Hidden Gems of Meghalaya: 10 Offbeat Places You Must Visit in 2025
Hidden Gems of Meghalaya — Discover 10 offbeat places you must visit in 2025. Explore waterfalls, caves, and villages in India’s Scotland of the East!
Hidden Gems of Meghalaya — a land of clouds, living root bridges, and emerald valleys. While Shillong and Cherrapunji draw most visitors, Meghalaya hides countless unexplored treasures waiting to be discovered. From sacred forests to crystal-clear rivers, these offbeat destinations promise serenity and awe in equal measure. Let’s explore the 10 most enchanting hidden gems of Meghalaya you must visit in 2025!
Contents
- 1 1. Mawlyngbna — The Prehistoric Playground
- 2 2. Nongriat — Home of the Double Decker Living Root Bridge
- 3 3. Shnongpdeng — Meghalaya’s River Paradise
- 4 4. Laitlum Canyon — The Grand Canyon of the East
- 5 5. Mawphanlur — The Land of Hundred Lakes
- 6 6. Mawsynram — The Wettest Village on Earth
- 7 7. Krang Suri Falls — Meghalaya’s Blue Lagoon
- 8 8. Mawlynnong — Asia’s Cleanest Village
- 9 9. Nartiang Monoliths — Meghalaya’s Megalithic Mystery
- 10 10. Phe Phe Falls — The Untouched Cascade
- 11 Quick Facts at a Glance
- 12 How to Reach
- 13 Best Time to Visit
- 14 Best Things to Do
- 15 Local Cuisine & Food to Try
- 16 Where to Stay
- 17 Shopping & Souvenirs
- 18 Seasonal Travel Insights
- 19 Nearby Attractions
- 20 Travel Tips
- 21 FAQs
- 22 Useful Links
- 23 Author Block
1. Mawlyngbna — The Prehistoric Playground
Perched atop the Khasi Hills, Mawlyngbna offers fossilized sea beds, natural swimming pools, and adventure activities like kayaking and ziplining.
Fossils and Forest Trails
The village is famous for prehistoric fossils and limestone formations, perfect for eco-travelers.
2. Nongriat — Home of the Double Decker Living Root Bridge
One of Meghalaya’s most iconic but remote spots, Nongriat is reached by descending 3,000 steps from Tyrna village.
The Living Heritage
Built by intertwining roots over centuries, these bridges are a testament to Khasi ingenuity and sustainable living.
3. Shnongpdeng — Meghalaya’s River Paradise
Located near Dawki, this village on the Umngot River is ideal for boating and camping.
Crystal-Clear Waters
The river’s transparency makes boats appear as if they’re floating on air — a sight not to miss.
4. Laitlum Canyon — The Grand Canyon of the East
Just an hour from Shillong, Laitlum offers panoramic views, dramatic cliffs, and mist-covered ridges.
5. Mawphanlur — The Land of Hundred Lakes
A hidden meadow with serene lakes and rolling hills, perfect for offbeat camping.
6. Mawsynram — The Wettest Village on Earth
Experience monsoon magic in this village that holds the record for the highest rainfall on Earth.
7. Krang Suri Falls — Meghalaya’s Blue Lagoon
One of the most photogenic waterfalls in India with turquoise waters ideal for swimming and photography.
8. Mawlynnong — Asia’s Cleanest Village
Known for eco-tourism and cleanliness, Mawlynnong offers bamboo skywalks and views of Bangladesh plains.
9. Nartiang Monoliths — Meghalaya’s Megalithic Mystery
This archaeological site in the Jaintia Hills features ancient monoliths dating back to the 16th century.
10. Phe Phe Falls — The Untouched Cascade
A hidden twin waterfall surrounded by dense forest and emerald pools, located near Jowai.
Quick Facts at a Glance
- Location: Meghalaya, Northeast India
- Best for: Nature, Adventure, Photography
- Best Time: October to April
- Ideal Duration: 7–10 days
- Stay Options: Homestays, Eco-lodges, Camps
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (Umroi)
- Nearest Railway: Guwahati (100 km from Shillong)
- By Road: Well-connected via NH6 and NH40
Best Time to Visit
The best time to explore these hidden gems of Meghalaya is from October to April when the weather is clear, and waterfalls retain their beauty. Avoid heavy monsoon months (June–August).
Best Things to Do
- Trek to Living Root Bridges
- Camp beside the Umngot River
- Kayak in Mawlyngbna
- Explore caves in Sohra
- Visit sacred forests in Mawphlang
Local Cuisine & Food to Try
- Jadoh: Khasi-style rice and meat dish
- Tungrymbai: Fermented soybeans
- Pukhlein: Fried rice bread
- Doh-Khlieh: Pork salad with onions and lime
Where to Stay
- Ri Kynjai Resort, Shillong
- Shnongpdeng Riverside Camps
- Mawlyngbna Eco Resort
- Nongriat Homestays
Shopping & Souvenirs
Shop for local bamboo crafts, handwoven shawls, and organic honey at Shillong Police Bazaar or village cooperatives.
Seasonal Travel Insights
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Ideal for hiking and photography
- Summer (Mar–May): Pleasant weather for sightseeing
- Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Lush landscapes but risky roads
Nearby Attractions
- Shillong Peak
- Dawki Bridge
- Mawsmai Caves
- Sacred Forest of Mawphlang
Travel Tips
- Carry rain gear year-round
- Respect local customs and villages
- Book stays in advance during peak season
- Hire local guides for root bridge treks
FAQs
- Which are the top hidden gems of Meghalaya for 2025?
Mawlyngbna, Nongriat, Shnongpdeng, and Mawphanlur top the list. - Is Meghalaya safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Meghalaya is one of India’s safest and most tourist-friendly states. - When is the best time to visit Meghalaya?
October to April for pleasant weather and clear skies. - What are some offbeat places in Meghalaya for photographers?
Krang Suri Falls, Phe Phe Falls, and Laitlum Canyon. - How to reach Nongriat from Shillong?
Drive to Tyrna village and trek 3,000 steps down to Nongriat. - What foods should I try in Meghalaya?
Try Jadoh, Doh-Khlieh, and Pukhlein for authentic Khasi flavors.
Exploring the hidden gems of Meghalaya offers more than just travel — it’s a journey through living traditions, untouched landscapes, and eco-conscious communities. Plan your offbeat Meghalaya adventure in 2025 and uncover the best-kept secrets of the “Abode of Clouds.”
Useful Links
Author Block
Author: Prayanamam
