Skip the Tourist Traps: 12 Places in Meghalaya Worth Your Time

Meghalaya, the "Home of Clouds," is a land where 70% of its area is covered with jungles. While most of the travellers stick to the crowded main streets of Shillong, the true soul of this state lies in its ancient forests, misty canyons, and crystal-clear lakes. Are you exploring places to visit in Meghalaya? Then you need a guide that separates the overhyped places from the truly magical experiences.

Experience the magic of Sohra’s living root bridges, the deep gorges of Laitlum, and the charm of Mawlynnong, from panoramic vistas at the state’s highest peak to the cascading Elephant Falls.

To make your journey easy, you can choose from various Meghalaya tour packages that cover everything from the "Majestic Shillong" to "Mesmerising Cherrapunjee." These curated trips ensure you don't miss out on breathtaking spots like Elephant Falls or the panoramic views from Shillong Peak.

12 Places to Visit in Meghalaya

Explore this well-researched list of Meghalaya tourist places that promise more than just a photo; they offer a real connection with nature.

1. Elephant Falls

This three-tier waterfall is a natural wonder that looks like a staircase of frothing milk. The British named it after a rock that looked like an elephant, which was later destroyed in an earthquake.

Best Selling Meghalaya Tours

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

Meghalaya Weekend Escape | Shillong & Cherrapunjee

2N/3D

₹13,699₹16,999/ Adult

SAVE ₹ 3,300

Call Us

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

Kaziranga Wildlife Escape | Rhino Country Safari

2N/3D

₹18,999₹23,999/ Adult

SAVE ₹ 5,000

Call Us

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

Meghalaya Bucket List | Clean Village & Root Bridge

4N/5D

₹23,999₹27,999/ Adult

SAVE ₹ 4,000

Call Us

1. Address: Upper Shillong, 12 km from the city centre, Meghalaya 793009.
2. How to reach: You can easily reach Elephant Falls by local taxi or private car from Police Bazar, Shillong. It will take almost 30 to 40 minutes via the NH 106 route.
3. Best time to Visit: June–September for the best water flow and clear weather.
4. Nearby Attractions: Shillong Peak, Air Force Museum, and Mattilang Park.

2. Umiam Lake

The travellers who visited here compared this lake to the beautiful lakes of Scotland. Umiam Lake is a vast man-made reservoir. It is a great choice for water sports like kayaking or a quiet sunset picnic by the shore. People from their personal experience tell us the lake is one of their favourite places to visit in Meghalaya.

1. Address: Umiam, Meghalaya 793103.
2. How to reach: It will take 30 to 45 minutes to reach here by local taxi from the main city, Shillong. The distance is almost 15-20 km.
3. Best time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather and water activities.
4. Timings: 10 am to 5 pm.
5. Nearby Attractions: Lum Nehru Park and Orchid Lake Resort.

3. Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians

You are a believer or not, it doesn't matter. You should visit the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians Church for its earthquake-proof design built on sand. After a fire destroyed the original wooden building in 1936, this stronger stone cathedral was built. It features beautiful French stained glass and survived many historical challenges.

1. Address: Laitumkhrah, Shillong, East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya 793003.
2. How to reach: You can take a local taxi or bus from the Police Bazar and reach here via Soso Tham Road in 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Best time to visit: October to March for the best weather experience.
4. Nearby Attractions: Don Bosco Museum, Ward’s Lake and Police Bazar.

4. Don Bosco Museum

This seven-story museum is ranked top of the places to visit in Meghalaya for culture lovers. Each floor shows a different part of Northeast India's rich tribal heritage and history. Don’t come here in a hurry; this landmark deserves a dedicated half-day to truly appreciate its vast history and soul.

1. Address: Mawlai, Shillong, East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya 793008.
2. How to reach: Take a local taxi from the Shillong city centre or Police Bazaar, which is about 3-5 km away.
3. Timings: Bosco Museum is open daily except Sunday, from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
4. Ticket Prices: ₹200 per person.
5. Nearby Attractions: Shillong Golf Course and Ward’s Lake.

5. Shillong Peak

Shillong Peak is the highest point in the state. It provides a 360-degree view of the entire city, and you can even see the distant plains of Bangladesh. This spot is famous for photography, one of the best selfie points in Meghalaya, also known as Shillong Peak View Point.

1. Address: Pomlakrai, Meghalaya 793010.
2. How to reach: Hire a taxi from Shillong main city(Jowai Road). It will take 40 to 45 minutes (10 km) to get there.
3. Best time to Visit: October to March for clear, fog-free views of the valley.
4. Timings: Open daily except Wednesday from 9 am to 3:30 pm.
5. Entry Fees: ₹50 per person. It may vary; best confirm with the local authority.
6. Nearby Attractions: Elephant Falls, Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians and the Air Force Museum.
7. Important Point: You must carry a valid ID card as it is an Air Force area.

6. Laitlum Canyon

Situated in the East Khasi Hills, Laitlum Canyons is famous for its endless green valley views. As one of the most breathtaking Meghalaya tourist places, it perfectly lives up to its name, "End of Hills," where deep gorges and rolling meadows make you feel like you are standing at the edge of the world.

1. Address: Smit Village, Meghalaya 793015.
2. How to reach: It is about 24 km from Shillong. First, reach Shillong and then go to the Smit village. From here, the Canyon is 8 km away. You can travel with a private vehicle or public buses.
3. Best time to Visit: November to March for lush greenery and dramatic cloud views. It is advisable to visit here in the morning.
4. Timings: Entry opens daily from 7 am to 5 pm.
5. Nearby Attractions: Smit Village, Ward’s Lake and Rasong Village trek.

7. Ward’s Lake

This horseshoe-shaped lake is a traveller's favourite. Surrounded by colourful flower beds and a stone path, it is ideal for a gentle evening walk or a quick boat ride. The lake is famous for its vibrant flower beds and well-kept lawns, which look especially stunning during the cherry blossom season.

1. Address: Near Police Bazar, Shillong, East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya 793001.
2. How to reach: Ward’s Lake is within a 15-minute walking distance of the main Police Bazar bus stand.
3. Best time to Visit: Visit here from March to June to see the beautiful cherry blossoms.
4. Nearby Attractions: Lady Hydari Park and Botanical Garden.

8. Mawlynnong Village

Mawlynnong is a heartwarming village in the East Khasi Hills, about 78 km from Shillong. Known as "Asia’s Cleanest Village," its soul lies in its people. These kind Khasi farmers use bamboo dustbins and ban plastic to protect their home, making every flower-lined street feel like a peaceful, living garden and one of the most essential places to visit in Meghalaya.

1. Address: Pynursla Block, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya 793110.
2. How to reach: Drive (about 78-100 km) from Shillong Airport or Guwahati railway station via private or shared taxi and cost approx. ₹2800.
3. Best time to Visit: Winter is considered the best time to visit when the gardens are at their greenest.
4. Nearby Attractions: Living Root Bridge (Riwai) and Balancing Rock.

9. Mawjymbuin Cave

Located in Mawsynram, the wettest place on earth, this cave is famous for its natural stone formation that looks like a Shivling. It is an important site for both nature and religion.

1. Address: Mawjymbuiñ Rd, Māwsynrām, Meghalaya 793113.
2. How to reach: It is about 60 km from Shillong and 2.5 km from Mawsynram Bus Station; you can reach here by taxi or local bus.
3. Best time to Visit: October to March to avoid heavy rain that makes the ground slippery.
4. Timings: Mawjymbuin Cave opens daily from 8 am to 4 pm.
5. Nearby Attractions: Mawlyngbna Fossil Park and Jakrem Hot Springs.

10. Seven Sisters Waterfall

The Seven Sisters Waterfall, or Nohsngithiang Falls, is a breathtaking sight where seven silken streams dance down a 1,033-foot cliff. As India’s fourth-highest plunge, its roaring power during the monsoon feels like nature's own music,

1. Address: Nongkalikhai, Nohkalikai, Cherrapunji, Meghalaya 793108.
2. How to reach: Drive 50 km from Shillong to Cherrapunji, then travel 3.7 km via Sohra-Shella Rd to reach the beautiful waterfall.
3. Best time to visit: June to September to see all seven streams in full flow.
4. Nearby Attractions: Mawsmai Cave and Eco Park.

11. Mawphlang Sacred Forest

The Mawphlang Sacred Forest is one of the most remarkable places to visit in Meghalaya because it is a living laboratory of ancient nature and Khasi tribal culture. For over 800 years, the local Lyngdoh clan has protected this grove, believing it is guarded by a powerful deity. You can enjoy a rare collection of old trees, flowers, and monoliths.

1. Address: Nongrum, Synrang Kaban, Meghalaya 793121
2. How to reach: About 25 km from Shillong; hire a taxi or take a shared vehicle from Bara Bazar. It will take approximately one hour.
3. Best time to Visit: October to April for comfortable walking and trekking.
4. Nearby Attractions: David Scott Trail and Khasi Heritage Village.

12. Lady Hydari Park

Are you tired of watching animals on TV? Then visit Lady Hydari Park, which is famous for its beautiful Japanese-style gardens and its mini-zoo. Located in the heart of Shillong, it is a favourite among Meghalaya tourist places to explore. You will see graceful deer, jackals, and black bears. There are also many colourful Himalayan birds, ponies, and a section for hornbills that are truly fascinating to watch in reality!

1. Address: Lower, Lachumiere, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001.
2. How to reach: You can easily reach here by local taxi from the Shillong city centre or the bus stand. It takes hardly 7 minutes(2.6 km).
3. Best time to Visit: October to March when the flowers are blooming, and the weather is bright.
4. Timings: Open daily 8 am to 5 pm, on Monday it remains closed.
5. Entry Fee: ₹10 per person, charges may vary.
6. Nearby Attractions: Ward's Lake and the State Museum.

Also Read- Things to do in Meghalaya