Abode of clouds – Meghalaya’s scenic environs are the personification of this term that is used to describe this beautiful state. A conglomeration of the triplet mountain ranges, Khasi, Garo and Jaintia, Meghalaya offers nothing less than natural and cultural charms to its guests. Receiving the highest precipitation in India, the place is always refreshed under the hearty, life-giving spells of rain.
To experience the best of Meghalaya, travel to these 10 spots that the state offers, and discover the jewel of India in all its beauty.
Umiam Lake
Photo by Vikramjit Kakati, CC BY-SA 3.0
An artificial reservoir that is created from the Umiam River, the serenity of the Umiam Lake feels like God’s creation. Straight out of an artist’s canvas, the islands around the shimmering lake are a prime tourist location in Meghalaya. Besides the natural beauty, the lake also offers adventure sport activities, such as kayaking, water cycling and boating.
Lady Hydari Park
Numerous ponds, fresh shrubs, vibrant flowers and even a mini zoo, the Lady Hydari Park is a complete package of happiness and liveliness. Apart from flowers in full bloom and lush trees, you can also spot deer grazing in this park. The zoo also houses species like leopards, jackals and hornbills to keep you entertained. Spend an entire day in this garden, gazing at the greenery and the majestic swans in the ponds.
Mawsmai Limestone Cave
Photo by Sujan Bandyopadhyay, CC BY-SA 4.0
Locate unusual patterns in the stalagmites and stalactites of this great feat of nature. The Mawsmai Limestone Caves are one of the few caves in Meghalaya that allow you to explore the entirety of such caves in all its glory. They are well-lit for your safety and the constant climbing and descending is bound to serve as a thrilling experience.
Nohkalikai Falls
Photo by Hrishikesh Sharma, CC BY-SA 2.0
Transcending a vertical distance of a thousand feet, the Nohkalikai Falls is the largest and most fascinating plunge waterfall in India. Descending from a rough-cut mountain, and having greenery all around, the base of the waterfall has formed a mystical green coloured pool. Visit this cascading falls to fall in awe of its height and complimenting glory.
Mawlynnong Village
Photo by Ashwin Kumar, CC BY-SA 2.0
A rarity in India that is achieved by this village, the Mawlynnong Village is deemed as the cleanest village in Asia. Enjoy an aerial view of the surroundings, from the makeshift platform of bamboos built by the locals. The place also has its own root bridge and boulders held in place by tiny stones, a source of mystery for all travelers.
Double Decker Living Root Bridges
Photo by Ashwin Kumar, CC BY-SA 2.0
An entangled mesh of tree roots forms a delightful bridge in the wet district of Chirapunjee. An accidental achievement of nature, the long roots crawl and grab at one another to form a sturdy bridge over a small stream. Tourists trod along a challenging path to witness this marvelous bridge and have a chance to walk over it.
Laitlum Canyon
A trekking haven, this canyon provides a challenging, rough and the most fulfilling treks of your lives. An endless fantasy of clear greens and earthy browns as your view from the top is a worthwhile experience. Be sure to visit the Lwai Falls to refresh and cool down your thumping senses on your way back from the canyon.
Don Bosco Museum Of Indigenous Cultures
A historical and cultural hub, this museum is a paradise for knowledge seekers. It has an exhaustive collection of northeastern cultural artifacts. It also has a library housing numerous books to brush up your knowledge about the lifestyle, traditions, and ways of the locals. The museum even has a skywalk which offers an exciting view of Shillong.
Garo Hills
Photo by Duy Thuong Ngo, CC BY-ND 2.0
Hills that leave you spellbound are a rare phenomenon to encounter in your routine life. Garo hills in western Meghalaya is one such mountain range, that encompasses diverse flora and fauna within its embrace. The hills contain the Balpakram National Park as well as Siju Wildlife Sanctuary. You can enjoy adventurous jungle safaris while visiting other hill stations of Meghalaya.
Elephant Falls
Photo (Cropped) by Subharnab Majumdar, CC BY 2.0
One of the major attractions of Shillong, the Elephant Falls makes for a wondrous spot in Meghalaya. The gurgling waters against black rocks, that once resembled the shape of an elephant, are a majestic sight to behold. To truly experience the magic of the falls, visit at sunset when the receding sun rays provide a golden hue to the waters.
A vacation in Meghalaya will give you countless breathless moments that you are sure to remember all your life. So, pack your bags with wonder and adventure and head straight to this exquisite piece of artwork, in the form of an Indian state.
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