Meghalaya attractions during monsoons

Few things on this earth live up to their name and Meghalaya is surely one of them. Meghalaya, ‘the abode of clouds’ truly defines every bit of it. And if there is one thing, we should not miss about this petite state of North East India, it is a trip during monsoons. The state of Meghalaya hosts a massive amount of rainfall from the month of May to September every year. Along with the rains it also brings the ambiguity and magic of monsoons. Undoubtedly, the occurrence of perpetual rainfall for about 5 months of the year crowns Meghalaya as one of top two rainiest places of the world. The commencement of the rain swiftly brings a unique change in the landscape, the air gets filled with mist, caves become more profound and numerous waterfalls come alive with their thunderous presence. Meghalaya becomes all the more enticing!

A few experiences you cannot afford to miss during your trip to Meghalaya during monsoons are:

The Barapani/Umiam Lake:

Situated at about 15Km ahead to of Shillong on the Guwahati-Shillong Road will offer you one of the most magical panoramic views of hills and subtle landscape reflected in the blistering waters of the lake. A mesmerizing evening at the lakeside hotel or resort, a boat ride in the calmest of places and some coffee in the evening enjoying the trademark rain would sum up a perfect monsoon day.

Walk to the Living Root Bridge in Mawlynnong and trek to the Umterming Waterfall:

Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia is located 90 Kms away from Shillong. The road to the village is through some of the most beautiful countryside possible, starting with deep gorges and smooth plateaus ends up with beautiful broomstick cultivation fields.

The ‘Sky Watch’ a 85 feet high bamboo structure, built by the villagers will offer you a lovely view of the Bangladesh plains and a trek to the nearby Riwai Village, 2 Kms away will take you to Living Root Bridge. Another trek from Mawlynnong through Thiepsky village will take you to the elegant Umterming waterfall. This trek would again offer a vast view of Bangladesh plains.

Waterfalls and Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge in Cherrapunjee:

A trip to Cherapunjee (Sohra), particularly during the monsoons, is always rewarding as then, uncountable waterfalls come to life and offer their magnificence. Amazingly most of them have folklore or a myth connected to them. Some of the must visit waterfalls in Cherapunjee are Dain Thlen Falls, Noh Kalikai Falls, Nohsngithiang (Seven Sisters) falls.

Another appealing visit in Cherapunjee is a walk to the 'Umshiang Double Decker Root Bridge', located in the Nongriat Village is located at the bottom of the valley. The Decker Root bridge is built over the Umshiang Steam is very unique and is the only one of its kind.

Caving in Mawsmai, Village Life in Mawphlang and Mawsynram:

A visit to the Mawsmai Caves and Mawsmai Monoliths in Mawsmai Village will take you through some history of Meghalaya and add some adventure to your trip. The Sohra Syiem (Kingdom) was located at Mawsmai and the entrance to the village boasts of the only monolith in Meghalaya with a crown of stone. A little into the village is the entrance to the Mawsmai cave that will take you into a world of stalagmite and stalactite rock formation which resemble huge pile of chocolates.

‘Mawphlang’ village connects its roots to Khasi History and was named after Monoliths. Mawphlang is the site of one of the Khasi Hills sacred groves and in the village you can experience the lifestyle of the Khasi people and spend the night star gazing.

‘Mawsynram’ village, apparently the wettest place on earth will offer you one of the most stunning rain walks amidst mystical atmosphere.

Stay at Shillong for Wards Lake, Botanical Garden, Lum Khyriem Viewpoint and more

Shillong, known as the ‘Scotland of the East’, is the capital of Meghalaya. It still has a strong British influence as seen in its bungalows, cottages and many offices bear architecture similar to that in Britain.   

While in Shillong, a visit to the ‘Wards Lake’ (Nan-Polok) is a must. The artificial lake is beautified by a fine structured wooded bridge, flower landscaping, and a huge gathering of Geese and colourful collection of Fish. In a corner near the lake, the ‘Botanical Garden and Orchidarium’ is strategically located. This Orchidarium works on conserving ethnic varieties of Orchids typically found in Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh and the other North Eastern hill states and is a visual treat during the blooming season.

‘Lum Khyriem Viewpoint’ is the much celebrated viewpoint that offers you get a full 180 degrees panoramic view of Shillong. Apparently the Smit village, Madan Rting, Happy Valley, Nongthymmai, Laitumkhrah, Malki, Upper Shillong, Lumdienggiri, Mawlai and the stretch upto Mawiong and Umiam is clearly visible from the point and the ambience is clear and freshening.

‘Shillong Peak or View Point’ is located at a hill top about 20 Kms from Shillong, is a very famous and ideal Picnic spot and offers a spectacular view of the city and the Eastern Himalayan Ranges.  The peak is the perfect place to spend a lazy monsoon afternoon and enjoy the rain.

Ward's Lake, Shillong Photo: Ujjal Borah

Umiam lake Photo:Ujjal Borah