Why Monsoon in Meghalaya is a Dream for Nature Lovers

Meghalaya in northeast India is known as the “Abode of Clouds” due to receiving record-breaking rainfall in states like Cherrapunji (Sohra) and Mawsynram during the monsoon season. 

The wettest place in the world, Meghalaya’s Mawsynram, received an annual rainfall of about 11,871 mm (467.4 inches), surpassing Cherrapunji (Sohra). 

During the monsoons, Meghalaya transforms into an astonishingly scenic paradise with mist-covered hills, lush greenery, beautifully rushing waterfalls, and crystal clear rivers, a perfect getaway for nature lovers.

Experience the Beauty of Monsoon in Meghalaya

Meghalaya is a must-visit destination in India in the Monsoon season (June to September) due to several reasons. Let’s know how.

Meghalaya transforms into a green paradise.

Vibrant Forests: Meghalaya, during monsoons, turns into a green paradise, as the heavy rainfall nourishes the dense green forests, making them more vibrant, rich green, and refreshing.

Scenic Hills: The Khasi and the Jaintia Hills get wrapped around the misty clouds, and the wide grasslands dotted with blooming flowers create a magical visual for you to admire. 

Moss-Covered Rocks: The mesmerising sights of the moss-covered rocks that appear in the forests and trekking trails in Meghalaya are a visual treat for visitors. 

Waterfalls at Their Best During Monsoon

Increased Water Flow: The waterfalls in Meghalaya reach their maximum beauty due to the increased water flow, producing a roaring sound, offering the best backdrop, including lush greenery.

Misty Atmosphere: The mist produced by the waterfalls gives a breathtakingly beautiful sight to tourists and is a top spot for photography. 

Relaxing ambience: The soothing sound of the waterfalls and the cool and refreshing atmosphere rejuvenate your soul in every sense.

Stunning Backdrop: The lush green landscapes with the glittering waterfalls offer a great backdrop and brighten your mood.

Living Root Bridges- A Unique Nature’s Wonder in Meghalaya

Khasi & Jaintia Tribes: The Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya are natural wonders created by the local Khasi and Jaintia tribes. 

Sustainable Bridges: These eco-friendly bridges are made of rubber trees and their roots and are used to cross Meghalaya’s rivers and streams. 

Grow stronger with time: The older the Living Root Bridges, the stronger they become over time. Only 1-2 people are allowed to pass the bridge at once. 

Scenic wonder: The Living Root Bridges are surrounded by lush green forests, flowing rivers, waterfalls, and misty hills, adding to the breathtaking natural scenery. 

The Most Popular Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya

• Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Nongriat
• Umshiang Root Bridge, Nongriat, Meghalaya, India
• Mawlynnong Root Bridge, Mawlynnong (Cleanest Village in Asia)
• Jingkieng Wahsurah, Sohra (Cherrapunji)
• Pynursla Root Bridges, Pynursla, Meghalaya

Top waterfalls in Meghalaya to visit during the Monsoon

Here is a list of the best and most beautiful waterfalls in Meghalaya to visit with your friends and family.

1) Nohkalikai Falls: India’s tallest plunging waterfall

Location: 7 Kilometres from Sohra (Cherrapunji)

Nohkalikai Falls Height: 340 meters (1,115 feet)

Nohkalikai Falls Highlights:

• The Nohkalikai Waterfall is India’s tallest plunge waterfall
• The waterfall forms a stunning turquoise-blue colour
• The waterfall cascades down a steep, forested cliff, creating a dramatic landscape.
• A woman’s suicide by falling off the waterfall adds a mysterious connection to the site.

2) Seven Sisters Falls- One of India’s Tallest Waterfalls

Location: 3.5 Kilometres from Sohra (Cherrapunji)

Seven Sisters Falls Height: 315 meters (1,033 feet)

Seven Sister Falls Highlights: 

• It is a seven-division waterfall, creating a jaw-dropping sight
• The Seven Sisters Falls is one of India’s tallest waterfalls
• This waterfall is only visible during the monsoon season
• The falling water glows golden-orange during sunset
• One of Meghalaya’s widest waterfalls, with a 70-meter (230-foot) wide cliff

Best time to visit: June- September (Monsoon Season) 

3) Krang Suri Falls: A Hidden Gem in Meghalaya

Location: West Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya

Krang Suri Falls Height: 40 feet (12 meters)

Krang Suri Falls Highlights: 

• Krang Suri Waterfall has beautiful, crystal-clear blue water 
• A shallow scenic natural pool is formed at the base of the waterfall
• A less crowded top tourist attraction of Meghalaya
• The lush green surroundings enhance the beauty
• A short trek to reach the Krang Suri Waterfall

4) Elephant Falls: Shillong’s Most Famous Waterfall

Location: 12 kilometres from Shillong

Elephant Falls Height: 55 meters (180 feet) 

Elephant Falls Highlights:

• The Elephant Falls is a beautiful three-tiered waterfall
• The unique rock formations and lush greenery create a beautiful backdrop
• During the monsoon season, the Elephant Falls flow increases immensely 
• The waterfall holds cultural importance among the Khasi tribe

5) Kynrem Falls- The 7th-Highest Waterfall in India You Must Visit.

Location: Thangkharang Park, near Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

Kynrem Falls Height: Approximately 305 meters (1,001 feet)

Kynrem Falls Highlights

• A must-visit monsoon waterfall in Meghalaya
• The Kynrem Falls is a three-tiered, mesmerising waterfall
• Offers a scenic view from Thangkharang Park
• Located near the Bangladesh border, making it an interesting place to visit
• Surrounded by the lush greenery of Meghalaya’s fresh landscapes

6) Dainthlen Falls- A Hidden Gem Near Cherrapunji

Location: 11 kilometres from Cherrapunji (Sohra)

Dainthlen Falls Height:  80–90 meters

Dainthlen Falls Highlights: 

• Breathtaking surroundings with rugged rock formations
• It is a great spot for picnics and relaxing with your family and friends
• Less crowded compared to other waterfalls in Cherrapunji
• The beauty gets doubled during the monsoon

Must-Visit Places in Meghalaya During Monsoon

1) Cherrapunji – The Wettest Place on Earth

Cherrapunji, which is now known as Sohra, is famous worldwide for heavy rains in the monsoon, lush greenery, and charming living root bridges. 

Sohra ( Cherrapunji) is famous for its iconic living Root Bridges, mesmerising waterfalls, ancient limestone caves, and misty hills.

Things to do in Meghalaya’s Cherrapunji during the Monsoon: 

• Double Decker Living Root Bridge Trekking
• Explore the famous Mawsmai Cave and Arwah Cave 
• Visit the famous Nohkalikai Falls and the Seven Sisters Falls
• Rainbow Falls Trekking
• Enjoy a short trip from Cherrapunji to Laitlum Canyon
• Try local Khasi Cuisine in Sohra, Meghalaya

Top Tourist Attractions in Cherrapunji (Sohra)

• Nohkalikai Falls
• Double Decker Living Root Bridge
• Dainthlen Falls
• Mawsmai Cave
• Wakaba Falls
• Khoh Ramhah (Maw Trop)
• Eco Park
• Thangkharang Park
• Seven Sister Falls
•  Krem Mawmluh Cave

2) Mawsynram – The Rainiest Place in the World

The rainiest place on Earth, Mawsynram, is a must-visit place in Meghalaya in monsoon months to witness the enchanting beauty of endless rainfall, mist-covered valleys, and the magically soothing sound of the raindrops.  

Things to do in Mawsynram during Monsoon

• Visit the popular Mawjymbuin Cave with a famous Shiva Linga formation
• Explore the cleanest village in Asia, the Mawsynram Village
• Interact with locals and learn about the Khasi culture 
• Visit local markets and try delicious Khasi food like Jadoh and Tungrymbai 
• Trek to the wonderful Living Root Bridges in Mawsynram
• Engage in nature walks and photography in the beautiful valleys and misty hills
• Explore the Umkhakoi Reservoir for a great experience
• Enjoy an adventurous trek to the Lum Symper Peak

Popular Tourist Attractions in Mawsynram 

• Mawsmai Cave
• Nohkalikai Falls
• Krem Puri Cave
• Mawjymbuin Cave
• Mawsynram Viewpoint
• Laitlum Canyon near Mawsynram

3) Shillong – Scotland of the East

The capital of Meghalaya, Shillong, is also referred to as the ‘Scotland of the East’ due to its pleasant climate, lush greenery, rolling hills, and breathtaking landscapes. 

The stunning waterfalls, rich cultural heritage, and jaw-dropping natural surroundings make Shillong in the monsoon a must-visit tourist spot in India.

Things to do in Shillong during Monsoon

• Explore the Shillong Peak, the highest point in Shillong, Meghalaya
• Visit the enchanting waterfalls, such as Elephant Falls and Sweet Falls
• Enjoy an exciting boat ride at Umiam Lake
• Witness the scenic views of the amazing Laitlum Canyons
• Visit the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a magical experience in the Monsoon
• Explore this famous landmark in Shillong, the Police Bazar
• Relax by the side of Ward’s Lake in Shillong
• Seek blessings at the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians

Best Tourist Attractions in Shillong

• Umiam Lake
• Shillong Peak
• Elephant Falls
• Ward’s Lake
• Don Bosco Museum
•  Laitlum Canyons
•  Police Bazar
• Mawphlang Sacred Forest
• Sweet Falls

4) Dawki- Home to India’s Cleanest River

Dawki is a charming town in Meghalaya, located in the west of the Jaintia Hills. Dawki is famous for having the cleanest rivers in India, one of which is the Umngot River, the cleanest river in Asia. 

The water is so clear that while boating, it creates an illusion of people floating in the air, making the Umngot River in Dawki, Meghalaya. 

This beautiful town is also a great spot for photographers to capture the picture-perfect landscapes in the monsoon season, which enhances the beauty of Dawki, India.

Things to do during Monsoon in Dawki, Northeast India

• Boating at the beautiful Umngot River and enjoying the lush green surroundings. (subject to safety conditions and water levels)
• Engage in riverside camping by the Umngot River
• Witness the cultural exchanges at the Dawki-Tamabil Border
• Explore the charming Shnongpdeng Village and engage in nature walks
• Enjoy the exceptionally beautiful sights of the famous monsoon waterfall in Dawki, the Bophill Falls
• Take an amazing drive to Dawki from Shillong and get lost in nature’s ultimate beauty

Popular Tourist Attractions in Dawki

• Dawki Suspension Bridge
• Jaflong Zero Point
• Umngot River
• Shnongpdeng Village
• Byrdaw Falls
• Kudengrim Waterfall near Dawki

5) Mawlynnong- India’s Cleanest Village

Mawlynnong in Meghalaya is world-famous for being the cleanest village in Asia. It is located in the East Khasi Hills and is about 75 Kilometres from Shillong.

Mawlynnong is famous for its untouched landscapes, cleanliness, sustainable tourism, and eco-friendly practices.

Things to do at Mawlynnong during Monsoon

• Explore the cleanest village in Asia with your loved ones
• Visit the living root bridge at Riwai, a nearby attraction
• Engage in the Byrdaw Falls trek for an adventurous journey
• Climb the Sky View Tower for an aerial view of Bangladesh
• Take a rainy drive to Dawki and witness the Umngot River
• Try the traditional Khasi cuisine in the rains of Meghalaya

Mawlynnong’s Famous Tourist Attractions

• Living Root Bridge
• Mawlynnong Village
• Sky View Tower
• Balancing Rock
• Riwai Root Bridge
• Dawki River (a nearby attraction)

6) Jaintia Hills- An unexplored paradise in Northeast India

The Jaintia Hills are an offbeat destination in Meghalaya, still to be explored.  The Jaintia Hills are filled with stunning natural surroundings, mysterious caves, calming rivers, and a rich cultural heritage. 

This less-crowded destination in Northeast India offers a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts, adventure lovers, and history enthusiasts alike.

Things to do at Jaintia Hills during Monsoon

• Explore the magnificent waterfalls such as Krang Suri Waterfall, Phe Phe Falls, and Tyrshi Falls.
• Visit the mysterious caves such as Krem Liat Prah and Krem Um-Lawan (only if safety conditions allow)
• Visit the world’s tallest Nartiang Monoliths in Meghalaya with historical significance related to the Jaintia Kings.
•  Take a scenic boat ride at Shnongpdeng with your family and friends
•  Don’t forget to catch a glimpse of the beautiful Umlawan Lake
• Visit the Beautiful Ialong Park, which becomes even more beautiful during the  rainy season 

Top Tourist Attractions in Jaintia Hills

• Krang Suri Waterfalls
• Nartiang Monoliths
• Thadlaskein Lake
• Lalong Park
• Umlawan Cave
•  Syndai Caves
• Bophill Falls
• Syntu Ksiar

7) Laitlum Grand Canyon- A must-visit Scenic Spot in Meghalaya

One of Meghalaya’s scenic spots, the Laitlum Grand Canyon, offers the most charming views of the rolling hills, mist-covered landscapes, and deep gorges. 

Laitlum Grand Canyon is located around 23 kilometres from Shillong. This beautiful viewpoint sits high in the East Khasi Hills and is often called Meghalaya’s “Grand Canyon.

Things to do at the Laitlum Grand Canyon during Monsoon

• Enjoy the breathtaking and vibrant visuals of the rolling green hills covered in mist. 
• Snap some beautiful shots at the Laitlum Grand Canyon
• Explore the nearby villages of the Khasi tradition and interact with locals
• A great spot for picnicking for families looking for a relaxing vacation in Meghalaya
• Engage in Wildlife spotting and bird watching during the monsoon season

Best Tourist Attractions of Laitlum Grand Canyon

• Laitlum Viewpoint
• Rasong Village
• Laitlum Caves
• Smit Village (Nearby attraction)
• Mawryngkhang Trek 
• Laitlum–Rasong Village Trek 

Travel Tips for Visiting Meghalaya in Monsoon

Packing Essentials for Monsoon Season in Meghalaya

Rain Gear

• Waterproof raincoat
• Umbrella
• Quick-dry clothes

Footwear

• Good grip, waterproof trekking shoes
• Waterproof Backpack Cover
•  Protect your luggage with rain covers.
• Warm Clothes for instant warmth in hilly areas

Other Essentials

• Power Bank with extra batteries
• Sunglasses 
• Sunscreen with good SPF
• First Aid Kit

Safety tips for your monsoon Meghalaya Trip

• The road conditions in Meghalaya during the monsoon season get worse, and the chances of landslides increase, so keep extra travel time in mind.
• The flights might get delayed in the monsoon, so prepare a flexible Meghalaya Itinerary.
•  Choose safe and easily accessible travel spots like Cherrapunji, Shillong, and Dawki.
• Book your accommodation in advance as the homestays and resorts fill up faster.
• Stay hydrated throughout your Meghalaya trip, and choose cooked and nutritious meals to avoid sickness.s
• Keep a check on weather forecasts to avoid any risks or dangers and prepare accordingly.

Respect Nature and local culture.

• Responsible Visitor: As a tourist, it becomes your duty to be a responsible citizen and avoid throwing garbage anywhere.
• Zero Plastic Usage: Try to avoid using plastics to preserve nature’s charm
• Respect traditions: Respect Meghalaya’s traditions, culture, and people.  

Conclusion

Meghalaya, with its lush green landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and mist-covered hills, is truly the best monsoon travel destination in India.

The charm of Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, the crystal-clear waters of Dawki, and the enchanting living root bridges of Nongriat make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. 

Plan your trip to Meghalaya this monsoon with Offbeat Vacation and witness nature’s magic! Let the ‘Abode of Clouds’ leave you spellbound!