A Monsoon Escape to Meghalaya: Nature, Caves, Waterfalls And Whispering Clouds
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Meghalaya in the monsoon is a dreamscape of misty cliffs, living root bridges, and rain-washed wonder.
If your idea of a perfect monsoon getaway involves mist-covered cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and roads that lead into emerald green hills, then Meghalaya should top your list. Despite recent headlines casting shadows, the state remains one of India's most magical and safe destinations—especially in June, when nature is in full bloom and airfares are surprisingly budget-friendly.
✈️ Getting There: Flights to Meghalaya
Shillong, the capital city, has a small airport with limited connectivity, but Guwahati (in Assam) remains the most convenient and better-connected gateway to Meghalaya. From Guwahati, a scenic 3–4 hour drive brings you into the heart of the hills.
Approximate Round-Trip Airfare:
To Shillong
From Delhi: ₹13,000–₹16,000 (SpiceJet offers one direct flight)
From Mumbai: Around ₹20,000
From Bangalore/Chennai: ₹19,000–₹25,000
To Guwahati
From Delhi: ₹14,000–₹16,000
From Mumbai: Around ₹11,000
From Bangalore/Chennai: ₹12,000–₹17,000
🌧️ Where to Go This Monsoon in Meghalaya
1. The Living Root Bridges of Cherrapunji
Monsoon turns Cherrapunji into a misty dream. Home to the famous Double-Decker Living Root Bridge, this region is the ultimate blend of nature and indigenous engineering. The bridges, woven from the aerial roots of rubber trees by the Khasi people, take decades to develop and are living, growing structures. Trekking through the wet, wild terrain of Nongriat or Nongbareh, you'll discover one of Meghalaya's most awe-inspiring sights.
2. Shillong: Colonial Charm Meets Indie Cool
Shillong is a city where fog drapes pine trees, and music drifts from cozy cafés. Visit Elephant Falls, enjoy the peaceful Ward's Lake, or head to Shillong Peak for sweeping views. The city's vibrant food and music culture makes it perfect for rainy-day café hopping or catching a live performance in a local bar.
3. Mawlynnong: Asia's Cleanest Village
Dubbed the 'Cleanest Village in Asia," Mawlynnong is a picture-perfect escape with cobbled paths, manicured gardens, and flowering balconies. Don't miss the Balancing Rock—a massive boulder precariously resting atop another—and enjoy warm hospitality in a traditional homestay.
4. Mawsynram & Mawmluh Cave
Touted as one of the wettest places on Earth, Mawsynram bursts into a thousand shades of green during the rains. Adventure-seekers should explore the Mawmluh Cave (Krem Mawmluh)—a 7-km-long underground wonder and one of UNESCO's top 100 geological heritage sites in the world. Prepare for an eerie, exhilarating journey into Meghalaya's subterranean beauty.
5. Dawki & the Umngot River
Even in monsoon, Dawki's legendary Umngot River is worth the drive. Though boating may be suspended during heavy rain, the views—lush hills, hanging clouds, and mirror-like water—make the trip unforgettable. On clear days, boats appear to float mid-air on the transparent river.
6. Laitlum Canyons
Located just outside Shillong, the Laitlum Canyons offer sweeping views of Meghalaya's dramatic terrain. Translating to 'end of the hills," this spot is often cloaked in clouds—but when they part, the views are simply sublime. A favourite among photographers and solitude seekers alike.
🌿 Why Now Is the Perfect Time
June in Meghalaya is when the state truly comes alive. Waterfalls thunder down hillsides, valleys wear a dewy green cloak, and the skies swing between moody greys and sun-dappled blues. It's also a great time for budget-conscious travellers, with flights and stays reasonably priced compared to peak tourist months.
So if you're longing for a monsoon that feels like poetry—of slow drizzles, wild winds, and landscapes lost in clouds—Meghalaya is calling.
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Location :
New Delhi, India, India
First Published:
June 12, 2025, 13:36 IST
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