Famous places in Meghalaya | Famous places to visit in Meghalaya

Tourist Guide

Meghalaya “The Abode of Clouds”

Meghalaya, literally meaning ‘the abode of clouds’ is one of the most beautiful States of the country. There are many famous places in Meghalaya where you can visit on your vaction. This virtual fairyland is endowed with immense natural beauty. It seems as if mother nature especially showers her blessing on this hilly State through plentiful rain, which infuses green colour to this exotic land.

Meghalaya, is one of the smallest States of the Indian Union. It is located between Assam (on the North and East) and Bangladesh (on the South and West)

Meghalaya is also a rich variety of wildlife in its two National Parks – Nokrek and Balpakram

SHILLONG

Scenic Shillong, the charming capital city of Meghalaya, is also known as the “Scotland of the East” an is one of the finest hill resorts of India. This place enjoys a bracing climate and the whistling pines, lush green slopes, cascading waterfalls, exotic orchids and flowers provide a truly enchanting experience.

Ward’s Lake

This lake has an attractive arched bridge over it and has facilities for boating. A walk on the cobbled pathway amidst flowering trees around the Lake is quite refreshing.

Botanical Garden

It lies near the Ward’s Lake and has a rich collection of indigenous and exotic plants. There is also a nini-aviary with rare and colourful birds. The serene atmosphere and well-laid paved walks are very popular among the fitness buffs.

Lady Hydari Park

The Park is noted for its colourful floral wealth and a mini zoo cum deer park. It was laid by Lady Hydari, the wife of an erstwhile Governor of Assam. The best time to visit the park is between April and October, when it is full of blooming flowers.

Crinoline Falls

The Crinoline Falls nearby, cascades through the jungle path. At the foot of the Falls is a well maintained swimming pool. Various programs for tourists are organized in the evening.

Bishop & Beadon Falls

The Falls at Mawprem (3 kms), plunge down from the same ridge into a deep valley, providing a spellbinding view.

Capt. Williamson Sangma State Museum

It lies within the premises  of the State Central Library and has a fine collection of artifacts of Meghalaya and other North Eastern States. The Museum provides an traditional of the State; A stone memorial dedicated to U Kiang Nang Bah, who laid down his life fighting the British can be seen here.

Entomological Museum (Butterfly Museum)

It exhibits the rich variety of Meghalaya’s butterflies and moths and is the only one of its kind in the country. Anthropological Museum at Mawblei, Botanical Museum at Fourth Furlong Arunachal Museum in the Cantonment Area and Air Force Museum in Upper Shillong and last but not the least is the Don Bosco Museum in Mawlai.

Don Bosco Museum & Centre for Indigenous Cultures

The unique Centre at Mawlai is housed in a hexagon shaped seven storied building and resembles a rising flame. It was set up to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage of North East India and is rightly mentioned as “North East India under one roof”. The seven storey representing the seven States of the North East have seventeen galleries showcasing cultural artifacts and paintings. The galleries are provided with Multimedia presentations and a 28 feet by 25 feet relief map of the North East in fiberglass is worth seeing.

The Centre has emerged as one of the most popular attractions of the region. The newly added shywalk affords a breathtaking all-round view of Shillong. The Centre also provides study and research facilities and is studded with a well stocked library, a media has and a conference hall.

Chruches

Shillong is studded with numerous Churches reminding us of the colonial heritage of the town. The most beautiful of them is the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, located on a hill at Laitumkhrah. It is noted for the stained glass windows and high arches. The Church is popular among devotees and visitors. Other important Churches are, the Grotto Church, All Saint’s Cathedral etc.

Shillong Golf Course

Shillong Gold Course is referred as the “Glen-eagle of the East” at the United States Golf Association Museum. The Course sprawls in an undulating verdant valley, with thick groves of pine and rhododendron trees.

IEW DUH (BARA BAZAR) – THE WOMEN’S BAZAR The oldest and most important market of Meghalaya is set in the heart of Shillong. The market mainly run by women is popular among tourists and provides an insight into the State’s tribal culture. Colorfully dressed tribal’s and non-tribal’s assemble here to buy and sell their wares like pure honey, bows and arrows handicrafts, handlooms, spices etc. Bara Bazar is also a major commercial hub of the city.

Around Shillong

SHILLONG PEAK

The highest Peak of Meghalaya rises to a height of 1965 metres and affords a bird’s eye view of Shillong and its surroundings. There is also a Sanctum at the summit, where obeisance is paid to U Shilong, during spring time by the Priest of Mylliem State.

LUM SOHPETBNENG PEAK

It is set amidst scene surroundings and is considered sacred by the Hynniewtrep people. According to Khasi mythology, it is the “Navel of Heaven” and provides solace and peace of mind. Every year the Khasis gather here to pray and perform rites and rituals. The peak affords an awe-inspiring view of the surroundings.

DIENGIEI PEAK

The majestic peak in Ri Bhoi district to the West of Shillong plateau is just two hundred feet lower than Shillong Peak. It can be reached by the Umiam-Union Christain College-Mawsynram road and one can enjoy panoramic view of the Umiam Lake with Shillong town forming the backdrop. Atop the Peak is a huge cup shaped void, which is thought to be a crater of an extinct pre-historic volcano by some geologists.

SPREAD EAGLE FALLS

These are located at the Shillong Cantt. and looks like an eagle with spread out wings.

WEI TDEM (SWEET FALLS)

The falls near Happy Valley is an excellent picnic spot. The water plunges here vertically from a height of about 200 feet and resembles a straight pencil of water.

ELEPHANT FALLS

The scenic site has two high falls from the same stream, amidst fern covered rocks. There are two smaller but beautiful falls beyond Elephant falls and can be reached by a wooden bridge.

UMIAM or BARAPANI LAKE & WATER SPORTS COMPLEX

The biggest artificial lake of Meghalaya has been developed upon the huge reservoir of the Umiam Hydro Electric Project. The lake set amidst sylvan hills on the Guwahati-Shillong highway attracts a large number of migratory birds during winter. The Lake is popular for water sport and is also an angler’s paradise. The Orchid Lake Resort on the shores of the lake was designed by a famous architect, Charles Correa and is run by the Meghalaya Tourism. There is also a floating restaurant. The Lum Nehru Park adjacent to the resort has an orchidarium.

DWARKSUID or DEVIL’S DOORWAY

The scenic site along the Umrol-Bhoilymbong road in Ri Bhoi district has a beautiful pool with wide, rocky sand banks on a stream. The lotus-like rock formations add to the beauty of pool.

SMIT

The traditional seat of Khasi culture is well known for the Nongkrem dance held during the month of November. Nearby, is a hundred year old traditional house owned by the Lygdoh.

MAIRANG

It was the home of the legendary U Tirot Sing Syiem (Raja of Nongkhlaw), who fought against invaders in the 1820s.

JAKREM

Popular health resort, on the Shillong-Mawkyrwat road is noted for hot sulphur springs, possessing curative medicinal properties.

KYLLANG ROCK

The massive dome shaped granite rock measuring 1000 ft. in diameter rises to an elevation of 5400 ft. above sea level. It lies to the South-west of Mairang and is easily accessible form the Northern and Eastern flanks. Geologically the rock is considered to be several million years old and is believed to possess a sort of magnetic field that prevents anyone to fall from the slope. The rock surrounded by lush forests of age-old red and white Rhododendron trees and oaks, affords a fine view of the valley, especially during winters.

NONGSTOIN

The headquarters of West Khasi Hills is famous for Nongkhnum Island, around 14 kms from Nongstoin, which is regarded as the second largest river island in Asia after the Majuli Island in Assam. The island is formed by the bifurcation of Kynshi River into the Phanliang River and formed by the bifurcation of Kynshi River into the Phanliang River and Namliang River and can be reached by a wooden bridge over the Weinia Fall.

MAWKYRWAT

It lies 35 kms from Nongstoin and is endowed with a scenic landscape. A viewpoint has been constructed on top of Mawranglang.

MAWTHADRAISHAN PEAK

The scenic spot in the South-West Khasi Hills district on the banks of River Jadukata near the Bangladesh border is one of the most popular tourist sites of the State. It is an angler’s paradise and famous for abundance of golden mahaseer, carps and other fresh water fish. The river waters are also ideal for water sports.

JADUKATA BRIDGE

The Jadukata Bridge across Jadukata River at Ranikor with a central span of 140 metres is the “Longest Span Cantilever Bridge in India”. It was built at a cost of around Rs. 10 crores and has won the ICIMC Bauchemie Award for outstanding concrete structures.

SOHRA (CHERRAPUNJI)

The small hilly village 56 kms from Shillong is one of the most visited tourist spots of North Eastern India. The charming town is perched upon a plateau, at a height of 1300 metres and is one of the wettest places on earth. The old Cherra or Scohrarim was the original Cherra village, but the British established their headquarters further South and the village came to be known as ‘Sohra’. Sohra was declared to be the capital of Assam in 1832, which was shifted to Shillong in 1866, due to prevailing weather conditions. The narrow winding road from Shillong is quite picturesque. The entire region teems with gushing waterfalls, plunging into deep gorges. One can also enjoy fine views of the plains of Bangladesh from here. It is a Centre of Khasi culture and the traditional festivals celebrated here are spellbinding. The oldes6t Theological College of the region is located here, which was established in 1888, by the Welsh Presbyterian Missionaries. Sohra is also known for limestone caves oranges and honey.

Around Sohra

NOH KALIKAI FALLS

The fascinating falls located to the West of Sohra plunges down a rocky precipice from a height of 1100 ft, into a deep gorge creating a mystic deep green pool below and is regarded as the tallest plunge waterfall in India. The falls are often compared to the famous Jog Falls or Karnataka.

KSHAID DAIN THLEN FALLS

Kshaid Dain Thlen Falls or the falls where the mythical monster of Khasi legend was finally butchered is another important fall near Sohra.

NONGSAWLIA

It lies South of Sohra and was visited by the first Welsh Missionaries in 1942, which improved the life of locals and contributed to Khasi literature with the invention of Khasi alphabets by Thomas Jones. The Mission was started here and later reached other parts of Khasi and Jaintia Hills.

MAWMLUH CAVE or KREM MAWMLUH

It is one of the longest caves of the Indian sub-continent stretching for over 4500 metres. The access to the cave is from the river which also forms ponds of water inside. The entrance is 10ft above water level.

MAWKDOK DYMPEP VIEW POINT

It lies near Umtyngar, across a beautiful bridge locally known a Duwan Singh Syiem Bridge, considered to be the gateway to the Sohra tourist circuit. The viewpoint built by the Forest Department affords and awe-inspiring view of the deep gorges.

SA-I-MIKA

The Park located near the famous ‘Dainthlen Falls’ amidst scenic surrounding is a one stop tourist destination. It has good accommodation facilities at the Village for an introduction to the Khasi lifestyle.

DAIN-THLEN FALLS

The Falls near Sohra are named after a legendary python called Thlen, who lived in a nearby cave. The snake was a symbol of greed, corruption and evil and was killed by the people. The natural rock carvings here depict this legend.

KAKPER SYIEM

The cremation ground of the Sohra Syiemship or Cherra Chieftain is located on the backs of Pomsohmen stream. Cremation of the dead Syiem (Chief) is one of the most expensive and intricate ceremonies. The dead body can be preserved for years, if the customary formalities are not performed by the Syiem-elect.

ECO PARK

The large Eco-Park established by the Meghalaya Government has a Green House containing a rich variety of hybrid and indigenous orchids. One can also enjoy the panoramic view of the Sylhet plains of Bangladesh from here.

DAVID SCOTT MEMORIAL

An obelisk commemorating David Scott. an Agent to the Governor General of the North Eastern Frontier of Bengal lies on the way to Mawsmai Falls.

NOH-SNGITHIANG (MAWSMAI FALLS)

It is yet another attractive fall located around Sohra. The Falls lies near Mawsmai village and affords a fine view of the plains of Bangladesh. The view of the Falls at sun-set time is simply spectacular.

MAWSMAI CAVE

The illuminated rock subterranean caves with impressive formations and chambers are located South of Sohra near Mawsmai village. The Mawlong Syiem Peak is located nearby and attracts adventure sports lovers. The area is also a fine picnic spot and a “paradise” for orchid lovers.

THANGKHARANG PARK

The beautiful Bird Sanctuary on Mawsmai-Shella road is spread over high rocky cliffs overlooking the plains of Bangladesh and attracts a large number of tourists. The floral wealth of the Park comprises of some of the rare and exotic orchid as well as some plant from here. The Park area has several seasonal waterfalls, which can be seen during the rainy season.

KYNREM FALLS

The Falls overlooking the Thangkarang Park lies by the side of Shillong-Shella road, about 10 kms from Mawsmai village. The 50 ft wide Falls cascade down in three stages from a height of around 1000 ft and is one of the highest waterfalls in Meghalaya.

KA KHOH RAMHAH

The giant cone shape rock formation also known as Motrop is associated with a Khasi legend. It is said to be a fossilized cone shaped basket of an evil giant, who was killed by the people of Sohra by treacherously giving pieces of iron to swallow along with his meal. Adjacent to it is a similar looking rock and the sight of seasonal waterfall flowing between the two rocks during the monsoons is simply spectacular.

LIVING ROOT BRIDGE Laitkynsew, the beautiful holiday resort is 15 kms from Sohra. Trekking expeditions in the hills, spring bath and cave tours etc are conducted from here. A living root bridge across a torrential stream near the resort is worth visiting site. The whole bridge is made up of ‘living’ roots of a tree and can be seen only in this part of the world. The bridges have been created by weaving and inter-twining of secondary roots of trees and it may take over 30-35 years to develop these structures. There are another two such living root bridges at the nearby Nongriat village.

Discovering Jaintia Hills

JOWAI

The administrative headquarters of Jaintia Hills and important commercial centre is 64 kms from Shillong and the next biggest town of Eastern Meghalaya. The scenic town set on a plateau is encircled on three sides by the Myntdu River. Around Jowai are many limestone caves and cave temples. Some of the famous caves are Krem Umlawan, Krem Kotsati, Krem Umshangktat and Krem Lashinng.

Around Jowai

LOLONG PARK

The sacred grove overlooking the beautiful Pynthonwah Valley is being developed as an important tourist destination.

NARTIANG

It was the summer capital of Jaintia Kings, who reigned from Jaintiapur. Relics of a summer Palace can still be seen on a hillock located tow kilometers from the village. To the North of Nartiang is a large collection of monoliths of megalithic stones erected in the memory of Jaintia royalty. These consist of Menhirs (upright stones), Moo Shynrang and Dolmens (flat stones in horizontal position), locally known as Moo Kynthai. The tallest Menhir is 27 feet high, which is said to be erected by U Mar Phalyngki, the legendary Saint of the Jaintias to commemorate his victory.

Another attraction is the Durga Temple, near the ruins of the summer Palace, which is said to be built by a Jaintia King, on his conversion to Hinduism. The unique Temple resembling a Khasi house has a corrugated tin roof with a reign of the Jaintias. The practice was later banned y the British and now goats are sacrificed here.

THADLASKEIN LAKE

The historic Lake on the National Highway-44 is about 56 kms from Shillong. It is said to have been dug as a paring memorial by the fleeing army of U Sajar Nangli, with the ends of their bows. The lake held sacred by the people of Raid Mukhla is also a fine picnic spot with boating facilities.

TYRSHI FALLS

The spectacular Falls on the Shillong-Jowai road cascade down to the Pynthor (paddy fields). There is also a pretty arch bridge.

UMHANG LAKE

The charming Lake lies amidst lush forests at Wataw (Bataw) village, overlooking the plains of Bangladesh. It is also associated with U Sajar Nangli, who is said to have dined here and frank water from the spring. He and his followers decided to create the best lake of the Jaintia Kingdom over here and worked tirelessly for several months to create the water body. The people of Bataw revere the lake and offer sacrifices at its banks.

MONUMENT of U KIANG NONGBAH

The elegant monument was built in the honour of U Kiang Nongbah, a Jaintia patriot who was publicly hanged by the Britishers on the banks of Myntdu river at Synta Ksiar.

SYNTU KSIAR or FLOWER OF GOLD

This stretch of pristine land on the curve of Myntdu river, where the greenish blue river water looks yellowish and hence the place has earned the epitaph of “Flower of Gold”. It is a fine site for fishing and picnics.

UMLAWAH CAVE

The cave near Lumshnong village is over 21 kms long and 100 metre deep and is regarded as one of the longest and deepest caves on the Indian sub-continent. It is interconnected with Kot-Sati and Umskor caves.

RALIANG

The village is famous for the shrine of our Lady of Good Health. The magnificent triple storey octagonal structure houses and imposing marble statue of Our Lady of Good Health, standing atop a globe.

JARAIN PITCHER PLANT LAKE

The pretty lake amidst the natural habitat of the carnivorous pitcher plants is located at Jarain in Amlarem sub division of the War-Jaintia region. Visitors enjoy boating in the lake with a pitcher plant shaped fountain in the middle. There is also a pitcher plant garden and a green house.

KRANG SURI FALLS

It is located in Amlarem sub division and regarded as one of the most attractive waterfalls of Jaintia Hills.

LOOKSI (KUPLI) PARK

The beautiful park on the banks of river Kupli is located at Looksi village.

MEGHALAYA – AN INCREDIBLE CAVING DESTINATION Meghalaya is just the right place to enjoy caving in India and is racked among ‘Top 10 Caving Destinations of the World’. There are around 800 caves and many of them are still to be explored and mapped. Few caves in the region have been ranked among the longest and deepest caves in the world. Some of the important ones are: KHASI HILLS : Mawsmai cave (exclusively for tourists); Krem Mawmluh; Krem phyllut; Krem Soh Shympi; Krem Mawsynram; Krem Dam. JAINTIA HILLS : Krem Liat Prah; Krem Um-Lawan; Ka Krem Pubon Rupasor; Krem Kotsati; Krem Umshangktat; Krem Lashing Krem Sweep. GARO HILLS : Siju-Dobakkol Chibe Nala; Tetengkol-Balwakol and Bok Bak Dobakkol.

DAWKI

The beautiful site by the side of the Umngot River is 81 kms from Shillong. The drive on the road leading to Dawki from Shillong passes through deep gorges and ravines is a thrilling experience. A suspension bridge over Umngot River was constructed by Britishers in 1932 and is one of the tourist attractions, besides the annual boat race held during March-April at Umsyiem. It is also the gateway to Bangladesh, where export and import transactions are done.

Rupasor Bathing Ghat

The beautiful bathing pool hewn out of rock was built by U Mar Phalyngki and U luh Lyngskor Lamanre for the Jaintia royalty. It is located at Syndai village, 50 kms, from Jowai on Jowai-Muktapur road.

LAWMUSIANG

The main commercial centre and largest market of Jaintia Hills gets the name from the sacred stone at the market brought from the Nongbah village. The market held once in eight days attracts people from other villages, who come to sell their wares. It is also fine place to buy the famous spices of Jaintia Hills.

Discovering Garo Hills

TURA

The headquarters of West Garo Hills district is 323 kms from Shillong and accessible from Guwahati. The charming town on the foot of Tura peak is named after Durama-Imbama, a powerful Goddess and is endowed with splendid scenic beauty and bracing climate. The towering Tura Peak can be reached with ease by a foot-track, developed during the British era. It affords a fine view of the lower Brahmaputra valley and the golden yellow plains of the neighboring Bangladesh. There is also an observatory and cinchona plantations nearby.

Around Tura

NOKREM BIOSPHERE RESERVE

The lush Norkrek range with rich variety of flora and fauna was designated as a Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations, due to the virgin natural habitat for wildlife. It is only one of the eight biosphere reserves in India. The Nokrek Hill is also known for Memang Narang, a rare species of citrus plant.

PELGA FALLS

It has emerged as an ideal site for picnics and fishing. A traditional Garo bamboo bridge over the Ganol River is worth visiting.

CHIBRAGRE

The beautiful site at the confluence of Ganol and Rongram Rivers on Tura-Guwahati road is yet another attractive place in Garo Hills for picnics.

RANGAPANI

It lies near Mancachar on the Assam border and is known for the tomb of Mir Jumla, the General of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, who died of malaria, while returning back from his expedition to the North-East.

WILLIAMNAGAR

The headquarters of East Garo Hills district sprawls picturesquely on the curve of Simsang river. The prosperous town is named after Capt. Willaimson A Sangma, the first Chief Minister of Meghalaya. It is 76 kms from Tura and 313 kms from Shillong via Guwahati.

Around Williamnagar

RONGRENGGIRI

It marks the site of the last battle between the Garo’s and British. The Garo’s bravely resisted the advancing British troops.

SISOBIBRA

The beautiful site on the banks of rive Simsang has a memorial commemorating Togan Sangma and Gilsang Dalbat, the legendary heroes, who died while fighting the British.

RESUBELPARA

Famous for hot springs.

NAPAK

The lake here was created due to damming of a river tributary, during the great earthquake of 1897.

BAGHMARA

The headquarters of South Garo Hills district lies on the banks of Simsang River near the Bangladesh border. The nearby Baghmara Reserve Forest is home to animals like langoors and elephants and a rich variety of birds.

Around Baghmara

NENGKONG

The area is known for a number of caves like Tetengkol (considered to be one of the longest caves in the country), Dobakkol, Chibe Nala and Bok-bak dobakkol etc.

SIJU

The sub-terranean Siju Caves also known as Dobakkol or the bat cave is located near the Simsang river and are one of the longest caves on the Indian sub-continent. The limestone caves resembling the Blue Grotto in the Isle of Capri are studded with splendid stalagmites and stalactite formations and some of the finest river passages to be seen anywhere in the world. The amazing Princess Di’s chamber is perhaps one of the masterpieces created by nature.

The Siju Bird Sanctuary

The Siju Bird Sanctuary, on the other side of the River Simsang is an ornithologists delight. It is a safe haven for many rare and protected bird species and other wildlife. The incredible rock formations near the entrance of the sanctuary are breathtaking.

BALPAKRAM

Balpakram literally meaning the “Land of Perpetual Winds” is famous for the forest covered canyon-cum-gorge, which is often compared with the well known Grand Canyon in U.S.A. The Garos consider it as a sacred site, where the departed souls rest temporarily, before embarking on their final journey.

The area also being a natural habitat for rare species of flora and fauna was designated the status of National Park in 1987. It is an important habitat for the Asian elephant, endangered wild water buffalo, gaur or Indian bison, various species of cats, primates and birds. The park is at its beautiful best when the blooming ground orchids carpet the entire area. The best time to visit the park is between November and March. It is 167 kms from Tura.

How to Reach By Air : There is a small airport at Umrol, about 35 kms from Shillong but the nearest main airport for Shillong and Tura is at Guwahati. Air India operates a flight between Kolkata and Shillong. Helicopter Service : A helicopter service operated from Guwahati to Tura and Tura to Shillong and directly from Guwahati to Shillong  and vice-versa. It takes around 20 minutes to reach Shillong from Guwahati and one hour from Guwahati to Tura. By Rail : Meghalaya has a small new rail network. The nearest railhead is at Guwahati, around 100 kms from Shillong. Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) has bus services coordinated with train arrivals at Guwahati. A new train runs between Guwahati and Mendhipathar in Garo Hills. By Road : N.H. 40 connects Shillong with Guwahati. Shillong is also connected by road to Darjeeling, Imphal, Kaziranga, Kohima and Kolkata, largely through Assam.

Disclaimer While full care has been taken in compiling the information, the same is subject to change without notice. The Publishers/Distributors and Retailers are not liable for any consequential damages based on the information contained in this publication. We value any suggestions/corrections from the readers.