Meghalaya is located in the North-East of India and is a land of pristine landscapes and natural beauty. With an average annual rainfall of 1,150 cm, it is known for receiving the highest amount of rainfall in the country and within it, Mawsynram town being the wettest place on earth. Also famous for its living root bridges, virgin forests, breathtaking waterfalls, clear rivers and a network of caves, Meghalaya is popular on India’s tourism map. It has two National Parks and three Wildlife Sanctuaries and offers many adventure tourism opportunities like mountaineering, rock climbing, hiking and trekking, water sports, etc. Meghalaya is home to three indigenous tribes, the Khasis, the Jaintias and the Garos. The people of Meghalaya predominantly follow a matrilineal system where lineage and inheritance are passed through the daughters, particularly the youngest of the family and is one of the world’s largest surviving matrilineal cultures. The traditional religion is based on the belief of one supreme God or creator. Presently, most of the population has converted to Christianity, but the ancient traditions remain an integral part of lifestyle and culture.

Shillong is one of the major cities of North East India and serves as the capital of Meghalaya. Popularly known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong is spread across the scenic Khasi Hills at an average altitude of about 1,500 metres above sea level. The city enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year and houses a population of around 1.5 lakh within the municipal area. Shillong is well connected to the rest of India through road networks and air connectivity via Shillong Airport at Umroi and nearby Guwahati Airport. Surrounded by rolling hills, pine forests, waterfalls and lakes, the city reflects a rich blend of natural beauty, colonial charm and indigenous Khasi culture. The vibrant traditions, music, festivals and warm hospitality of Shillong attract tourists from across the country and abroad.

  Shillong is also known for its educational institutions, tourism industry, handicrafts, handloom products, bamboo and cane crafts, organic produce and music culture. The city has emerged as an important educational and cultural hub of North East India. Shillong is especially famous for its live music scene and is often referred to as the “Rock Capital of India.” The local markets offer a variety of traditional handicrafts, woven products, spices, forest produce and handmade items. The traditional folk dances, indigenous festivals and musical performances held across the city are major attractions for visitors.

Famous Food and Cuisine: Jadoh, Dohneiiong, Dohkhlieh, Tungrymbai, Pumaloi, Nakham Bitchi, Pudoh, Minil Songa, Bamboo Shoot preparations, Smoked Meat dishes, Khasi-style Pork Curry, Kyat, Rice Beer preparations, Momos, Thukpa, Jalebi, Pukhlein, Sakin Gata, Pineapple products, Sohphlang, Black Sesame dishes, Red Tea, Local Pickles and Organic Honey etc.

Famous Monuments and Tourist Attractions: Shillong Peak, Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Ward's Lake, Don Bosco Museum, Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, Laitlum Canyons, Lady Hydari Park, Police Bazaar, Golf Course Shillong, Spread Eagle Falls, Air Force Museum, Mawphlang Sacred Grove etc.

Famous Markets: Police Bazaar, Bara Bazaar, Laitumkhrah Market, Khyndailad, Lewduh Market, OB Shopping Mall, Glory's Plaza, European Ward Market etc.

Educational Institutions: North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Indian Institute of Management Shillong (IIM Shillong), National Institute of Technology Meghalaya (NIT Meghalaya), North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS), Martin Luther Christian University, University of Science and Technology Meghalaya, St. Edmund's College, St. Anthony's College, Shillong College, Meghalaya Institute of Management, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences Training Centre, National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities Regional Centre etc.

Sohra (Cherrapunji)

Sohra, popularly known as Cherrapunji, is one of the most scenic tourist destinations of North East India and is world famous for being among the wettest places on Earth. Located about 55 km from Shillong, Sohra is blessed with rolling green hills, mist-covered valleys, waterfalls, caves and living root bridges. The region showcases the rich traditions and culture of the Khasi community and attracts nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts and tourists from across the globe. Sohra is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, eco-tourism, caves, waterfalls, trekking routes and unique living root bridges created by indigenous Khasi tribes using the roots of rubber trees. The area is also famous for oranges, honey, spices, handicrafts and traditional Khasi cuisine. During the monsoon season, the entire region transforms into a lush green paradise with waterfalls flowing at their majestic best.

Some of the important tourist attractions in and around Sohra are described below:

Nohkalikai Falls: One of the tallest plunge waterfalls in India, Nohkalikai Falls drops dramatically from a height of about 340 metres into a turquoise pool below. Surrounded by steep cliffs and misty valleys, the waterfall offers spectacular panoramic views, especially during the monsoon season. According to local folklore, the falls are associated with the tragic story of a Khasi woman named Likai, from whom the waterfall derives its name.

Mawsmai Cave: Mawsmai Cave is one of the most accessible limestone caves in Meghalaya and is famous for its fascinating stalactite and stalagmite formations. Illuminated passages, narrow pathways and naturally sculpted rock structures make it a major attraction for tourists and adventure seekers. The cave reflects the geological richness of the Khasi Hills region.

Seven Sisters Falls: Also known as Nohsngithiang Falls, the Seven Sisters Falls is a magnificent seven-segment waterfall cascading down limestone cliffs amidst lush greenery. During the rainy season, the falls create a mesmerizing spectacle and provide stunning views of the plains of Bangladesh in the distance.

Double Decker Living Root Bridge: Situated in the village of Nongriat near Sohra, the Double Decker Living Root Bridge is one of Meghalaya’s most iconic attractions. Formed naturally over decades by guiding the aerial roots of rubber trees across streams, the bridge symbolizes the traditional ecological knowledge and sustainable practices of the Khasi people. Trekking through forests and villages to reach the bridge is itself a memorable experience.

Arwah Cave: Arwah Cave is known for its naturally formed limestone structures and visible fossil impressions embedded in cave walls. The cave offers a unique adventure experience with narrow passages, underground streams and dramatic rock formations.

Dainthlen Falls: Associated with Khasi folklore, Dainthlen Falls is believed to be linked with the legend of a giant serpent called “Thlen.” The waterfall and surrounding rocky landscape create a striking natural setting and attract visitors seeking scenic beauty and cultural stories.

Other nearby attractions include Mawkdok Dympep Valley Viewpoint, Wei Sawdong Falls, Krem Phyllut Cave and several scenic trekking routes and waterfalls spread across the Khasi Hills.

Dawki

Dawki is a picturesque border town in Meghalaya located about 80 km from Shillong near the India–Bangladesh international border. Surrounded by green hills and crystal-clear rivers, Dawki has emerged as one of the most popular tourist destinations in North East India. The town is especially famous for the transparent waters of the Umngot River, boating activities and scenic natural beauty. Dawki also serves as an important trade route between India and Bangladesh. The pristine environment, suspension bridges, boating facilities, riverside camping and adventure tourism activities attract thousands of tourists every year. The nearby Khasi and Jaintia villages reflect the rich indigenous traditions and hospitality of Meghalaya. Some of the major attractions of Dawki are described below: Umngot River: The Umngot River is internationally famous for its crystal-clear water, where boats appear to float in the air due to the exceptional transparency of the river. Boating on the Umngot River is the main attraction of Dawki and offers visitors a serene and unforgettable experience amidst surrounding hills and forests. During winter, the water clarity reaches its peak, making it ideal for photography and sightseeing. Dawki Suspension Bridge: Built during the British era, the suspension bridge over the Umngot River is one of the iconic landmarks of Dawki. The bridge provides panoramic views of the river valley and remains an important historic structure in the region. Shnongpdeng: Located near Dawki, Shnongpdeng is a major adventure tourism destination known for camping, kayaking, zip-lining, snorkeling and riverside activities. The village offers stunning views of the Umngot River and has become popular among adventure enthusiasts and eco-tourists. India-Bangladesh Border Viewpoint: The international border area near Dawki provides visitors an opportunity to witness cross-border trade activities and scenic views of Bangladesh plains. The location remains a unique attraction for tourists visiting Meghalaya. Jaflong Viewpoint: The nearby Jaflong region, visible across the border in Bangladesh, offers picturesque views of hills, rivers and stone collection activities along the riverbanks, adding to the charm of the area. Borhill Falls: Borhill Falls is a scenic waterfall located near Dawki amidst lush green forests and rocky landscapes. The peaceful environment and natural beauty make it a favored destination for nature lovers and photographers. Apart from these attractions, Dawki is also known for river camping, fishing, traditional Khasi and Jaintia cuisine, village tourism and scenic drives through the rolling hills of Meghalaya.