Exploring the Abode of Clouds: A Travel Blog on Meghalaya

Nestled in the northeastern part of India, Meghalaya, which translates to "The Abode of Clouds,"

is a mesmerizing destination known for its lush green landscapes, cascading waterfalls, living root bridges, and vibrant tribal culture. My recent trip to this enchanting state left me spellbound, and I can't wait to share every detail with you!  

Why Visit Meghalaya?

Meghalaya is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural explorers. With its misty hills, crystal-clear rivers, and unique traditions, it offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you're trekking through dense forests, exploring mysterious caves, or interacting with the warm Khasi and Garo tribes, Meghalaya never ceases to amaze.  

 Best Time to Visit

- **October to April** (Post-monsoon & winter) – Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.  

- **Monsoon (June-September)** – Perfect for witnessing waterfalls in full flow, but travel can be challenging due to heavy rains.  

How to Reach Meghalaya

- **By Air:** The nearest airport is **Shillong Airport (Umroi)**, but **Guwahati Airport (Assam)** is better connected. From Guwahati, it's a 3-4 hour drive to Shillong.  

- **By Train:** The closest major railway station is **Guwahati**. From there, hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Shillong.  

- **By Road:** Meghalaya is well-connected by road from Assam. Buses and private taxis are available from Guwahati.  

                              

 

Must-Visit Places in Meghalaya

 **1. Shillong – The Scotland of the East**  

- **Ward’s Lake:** A serene spot for boating and leisurely walks.  

- **Shillong Peak:** Offers panoramic views of the city.  

- **Don Bosco Museum:** A fantastic place to learn about Northeast India’s culture.  

- **Police Bazaar:** The heart of Shillong’s shopping and food scene.  

**2. Cherrapunji (Sohra) – The Wettest Place on Earth**  

- **Nohkalikai Falls:** India’s tallest plunge waterfall.  

- **Double Decker Living Root Bridge:** A UNESCO-listed natural wonder in **Nongriat Village** (requires a trek).  

- **Seven Sisters Falls:** A stunning multi-tiered waterfall.  

- **Mawsmai Cave:** An adventurous limestone cave exploration.  

 **3. Mawlynnong – Asia’s Cleanest Village**  

- Famous for its cleanliness and eco-friendly practices.  

- **Sky View Point:** A bamboo tower offering breathtaking views of Bangladesh plains.  

- **Living Root Bridge at Riwai Village:** Easier to reach than the one in Nongriat.  

 **4. Dawki – Crystal Clear River & Border Town**  

- **Umngot River:** Famous for its transparent waters; enjoy a boat ride.  

- **India-Bangladesh Border:** Witness the scenic border area at **Tamabil**.  

**5. Mawsynram – The Wettest Village in the World**  

- **Mawjymbuin Cave:** A sacred cave with a naturally formed Shiva Lingam.  

- **Rainforest Exploration:** Experience the surreal beauty of constant mist and rain.  

**6. Nongpoh & Umiam Lake**  

- **Umiam Lake (Barapani):** A picturesque reservoir perfect for kayaking and picnics.  

- **Lum Nehru Park:** A beautiful garden with a stunning view of the lake.  

 7. Garo Hills – Offbeat & Wild

- **Nokrek National Park (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve):** Home to rare wildlife and the **Red Panda**.  

- **Balpakram National Park:** Known as the "Land of Spirits" with dramatic landscapes.  

- **Siju Cave:** One of the longest cave systems in India.  

                          

 Unique Experiences in Meghalaya

✅ **Trek to Double Decker Living Root Bridge** (Challenging but rewarding)  

✅ **Bamboo Rafting in Dawki** (Glide over the glass-like Umngot River)  

✅ **Caving in Mawsmai & Siju** (For adventure lovers)  

✅ **Tasting Jadoh & Tungrymbai** (Traditional Khasi dishes)  

✅ **Attending a Local Festival** (Nongkrem Dance, Wangala Festival)  

Where to Stay?

- **Shillong:** Hotel Polo Towers, Ri Kynjai (Luxury), Airbnbs  

- **Cherrapunji:** Sa-i-Mika Resort, Polo Orchid Resort  

- **Mawlynnong:** Homestays for an authentic experience  

- **Dawki:** Camping by the Umngot River  

 Travel Tips

✔ **Permits:** Indian tourists don’t need permits; foreigners require an **ILP** (Inner Line Permit).  

✔ **Transport:** Hire taxis or use shared Sumos for inter-city travel.  

✔ **Packing:** Carry rain gear, sturdy shoes, and warm clothing.  

✔ **Connectivity:** Mobile networks (Airtel, Jio) work in cities but may be weak in villages.  

 Final Thoughts

Meghalaya is more than just a destination; it’s an experience of untouched beauty, warm hospitality, and thrilling adventures. From the bustling streets of Shillong to the tranquil villages of Mawlynnong, every corner has a story to tell. If you’re looking for a mix of nature, culture, and adventure, pack your bags and head to Meghalaya—the abode of clouds awaits!  

Have you been to Meghalaya? Share your experiences in the comments! 🌿✨  

**#MeghalayaDiaries #AbodeOfClouds #NorthEastIndia #TravelBlog #ExploreMeghalaya**  

Would you like recommendations for a detailed itinerary? Let me know! 😊