The Ultimate Offbeat Meghalaya Itinerary: 10 Hidden Gems You Must Visit

Written By Neha Bhamburdekar

When people think of Meghalaya, two names dominate every itinerary—Cherrapunji for its waterfalls and living root bridges, and Dawki for its crystal-clear river. While they are must-sees, Meghalaya hides countless other treasures waiting for travellers who want to go beyond the tourist trail. If you’re looking for unique cultural sites, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic experiences, here are 10 offbeat places to add to your Meghalaya itinerary.

1. Mawphlang Sacred Grove

  • Why Visit: One of Meghalaya’s most spiritual and ecologically rich forests, Mawphlang Sacred Grove is home to ancient trees, rare orchids, and myths of Khasi deities. It’s a living museum of tribal faith and conservation.

  • How to Get There: 25 km from Shillong by taxi or shared sumo.

  • Best Time: October–April when the forest is lush and trails are dry.

2. Nartiang Monoliths (Jaintia Hills)

  • Why Visit: This field of gigantic monoliths, believed to be the tallest in the world, dates back 500 years. They stand as silent reminders of the Jaintia kings and their megalithic traditions.

  • How to Get There: Around 65 km from Shillong. Best accessed via private cab or shared sumo to Jowai, then onward local transport.

  • Best Time: November–March for clear skies and cooler weather.

3. Nongkhnum Island

  • Why Visit: Asia’s second-largest river island, Nongkhnum, is perfect for quiet picnics, sandy beaches, and river walks. A true offbeat escape for nature lovers.

  • How to Get There: 14 km from Nongstoin (West Khasi Hills). Hire a cab from Shillong to Nongstoin and continue onward.

  • Best Time: Winter (November–February), when the river is calmer.

4. Laitlum Canyons

  • Why Visit: Translating to “end of hills,” this canyon offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of gorges and valleys. It’s a hiker’s paradise and one of Meghalaya’s best-kept secrets.

  • How to Get There: 25 km from Shillong by taxi or self-drive.

  • Best Time: Sunrise and sunset visits in October–April.

5. Mawlyngbna (Adventure Hub)

  • Why Visit: Known for natural rock formations, waterfalls, and adventure sports like kayaking, camping, and trekking. The village also has fascinating fossils that are said to be millions of years old.

  • How to Get There: 70 km from Shillong via the Mawsynram road.

  • Best Time: Post-monsoon (October–December) for greenery and adventure activities.

6. Shnongpdeng (Umngot River Alternative to Dawki)

  • Why Visit: While Dawki gets crowded, Shnongpdeng offers the same Umngot River experience with fewer tourists. Try boating, cliff jumping, or camping by the river.

  • How to Get There: 8 km north of Dawki, easily accessible by road.

  • Best Time: November–February for the clearest river waters.

7. Mawphanlur Village

  • Why Visit: A tiny village in the West Khasi Hills surrounded by seven lakes, rolling meadows, and pristine landscapes. Ideal for off-grid relaxation.

  • How to Get There: About 90 km from Shillong. Best reached by private vehicle.

  • Best Time: October–April, especially during clear weather.

8. Jowai (Cultural Heartland of the Jaintias)

  • Why Visit: Known for its tranquil lakes like Thadlaskein and rituals like Behdeinkhlam Festival, Jowai offers a cultural deep-dive into Jaintia traditions.

  • How to Get There: 65 km from Shillong by road.

  • Best Time: July (for Behdeinkhlam Festival) or November–March for pleasant travel.

9. Siju Caves (South Garo Hills)

  • Why Visit: One of India’s longest limestone caves, famous for stalactites, stalagmites, and rare bat colonies. Nicknamed “The Cave of Bats.”

  • How to Get There: Near Baghmara town in South Garo Hills. Accessible via Tura (around 120 km).

  • Best Time: Winter (November–February) when caves are drier and easier to explore.

10. Balpakram National Park (Garo Hills)

  • Why Visit: Called the “Land of Perpetual Winds,” Balpakram is home to red pandas, wild buffaloes, and myths of spirits. Locals believe it to be a resting place for departed souls.

  • How to Get There: 160 km from Tura, the main town in Garo Hills.

  • Best Time: November–April for safaris and wildlife sightings.

How to Plan Your Offbeat Meghalaya Itinerary

  • Base Towns: Shillong (Khasi Hills), Jowai (Jaintia Hills), Tura (Garo Hills).

  • Transport: Shared sumos and private cabs are common. Backpackers can rely on Sumos for cheap connectivity.

  • Duration: 10–14 days recommended to cover the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo regions.

  • Budget Stay: Homestays in villages, guesthouses in Shillong, and camping in adventure spots.

  • Local Etiquette: Respect tribal customs—many places (like sacred groves) require a guide. Photography might need permission.

Best Time to Visit Meghalaya

  • October–April: Clear skies, best for sightseeing and hiking.

  • May–September: Monsoon magic, waterfalls in full force—but heavy rains can disrupt travel.

Why These Offbeat Gems Matter

Exploring these lesser-known sites allows travellers to see Meghalaya beyond its tourist clichés. From the spiritual whispers of sacred groves to the adventurous cliffs of Laitlum, these destinations showcase the state’s diverse geography and cultural depth.

Backpackers, history buffs, photographers, and slow travellers alike will find these stops more than rewarding—they’re the hidden soul of Meghalaya.

Neha Bhamburdekar
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