Culture
Meghalaya’s culture is deeply rooted in its indigenous tribes, primarily the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo. These tribes maintain rich traditions and customs, including their unique lifestyle, art, music, and dance forms. The state is also known for its vibrant festivals, such as the Wangala Festival and Shad Suk Mynsiem.

Cuisine
The cuisine of Meghalaya is simple yet flavorful, with rice being the staple food. Dishes such as Jadoh (a rice and meat dish), Dohneiiong (pork cooked in black sesame), and Putharo (a traditional rice cake) offer a taste of the state's culinary richness.

People
The people of Meghalaya are known for their hospitality and warmth. The indigenous tribes live in close-knit communities, and their way of life is reflected in their celebrations and festivals.

Festivals
Meghalaya celebrates numerous festivals, the most notable being the Wangala Festival of the Garos, Shad Suk Mynsiem of the Khasis, and Nongkrem Dance Festival. These festivals are marked by traditional music, dance, and local rituals, offering a glimpse into the cultural fabric of the state.

Climate and Geography
Meghalaya is known for its cool, temperate climate, with frequent rainfall due to its hilly terrain. The state is home to lush forests, pristine waterfalls, and unique living root bridges. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, making the landscape even more vibrant and green.

Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Meghalaya is between October and April when the weather is pleasant, and the rains are less frequent. The monsoon season, from June to September, should be avoided due to heavy rainfall, which can make travel challenging.

Dos and Don’ts in Meghalaya

Dos

• Respect the local culture and traditions, especially during festivals.
• Carry light yet warm clothing as temperatures can drop even during the summer months.
• Visit local markets to buy handmade crafts and traditional textiles.
• Support sustainable tourism and try to keep the environment clean.

Don’ts

• Do not engage in littering or polluting natural sites like rivers and waterfalls.
• Avoid taking photographs in restricted areas or of the locals without permission.
• Do not disturb wildlife or the delicate ecosystems in national parks and reserves.

Activities

• Trek to the Double Decker Root Bridge in Nongriat.
• Go boating at Umiam Lake.
• Explore caves and waterfalls in Cherrapunji.
• Visit local villages and interact with indigenous tribes to learn about their culture.

Cherrapunji (Sohra)
Famous for being one of the wettest places on Earth, Cherrapunji offers lush greenery, scenic waterfalls, and unique living root bridges. Visit Nohkalikai Falls and Mawsmai Cave for a surreal experience of nature.

Mawlynnong Village
Known as the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong is a peaceful destination offering a glimpse into traditional Khasi culture and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Living Root Bridges of Nongriat
These unique bridges are made by entwining the roots of rubber trees and are a testament to the ingenuity of the local Khasi tribe. The Double Decker Root Bridge is a must-see attraction in this area.

Umiam Lake
A beautiful man-made reservoir surrounded by lush hills, Umiam Lake is perfect for boating and picnics. It offers spectacular views and is a popular spot for nature lovers.

Shillong
The capital city of Meghalaya, Shillong is known as the "Scotland of the East." It is famous for its beautiful landscapes, serene lakes, and vibrant markets. Don’t miss Ward's Lake, Elephant Falls, and Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city.

Elephant Falls
One of the most popular waterfalls in Shillong, Elephant Falls is surrounded by lush greenery and is a perfect spot for photography and nature walks.

Dawki
Located near the Bangladesh border, Dawki is famous for its crystal-clear waters in the Umngot River, where you can enjoy boat rides with an unobstructed view of the riverbed.

Mawsmai Caves
Located in Cherrapunji, these limestone caves offer a mesmerizing experience with their stalactites and stalagmites formations. It's an adventure for those who love exploring natural wonders.

Nartiang Monoliths
Nartiang is home to the largest collection of monoliths (stone pillars) in the region. The site offers insight into the ancient traditions and practices of the Jaintia tribe.

Balpakram National Park
A unique wildlife sanctuary, Balpakram is known for its biodiversity and pristine beauty. It is perfect for those interested in wildlife and nature walks.

By Air: The nearest airport is Shillong Airport (Umroi), about 35 km from Shillong. However, Guwahati Airport is better connected and around 100 km away.

By Train: The nearest major railway station is Guwahati, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From there, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Meghalaya.

By Road: Meghalaya is well-connected by road to nearby cities like Guwahati. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Guwahati to reach your destination.