The East Khasi Hills district in the state of Meghalaya, India, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, lush greenery, unique cultural heritage, and vibrant local traditions. The district is home to the state capital, Shillong, and features a variety of attractions ranging from stunning waterfalls to sacred forests and vibrant markets. Here are some of the best places to visit in East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya:
Best Places to Visit
1. Shillong
Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, is often referred to as the “Scotland of the East” due to its picturesque landscapes and cool climate. The city is a cultural hub and offers a mix of natural beauty, colonial architecture, and vibrant local culture. Key attractions in Shillong include:
- Ward’s Lake: A beautiful artificial lake surrounded by gardens and walking paths. Visitors can enjoy boating and a relaxing stroll around the lake.
- Shillong Peak: The highest point in Shillong, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
- Elephant Falls: A popular three-tiered waterfall named for an elephant-shaped rock near the falls.
- Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: A museum showcasing the diverse cultures and traditions of Northeast India.
2. Cherrapunjee (Sohra)
Cherrapunjee, also known as Sohra, is famous for being one of the wettest places on Earth. It is known for its lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and limestone caves. Key attractions include:
- Nohkalikai Falls: One of the tallest waterfalls in India, offering a spectacular view of water cascading down from a great height.
- Mawsmai Cave: A popular limestone cave known for its stalactites and stalagmites.
- Seven Sisters Falls: A stunning seven-segmented waterfall, best viewed during the monsoon season.
- Living Root Bridges: Unique natural bridges made from the aerial roots of rubber trees, particularly the double-decker root bridge in Nongriat.
3. Mawlynnong
Mawlynnong is a charming village known as the “Cleanest Village in Asia.” It is famous for its cleanliness, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant community. Key attractions include:
- Sky View: A bamboo structure that offers panoramic views of the Bangladesh plains and surrounding areas.
- Living Root Bridges: Another impressive living root bridge can be found here.
- Balancing Rock: A unique natural phenomenon where a large boulder rests precariously on a smaller rock.
4. Dawki
Dawki is a small town on the border with Bangladesh, known for its crystal-clear Umngot River. The river’s water is so clear that boats appear to float in mid-air. Key attractions include:
- Umngot River: Visitors can enjoy boating and fishing in the river’s crystal-clear waters.
- Dawki Bridge: A suspension bridge offering stunning views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
5. Laitlum Canyons
Laitlum Canyons is a breathtaking spot known for its panoramic views of rolling hills, deep gorges, and picturesque landscapes. The name “Laitlum” means “end of hills,” and it truly offers an edge-of-the-world experience. The canyons are a perfect destination for trekking and photography enthusiasts.
6. Mawphlang Sacred Forest
Mawphlang Sacred Forest is an ancient grove revered by the local Khasi people. The forest is believed to be protected by a deity, and nothing can be taken out of it. The forest is home to a variety of rare plants, orchids, and wildlife. It is a great place to learn about the local Khasi culture and their deep respect for nature.
7. Smit
Smit is a traditional Khasi village known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional Khasi architecture. The village is home to the Nongkrem Dance Festival, an annual harvest festival celebrated with traditional dances and rituals. Visitors can explore the traditional Khasi homes and experience the local way of life.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attractions | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shillong | Capital city known for its scenic beauty and culture | Ward’s Lake, Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls | East Khasi Hills |
| Cherrapunjee (Sohra) | One of the wettest places on Earth | Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Cave, Living Root Bridges | East Khasi Hills |
| Mawlynnong | Cleanest village in Asia | Sky View, Living Root Bridges, Balancing Rock | East Khasi Hills |
| Dawki | Border town with crystal-clear river | Umngot River, Dawki Bridge | East Khasi Hills |
| Laitlum Canyons | Breathtaking canyons with panoramic views | Scenic viewpoints, trekking | East Khasi Hills |
| Mawphlang Sacred Forest | Ancient grove protected by local traditions | Rare plants, orchids, wildlife | East Khasi Hills |
| Smit | Traditional Khasi village with rich cultural heritage | Nongkrem Dance Festival, traditional Khasi homes | East Khasi Hills |
How to Reach East Khasi Hills
By Air
The nearest airport to East Khasi Hills is Shillong Airport, located in Umroi, about 30 kilometers from Shillong. However, it has limited connectivity. The nearest major airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, about 120 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can reach East Khasi Hills by taxi, cab, or bus.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Guwahati Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities across India. From Guwahati, visitors can travel to Shillong and other parts of East Khasi Hills by taxi, cab, or bus.
By Bus
Shillong and other parts of East Khasi Hills are well-connected by road. Regular bus services are available from Guwahati and other nearby towns. The Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) and private operators provide bus services to the region.
By Car
East Khasi Hills is accessible by road via National Highway 6 and other state highways. The district is well-connected to nearby towns and cities, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Best Time to Visit East Khasi Hills
The best time to visit East Khasi Hills is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. This period is ideal for exploring the region’s attractions and enjoying outdoor activities. The summer months, from April to June, are also pleasant but can be warm. The monsoon season, from July to September, brings heavy rainfall, which can make travel challenging but also enhances the beauty of the waterfalls and landscapes.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: East Khasi Hills offers a variety of traditional Khasi dishes, including Jadoh (rice cooked with meat), Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame seeds), and Tungrymbai (fermented soybean). Don’t miss trying the local street food and bamboo shoot dishes.
- Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting tribal villages and sacred sites. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and engaging in polite conversation is appreciated. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their property.
- Language: The primary languages spoken in East Khasi Hills are Khasi, English, and Hindi. English is widely understood and used in most tourist areas.
- Currency: The official currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are accepted in some places, but it is advisable to carry cash for small transactions, especially in remote areas.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start with a visit to Shillong Peak for panoramic views, followed by a relaxing stroll around Ward’s Lake. Then, head to Elephant Falls to enjoy the cascading waters.
- Afternoon: Have lunch at a local restaurant and visit the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures to learn about the region’s diverse cultures. Afterward, explore the vibrant markets of Shillong for local handicrafts.
- Evening: Conclude with a visit to the nearby Laitlum Canyons for a breathtaking sunset view.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with visits to Shillong’s major attractions, including Shillong Peak, Ward’s Lake, Elephant Falls, and Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures. In the afternoon, explore the markets and enjoy local cuisine.
- Day 2: Start with a trip to Cherrapunjee to visit Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Cave, and the Living Root Bridges. Then, head to Mawlynnong to explore the village and its attractions. End the day with a visit to Dawki for a boat ride on the Umngot River.
East Khasi Hills offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant traditions, making it a must-visit destination in Meghalaya. Whether you’re exploring scenic waterfalls, experiencing the local culture, or trekking through picturesque landscapes, East Khasi Hills provides a unique and memorable experience for every traveler.
