8 Popular Hill Stations in Meghalaya

Meghalaya is very popular for its hill station and is a beautiful state which is situated in India. The state consists of many mountains, plateaus, and valleys. All these are very beautiful and amazing to see. The forests of Meghalaya are very rich in teak and Sal trees. This state is the perfect destination for trekking as well.

Here is the list of 8 Best Hill Stations in Meghalaya:

1. Shillong

Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. The city is lovely and is surrounded by pine trees. The name Shillong comes from Lei Shillong. It is situated at a height of 1496 meters.

Shillong consists of delightful weather throughout the year, and people can visit this place throughout the year. The view of this place provides soothing to the eyes. The month of September to May is the best time for visiting this place.

• Why Visit: Known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong is famous for its lush hills, lakes, and waterfalls. It offers a blend of colonial charm, vibrant local culture, and scenic beauty, making it a popular hill station.
• Top Experiences: Visit Ward’s Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, and enjoy boating at Umiam Lake. Explore the local markets for handicrafts and traditional foods.
• Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November.
• How to Reach: Shillong has an airport 30 km from the city center, and Guwahati (100 km) serves as the nearest major railway station.

Suggested Shillong Package: 4 Nights 5 Days Shillong Tour Itinerary

2. Cherrapunjee

It is also known as Sohra. The place is also famous as it is known as the wettest place on earth. It covers a distance of 50 km from Shillong. The city is very rich in various species of flora. The place faces the highest rainfall of the year. The living root bridge is a popular tourist attraction here. There is the availability of many tourist attractions in this place. The best time for visiting Cherrapunjee is the month of May to September.

This place also receives heavy rainfall in a year and is the wettest place. People who love to explore nature must visit this place. The beauty of the place is awe-inspiring. The month of September to November is the best time for visiting this place. The place holds the beauty of nature highly, and the chirping of birds is the major attraction of this place. It covers a distance of 61 km from Shillong.

• Why Visit: Known for being one of the wettest places on Earth, Cherrapunjee is famous for its living root bridges, waterfalls, and caves. It’s an excellent destination for nature lovers and trekkers.
• Top Experiences: Explore the Nohkalikai Falls, trek to the Double Decker Root Bridge, visit Mawsmai Cave, and admire Seven Sisters Falls.
• Best Time to Visit: October to April.
• How to Reach: Located 53 km from Shillong, Cherrapunjee is easily accessible by road from the state capital.

3. Jowai

It is one of the famous hill stations of Meghalaya. People who are residents here mainly belong to the tribal communities. It is situated at an altitude of 1380 meters above sea level.

It has delightful weather throughout the whole year. The month of February to May is the best time for visiting Jowai. Visitors can go trekking there. Temples which are situated in Jowai are also magnificent to see.

• Why Visit: Situated in the Jaintia Hills, Jowai is known for its scenic landscapes, waterfalls, and lakes. It’s a less crowded destination, perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway.
• Top Experiences: Visit Thadlaskein Lake, trek to Krang Suri Falls, explore the Syntu Ksiar Valley, and enjoy the local culture.
• Best Time to Visit: October to April.
• How to Reach: Located 64 km from Shillong, Jowai is accessible by road.

Also read: Cultural Treasures: Folk Dances of Meghalaya

4. Garo Hills

This hill is situated in the west region of Meghalaya. People who belong to the Garo community used to live there. The Garo community’s people have a great belief in nature and value this hill more because they live here.

The place offers many waterfalls which are very attractive to see. In Garo Hills, Tura provides an incredible scenic view to visitors. Many visitors do not explore the place.

• Why Visit: The Garo Hills offer unexplored beauty with their lush landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. It’s ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
• Top Experiences: Visit Nokrek Biosphere Reserve, explore the Siju Caves, and enjoy birdwatching at Tura Peak.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• How to Reach: Nearest airport is in Guwahati (220 km). Tura, the main town, is well connected by road.

5. Dawki

It is located in the West Jaintia hills. It covers a distance of 95 km from Shillong. Bangladesh border lies at just 2 km from here. Lush green vegetations surround Dawki.

The place is well known for coal mining and the exportation of limestones. This place also connects the route of the road to Bangladesh. Umngot river of Dawki is a major tourist attraction here. Boating on this river is very unusual to do.

• Why Visit: Dawki is famous for its crystal-clear Umngot River, where boating feels like floating on air. It’s a border town between India and Bangladesh, offering scenic beauty and adventure activities.
• Top Experiences: Boat on the Umngot River, visit Mawlynnong (Asia’s cleanest village), and explore the India-Bangladesh border.
• Best Time to Visit: October to April.
• How to Reach: Located 82 km from Shillong, Dawki is accessible by road.

6. Baghmara

It is situated in the South Garo hills. The place consists famous river, namely Someshwari. The river Someshwari is also known as Simsang. It is an ideal destination for tourists people for both domestic and international tourists.

The place is very rich in flora and fauna. Siju Cave in Baghmara is made up of limestone and is very famous among travelers. The place offers many tourist attractions, and all of them are very amazing to see. Read Also: Popular Places to Visit in North East India in June.

• Why Visit: Located in South Garo Hills, Baghmara is known for its tropical forests, limestone caves, and wildlife. It’s an offbeat destination for those seeking solitude and adventure.
• Top Experiences: Visit the Baghmara Reserve Forest, explore Siju Caves, and spot elephants at Balpakram National Park.
• Best Time to Visit: October to April.
• How to Reach: Nearest airport is Guwahati (315 km), and Baghmara is accessible by road from Tura.

7. Nongpoh

The town is located at a distance of 51 km from Shillong. It is situated in the Khasi hills. It is near situated to the plain of Brahmaputra. The place consists of stunning rivers and green trees.

The climatic condition of Nongpoh is also beautiful. The weather in this place is charming. People can visit this place throughout the whole year. Also, read Honeymoon Destinations in North East India

• Why Visit: A quiet hill station on the way from Guwahati to Shillong, Nongpoh offers a peaceful atmosphere and lush surroundings. It’s ideal for a stopover or a short getaway.
• Top Experiences: Visit Umiam Lake, enjoy nature walks, and explore the local culture.
• Best Time to Visit: October to April.
• How to Reach: Located 50 km from Shillong and 60 km from Guwahati, Nongpoh is accessible by road.

8. Tura

It is a hilly town and is located in West Garo hills. It is the biggest city in Meghalaya. The climate of Tura is moderate throughout the year. People can visit this place at any time.

It also offers many exciting areas. Some regions of Tura are still unexplored by visitors. People believe that god Durama is a resident of that hills. Read Also: Top 10 Places to Visit in North East India

• Why Visit: Tura, located in the Garo Hills, is known for its biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and tribal culture. It’s an offbeat destination perfect for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
• Top Experiences: Trek to Tura Peak, visit the Nokrek National Park, and explore the waterfalls and caves around the region.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• How to Reach: Nearest airport is Guwahati (220 km), and Tura is accessible by road.

Conclusion

Meghalaya consists of very few places of the hill station. But all these places are unique and beautiful to see. People enjoy a very picturesque view. There are also many regions in Meghalaya which are still unexplored and contain fewer people. People can visit those places and explore more in nature.

More Information on Meghalaya:

• 7 Popular Historical Places in Meghalaya
• Meghalaya’s Most Popular Wildlife National Parks
• Popular Folk Dances of Meghalaya
• Meghalaya Top 8 Famous Trekking Destinations
• 20 Most Famous Destinations to See in Meghalaya
• Meghalaya’s Most Famous Delicious Food

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the most popular hill stations in Meghalaya?

The most popular hill stations in Meghalaya include Shillong, Cherrapunjee (Sohra), Mawsynram, Jowai, and Tura.

2. What makes Shillong a famous hill station?

Shillong, known as the “Scotland of the East”, is famous for its pleasant climate, picturesque landscapes, and attractions like Umiam Lake and Elephant Falls.

3. Why is Cherrapunjee popular among tourists?

Cherrapunjee is famous for being one of the wettest places on Earth, with its stunning waterfalls, living root bridges, and caves.

4. What is special about Mawsynram?

Mawsynram holds the record for the highest rainfall in the world and is known for its lush green hills, natural beauty, and rain-loving landscapes.

5. Which hill station is known for its living root bridges?

Cherrapunjee and its surrounding areas, especially Nongriat village, are known for their unique living root bridges, crafted from the roots of ancient trees.

6. What can tourists do in Jowai?

In Jowai, tourists can explore the Krang Suri Waterfalls, visit the Stone Monoliths, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Thadlaskein Lake.

7. Why is Tura a must-visit hill station?

Tura is located in the Garo Hills and is known for its biodiversity, scenic beauty, and attractions like the Tura Peak and Siju Caves.

8. Which hill station is best for nature lovers in Meghalaya?

Mawsynram and Cherrapunjee are ideal for nature lovers due to their lush greenery, waterfalls, and unique geographical features like caves.

9. What is the best time to visit hill stations in Meghalaya?

The best time to visit Meghalaya’s hill stations is between October and April, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring the region.

10. Is Shillong suitable for a family vacation?

Yes, Shillong is perfect for a family vacation with attractions like Ward’s Lake, Shillong Peak, and plenty of family-friendly places to visit.

11. What is the best way to reach Cherrapunjee from Shillong?

Cherrapunjee is about 55 km from Shillong, and you can easily reach it by car or taxi, which takes around 2 hours.

12. Are there any adventure activities in Meghalaya’s hill stations?

Yes, hill stations like Cherrapunjee offer activities like trekking, caving, and waterfall rappelling. Mawkdok Dympep Valley is great for zip-lining.

13. Which hill station in Meghalaya is good for trekking?

Cherrapunjee and the surrounding areas, like Mawphlang Sacred Forest and Dawki, offer excellent trekking trails.

14. What is Shillong famous for apart from its natural beauty?

Apart from its natural beauty, Shillong is known for its vibrant music scene, colonial architecture, and local markets like Police Bazaar.

15. Can I visit the living root bridges in a day trip from Shillong?

Yes, you can visit the living root bridges in Nongriat or Cherrapunjee as part of a day trip from Shillong. However, trekking to the root bridges can take a few hours.