"Top 10 Places to Visit in Meghalaya – Root Bridges, Waterfalls & More"

🌥️ Meghalaya Travel Guide: Exploring the Abode of Clouds

                        📷 Photo by Ashwina kumar on Unsplash

📍 Introduction

Nestled in Northeast India, Meghalaya — the “Abode of Clouds” — is one of India’s most magical destinations. Think mist-covered hills, sky-touching waterfalls, living root bridges, crystal-clear rivers, and vibrant Khasi culture. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a culture explorer, Meghalaya offers an unforgettable experience.

✅ This blog gives you the ultimate travel guide to Meghalaya — with route info, the best time to visit, a day-wise itinerary, budget tips, where to stay, and travel hacks for 2025!

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                                  📷 Photo by Utkarsh B on Unsplash

*🗺️ Route Map & How to Reach Meghalaya :

Starting Point: Guwahati (Assam)

🛬 By Air:

• Nearest Airport: Shillong’s Umroi Airport (limited flights)

• Recommended: Land at Guwahati Airport (GAU) and drive to Shillong (3–4 hours).

🚆 By Train:

• Nearest station: Guwahati Railway Station (100 km from Shillong)

🚗 By Road:

• From Guwahati → Shillong (via NH6): Smooth drive with scenic views.

• Rent a car, hire a taxi, or take shared Sumos.

📍 Tip: Self-drive or private cab gives you flexibility to explore offbeat spots.

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                                           📷 Photo by Angshu purkait on Unsplash

*📅 Best Time to Visit Meghalaya:

Season	Highlights	Notes
Oct–April	Clear skies, best for sightseeing, boating	✅ Best season
May–June	Green landscapes, less crowded	Good
June–Sept	Monsoon magic, waterfalls full	But heavy rains! 🌧️

🌟 Best Month: November to April for adventure, trekking & boating.

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*🧭 6-Day Itinerary for Meghalaya :

🗓️ Day 1: Guwahati to Shillong

• Stop at Umiam Lake 🌊

• Explore Police Bazar & Shillong cafes

• Stay in Shillong

🗓️ Day 2: Shillong Sightseeing

• Visit: Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Laitlum Canyon

• Night stay in Shillong

🗓️ Day 3: Shillong to Cherrapunji

• Visit: Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Caves, Seven Sisters Falls

• Optional: Arwah Caves

• Stay in Cherrapunji

🗓️ Day 4: Double Decker Root Bridge Trek

• Full-day trek in Nongriat

• Return and relax

• Stay in Cherrapunji

🗓️ Day 5: Cherrapunji to Dawki & Mawlynnong

• Boating at Umngot River 🚣

• Explore Mawlynnong & Riwai Root Bridge

• Stay in Dawki (riverside camping)

🗓️ Day 6: Dawki to Jaintia Hills + Return

• Visit Krang Suri Falls, Nartiang Monoliths

• Return to Shillong or Guwahati by evening

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*💸 Budget Breakdown (Per Person – 6 Days) :

Category	Approx. Cost
Travel (local)	₹3,000–₹5,000
Accommodation	₹4,000–₹6,000
Food	₹1,500–₹2,000
Activities	₹1,000–₹2,000
Total	₹9,500–₹15,000

💡 Save by staying in homestays and booking local cabs/shared trips.

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*🏨 Where to Stay & What to Eat

🛌 Stay Options:

🔹 Shillong:

• The Habitat Shillong – Boutique hotel in Laitumkhrah, great location for cafes & walks.

• Aerodene Cottage – A heritage homestay surrounded by gardens and colonial vibes.

🔹 Cherrapunji:

• Saimika Resort – Nature resort with cottages and views of the rolling hills.

• By The Way Hostel – Backpacker-style hostel with basic but comfortable amenities.

🔹 Dawki/Shnongpdeng:

• Riverside Camping at Shnongpdeng (Umngot River) – Sleep under the stars next to India's cleanest river!

💡 Tip: Book early via Booking.com, MakeMyTrip, or the official websites — especially during peak season (Nov–Apr).

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                                               📷 Photo by Amit jain on Unsplash

*💡 Meghalaya Travel Tips:

✅ Always carry a raincoat or windcheater – weather changes fast.
✅ Keep offline maps (Google Maps download) – network may be weak.
✅ Take local guides for treks and caves.
✅ Respect local customs and tribal traditions.
✅ Get ILP (Inner Line Permit) if required for certain regions (Arunachal, not Meghalaya—but check updates).

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*❓ FAQs :

Q: Is Meghalaya safe for solo travelers?
A: Yes! It's one of the safest states in India, especially for women.

Q: Can I visit Meghalaya in the monsoon?
A: Yes, but expect heavy rain. It’s best for waterfalls, but trekking might be tough.

Q: Do I need a permit to enter Meghalaya?
A: As of 2025, no ILP is needed for Meghalaya — but carry valid ID always.

Q: Is Dawki river really that clear?
A: Yes! Visit between October–April for the clearest water.

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                                                📷 Photo by chirayu sharma on Unsplash
*🏁 Final Thoughts + Call to Action :

Meghalaya is not just a destination — it’s an emotion. From exploring mystical caves to trekking ancient root bridges and boating on translucent rivers, this land of clouds leaves a mark on every traveler.

📌 Ready to plan your Meghalaya adventure?
✅ Bookmark this guide
✅ Share it with your travel buddies
✅ Comment below if you’ve visited — or if you have questions!

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                                                             *WRITTEN BY : team planmyroad.com