Meghalaya, known as the “Abode of Clouds,” is one of the most beautiful states in Northeast India. The region is famous for massive waterfalls, crystal-clear rivers, limestone caves, living root bridges and misty valleys.
From the lively hill city of Shillong to the transparent waters of Dawki’s Umngot River, Meghalaya offers an unforgettable experience for travellers who love nature and adventure.
Here are the best places in Meghalaya you should include in your itinerary.
Top Tourist Places in Meghalaya
1. Shillong
- Location
- East Khasi Hills
- Timings
- 9 AM – 6 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹20–₹50 depending on attraction
- Best For
- City sightseeing and culture
Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya and one of the most popular hill stations in Northeast India. Surrounded by pine forests and rolling hills, the city offers attractions like Umiam Lake, Ward’s Lake, Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak. Its lively markets and music culture make it a vibrant destination.
2. Cherrapunji (Sohra)
- Location
- East Khasi Hills District
- Timings
- 8 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹20–₹50 depending on attraction
- Best For
- Waterfalls and nature landscapes
Cherrapunji, locally called Sohra, is famous for its dramatic cliffs, caves and waterfalls. It was once known as the wettest place on Earth because of its extremely high rainfall. Attractions like Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls and Mawsmai Cave make it one of the most visited destinations in Meghalaya.
3. Dawki & Umngot River
- Location
- West Jaintia Hills
- Timings
- 9 AM – 4 PM
- Entry Fee
- Boat rides ₹800–₹1500
- Best For
- Boating and photography
Dawki is famous for the crystal-clear Umngot River where boats appear to float in the air due to the transparent water. Located near the India–Bangladesh border, Dawki is also popular for riverside camping and scenic views of the surrounding hills.
4. Mawlynnong Village
- Location
- East Khasi Hills
- Timings
- 8 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹20
- Best For
- Village tourism and eco travel
Mawlynnong gained international recognition as Asia’s cleanest village. The community maintains the village through strict cleanliness practices and eco-friendly living. Visitors can explore bamboo walkways, gardens and the nearby Riwai Living Root Bridge.
5. Nongriat Double Decker Living Root Bridge
- Location
- Nongriat Village near Cherrapunji
- Timings
- 6 AM – 4 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹50
- Best For
- Trekking and adventure
The Double Decker Living Root Bridge is one of Meghalaya’s most iconic natural wonders. The bridge is formed by guiding rubber tree roots across a river over several decades. Reaching the bridge requires a challenging trek of more than 3,000 steps through forest trails.
6. Nohkalikai Falls
- Location
- Cherrapunji
- Timings
- 8 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹20
- Best For
- Waterfall views and photography
Nohkalikai Falls is the tallest plunge waterfall in India, dropping from a height of about 340 metres. The waterfall flows into a turquoise pool surrounded by steep cliffs and misty valleys. It is one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in Meghalaya.
7. Umiam Lake
- Location
- 15 km from Shillong
- Timings
- 9 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹20 (water activities extra)
- Best For
- Water sports and scenic views
Umiam Lake is a beautiful reservoir surrounded by forested hills and peaceful landscapes. Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking and lakeside picnics. The lake is also a popular photography spot during sunrise and sunset.
8. Elephant Falls
- Location
- Near Shillong
- Timings
- 9 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹20
- Best For
- Easy sightseeing
Elephant Falls is a three-tier waterfall located a short drive from Shillong city. Visitors can walk down a staircase that leads to different viewing platforms. The lush greenery surrounding the waterfall makes it one of the most popular tourist spots in Shillong.
9. Laitlum Canyon
- Location
- 24 km from Shillong
- Timings
- 7 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹20
- Best For
- Scenic viewpoints and photography
Laitlum Canyon translates to “End of the Hills.” It offers dramatic panoramic views of deep valleys and distant villages hidden among clouds. The canyon is especially popular for sunrise and sunset photography.
10. Mawphlang Sacred Forest
- Location
- 25 km from Shillong
- Timings
- 9 AM – 4:30 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹50 with guide
- Best For
- Cultural and nature exploration
Mawphlang Sacred Forest is protected by Khasi tribal traditions and is considered spiritually sacred. The forest contains rare plants, medicinal herbs and ancient stone structures used for rituals. Visitors usually explore the forest with local guides.
11. Mawsynram
- Location
- East Khasi Hills
- Timings
- Open all day
- Entry Fee
- Free
- Best For
- Rainfall landscapes
Mawsynram is widely known as the wettest place on Earth because of its extremely high rainfall levels. The village is surrounded by caves, waterfalls and misty hills. Travellers visit to witness the unique monsoon landscape.
12. Krang Suri Falls
- Location
- West Jaintia Hills near Jowai
- Timings
- 8 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹50
- Best For
- Swimming and photography
Krang Suri Falls is famous for its stunning turquoise water and cascading waterfall. The clear pool below the falls allows visitors to swim and enjoy the refreshing water. The surrounding forest adds to the natural beauty of the location.
13. Garden of Caves
- Location
- Near Cherrapunji
- Timings
- 9 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹20
- Best For
- Offbeat exploration
Garden of Caves is a hidden natural attraction featuring caves, waterfalls and lush greenery. Walking trails lead visitors through small valleys and streams. The peaceful setting makes it ideal for travellers looking for less crowded destinations.
14. Seven Sisters Falls
- Location
- Cherrapunji
- Timings
- 8 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹20
- Best For
- Monsoon waterfalls
Seven Sisters Falls, also known as Nohsngithiang Falls, is one of the widest waterfalls in India. During the monsoon season, seven streams flow down a limestone cliff creating a spectacular natural scene.
15. Dainthlen Falls
- Location
- Near Cherrapunji
- Timings
- 8 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹20
- Best For
- Scenic viewpoints
Dainthlen Falls is associated with a local Khasi legend about a giant serpent that once lived in the region. The waterfall flows through a massive gorge surrounded by rocky landscapes. The viewpoint offers dramatic valley views.
16. Wei Sawdong Falls
- Location
- Cherrapunji
- Timings
- 8 AM – 4:30 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹50
- Best For
- Adventure photography
Wei Sawdong Falls is a hidden three-tier waterfall deep in the forest near Cherrapunji. Visitors need to descend steep steps to reach the viewing point. The layered waterfall and turquoise water create a breathtaking view.
17. Mawkdok Dympep Valley
- Location
- Shillong–Cherrapunji Road
- Timings
- 8 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- Free
- Best For
- Scenic viewpoints
Mawkdok Dympep Valley offers stunning views of lush green valleys and mist-covered hills. The viewpoint is a popular stop for travellers driving between Shillong and Cherrapunji.
18. Arwah Cave
- Location
- Cherrapunji
- Timings
- 9 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹30
- Best For
- Cave exploration
Arwah Cave is known for its limestone formations and fossil imprints believed to be millions of years old. Visitors walk through narrow cave passages while observing unique rock formations created over centuries.
19. Mawsmai Cave
- Location
- Cherrapunji
- Timings
- 9 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹20
- Best For
- Cave tourism
Mawsmai Cave is one of the most accessible caves in Meghalaya. The cave contains impressive stalactites and stalagmites formed by mineral deposits over thousands of years.
20. Kyllang Rock
- Location
- West Khasi Hills
- Timings
- 6 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- Free
- Best For
- Hiking
Kyllang Rock is a massive granite dome rising from the surrounding hills. A short hike leads to the top where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of forests and valleys.
21. Nongjrong Village
- Location
- East Khasi Hills
- Timings
- Open all day
- Entry Fee
- Free
- Best For
- Sunrise views
Nongjrong Village is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking sunrise views above cloud-covered valleys. Early morning visitors can witness an incredible sea of clouds surrounding the hills.
22. Mawlyngbna
- Location
- East Khasi Hills
- Timings
- 7 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹50
- Best For
- Eco tourism
Mawlyngbna is an eco-tourism village known for kayaking, trekking and fossil exploration. The surrounding hills and natural pools make it perfect for adventure travellers.
23. Wari Chora Canyon
- Location
- South Garo Hills
- Timings
- 7 AM – 4 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹50
- Best For
- Adventure travel
Wari Chora Canyon is a hidden turquoise canyon surrounded by dense forests. Visitors can explore the canyon by boat and witness dramatic rock formations.
24. Balpakram National Park
- Location
- South Garo Hills
- Timings
- 8 AM – 4 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹50
- Best For
- Wildlife exploration
Balpakram National Park is known for its dramatic cliffs, wildlife and unique geological formations. The park is home to rare species including red pandas and wild buffalo.
25. Nokrek National Park
- Location
- Garo Hills
- Timings
- 8 AM – 4 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹50
- Best For
- Nature and wildlife
Nokrek National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve rich in biodiversity. It is known for rare plant species and dense forests.
26. Jowai
- Location
- West Jaintia Hills
- Timings
- Open all day
- Entry Fee
- Free
- Best For
- Local culture
Jowai is a peaceful town surrounded by rivers and waterfalls. It offers a glimpse of traditional Jaintia culture and scenic landscapes.
27. Tura
- Location
- West Garo Hills
- Timings
- Open all day
- Entry Fee
- Free
- Best For
- Offbeat travel
Tura is a hill town surrounded by forests and hills. The region is known for scenic viewpoints and wildlife.
28. Williamnagar
- Location
- East Garo Hills
- Timings
- Open all day
- Entry Fee
- Free
- Best For
- Nature exploration
Williamnagar is known for its scenic river views and wildlife-rich landscapes. It is an ideal destination for travellers exploring the Garo Hills.
29. Shillong Peak
- Location
- Shillong
- Timings
- 9 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹30
- Best For
- Panoramic views
Shillong Peak is the highest point in Shillong and offers a panoramic view of the entire city and surrounding hills.
30. Ward’s Lake
- Location
- Shillong
- Timings
- 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Entry Fee
- ₹20
- Best For
- Relaxation
Ward’s Lake is a peaceful artificial lake surrounded by gardens and walking paths. Visitors can enjoy boating and relaxing walks in the centre of Shillong.
Responsible Travel in Meghalaya
Meghalaya’s ecosystems are fragile and culturally sensitive. Travellers should:
- Avoid plastic waste
- Respect Khasi tribal traditions
- Support local guides and homestays
- Follow eco-tourism guidelines
Explore Meghalaya with Encamp Adventures
Encamp Adventures offers curated journeys across Meghalaya that combine adventure with responsible travel. Their itineraries include experiences such as Dawki river camping, Cherrapunji trekking and cultural village stays, allowing travellers to explore the region while supporting sustainable tourism.
Plan Your Meghalaya Trip with Expert Guidance
Explore waterfalls, rivers and hidden gems with a well-crafted itinerary designed for a smooth and memorable journey.
Plan Your Meghalaya TripQuick Answers About Meghalaya
1. What are the best places in Meghalaya?
Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki, Mawlynnong, Nongriat and Laitlum Canyon are among the most popular places to visit in Meghalaya.
2. What is Meghalaya famous for?
Meghalaya is famous for waterfalls, living root bridges, caves, crystal-clear rivers and scenic hill landscapes.
3. How many days are enough for Meghalaya?
A 5–7 day trip is ideal to explore the major tourist places in Meghalaya.
4. Which is the most beautiful place in Meghalaya?
Dawki’s Umngot River and Cherrapunji’s waterfalls are considered among the most beautiful places in the state.
