Course and Ward’s Lake.

Where to stay: The Habitat, Zostel Shillong, Windermere Inn, Heritage Club (Tripura Castle), Courtyard Shillong and Vivanta.

Best restaurants: Trattoria (for local Khasi cuisine), Cocoon Supper Club, Cafe Dylan, Olivia’s Kitchen, The Wok, Roma Eatery, Ukiyo, Kyrsoi and Ee Ce Bakery. Check out The Evening Club for jazz and blues, and drinks. For a local street food experience, head to the Police Bazaar or Laitumkhrah and try Jadoh, Jhal Muri and Shingdoh (local Khasi snacks).

Dawki

Dawki is another tourist place in Meghalaya that makes it every traveller’s must-visit destination. Nestled on the banks of the Umngot River — one of the cleanest in India — Dawki is located next to the Indo-Bangladesh border. Boating on the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River is a must-have experience. Known for its exceptional clarity and transparency, the water in this river is so clear that you can see the riverbed and the rocks beneath. One of the most beautiful tourist places in Meghalaya, Dawki is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure geeks and campers.

Shopping: Dawki market for local handicrafts and fresh produce.

Places to visit: Umngot River, Dawki Suspension Bridge, Living Roots Bridges, a day trip to Shnongpdeng, Bangladesh (Tamabil), Kupli Dam, Bophill Falls, Rymben River, Jaflong Zero Point and Byrdaw Falls.

Where to stay: Gawooh Adventure, The Dawki View Guesthouse and Betelnut Resort.

Best restaurants: Dawki: Naphisaroi Restaurant, Mama’s Kitchen & Restaurant, Food Planet Restaurant & Guesthouse besides the numerous local joints for traditional Khasi dishes like Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame seeds) and Tungro (fermented bamboo shoots).

Cherrapunji

One of the wettest places in the world, Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra, is one of the most visited tourist places in Meghalaya. The Living Root Bridges are the most distinctive feature of Cherrapunji, the reason why you should add it to your bucket list. This remarkable attraction is a natural bridge created by intertwining the roots of living trees. An integral part of the indigenous Khasi and Jaintia cultures, these bridges are a living testament to how nature and humans can coexist harmoniously.

Shopping: Lew Sohra Bazaar and Cherra Bazaar for souvenirs and local handicrafts, including cane and bamboo products, tribal artefacts, traditional shawls and jewellery.

Places to visit: Nongriat Double-Decker Root Bridge, Nohkalikai Falls (one of the tallest waterfalls in India), Seven Sisters Falls (seven-segmented waterfalls), Thangkharang Park, Rainbow Waterfalls, Cherrapunji Viewpoint, Mawsmai Caves, Arwah Cave and Krem Mawmluh Cave.

Where to stay: Polo Orchid Resort, Jiva Resort, Clouded Leo Inn, San Nael La Resort, Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort and Sohra Plaza.

Best restaurants: Orange Roots, Wallphiri Fast Food & Thali, Cafe Cherrapunjee, Jiva Grill and Golden Spoon.

Jowai

Nestled in the Jaintia Hills district, Jowai is a bustling commercial hub with a rich history and vibrant culture. It serves as an important headquarters in the district and is relatively less explored compared to the other beautiful tourist places in Meghalaya. The small town is home to the Nartiang Monoliths, an expansive site featuring numerous monoliths. It holds great significance for Khasi tribal culture. Deep dive into history by visiting Syntu Ksiar, an important monument dedicated to the famous Jaintia freedom fighter Kiang Nong Bah. All in all, this hamlet grants you a trip packed with culture, history and breathtaking landscapes.

Shopping: Jowai Market and Lahkmen Market for local handicrafts and souvenir shopping.

Places to visit: Jowai Lake, Syntu Ksiar, Kyllang Rock, Jowai Presbyterian Church, Wah Kaba Falls, Thadlaskein Lake, Durga Temple and Stone Bridge.

Where to stay: HeiJo’s Homestay, Od Ialong Traveller’s Nest, Odyssey Stays Jowai and Hotel Highwinds Lakeside.

Best restaurants: Sandstone Villa Cafeteria, Jess Cafe, Belly Timber, U Pa, Hyperfuse Cafe, The Tribes Kitchen and One11 Restaurant.

Kongthong Village (aka Whistling Village)

A quick entry into this village or a stroll here will introduce you to a fascinating form of communication used by the locals — whistling. Each resident has a distinct whistling tune or melody, which is undoubtedly an interesting trait of this village. A deeply rooted cultural practice, the whistling form of communication has been passed down through generations and is an integral part of the community’s daily life. In 2023, Kongthong Village was awarded the ‘Best Tourism Village’ by the Ministry of Tourism, India. You can learn about the whistling form of communication and its history by talking to the locals.

Places to visit: Visit bee farms, nature walks, and explore traditional Khasi culture and homes.

Where to stay: The Travellers Nest, and a few local homestays.

Best restaurants: Local Khasi stalls.

Nengkong

An unusual village tucked away in the dense forest of the Garo Hills, Nengkong boasts verdant landscapes, cave explorations and heavenly treks. Being close to some of the longest and deepest caves with magnificent limestone rock formations, this hamlet offers great opportunities for adventurous cave exploration. It’s 25 km from the Siju caves, one of the longest in India, and a popular tourist spot in Meghalaya.

Hidden gem: Wari Chora — just an hour’s drive away — is a mesmerising trek towards River Rongdik. Picture a pristine river gliding between majestic canyons, with golden rays of sunlight casting a warm glow over the landscape. The trek is slightly tricky, so it is advisable to tag along with a local guide.

Places to visit: Tetengkol Balwakol Cave, Siju Cave, Baghmara Reserve Forest, Wari Chora Canyon and Bok Bak Dobhakol.

Where to stay: As Nengkong is relatively remote, the best place to find accommodation would be at Baghmara, the nearest city centre.

Best restaurants: Local Khasi stalls and small eateries.

Tura

Popular for traditional Garo tribal culture and natural beauty, Tura is the largest town in Garo Hills and a good base for exploring the hilly area. If you’re looking for a break from the common tourist places in Meghalaya, Tura promises a peaceful and enchanting getaway. For wildlife lovers, there’s Balpakram National Park and Nokrek National Park — a must-visit to explore rich biodiversity and diverse wildlife, including rare and endangered species, such as Red panda, Hoolock gibbon, Slow loris, Giant flying squirrel, Pig-tailed macaque, and Stump-tailed macaque.

Shopping: Bazar Market and Tura Main Market for local handicrafts and groceries.

Places to visit: Tura Peaks, Nokrek National Park (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve), Tura Cathedral, Chu Nok (brewery for rice wine) and Wakro Village.

Where to stay: Hotel Polo Orchid, Mokshvilla Homestay and Hotel Rikman Continental. Chandigre Rural community, a resort located about 30 km from Tura, is known for its rustic architecture composed of natural materials.

Best restaurants: The Soul Food, The Garden Eatery, The Neems, Uphar and Waldi’s Cafe.