Things to know before visiting meghalaya

Imagine riding through roads that disappear into clouds, waterfalls cascading beside winding mountain trails, and a thousand shades of green sweeping past you with every curve. That’s Meghalaya — a dreamland in Northeast India where adventure, nature, and culture unite in perfect harmony.

Before you pack your gear and head to this hidden Northeast gem, there are a few essential things to know before visiting Meghalaya that will help you travel smarter, deeper, and more consciously. Whether you’re on two wheels or four, this guide is your road compass to navigating Meghalaya like a pro.

Before you rev up your engines or zip your travel backpack, explore our handpicked Meghalaya Tour Packages to plan your dreamy escape into the Abode of Clouds.

1. Best Time to Visit Meghalaya

September to March is ideal for dry skies, crystal-clear views, and biker-friendly roads. The monsoon (June to August), though lush and magical, can lead to slippery trails, roadblocks, and visibility issues.

Pro Tip for Riders: Carry waterproof gear and a rain cover even in the dry season — the weather here can be moody!

2. A Female-Dominated Culture: Respect the Matrilineal Society

The Khasi and Jaintia tribes follow a matrilineal system, where property and lineage pass through women. While women run markets and lead communities, the society is deeply respectful and warm.

• Don’t be surprised to see women heading local councils or owning businesses.

• Show cultural sensitivity — don’t stereotype or over-romanticize.

3. Early Sunrises & Sunsets: Time Works Differently Here

In Meghalaya, the sun rises by 5 AM and sets before 6 PM, thanks to its eastern location and time zone mismatch. This means:

• Start your ride early in the day.

• Avoid night driving — it gets dark and foggy fast.

• Plan sightseeing and photography around shorter daylight hours.

4. Permits and Entry Guidelines

For Indian citizens, no special permits are required. But foreign nationals need to register at the nearest Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) within 24 hours of arrival.

Keep digital and physical copies of your Aadhaar card, driver’s license, and bike insurance handy — checkpoints are common en route to Shillong, Dawki, and Cherrapunji.

5. Expect Basic Amenities in Remote Areas

Meghalaya is raw and real — especially in regions like Dawki, Mawlynnong, and Nongriat. While cities like Shillong have good hotels, remote villages have limited facilities:

• Stay: Mostly homestays, basic guesthouses.

• Toilets: May not be western-style; carry tissues and sanitizer.

• Connectivity: Expect no signal in deep valleys.

• Medical aid: Closest hospitals are hours away.

6. Trekking Is Not Optional — It’s the Heart of the Experience

From the Double-Decker Living Root Bridges to Rainbow Falls and hidden caves, Meghalaya requires walking — sometimes for hours.

• Trails are steep, often slippery, and unpaved.

• Nongriat trek is 3,500+ steps one way — not for the faint-hearted.

• Trekking shoes and light backpacks are a must.

For riders: Stretch well after rides. Trekking complements the thrill with deeper immersion.

7. Food Alert: Fewer Options for Vegetarians

While Meghalaya’s cuisine is a treat for meat lovers (think pork, beef, fish, smoked delicacies), vegetarian options are limited, especially in rural areas.

Veg traveler tips:

• Carry ready-to-eat meals or dry snacks.

• Stick to towns like Shillong or Cherrapunji for better veg menus.

• Ask for local veggies with rice or dal in homestays — they’ll gladly accommodate

8. Expect Basic Amenities in Remote Areas

Meghalaya is raw and real — especially in regions like Dawki, Mawlynnong, and Nongriat. While cities like Shillong have good hotels, remote villages have limited facilities:

• Stay: Mostly homestays, basic guesthouses.

• Toilets: May not be western-style; carry tissues and sanitizer.

• Connectivity: Expect no signal in deep valleys.

• Medical aid: Closest hospitals are hours away.

9 . What to Pack for Meghalaya

Beyond the usual clothing, pack for:

• Layered clothing: Mornings are crisp, afternoons humid, and nights chilly.

• Trekking shoes: For trails like the Double-Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat.

• Power banks & chargers: Power cuts can happen in remote areas.

• Reusable bottles & zero-waste kits: Meghalaya is eco-sensitive — leave no trace behind.

10. Top Places You Shouldn’t Miss

• Shillong – The Rock Capital of India with a colonial heartbeat.

• Dawki – For the glass-clear Umngot River (a rider’s photo haven).

• Mawlynnong – Asia’s cleanest village.

• Cherrapunji – 2nd Wettest PLace in the World

• Laitlum Canyons – Sunset rides here feel otherworldly.

Conclusion:

Every twist and turn in Meghalaya tells a story — of rain dancing over cliff edges, of children waving from treehouse villages, and of fog that follows your trail like a curious spirit.

If adventure has a home, it’s in Meghalaya. Whether you’re coming to chase waterfalls or ride beyond the last cloud, one thing’s for sure — you’ll leave a part of yourself here and take back memories you’ll crave for a lifetime.