Biryani
Biryani is a flavorful rice dish with origins in South Asia, featuring aromatic basmati rice cooked with tender...
Introduction
Meghalaya, nestled in northeast India, is known as the "Abode of Clouds" thanks to its dramatic hills and lush greenery. During late August to early September, expect pleasant weather with occasional rain, creating misty landscapes and vibrant waterfalls—perfect for nature lovers.
The region boasts a rich tribal heritage, especially from the Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia people, celebrated in their food, music, and colorful festivals. Families can enjoy exploring living root bridges, visiting the clean village of Mawlynnong, and marveling at caves—all on a reasonable budget.
Safe, welcoming, and brimming with natural wonders, Meghalaya offers a unique blend of culture and adventure for memorable family holidays.
Customized for these preferences:
Travel StyleFamily friendly
Dates30 Aug - 04 Sep 2025
BudgetAverage budget
AccommodationHostel
Interests and Activities:
outdoor adventuressightseeing and tours
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Key Facts
Location
Northeast India
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Religion
Christianity, Indigenous, Hinduism
Population
33,667,139
Language
Khasi, Garo, English, Hindi
Electricity
230V, 50Hz, Types C/D/M
Time zone
UTCIST (UTC+5.5)
Country code
+91
Internet access
Widespread 4G; broadband in towns; affordable
Climate
Humid subtropical, heavy monsoons, mild winters
Language:
Khasi
hello
Kumno phi long? (koom-no pee long)goodbye
Shong ba shai (shong ba shai)yes
Hooid (hoo-eed)no
Em (em)how much
Katno ka dor jong une? (kat-no ka dor jong oo-neh)please
Sngewbha (snyew-bha)thank you
Khublai (khoo-blye)excuse me
Sngewbha leit (snyew-bha late)
Map
Logistics
To reach Meghalaya, most visitors fly into Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam—the nearest major airport—then take a taxi or shared car (about 3-4 hours) to Shillong, Meghalaya’s capital. Guwahati is well-connected by train and flights from major Indian cities, offering affordable options for families.
Regular buses and shared sumos (jeeps) also operate between Guwahati and Shillong, which are economical and suitable for families with children. Roads are generally in good condition, but weather in late August and early September can include heavy rain, so be prepared for delays and occasional landslides. It’s best to plan extra travel time and pack rain gear.
Weather
Meghalaya enjoys a cool, pleasant climate year-round, thanks to its hilly terrain and abundant greenery. Summers (March to June) are mild with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The monsoon season (June to September) sees heavy rainfall, making the landscape lush and waterfalls spectacular.
From August 30 to September 4, Meghalaya is usually still experiencing the tail-end of the monsoon. Expect frequent showers and cloudy skies, which may restrict some outdoor adventures, but add to the charm of sightseeing and tours, especially to the region’s famous living root bridges and waterfalls. Flash floods or landslides can occur but are not highly likely during this period.
Food & Drink
Meghalaya’s cuisine is rooted in local Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia traditions, featuring staples like jadoh (rice and meat), dohneiiong (pork with black sesame), and tungrymbai (fermented soybeans). Don’t miss out on bamboo shoot dishes and fresh local veggies. Try kwai (areca nut with betel leaf) and a warming cup of local tea.
Popular, family-friendly spots in Shillong include Trattoria for authentic Khasi meals, Dejavu for Chinese and Indian fare, and Dylan’s Café for snacks and coffee. City Hut Family Dhaba offers diverse options, while Café Shillong is known for its burgers and coffee. Alcohol is available in select restaurants, but drinking is generally discreet.
Tipping is customary but not mandatory—10% is appreciated for good service. Some dishes use meat and fermented ingredients; ask about vegetarian options if needed. Local markets and festivals provide opportunities to sample seasonal specialties and sweets. Drinking bottled water is recommended for visitors.
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Accommodation
For hostels in Meghalaya, head to Shillong—The Spectrum Hostel and Isabella Hostel are popular, welcoming options that suit families and offer social yet comfortable atmospheres. In Sohra (Cherrapunji), various homestays and guesthouses, like By the Way Hostel, provide affordable, friendly stays close to nature-rich sites.
Family-friendly mid-range hotels such as Cafe Shillong Bed & Breakfast, Polo Towers (Shillong), and Smoky Falls Mae Fi Resort (Cherrapunji) are great picks. Booking.com and Hostelworld list good options—reserve early, as the August 30 to September 04 period sees high demand due to post-monsoon lushness and local festivals.
Stay in central Shillong for easy access to cafes, markets, and sights. If you’re heading to Sohra, choose accommodations closer to waterfalls and living root bridges for convenience. Always check for updated reviews and family amenities when booking.
Itinerary
Arrive in Meghalaya and begin your journey by soaking in the welcoming ambiance of Shillong, acclimatizing to the local culture and landscape as your gateway to adventure.
Stroll Around Ward's Lake
Take an easy, family-friendly stroll around the picturesque Ward's Lake, surrounded by gardens and footbridges. Enjoy paddle boating or simply relax by the waterside as you soak in Shillong’s serene ambiance after arrival.
Walk through Police Bazar
Acclimate to local life with a casual walk through bustling Police Bazar. Sample street snacks, browse handicrafts, and get your first taste of Khasi culture. This lively junction is a Shillong essential for newcomers.
Evening Views from Shillong Peak
Gently ease into the hill station atmosphere with an early evening drive up to Shillong Peak, the city’s highest point. Enjoy sweeping vistas—on clear days, you’ll see all of Shillong and even the plains of Bangladesh.
Exotic Meghalaya
MANUAL
You'll spend each day exploring some of the Meghalaya's best Spots, Since we manage everything ever ready it will surely give you more time to sight see and experience each spot giving full time in exploring. .
Experiences
volunteering
volunteering
learning
teaching
learning
teaching
Attractions
5.0 (1 reviews)
6 Days Assam & Meghalaya Tour
INSTANT
Embark on an exquisite journey filled with natural beauty to Assam and Meghalaya with Tour. These two beautiful Northeastern states are travellers’ haven with numerous paradisiacal attractions in its fold. These travel destinations in North East India are known for their serenity, tranquillity and incomparable natural beauty. And through our 5 nights 6 days Assam- Meghalaya tour, we proffer you the chance to relish the best of these gorgeous destinations. This wonderful tour begins with a pilgrimage tour of Guwahati, Assam where you will visit some top sacred sites of the city.
From $599 USD
4.9 (9 reviews)
4D/3N Glimpse of Meghalaya
INSTANT
This tour will show the Glimpse of beautiful Meghalaya, covering the most sort after destination. This is private tour and no need to hurry on any day. Relax,travel and enjoy the places at your own pace.
From $470 USD
5.0 (8 reviews)
6-Days Assam Meghalaya Tour Package
MANUAL
Our tours are specially designed for an offbeat experience. we take care of safety and security during the tour. We provide you all accommodation in a clean and hygienic homestay. We also provide a proper guidance during and before the trip.
From $527 USD
4.5 (22 reviews)
10D/9N Assam-Meghalaya-Arunachal pradesh
INSTANT
This tour gives traveler the best of northeast India. States covered are Meghalaya, Assam and Arunachal pradesh. Private SUV for the whole trip and this trip includes the permit required to visit Arunachal pradesh. Visit the best of these places and enjoy the culture,food,heritage and mesmerizing nature.
From $2150 USD
4.8 (19 reviews)
A Walk in the Clouds - Walking Holiday in Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, India
MANUAL
Awe-inspiring bio-engineering of living roots bridges and machans, stunning vistas and waterfalls, alluring bio-diversity, adventure, warm people and their unique culture and more. Meghalaya, the land of superlatives, beckons – you can find in this tiny North-Eastern state, the tallest single-drop waterfall in India, the two rainiest places in the world, the cleanest village in Asia, the longest cave system in India and so on. In this meticulously curated Meghalaya walking holiday one gets to see a few popular sights, trek to quaint, offbeat locations and also indulge in some adventure activities.
From $1019 USD
4.6 (16 reviews)
5-Day Private Tour in Meghalaya with Meals and Accommodation
INSTANT
Free Cancellation
A journey to the land known as the ”Abode of Clouds” to experience the picturesque mountains, Cascading waterfalls, sacred forests, Garden of Caves, Living Root Bridge and many more. Trip includes a night in the Shillong, also known as the Scotland of East, trekking to a remote village to witness the “Living Root bridge”, bathing in a natural swimming pool and a lot more adventurous activities.
From $363 USD
4.9 (47 reviews)
6D/5N Assam & Meghalaya
INSTANT
Assam is famous for its wildlife, archaeological sites and tea plantations. Great rivers, cultures, wildlife makes the place in must visit list. Land of festival makes truly amazing. Shillong is one of the most popular Hill Station known as Scotland of east. Land of waterfalls,hills,lakes and caves. Cherrapunjee known to be one of the wettest place on earth. Come and take a trip to the beautiful Northeast. Ours tours let you experience the best of the region in most comfortable way.
From $705 USD
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