Offbeat Places to Visit in Meghalaya
Hidden beyond the popular hill towns and waterfalls, offbeat places in Meghalaya unfold across river islands, limestone caves, forest sanctuaries, and remote hill villages scattered through the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo Hills. You can start with Nongkhnum Island, a calm and scenic river island perfect for relaxing walks. You can go deep into the mysterious Siju Caves in the South Garo Hills and see nature’s wonders underground. The Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary, home to rare plants like Nepenthes khasiana and Schima wallichii, is also a famous place to visit.
At Ranikor in the West Khasi Hills, you can enjoy the clear river and peaceful surroundings. Travel to Mawthadraishan Village for a hilltop panorama, and catch the sunrise from Nongjrong, a viewpoint that glows with morning mist. Adventure seekers will love Wari Chora in South Garo Hills- a hidden paradise of canyons and waterfalls. End your journey with the local warmth of Sohliya Village and the peaceful beauty of Rasong Chisak near Tura. These destinations show a different side of Meghalaya, which is raw, beautiful, and unforgettable. So, plan your trip with Meghalaya tour packages and discover why this state is called the “Abode of Clouds”.
River Islands & Riverside Landscapes
- Nongkhnum Island – A vast river island between the Kynshi and Namliang rivers, known for sandy banks and open meadows.
- Ranikor – A riverside town on the Jadukata River, popular for clear emerald waters and quiet river walks.
- Rasong Chisak – A lesser-known riverside destination near Tura, offering calm surroundings and forest-lined views.
- Baghmara – Located along the Simsang River, serving as a gateway to several offbeat natural attractions nearby.
Caves, Canyons & Natural Formations
- Siju Caves – A major limestone cave system with underground streams, chambers, and rare bat species.
- Wari Chora – A dramatic canyon with narrow gorges, vertical cliffs, and boat-accessed river passages.
- Langshiang Falls – One of Meghalaya’s tallest waterfalls, plunging through deep rocky gorges.
- Krem Dam – A lesser-explored limestone cave near Siju, known for complex passages and formations.
Forest Sanctuaries & Rare Flora
- Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary – The only sanctuary in India protecting Nepenthes khasiana pitcher plants.
- Siju Bird Sanctuary – A forest reserve near Siju, home to hornbills, bulbuls, and seasonal migratory birds.
- Balpakram National Park – A remote plateau ecosystem with deep gorges, caves, and rich biodiversity.
- Nokrek Biosphere Reserve – A UNESCO-listed forest area famous for wild citrus species and dense rainforest cover.
Hilltop Viewpoints & Scenic Highlands
- Mawthadraishan – A hilltop settlement offering uninterrupted views of deep valleys and layered ridgelines.
- Nongjrong – A sunrise viewpoint famous for thick morning mist and sea-of-clouds formations.
- Chandigre Viewpoint – A quiet viewpoint near Tura overlooking forested hills and distant plains.
- Daringgre Peak – One of the highest points in Garo Hills, offering expansive views across Meghalaya.
Cultural & Rural Experience Destinations
- Sohliya – A small Khasi settlement known for strawberry farming and community-based tourism.
- Baghmara – A culturally rich town reflecting traditional Garo lifestyle and local markets.
- Tura Peak Area – A cultural and scenic landmark near Tura, surrounded by forested slopes.
- Williamnagar – A historic town in East Garo Hills, often used as a base to explore nearby offbeat spots.
