Meghalaya

Meghalaya, meaning the "Abode of Clouds," is known for its mist-covered hills, lush forests, waterfalls, unique culture, and intriguing natural formations. Located in Northeast India, this state offers breathtaking landscapes and adventure activities for nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. Here’s what to know about exploring Meghalaya:

Major Attractions

• Shillong: The state capital, Shillong, is known as the "Scotland of the East" due to its rolling hills and cool climate. Popular attractions include Shillong Peak, Lady Hydari Park, the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, and Umiam Lake.
• Cherrapunji (Sohra): Famous for being one of the wettest places on Earth, Cherrapunji is known for its stunning waterfalls like Nohkalikai Falls and its unique living root bridges crafted by local Khasi tribes using the roots of rubber trees.
• Mawsynram: Another contender for the world’s wettest place, Mawsynram boasts lush landscapes, rainfall-driven waterfalls, and pristine caves like Mawjymbuin Cave.
• Dawki and Umngot River: The crystal-clear Umngot River in Dawki near the Bangladesh border is renowned for its transparent waters, making it appear as though boats float on air.
• Mawlynnong Village: Often referred to as the "Cleanest Village in Asia," Mawlynnong is known for its cleanliness, scenic landscapes, and the iconic bamboo Sky Walk, which offers beautiful views of the plains of Bangladesh.
• Laitlum Canyon: Known as the "End of the World," Laitlum Canyon provides sweeping views of the surrounding hills and valleys, ideal for hikers and photographers.

Adventure Activities

Meghalaya offers a variety of thrilling activities:

• Trekking: Popular trails include the David Scott Trail and treks to the double-decker root bridge in Nongriat.
• Caving: Meghalaya’s limestone caves, such as Siju, Liat Prah, and Mawsmai Caves, are some of the longest in India and perfect for adventure seekers interested in caving and spelunking.
• Waterfall Rappelling and River Boating: Visitors can enjoy rappelling down cascading waterfalls in Cherrapunji and boating on the clear Umngot River in Dawki.
• Ziplining and Rock Climbing: Several adventure spots near Cherrapunji and Shillong offer ziplining and rock climbing experiences.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Meghalaya is between October and April when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall, which enhances the waterfalls and greenery but can also make some routes slippery and challenging to traverse.

Culture and Festivals

Meghalaya is home to the Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia tribes, each with unique customs, traditions, and festivals:

• Wangala Festival: Celebrated by the Garo tribe, Wangala marks the harvest season and includes dancing, music, and rituals.
• Shad Suk Mynsiem: A spring festival celebrated by the Khasi community, involving traditional dances and prayers.
• Nongkrem Dance: An important Khasi festival, held to seek blessings for a good harvest and peace in the community.
• Behdeinkhlam: Celebrated by the Jaintia tribe in Jowai, this festival is held to drive away evil spirits and invoke blessings for a bountiful harvest.

Cuisine

Meghalaya’s cuisine is characterized by its use of locally sourced ingredients, including bamboo shoots, pork, fish, and greens. Notable dishes include:

• Jadoh: A rice and pork dish flavored with local spices, popular among the Khasi people.
• Nakham Bitchi: A spicy fish soup enjoyed by the Garo tribe, often served as an appetizer.
• Doh-Khlieh: A pork salad mixed with onions and green chilies, offering a refreshing flavor.
• Pumaloi: Steamed rice cakes traditionally enjoyed with local meat and vegetable dishes.

How to Reach

• By Air: Shillong has a domestic airport at Umroi, but flights are limited. The nearest major airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, about 3-4 hours by road from Shillong.
• By Train: There are no direct train routes to Meghalaya, so travelers typically reach Guwahati and then continue by road.
• By Road: Meghalaya is well-connected by road with neighboring states, especially Assam. Regular bus and taxi services connect Shillong with Guwahati, making it convenient for travelers.