Ankita Naskar
Nestled in the abode of clouds, Meghalaya is nature’s wonderland. With its ethereal waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, verdant forests, and mystifying caves, Meghalaya promises a vacation unlike any other. If you are planning a trip to this scenic state, here are the top 5 tourist spots in Meghalaya for vacation that you must include in your itinerary for a memorable holiday.
1. Shillong
Fondly called the Scotland of the East, Shillong is Meghalaya’s charming capital city. Set across undulating hills, Shillong is dotted with tranquil lakes, gardens, colonial architecture, and cafes. Start your Meghalaya sojourn by visiting Ward’s Lake. Take a boat ride or simply stroll around this natural lake located right in the heart of the city. Don’t miss the Butterfly Museum next to the lake. Further ahead is the famous Shillong Golf Course, touted as the Glen Eagle of the East. Other must-visits in Shillong are Elephant Falls, Lady Hydari Park, the Don Bosco Museum, and the century-old All Saints Church.
2. Cherrapunjee
Holding the record for being the wettest place on earth, Cherrapunjee is a nature lover’s paradise. It receives an annual rainfall of over 11,000 mm, giving rise to scenic rainforests, waterfalls, and living root bridges. Mawsmai Cave is a beautiful limestone cave with underground streams running through it. Seven Sisters Falls is a wonder present at Cherrapunjee, where seven adjacent streams cascade together in a breathtaking vista. You can trek to the renowned Double Decker Living Root Bridge as well. A natural wonder, rubber tree roots weaved together to form this bridge across swift-moving rivers. Cherrapunjee will rejuvenate your senses.
3. Umiam Lake
A retreat from the crowds, Umiam Lake, located 15 kilometres from Shillong, is the largest artificial lake in the state. The calm blue waters, surrounded by hills and pine forests, offer boating and fishing. Pack a meal to enjoy at the lakeside viewpoints, or simply immerse yourself in tranquilly while soaking in views of the Synrang Bridge passing over the lake. On weekends, locals gather here for community activities, adding to the cheerful ambience. Umiam Lake is a welcoming escape from city life into beauty, greenery, and serenity.
4. Baghmara
Nestled deep in the South Garo Hills of Meghalaya, the remote town of Baghmara promises an escape into unspoiled nature. This picturesque village is 287 kilometres from Shillong and borders Bangladesh on the other side with forests, hills, and the Simsang River. Baghmara is blessed with abundant flora and fauna, with the 4 km-long Baghmara Reserve Forest home to elephants, birds, and langurs. Nearby is Balphakram National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife. Bird watchers are drawn to the Siju Bird Sanctuary for migratory winter species. Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the spectacular Siju Caves, featuring the massive ‘Princess Di’s Chamber’ limestone formations within their endless labyrinth. Baghmara truly is a pristine paradise for unwinding in unspoiled surroundings.
5. Nohkalikai Falls
Last but definitely not least is the dramatically beautiful Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India. The Nohkalikai Falls cascade down from a height of 1115 feet. A natural green pool with hills covered in dense forest is where the water falls. This makes for a surreal vista. Legends abound about this mystical waterfall situated near Cherrapunjee. The most popular is the haunting tale behind the name Nohkalikai, meaning ‘the leap of Likai’. Visit early in the morning to see the falls at their thundering best when the sunlight creates magical rainbows in the mist. Truly one of Meghalaya’s most stunning natural wonders.
Meghalaya’s gorgeous landscapes,vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures make it the ideal destination for a rejuvenating break from the daily grind. With so much natural beauty crammed into a small state, Meghalaya offers tourists an unforgettable holiday.
