Meghalaya

True to its name, Meghalaya, or “abode of clouds,” is a lush, rain-soaked state in northeast India known for its natural beauty and tribal heritage. Rolling green hills, cascading waterfalls, sacred groves, and misty valleys make this a haven for eco-conscious travellers. Among its iconic destinations are Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, two of the wettest places on Earth. Here, you’ll find wonders like the towering Nohkalikai Falls, the unique living root bridges of Nongriat and Mawlynnong, and the glass-clear Umngot River in Dawki. Adventure seekers can explore limestone caves such as Mawsmai and Liat Prah, trek to the double-decker bridges, or visit the spiritual Mawphlang Sacred Forest. The capital city, Shillong, often called the “Scotland of the East,” offers colonial charm, cool breezes, and views from Shillong Peak and Umiam Lake. Meghalaya’s culture is shaped by the Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia tribes, who celebrate a matrilineal social structure and express their identity through traditional music, dance, and festivals like Wangala and Shad Suk Mynsiem. Culinary experiences include jadoh (spiced rice with meat), doh neiiong (pork in sesame), and bamboo shoot-based dishes, often paired with local rice beer. The best season to explore Meghalaya is from October to April, when the air is fresh, and the landscape is at its most vivid — a natural symphony of green, mist, and tradition.