5-Day travel guide to Meghalaya: What to see, do & eat
Planning a trip to Meghalaya? Here are 10 must-do experiences—from root bridges and caves to local cuisine and breathtaking landscapes. Your perfect 5-day itinerary starts here!
Known as the "Abode of Clouds," Meghalaya is a paradise of waterfalls, caves, living root bridges, and vibrant culture. Whether you're chasing monsoon mists or seeking quiet forest escapes, this 5-day plan will help you make the most of your Meghalaya trip. Here are 10 essential things to see, do, and eat while you're there. (Image credit: Canva)
2/11
1. Trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge (Nongriat) Hidden deep in the jungles of Cherrapunji, this living root marvel is a bucket-list experience. The 3,000-step trek down (and back up!) is tough—but the double-decker bridge and natural pools are absolutely worth it. (Image credit: Canva)
3/11
2. Visit the Cleanest Village in Asia – Mawlynnong A model of eco-tourism and community spirit, Mawlynnong impresses with its spotless streets, bamboo dustbins, and lush surroundings. Climb the Sky View Tower for sweeping views of the Bangladesh plains. (Image credit: Canva)
4/11
3. Explore Mawsmai and Arwah Caves Get a taste of Meghalaya’s rich limestone cave system in Cherrapunji. Mawsmai Cave is lit and tourist-friendly, while Arwah offers a more natural, adventurous vibe with fossil imprints and eerie silence. (Image credit: Canva)
4. Take a Boat Ride on the Crystal-Clear Waters of Dawki Dawki’s Umngot River is famously transparent—you’ll feel like your boat is floating on air. Visit the Dawki-Tamabil border nearby and enjoy a boat ride during the dry season (Nov–Feb) for the clearest views. (Image credit: Canva)
6/11
5. Marvel at Nohkalikai Falls – India’s Tallest Plunge Waterfall Dropping from a height of 1,115 feet, this stunning waterfall near Cherrapunji is surrounded by clouds and cliffs. Don’t miss the haunting legend of “Ka Likai” tied to its name. (Image credit: Canva)
7/11
6. Experience Shillong’s Culture & Café Scene Stroll through Police Bazaar for local shopping, visit the Don Bosco Museum to understand the tribal cultures, and don’t miss out on Shillong’s vibrant cafés like Dylan’s Café or ML 05 for music and great bites. (Image credit: Canva)
8/11
7. Watch the Clouds Roll Over Laitlum Canyon Located near Shillong, Laitlum Canyon is perfect for serene sunrises and dramatic selfies. The panoramic views of green hills and deep gorges make it one of the most photogenic spots in Meghalaya. (Image credit: Canva)
8. Eat Local Khasi Dishes at a Traditional Kitchen Try authentic dishes like Jadoh (rice cooked with meat), Tungrymbai (fermented soybean), and wash it down with local rice beer. Seek out homestays or kitchen cafés in Shillong or Cherrapunji. (Image credit: Canva)
10/11
9. Camp Overnight at Shnongpdeng or Krang Shuri Falls For a dose of adventure, pitch a tent near the pristine Shnongpdeng River or camp near Krang Shuri’s turquoise waterfall. These offbeat spots offer starlit skies and a peaceful night by the water. (Image credit: Canva)
11/11
10. Visit Sacred Forests in Mawphlang Explore Meghalaya’s spiritual side by taking a guided walk through the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, where every tree and stone is believed to be protected by local deities. A great mix of mythology, biodiversity, and nature. (Image credit: Meghalaya Tourism)