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The Mystic Land of Meghalaya

By Manoj

Meghalaya popularly known as the 'abode of the clouds', is one of those wind and rain swept places tucked away in Northeastern India which bears a pleasant climate throughout the year. It is home to lots of indigenous tribes and their quaint ways and customs and at the same is a melting pot of modernity and tradition.

The understated fashion capital of the country also belongs here. Go to this less visited state for its scenic beauty, the cleanest village in South East Asia and also discover new destinations as you go along the way. Here is a guide to some of the best places to visit in Meghalaya.

Cherrapunji

Cherrapunji

One of the places to visit in Meghalaya is Cherrapunji which is home to the Ficus elastica tree. These trees grow out its roots on their own which keep growing and in a period of 10-15 years become fully functional as bridges. People from across the world come to see this natural phenomenon.

Photo Courtesy: Ashwin Kumar

Caves

Caves

The longest cave system in India is located in the Jaintia hills, Meghalaya. Mawsmai, Krem Dam, Krem Kotsati, Krem Lashinng, Krem Mawmluh, Krem Sweep an Siju are few of the caves that tourists can access. Tourists can explore these caves and see the many stalagmite and stalactite.

Photo Courtesy: Sharada Prasad CS

Dawki

Dawki

Another place to visit in Meghalaya is Dawki which is a small town in Jaintia Hills. The Umngot river in Dawki is known for the annual boat race held during the month of March and April. The river forms the natural boundary between the Jaintia and Khasi Hills. Tourists can go on a boat ride here or head for a picnic with their family.

Photo Courtesy: Tharaq Andrews

Elephant Falls

Elephant Falls

One of the places to see in Meghalaya is Elephant Falls which is a most popular tourist destinations in Shillong. The regional name for the falls is ‘Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew' which translates to three steps water as the water falls in three steps. The British named it Elephant Falls after the rock which resembles an elephant. The falls is characterized by milky water that flows over black rocks.

Photo Courtesy: Ashwin Kumar

Mawlynnong

Mawlynnong

One of the major tourist place in Meghalaya is Mawlynnong Village which is the cleanest village of Asia. The main occupation here is agriculture. Dustbins made out of bamboo are found all around the village, and the villagers make it a point that waste is not thrown around.

Photo Courtesy: Ashwin Kumar

Nartiang

Nartiang

Nartiang, the summer capital of the Jaintia kings, is a tourist place in Meghalaya. Today tourists and devotees from all across the globe visit to see this seat of power. The Durga Temple at Nartiang reveals the Hindu influence on this kingdom. The original structure of the temple has been revamped, but one can still see the idols, altar and swords. There is also a Shiv Temple here.

Photo Courtesy: Saptarshi Sanyal

Nohkalikai Falls

Nohkalikai Falls

Nohkalikai Falls near Cherrapunji is the tallest waterfalls in India. The waterfall is fed by the rainwater which Cherrapunji receives. Right below the falls there is a plunge pool with beautiful buish-green coloured water. During the monsoon this waterfall is at its best and attracts large crowds.

Photo Courtesy: Pankaj Kaushal

Shillong

Shillong

Shillong also known as the 'Scotland of the East' is home to lots of good weather and an ideal place to escape from the madness of the city. Tourists can take a stroll on the Shillong Golf course, the third oldest golf course in the country, visit the Shillong Cathedral or simply go to the wind and rain swept Shillong peak to get a glimpse of the entire city. The Wangala Festival which is held here is celebrated to please the Sun God - Saljong. It is a two day celebration which at times continues for upto a week.

Photo Courtesy: Masrur Ashraf

Umiam Lake

Umiam Lake

Umiam Lake is the first sight for any traveller as they travel to Shillong from Guwahati. It is a popular tourist destinations in Ri Bhoi district of Meghalaya. The lake was created in the early 1960s by building a hydro-electric dam across the Umiam River. Today, the lake is a tourist destination with a number of water sports and adventure facilities like kayaking, water cycling, shooting and boating being offered.

Photo Courtesy: N S Rao

Read more about: meghalaya travel nature
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