Meghalaya, India: The Monsoon Jewel of Northeast India

PHOTO BY ABDUL KAYUM ON PEXELS

Meghalaya, tucked into India’s northeast, earns its title as the Monsoon Jewel for good reason. With dramatic rainfall, emerald forests, and crystal-clear rivers, it offers nature lovers an unforgettable escape.

From the living root bridges of Nongriat to the caves of Cherrapunji and the glassy waters of the Dawki River, the region’s beauty is shaped by its climate. Every spot tells a story of nature, tradition, and resilience.

Living Root Bridges – Nongriat

Nongriat, a village in Meghalaya, is home to the remarkable living root bridges—natural structures formed by training the roots of Ficus trees across streams. These bridges are handmade and take about 15 to 20 years to become fully functional.

The most famous is the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, a two-tiered marvel that attracts hikers and nature enthusiasts. Reaching it involves a steep trek through dense forest and cool mountain streams. Check out a photo below:

Though challenging, the journey rewards visitors with unmatched scenery and a rare blend of nature and human ingenuity.

Mawsmai Cave – Cherrapunji

Mawsmai Cave, located in Cherrapunji, is one of Meghalaya’s most accessible natural wonders. This limestone cave stretches about 100 meters and offers a short but memorable underground experience for visitors of all ages.

The cave features well-lit paths, making it easy to navigate without special gear. Inside, visitors can admire striking stalactites and stalagmites as they weave through narrow rock passages.

Cool and damp year-round, Mawsmai Cave is best visited between October and May, offering an easy glimpse into the state’s geological beauty.

Watch the video below to check out the cave:

Dawki River – Dawki

The Dawki River, located near the Indo-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya, is famous for its crystal-clear waters that reveal the riverbed below. Its striking clarity draws travelers from around the world.

Local fishermen offer boat rides that glide over the transparent surface, creating the illusion of floating in mid-air. These calm, scenic experiences are especially popular during the post-monsoon months when the water is at its clearest.

Here’s a post featuring the Dawki River: