17 Things To Know Before Travelling to Meghalaya, India
1. Destination Overview of Meghalaya:
Meghalaya is a state in northeastern India, known for its mountainous landscape and monsoon rains. It is bordered by Assam to the north and Bangladesh to the south. The capital, Shillong, is a hill station surrounded by pine forests and waterfalls. The town of Cherrapunji, famed for its rain, is nearby. Living Root Bridges, made from interwoven rubber tree roots, span rivers in the east.
2. Top Activities to do in Meghalaya:
• Visit the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat Village.
• Go for Trekking in Meghalaya.
• Explore the Seven Sister Falls.
• Visit Mawlynnong, Asia’s cleanest village.
• Explore the Nohkalikai Falls.
• Visit the Elephant Falls.
• Explore Mawphlang Sacred Forest.
• Visit the Shillong Peak.
• Explore the Mawsmai Cave.
• Visit the Wah Kaba Falls.
3. Best Places To Stay in Meghalaya:
• Luxury Places: The Polo Orchid Resort, Ri Kynjai, The Nizam Guest House, The Baraabam.
• Mid Range: U Lum Sohpetbneng, Hotel Pinewood, Hotel Elgin, Hotel Centre Point.
• Budget Friendly: Hotel Grand Palace, Hotel Hill View, Hotel Classic, Hotel Broadway.
4. How to Travel to Meghalaya?
The best way to get to Meghalaya is by air or rail. The nearest airport is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam. From there, it’s about a 4-hour drive to Shillong. Alternatively, there are trains from Kolkata (Calcutta) to Guwahati with connections to Shillong. From Shillong, you can also take a bus or hire a taxi to explore the state.
5. Must Try Local Food and Drink in Meghalaya:
• Jadoh: A red rice delicacy cooked with pork.
• Pumaloi: A sticky, steamed dish made of glutinous rice and pork.
• Dohneiiong: A pork dish cooked with bamboo shoots.
• Kyat: A local alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice.
• Momos: A popular Tibetan-style snack of steamed dumplings.
• Tungrymbai: A spicy salad made of fermented soy beans.
• Nongkrem: A festive pork curry.
• Sohpho: A traditional breakfast of porridge and buckwheat.
• Nga Modei: A sweet dessert made of steamed rice and jaggery.
6. Best Places to Eat in Meghalaya:
• Cafe Shillong: Try their Chicken with Bamboo Shoot.
• Food Inn: Try their Momos and Noodles.
• Cafe Shillong: Try their Chicken with Bamboo Shoot.
• Food Inn: Try their Momos and Noodles.
• The Old House Restaurant: Try their Jadoh and Pumaloi.
• Dragon Restaurant: Try their Pork Stew.
• Khasi Kitchen: Try their Nongkrem Curry.
• My Little Italy: Try their Pizzas and Pastas.
7. Weather and Climate:
Meghalaya has a moderate climate with mild summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Meghalaya is between October and June. July and August are the monsoon months, when the area gets heavy rainfall.
8. Local Customs and Etiquette in Meghalaya:
Meghalaya is a culturally rich state, and visitors are expected to dress modestly and respect local customs. Women should cover their legs and shoulders when out in public. It is also important to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a religious place.
9. Popular Scams in Meghalaya:
Common scams in Meghalaya include pickpocketing, taxi drivers overcharging, and people offering you fake or overpriced goods. It is also important to be aware of people trying to distract you in order to steal your belongings.
10. Suggested Trip Duration:
The suggested trip duration to Meghalaya is 5-7 days. This will give you enough time to explore the different attractions in the state.
11. Total Estimated Budget Per Person:
The total estimated budget per person for a 5-7 day trip to Meghalaya is around INR 10,000-15,000. This includes accommodation, food, activities, and tickets.
12. NearBy Cities:
Nearby cities to Meghalaya include Guwahati (90 km), Shillong (35 km), Cherrapunji (58 km), Tura (96 km), Jowai (74 km), and Mawlynnong (86 km).
13. Local Language and Communication in Meghalaya:
The official language of Meghalaya is English, though the local language is Khasi. Common phrases in Khasi include “Ka jingwadkhah” (hello), “Ka jingpynjop” (thank you), and “Ka jingrwai” (goodbye). English-speaking guides can be found in most tourist areas.
14. Accepted Currency and Money:
The Indian Rupee (INR) is the accepted currency in Meghalaya. Credit cards are accepted in most places, and ATMs are available in major cities. Tipping is not common in Meghalaya.
15. Health and Medical Information:
It is recommended that travelers to Meghalaya get vaccinated against hepatitis A, typhoid, and rabies. Medical facilities in Meghalaya are limited, and major medical care is only available in Shillong.
16. Packing Tips for Meghalaya:
When packing for Meghalaya, it is important to bring lightweight, comfortable clothing, and sturdy shoes that are suitable for trekking. A rain jacket and umbrella are also essential, as well as sunscreen and insect repellent.
17. To sum up:
Meghalaya is a beautiful state in northeastern India, with lush landscapes, living root bridges, and cascading waterfalls. It’s the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering plenty of trekking, sightseeing, and cultural experiences.