Top 15 Offbeat Places In Meghalaya That You Must Visit on Your Trip

Rising in northeast India, Meghalaya, the “Abode of Clouds,” is a magical state known for its mist-covered hills, lush valleys, and energetic culture. Although well-known sites like Shillong and Cherrapunji draw many tourists, Meghalaya’s real character is found in its unusual locations. These little jewels provide a pure, peaceful haven from the bustle of popular travel. Every location—from the immaculate villages to the magnificent waterfalls to the magical caves—offers an individual and immersive experience. Let us explore fifteen offbeat places to visit in Meghalaya that enchant the soul and heart of every tourist.

15 Offbeat Places In Meghalaya

1. Mawlynnong Village

Beautiful evening view of Mawlynnong Village—Offbeat places in Meghalaya, India

photo: Madhumita Das / Wikimedia Commons

Known to be the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong is tucked away in the East Khasi Hills. Among the top offbeat places to visit in Meghalaya, this charming community presents a unique mix of traditional Khasi culture, immaculate cleanliness, and rich vegetation. Those looking for peace and an authentic cultural experience will find the village ideal because of its dedication to environmentally friendly methods and calm surroundings.

Top Attractions: Living Root Bridges, Bamboo Skywalk, Clean Village Experience
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 24*7

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

2. Dawki

Beautiful Picture of Umngot River in Dawki—beautiful offbeat places in Meghalaya, India

Photo: Vikramjit Kakati / Wikipedia

Renowned for its glistening, clean Umngot River, Dawki is a small town near the India-Bangladesh border. Boats seem to float on air from the river’s evident water. Riverside camping, fishing, and boating all find the perfect location in this calm area. Dawki, with its emerald green surroundings and tranquil waters, provides nature lovers and adventurers an ideal escape. It is a must-visit location among the top offbeat places to visit in Meghalaya.

Top Attractions: Umngot River, Boating, Fishing
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: Open 24 hours

3. Shnongpdeng

Aerial view of enchanting Umngot river in Shnongpdeng—offbeat places in Meghalaya, India

Photo: Kelly / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Located near Dawki, Shnongpdeng is an adventurer’s dream come true among offbeat places to visit in Meghalaya. Among the several sports this hidden gem provides, it includes cliff jumping, kayaking, and zip-lining. Shnongpdeng is a paradise for thrill-seekers and nature lovers with its calm surroundings, gorgeous scenery, and glistening clean waterways. Shnongpdeng offers a unique and thrilling experience right in Meghalaya, whether it’s your preferred means of relaxation by the river or adrenaline-pounding sports.

Top Attractions: Kayaking, Zip-lining, Cliff Jumping
Entry Fee: Free (Activity charges apply)
Timings: 24*7

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

4. Nongriat

Image of a beautiful root steel bridge of Nongriat–offbeat places in Meghalaya, India

Photo: Elbowmacaroni / Wikipedia

Home of the well-known double-decker living root bridge, Nongriat promises an exciting journey and a close relationship with the surroundings. Nongriat is the most popular among the offbeat tourist attractions in Meghalaya. Descending 3,000 steps through verdant forests, crossing rivers, and walking over live root bridges, the path to Nongriat is one of These off-peak locations that present a unique chance to see the Khasi people’s inventiveness and experience the calm beauty of Meghalaya forests.

Top Attractions: Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Trekking
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: Open 24 hours

5. Laitlum Canyons

The beautiful snapshot of iconic Laitlum Canyons—offbeat places in Meghalaya, India

Photo: ANKAN / Wikimedia Commons

Often known as the “end of hills,” Laitlum Canyons is a secret paradise with amazing views of valleys, canyons, and far-off mountains. This off-peak location, close to Shillong, is ideal for trekking, picturesque photography and peaceful nature soaking. Anyone looking to see the unspoiled, unprocessed beauty of Meghalaya’s landscapes should visit this site since the panoramic views from the edge of the canyons are pretty captivating.

Top Attractions: Panoramic Views, Trekking, Photography
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: Open 24 hours

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Meghalaya In December To Witness Nature’s Real Bliss

6. Krang Suri Falls

A scenic aerial snapshot of the Krang Suri Falls–Offbeat places in Meghalaya, India

Photo: ANKAN / Wikimedia Commons

Nestled in the Jaintia Hills, Krang Suri Falls is a hypnotic waterfall with blue tones ranging from turquoise. Picnics, swimming, and leisure activities find the falls a perfect location because of their picturesque appeal and calm environment. The immaculate waterways and surrounding vegetation produce a lovely, revitalising, refreshing scene, allowing tourists to visit these falls during their trip to popular Meghalaya tourist places.

Top Attractions: Swimming, Picnics, Scenic Beauty
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM

7. Siju Cave

Scenic snapshot of the enchanting Siju Cave of Meghalaya-offbeat places in Meghalaya

Photo: Uajith / Wikipedia

Situated in the Garo Hills close to the Simsang River, Siju Cave, sometimes known as Bat Cave, Impressive stalactites and stalagmites in this limestone cave are well-known. Discovering the secret chambers of the cave, adventurers can negotiate its labyrinthine passages. The strange silence and the cave’s natural formations produce an otherworldly experience for tourists. For those fascinated by Meghalaya’s subterranean beauties or spelunkers, Siju Cave is a must-see destination among offbeat places to visit in Meghalaya.

Top Attractions: Stalactites and Stalagmites, Cave Exploration
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM

Suggested Read: The Mysterious Caves In Meghalaya

8. Mawsynram

Snapshot of the naturally formed shivlingam in Mawsynram–offbeat places in Meghalaya

Photo: Sharada Prasad CS / Wikipedia

With the highest annual rainfall, Mawsynram—often known as the wettest spot on Earth—gets. This off-peak location presents gorgeous waterfalls, unusual rock formations, and rich green surroundings. Trekking and soaking in Meghalaya’s monsoon magic are best done here. Mawsynram is ideal for people who enjoy the rain and its beauty since the constant rain produces a magical environment with misty valleys and vivid vegetation.

Top Attractions: Mawjymbuin Cave, Green Landscapes, Monsoon Experience
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: Open 24 hours

9. Kongthong Village

Kongthong Village, Root Bridge a scenic snapshot of Meghalaya–offbeat places in Meghalaya

Photo: Anselmrogers / Wikipedia

Residents of Kongthong, sometimes known as the “Whistling Village,” use whistled tunes to converse. Every villager has a different song assigned to them. The village provides a beautiful window into Khasi culture and is surrounded by rich vegetation. This village offers a rare chance to learn the significant connection between the people and their natural surroundings and enjoy a different way of life in all the offbeat places to visit in Meghalaya.

Top Attractions: Whistling Communication, Cultural Experience
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 24*7

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Meghalaya In June

10. Ranikor

Snapshot of the beautiful Mawsmi Caves of Meghalaya–offbeat places in Meghalaya

Photo: Arkadeep Bhattacharya / Wikipedia

Ranikor, located in the South West Khasi Hills District, is a paradise for anglers. A good amount of fish is found in the Jadukata River, which makes it an excellent haunt with fishermen. The serenity of the surroundings and the beauty of the landscapes will also make it very suitable for camping and picnicking. This popular offbeat destination presents a peaceful retreat far from the madding tourist spots, enabling visitors to experience tranquillity and enjoy outdoor recreation.

Top Attractions: Fishing, Camping, Scenic Views
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 24*7

11. Bophill Falls

Snapshot of beautiful Bophill Falls near border area–offbeat places in Meghalaya, India

Photo: Olivia’spictures / Wikimedia Commons

Bophill Falls, a less-known but impressive waterfall, is a popular tourist attraction near the Indo-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya. From a great height, the falls tumble to create a misty environment and a roaring sound that accentuates the beauty and mystery of the area. Nature enthusiasts looking for a peaceful and breathtaking experience will find Bophill Falls ideal because of its unspoiled surroundings and serene atmosphere.

Top Attractions: Waterfall Views, Nature Walks
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 24*7

Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Shillong To Visit On Your Next Trip For Breathtaking Views

12. Krem Liat Prah

The Daylight view of the sunset in the Meghalaya–offbeat places in Meghalaya, India

Photo: Arup Malakar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Krem Liat Prah is India’s longest naturally occurring cave in the Jaintia Hills. The cave boasts large chambers and complex limestone formations. This off-peak site will be exciting and demanding for those who enjoy caving. Discovering the underground beauty of Meghalaya and giving a unique spelunking experience by exploring Krem Liat Prah reveals a singular adventure for tourists to experience.

Top Attractions: Cave Exploration, Limestone Formations
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM

13. Mawphlang Sacred Forest

Beautiful snapshot of the Sacred Forest of Mawphlang—best offbeat places in Meghalaya

Photo: Ritika74 / Wikimedia Commons

Preserved and under protection by the nearby Khasi tribe, the Mawphlang Sacred Forest is a place of natural worship. Ancient trees, rare plants, and unusual fungus abound in the forest, augmenting its biodiversity. Guided tours let guests learn about the local customs and the need for preservation. A must-see location, the calm and magical environment of the Mawphlang Sacred Forest provides a spiritual and learning opportunity.

Top Attractions: Guided Tours, Ancient Trees, Biodiversity
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM

Suggested Read: Discover Top Places To Visit In Mawsynram

14. Umiam Lake

Beautiful lakeside view of Umiam Lake—Beautiful offbeat places in Meghalaya, India

Photo: Dr Vikramjit Kakati / Wikipedia

Umiam Lake is still rather off-beat compared to other tourist destinations, even if it is growing popular. The lake, sometimes called Barapani, provides kayaking, boating, gorgeous views, and a calm setting for picnics and leisure. Umiam Lake is the ideal place for a leisurely escape into nature since the tranquil waters and the surrounding hills create a beautiful and peaceful scene that helps one to relax among rich surroundings.

Top Attractions: Boating, Kayaking, Picnics
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM

15. Mawlyngbna

Scenic panoramic view of the city from the top–offbeat Places in Meghalaya, India

Photo: ARJUN VIJAY / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Fossils and adventure sports abound in the East Khasi Hills village of Mawlyngbna. The hamlet provides kayaking, hiking, and natural spring exploration. It is also a fantastic venue for learning about the area’s geology. Mawlyngbna’s distinctive scenery and rich history make it an intriguing place for those interested in the ancient past and adventure seekers among the other offbeat places to visit in Meghalaya.

Top Attractions: Kayaking, Trekking, Fossils
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 24*7

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Dawki For An Enthralling Experience

These were the popular offbeat places to visit in Meghalaya, providing the ideal fusion of cultural encounters, adventure, and natural beauty. There is something for every type of visitor, from immaculate villages and grand waterfalls to enigmatic cavernous and calm lakes. Every place promises a different and enriching experience. Make your trip to Meghalaya unforgettable with TripXL

Cover Photo: sangeeta1975 / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

You can reach Meghalaya by flying to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, then by grabbing a taxi or bus to Shillong, roughly 100km away.
The best time to visit Meghalaya is from October to April when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. The monsoon season, from June to September, is ideal for witnessing the region’s lush greenery but comes with heavy rainfall.
Pack cosy clothes, rain gear (should you be visiting during the monsoon), a decent set of walking shoes, a torch and simple first aid.
Meghalaya offers traditional Khasi and Garo cuisine, including dishes like Jadoh, Dohneiiong, and bamboo shoot preparations. Local eateries and homestays often provide authentic regional meals.
Yes, Meghalaya offers a range of adventure activities, including trekking, caving, kayaking, and zip-lining. Popular spots for these activities include Shnongpdeng, Dawki, and Mawlyngbna.

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