Known as the abode of clouds, Meghalaya is a heaven of a place to be at. Even the pictures and videos of Meghalaya are quite inviting. Imagine yourself walking those paths and exploring the dramatic terrain surrounded by the thick canopy of a forest. Sounds like a perfect getaway, doesn’t it?
To add to that, it has Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia, and a see-through river as well. Not only this, but the lush valleys, hills, and stunning waterfalls create a fantasy all around. Along with breathtaking scenic views, it tags along numerous adventurous activities to bring you an adrenaline rush. We’ve curated a list of the adventurous activities you can do in Meghalaya for just under INR 5K.
In Meghalaya, the one thing you must do is check out the living root bridges. You can find them in Mawlynnong and Cherrapunjee. These Nohwet living root bridges are made by the Khasi people. You’ll come across many such bridges, yet the most exciting one is the double-decker one in Cherrapunjee. You must be wondering, how is a living bridge made?
Well, this tribe uses the roots of rubber trees and weaves them around a framework, allowing them to grow strong enough to take the human weight. These fascinating bridges get stronger as the tree grows older. It's the most effective way to maintain harmony with nature. The view of these bridges will leave you astonished for life.
Price Approximation: Entry fees is INR 10 per person
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Meghalaya is ideal for some of the greatest treks through rainforests, river banks, and living root bridges. These are unique to Meghalaya in the entire globe. Among them, David Scott's trek spans a distance of 16 km, passing through mountains, valleys, woodlands, and rivers as it flows past the Eastern Khasi Hills.
It’s one of the few Meghalayan beauties that has been kept from the start of British rule in India. You’ll encounter a hanging bridge over the Umiam River, which was washed out completely in 2017. It was rebuilt again in 2012. In the later part of the trek, you’ll also come across the three monoliths sacred to the Khasi tribe.
Price Approximation: INR 1,200 to INR 1,500 per person depending on the number of people
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The most exciting adventure activity you can do in Meghalaya is river canyoning. It includes swimming, waterfall rappelling, and trekking across densely forested and difficult terrain. You can experience this in Sohra, which is another name for Cherrapunjee. This activity ensures you remember it for days with the sweet pain it leaves in every part of your body.
You’ll wade through waist-deep water bodies, jump across multiple boulders, make your way down the waterfalls, and swim in deep ponds. The best time to do this activity is in the dry months between October and March. The entire activity will take approximately 3 hours to complete and a lot more to leave your mind.
Price Approximation: INR 2,000 per person
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Another activity for our adrenaline junkies is zip lining at the Mawkdok Dympep Valley View Point. It’s just a ten-minute hike from the viewpoint. This zipline is ready to take you on an exciting trip over the gorgeous forests and valleys of Meghalaya. From 1,200 feet in the air, you can take an aerial view of Meghalaya's ethereal glory.
A qualified team supervises the activity, so you can be assured that you'll have a great time and stay safe. You can choose the amount of thrill your soul craves by choosing from the numerous levels.
Price Approximation: INR 500 to INR 1,000 per person depending on the level
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If you want to take a break, head to the Dawki village. It’s famous for the fascinating Umngot River, which can be mistaken for see-through glass. As it travels via uncharted territory where few dare to venture, the river stays glass clean throughout. You can experience this beauty by taking a boat ride.
When your boat comes to a halt in the middle of the river, ask your friend to take a picture, and you’ll be amazed by the results. In the picture, you’ll see the boat merely afloat in the air due to its pristine nature.
As you go further, you’ll come across multiple species of marine life and peculiar stones at the bottom. The entire experience is magical and dreamlike, leaving you coming back for more.
Price Approximation: INR 500 to INR 600 per ride
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If you’re the cave type then Meghalaya has got you covered too. It’s home to nine of the ten deepest caves in India, thereby drawing the interest of hikers, geologists, and historians alike. Every cave here has folklore, a mystery, and a breathtaking view to offer. They also have stalagmites and stalactites, waist-high water passages, and dark, slick pathways in some.
You can get started on your cave adventure with Arwah, Mawsmai, Krem Dam, and Krem Riblai. Another one is Siju Cave, famed for its spectacular entrance and a nexus of underground streams and rivers. It’s one of the most legendary ones in the Garo Hills. These caves will surely bring the Indiana Jones out of you.
Price Approximation: The entry fee is INR 20 per person
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Rafting and kayaking lovers can take pleasure in the fresh and swift rivers of Meghalaya. In October and November, paddlers from all over the world are drawn to rapids of various grades. Since it’s the week after the monsoon, the water is still strong and the weather is fairly dry, ideal for anyone looking to push their limits. It’s an hour-long activity that fulfills your thirst for thrills.
Kayaking on the Kynshi River and Umiam Lake is ideal for beginners. If you’re kayaking for the first time, a guide will be with you from start to finish. Kayak your way into the clear water to catch a glimpse of the riverbed. This exercise requires a minimum of two individuals and can take up to 45 minutes.
Price Approximation: INR 500 per person
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If watching the marine life at Umngot River has got you curious, you can explore more with scuba diving. You’ll be trained by professionals and provided with all the required equipment. The depth for first-timers will be about 12 meters (40 feet). If you’re a licensed diver, you can very well go up to 21 meters (70 feet). Each dive lasts 45 minutes, including training. So, allow yourself to soak in the most magnificent corals and marine life with this experience.
Price Approximation: INR 3,000 per person
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Summing Up
We bet you’re all set to take on the challenge that Meghalaya has in store for you. You can plan which activity suits your budget, schedule, and itinerary the best. Even though all the activities bring a different zest to your life, we advise you not to miss out on walking on the living bridges here. Make sure you take plenty of pictures, as this is sure to be one of your best trips ever.
What Is Meghalaya Famous Food?
Jadoh, Doh-Khlieh, Nakham Bitchi, Pumaloi, Pudoh, and Minil Songa are among the famous foods of Meghalaya.
What Is The Famous Sweet Of Meghalaya?
Sakin Gata is the famous sweet of Meghalaya.
Which Festival Is Famous In Meghalaya?
Wangala Festival is the most famous festival in Meghalaya.
Which Is The Best Time To Visit Meghalaya?
The best time to visit Meghalaya is all year round except in the monsoon season since it gets heavy downpours. The monsoon season is between June to October.
Which Flower Is Only Found In Meghalaya?
Sapria Himalayan is the only flower found in Meghalaya.
Are 2 Days Enough For Meghalaya?
No, 2 days aren’t enough to experience Meghalaya’s beauty. You need 5 to 6 days to at least cover the prominent places in Meghalaya.
Is Meghalaya Safe For Female Travellers?
Yes, absolutely! Meghalaya is safe for female travelers. It has a matrilineal society, and crimes against women are uncommon.
Do Indians Need Permit To Visit Meghalaya?
If you are visiting Meghalaya, you must first register on the Meghalaya Tourism App and generate an E-Invite for the intended itinerary.
