Meghalaya's monsoon marvels: Root bridges, misty peaks & waterfalls
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Be it one is looking for solitude in the mist or adventure in the rain, this state welcomes you with open arms and overflowing rivers.
While some travelers avoid the Northeast during the rains, Meghalaya proves that the monsoon isn't just a season—it's an experience. The region bursts into life from June to September, with dense forests glowing a richer green, waterfalls gurgling down steep rock faces, and rivers flowing like silk ribbons between valleys.
Despite the occasional rains, travel here in the monsoon is far from inconvenient. Roads from Guwahati to Shillong remain in good shape, and local hospitality is as warm as ever. Airfare and accommodation are also more affordable too. So if your soul looks for rain-drenched trails, this is your sign to explore Meghalaya in all its rainy-season glory.
Cherrapunji's living root bridges
Cherrapunji is famous for being one of the wettest places on earth, and in the monsoon, it transforms into a dreamscape.
Here, the Khasi tribes have grown living root bridges over centuries that are functional, flexible, and almost unreal. The double-decker root bridge in Nongriat is a must-see, especially when the rain feeds the nearby waterfalls and rivers. Trekking through the lush, rain-soaked forest to reach these marvels is a true immersion in nature and tradition.
Shillong the scented city
Shillong is just like a monsoon poem. Wrapped in mist and pine-scented air, this hill city offers colonial-era look blended with modern café culture.
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Rainy afternoons are perfect for sipping coffee at Trattoria or Dylan's Café, and short drives lead to places like Elephant Falls or Laitlum Canyons. Live music echoes through the night in cosy venues, making Shillong a soft, quiet experience during the rains.
Waterfalls that roar louder in the rain
Monsoon in Meghalaya is all about waterfalls that are majestic, endless, and alive. Nohkalikai Falls plunges into a turquoise pool with unmatched thrust, while Seven Sisters Falls spreads across a cliff like a silver curtain.
Rainbow Falls, hidden deep in the jungle, shows vibrant colours in its mist. Each waterfall gains a fierce beauty during the rains, turning even the simplest roadside view into something breathtaking.
Dawki and the Umngot River
Even with overcast skies, Dawki holds its magic. The monsoon may pause boating on the crystal-clear Umngot River, but its charm doesn't fade. Cloud banks hang low over lush hills, and the river reflects everything including the trees, boats, even the sky. For those who crave quiet beauty rather than selfies, Dawki in the rains is a peaceful, meditative stop surrounded by raw, untouched nature.
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India.com
2 days ago
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