Exploring North-East: Garden Of Caves Meghalaya

A picture of a cave system with a man standing at its opening around trees and greenery

The Garden of Caves in Meghalaya is a breathtakingly beautiful location with plenty of natural wonders. It is a hidden gem with caverns, waterfalls, and lush green woodlands. This is the perfect area for folks who enjoy adventure and the environment. You may explore the breathtaking caverns, see the grandeur of the waterfalls, and stroll through the verdant woodlands. The Garden of Caves is a must-see sight for everyone going to Meghalaya. So let’s get started right now!

Location Of Garden Of Caves In Meghalaya

A picture of a naturally formed Shiva Linga in one of the caves in Meghalaya

Photo: Sharada Prasad CS / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Garden of Caves is located in Laitmawsiang village in Meghalaya. This village is in the East Khasi Hills district. Green hills and beautiful landscapes surround the place. It is easy to reach and offers a perfect escape into nature.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Meghalaya To Make Your Trip Even More Memorable

How To Get There

A cave entrance in Meghalaya with the cave going deep and dark inside the entrance

Photo: Sujan Bandyopadhyay / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

There are several ways to reach the Garden of Caves. Here are the different ways you can get there:

By Air: The nearest airport is in Shillong, about 60 kilometres away. You can take a taxi from the airport to the Garden of Caves. Flights to Shillong are available from major cities in India.

By Train: The nearest railway station is in Guwahati, about 150 kilometres away. You can take a taxi or a bus from Guwahati to Shillong, and then a taxi to the Garden of Caves. Trains to Guwahati are available from many cities in India.

By Road: You can drive to the Garden of Caves from Shillong, which is about a 2-hour drive. There are also buses and taxis available from Shillong to Laitmawsiang village. The roads are well-connected and offer a scenic drive through the hills.

Places to Visit In And Around Garden Of Caves Meghalaya

Here are the top places to visit around the Garden of Caves in Meghalaya that will make your trip unforgettable.

1. Nohkalikai Falls

A picture of a famous waterfall with cascading water near the Garden of caves in Meghalaya

Photo: Kunal Dalui / Wikimedia Commons

The Nohkalikai Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in India. The water falls from a very high cliff, about 1,115 feet. It looks like a white ribbon against the green hills. The sound of the water is very loud and makes you feel happy and excited. You can take beautiful photos here. It is a perfect place for nature lovers who want to see something amazing. The area around the waterfall is very green and full of trees and flowers. It is a wonderful place to visit.

Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fees: INR 20 per person

Suggested Read: Top Offbeat Places In Meghalaya That You Must Visit On Your Trip

2. Mawlynnong Village

The cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong, is worth visiting near the Garden of Caves in Meghalaya

Photo: Ankan / Wikimedia Commons

Known as the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong Village is a must-visit. The people in this village keep their homes and streets very clean. It is a very pretty village with lots of flowers and green plants. You can see the famous living root bridges here. These bridges are made from the roots of trees and look like something from a fairy tale. The people in the village are very friendly and happy to show you around. Walking through this village feels like being in a beautiful garden. It is a great place to learn about clean and green living.

Timings: Open all day
Entry Fees: Free

3. Dawki River

A picture of numerous fishermen on small boats engaged in fishing in a river in Meghalaya

Photo: AditiVerma2193 / Wikimedia Commons

The Dawki River is famous for its crystal-clear water. You can see the bottom of the river even though it is very deep. Taking a boat ride on this river is a magical experience. The water is so clear that it looks like the boats are floating in the air. Green hills and trees surround the river. It is a very peaceful place. You can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The boat ride is very safe and fun for everyone. It is a perfect place to spend a quiet and peaceful day with your family.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fees: Boat ride charges apply

Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Cherrapunji For An Amazing Vacation

4. Cherrapunji

A beautiful waterfall surrounded by rocks and greenery with a pond in front

Photo: Chirag1745 / Wikimedia Commons

Cherrapunji is known for its heavy rainfall and lush landscapes. It rains a lot here, making the place very green and beautiful. There are many waterfalls and caves to explore. The Seven Sisters Falls is a very big and beautiful waterfall. The Mawsmai Cave is a fun place to explore with its many tunnels and rooms. Cherrapunji is also known for its living root bridges, which the local people make. These bridges are very strong and can last for hundreds of years. It is a great place for adventure and nature lovers. You will see amazing views everywhere you go.

Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fees: Varies by attraction

Where To Stay Around Garden Of Caves

A picture of a resort built on top of a hill with tea gardens in the nearby suroundings

Photo: Subhrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

There are many nice places to stay near the Garden of Caves. You can find cosy guest houses, friendly homestays, and comfortable hotels in Cherrapunji and Shillong. Some popular choices include Sai Mika Resort in Cherrapunji and Ri Kynjai Resort in Shillong. These places offer beautiful views, tasty food, and friendly service.

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Meghalaya

Where To Eat Around Garden Of Caves

A bowl of a delicious and popular noodle dish that goes by the name Thukpa

Photo: Arunabha.Goswami / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

There are many yummy places to eat near the Garden of Caves. You can try local food at small restaurants in Laitmawsiang village. In Cherrapunji, places like Orange Roots and Halari Restaurant offer tasty meals. Shillong has many good spots too, like Trattoria and City Hut Family Dhaba. You can try different dishes, including traditional Khasi food, which is very delicious.

Best Time To Visit

A scenic view of a forest in Meghalaya with a lake and mountains in the background

Photo: MAKSIM ZAVIKTORIN / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The best time to visit the Garden of Caves is from October to May. During these months, the weather is just right—not too hot and not too cold. This makes it perfect for exploring the area. You can walk around comfortably and enjoy the beautiful sights. The rain is less likely during this time, so the paths are dry and safe.

Suggested Read: Discover Top Places To Visit In Mawsynram

Other Factors To Consider

A picture depicting the process of limestone formation in the caves of Meghalaya

Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

  • Weather: Pack clothes for cool and rainy weather.
  • Guides: Local guides can help you explore safely.
  • Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.
  • Safety: Always stay with your group and follow the rules.
  • Respect: Be kind to nature and local people.

Exploring these wonderful places in and around the Garden of Caves in Meghalaya will give you a glimpse of the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Each spot offers a unique experience, making your trip diverse and memorable. Get in touch with the best tours and travel company – TripXL for the best tours to Meghalaya and its various caves.

Cover Photo: IssamBarhoumi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The Garden of Caves is famous for its beautiful caves, lush green forests, and stunning waterfalls. It is a hidden gem in Meghalaya, offering natural beauty and adventure.
The best time to visit the Garden of Caves is from October to May. During this time, the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the area.
Some of the most-visited places around the Garden of Caves include Nohkalikai Falls, Mawlynnong Village, Dawki River, Cherrapunji, and Shillong Peak.
There are several good accommodation options near the Garden of Caves, including guest houses, homestays, and hotels in Cherrapunji and Shillong.
To explore the Garden of Caves and the surrounding areas, you need at least 3-4 days. This will give you enough time to visit the main attractions and enjoy the natural beauty of Meghalaya.

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