Mattilang Park
Mattilang Park in Upper Shillong offers nature enthusiasts the perfect retreat. Nestled along either side of Elephant Falls, this park provides breathtaking aerial views. Relax and unwind amid nature's embrace as soothing sounds of cascading water serenade your senses. Mattilang Park provides an idyllic spot amidst nature where one can immerse oneself in its beauty; don't miss the chance to witness its picturesque Elephant Falls with foamy waters gracefully cascading over fern-covered rocks! Don't miss seeing its breathtaking sights of Elephant Falls that welcome nature lovers!
Lum Nehru Park
Lum Nehru Park in Umiam offers bird enthusiasts and nature enthusiasts an idyllic experience, situated adjacent to Orchid Lake and offering serene surroundings. Walk beneath towering pine trees, enjoy refreshing open spaces, and unwind in its tranquil ambience - you may even spot its name sake Jawaharlal Nehru who was India's first Prime Minister with a statue commemorating his legacy perched atop one of its vast lawns! As night falls capture panoramic lake views while taking in all that Lum Nehru Park offers.
Scaling new heights
Diengei Peak
Diengei Peak lies approximately 200 feet lower than Shillong Peak and offers stunning vistas from 6,200 feet. From here you can gaze upon Umiam Lake from this lofty vantage point and discover an intriguing hollow that may have once been part of an ancient volcano's crater. Mountain climbers love the steep and precipitous gradients on Diengei Peak's steep and precipitous gradient; rock climbing and rappelling provide adrenaline-packed climbing challenges to enjoy on this peak's steep ascent; bring along your camera so you can record every beautiful sight - it's best visited between November and June for best viewing opportunities!
Shillong Peak
Set out on an unforgettable journey to Shillong Peak, located approximately 10 km from the city and witness its captivating beauty spanning cityscape, Himalayas and Bangladesh plains. At an elevation of 1,966 m, Shillong Peak holds sacred significance: local legend suggests it was named for Leishyllong, believed to be her residence. Ascend to its summit either on foot or vehicle and take in stunning vistas amidst sacred presence of Shillong Peak which also houses radar stations of Indian Air Force.
Laitlum Canyons
Discover Laitlum Canyons, an exquisite and seldom visited locale situated 21 km south of Shillong. Known in Meghalayan as "End of Hills", Laitlum Canyons provide beautiful panoramic views of its magnificent hills and valleys. Bring tranquillity and serenity into your world - the ideal escape for relaxing getaways with families, friend groups, and couples alike. Unleash nature's wonders on short hikes or venture further along trails; immersing yourself in its wonders will only enhance the experience! Cross the path leading to tiny homes and grassy hilltops for breathtaking vistas of Laitlum Canyons - made famous in Bollywood's "Rock On 2," when sunrise or sunset arrives and see it light up with vibrant hues.
Nature's cascading symphony
Umiam Lake
Umiam Lake, nestled into the lush East Khasi hills 15 kilometers north of Shillong, is an entrancing man-made reservoir created for hydroelectric power generation but now renowned as an idyllic nature destination. Soak in panoramic views while engaging in boating, trekking, camping, fishing and various watersports activities like kayaking and water skiing. Lum Nehru Park and Lumiam Lake provide an opportunity to observe vibrant aquatic life that thrives within their depths, as well as take a leisurely stroll through Lum Nehru Park - both exquisite gardens along its shores. According to legend, Umiam Lake earned its name, meaning "water of tears" in Khasi language, from two sisters whose journey from heaven left one in tears; thus leading them down a path leading directly into Meghalaya resulting in this amazing body of water.
Sweet Falls
Sweet Falls stands as one of the most majestic yet treacherous waterfalls in India, standing at an astounding 96 meters in height and commanding both reverence and caution from visitors alike. Due to its treacherous route, bathing or standing beneath its strong stream may not be safe, however The Ever Living Museum at Mawshbuit nearby remains popular due to its collection of antiques and artefacts - while their beauty mesmerizes all who visit Sweet Falls!
Spread Eagle Falls
Spread Eagle Falls, also known as Sati Falls or Urkaliar, awaits visitors in East Khasi District six kilometers from Shillong Cantonment with its astounding beauty. This spectacular waterfall cascades down steep hills into a massive pool of water inviting people to stay and bask in its splendour - its name inspired by its resemblance of an eagle's wings spread wide giving this popular picnic spot its name! Make the journey memorable.
Umngot River/Dawki River
Travel from Shillong to Dawki via Umngot River - widely considered India's cleanest river - and experience its mesmerizing waters that create the illusion of floating boats on its bed, creating an unforgettable experience. Take pleasure in an idyllic boat ride along this river's currents for an ethereal boat ride through nature's most breathtaking natural wonder - enjoy a 40-minute boat ride along its serene waterway to completely immerse yourself in its serene tranquility and make memories that will last a lifetime!
Mawsynram
Start planning a journey to Mawsynram, an idyllic village 60.4 kilometers outside Shillong renowned for its world-record rainfall and breathtaking sights. As you traverse the highway be prepared to come across numerous waterfalls that dot its landscape. Mawsynram village holds the record for possessing the world's longest sandstone cave - Krem Puri - as its crowning glory. Discover all that Mawsynram offers, from ancient megaliths to an extraordinary stalagmite formation resembling Shivlings! Trek to nearby Phlangwanbroi village where protected populations of Hoolock Gibbon live or explore Krem Dam cave. Water enthusiasts will delight in Mawlyngbna for its variety of water-related activities and the Split Rock stands as geological marvel created by Assam earthquake of 1897. Enjoy nature trails and birdwatching opportunities while spending the night at community-run lodges or homestays, letting nature work its magic!
Nohsngithiang Falls
The Symphony of Seven Sisters Nohsngithiang Falls (more commonly known as Mawsmai Falls) in Cherrapunjee is a breathtaking tourist spot about 57km north of Shillong and stands as an amazing tourist attraction. As one of India's tallest waterfalls, this breathtaking natural wonder cascades from an approximate height of 1033 feet in seven segments from 1033 feet tall - leaving visitors in awe as their ethereal beauty stuns them anew every time they visit during sunset when sunrays create perpetual rainbows over its expanse! Visit at sunset when sunrays create mesmerizing rainbows over its surroundings!
Crinoline Falls
Crinoline Falls (commonly referred to as Blue Heaven Falls) can be found near Phan Nonglait Park in Shillong and features its stunning cascade. Meandering gracefully down 40 feet into a pool adorned with orchids for an invigorating swim, Crinoline Falls is sure to enthrall visitors as its splendor unfolds before them. Travel along tranquil forest trails allowing nature's soothing melody accompany your peaceful walk; picnic amidst idyllic surroundings while taking photos or simply listening out to its rhythm; amenities nearby and evening programs ensure an unforgettable and captivating experience await.
Mystical encounters
Sacred Forest
Visit Mawphlang's sacred forest for an exciting journey into myth and legend! Guarded by Labasa, this lush green woodland is steeped with magical beliefs; anyone found removing even one dry leaf is cursed! Travel through this ancient woodland encountering monoliths used for sacrifice rituals while taking delight in rare plants rarely found elsewhere such as ferns, orchids, age-old pine trees, flowing plants Rudrakshashas mushrooms - you won't believe your eyes when exploring it all!
Malki Forest
Malki Forest in Shillong offers respite from city life and an oasis of peaceful refuge, known as Khlaw Malki. Home to towering British pine trees and the gentle sounds of streams that meander through its landscape, visitors can unwind among towering British pines while listening to streams meander through. Witness its wildflowers, mushrooms and birds who call Malki their home - perfect for early morning walks and birdwatching! This lush verdant forest invites all who seek relaxation or rejuvenation to embrace its charms!
Explore Meghalaya’s majestic terrain
Khasi Hills
Discover the beauty of the Khasi Hills, part of the Garo-Khasi range and famed for their mesmerizing landscapes. Visit Sohra or Cherrapunjee scarp, one of the wettest places on earth renowned for capturing visitors' imaginations. East and West Khasi Hills feature Nongkhum island as well as diverse wildlife such as Nongkhum island; all this combined makes up "Scotland of the East", an ecological hotspot.
Jaintia Hills
Jaintia Hills cover an area of 3,819 km in Meghalaya and are famed for their hill minerals, bordering East Khasi Hills in Bangladesh and bordered by two districts: West and East Jaintia Hills. These beautiful regions include two districts each: West and East Jaintia Hills - inviting you to discover their stunning beauty! Explore Krang Suri Falls, Jowai (district headquarters) or Nartiang village and its ancient monoliths; The Jaintia Hills form part of Patkai hill range which enchant with majestic hills, lush greenery and natural wonders waiting to be explored!
Other natural hotspots
Jakrem
Navigating 64 km east from Shillong lies Jakrem, a world-renowned hot water spring known locally as "the land of hot springs". Sulphur springs found here are widely believed to have curative medicinal properties and now attract visitors seeking rejuvenation in its therapeutic waters. In winter months, Jakrem becomes a preferred picnic spot, featuring bathing compartments available for public use - come experience nature's healing power at Jakrem!
Mawlynnong Village
Mawlynnong Village in the East Khasi Hills is known as Asia's cleanest village. Experience its simple lifestyle of simple sustainability where environmental preservation takes priority over consumption. Discover well-maintained roads, the Living Root Bridge, and lush greenery stretching as far as you can see - engaging meaningful interactions with locals while tasting traditional Khasi cuisine and experiencing their warm hospitality - truly making this village special! Mawlynnong offers an unforgettable glimpse of harmony between humans and nature - truly one-of-a-kind experience that you won't forget!
Living Root Bridges
Experience the marvel of living root bridges, an exceptional testament to both human ingenuity and nature's harmony. These bio-engineering marvels, unique to Meghalaya, are created by guiding Ficus elastica tree roots across streams creating natural bridges - some notable living root bridges include Nongriat's double-decker root bridge and Mawlynnong's single-decker root bridge as examples. Explore these organic structures while admiring their breathtaking scenery spanning it, marvel at their relationship between humans and nature and experience the synergy between humankindness!
Meghalaya offers visitors a bounty of natural wonders that captivate with their sublime beauty and diverse terrain. Be captivated by Meghalaya's abundance of cascading waterfalls, tranquil lakes, misty hills, enchanting forests or mysterious caves for an immersive nature experience - it will take your breath away! Explore Shillong and its surroundings while discover this paradise-unveiled by nature in Meghalaya.
