Here are the Places to Visit in Meghalaya
Meghalaya is a hill station situated in the northeastern Himalayas, famous for its numerous caves, mesmerizing waterfalls, and hilltops surrounded by clouds. There are some hidden places to visit in Meghalaya, it is a paradise for nature lovers and offers many beautiful tourist destinations. Kaziranga National Park, Cherapunjee, Shillong, and the Living Root Bridge are some of them.
There are many such beautiful places in Meghalaya hidden from the tourist’s eye. Here is a list of some of the offbeat tourist destinations in Meghalaya.
1. Mawryngkhang or Bamboo Trail
This place is the definition of an offbeat gem in Meghalaya tourism. It is similar to a skywalk above the Wahrew River. The trek begins from the Wahkhen village and ends at the top of U Mawryngkhang. During the course of the trek, you get to climb bridges made of bamboo and cross numerous waterfalls.
Wahkhen is located about 50 kilometers from Shillong and if you enjoy adventure trekking, remember to visit this place.
2. Umden
Situated amidst the lush green rainforest in the Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya, this village has dedicated its lands to sericulture. You can’t miss the cultural tour of vegan silk production and learn about the entire process. Most residents of this village have based a livelihood in Eri Silk which is famous all over the world.
The only place in India to produce non-violence silk, it is also a perfect postcard destination with an enchanting view of Khasi hills around the village. It is 75km from Shillong, and the long journey amidst the fields and valleys is very enjoyable.
3. Laitlum
Also known as the amphitheater of Meghalaya, this beautiful canyon is a must-visit location in Meghalaya. Laitlum translates to the end of the hill and is located in the eastern Khasi hills. True to its name, this hilltop is a trekker’s paradise and gives a bird’s eye view of the surroundings of Shillong.
Being one of the hidden gems of Meghalaya tourism it is almost never too crowded so that you can enjoy your own space. This destination is open all throughout the year but it is best to avoid it in the monsoon as the trail up the hill becomes difficult to trek.
4. Mawlphlang
The forests in Meghalaya are a source of some of the most important cultural traditions. This is one such forest where locals are in constant touch with nature and consider it sacred. It is an hour away from Shillong and hosts a beautiful valley & thick forest groves. As the Khasi folklore saying goes it is protected by ancient spirits. Nobody is allowed to take anything that belongs to the forest outside it. This has been maintained to prevent the exploitation of natural resources in the forest.
5. Nongkhnum Island
The second largest river island in India is one of the most beautiful places in Meghalaya. The river island was formed when Meghalaya’s longest river Kynshi bifurcated into Phanliang and Namliang Rivers. You will find blue rivers, a beautiful sandy beach, mesmerizing waterfalls, and most importantly complete seclusion. The road to Nongkhum Island can be difficult but it’s definitely worth it.
These offbeat places all have something unique to offer and should be on your list of places to visit in Meghalaya.
