Meghalaya, of Scottish scenery and Indian charm is a beautiful state nestled amid Assam and Bangladesh. Meghalaya, literally meaning "Abode of the Clouds" takes distinction of being among the wettest places on earth. The Cherrapunji belt receives the highest rainfall in the world. Home to an extraordinary diversity of peoples, the Khasi, Jantia and Garo tribes, Meghalaya is one of the most picturesque states of India, which serves as an ideal gateway for people in search of beauty and tranquility. The panoramic landscapes, foggy hills, cascading waterfalls, serpentine rivers, and terraced slopes soothe the minds of weary travellers. Meghalaya is blessed with rich wildlife. The dense forests of Meghalaya are inhabited by many rare species of birds and animal including elephants, Tigers, Golden Cats, Binturongs, Slow Loris, Monkeys and birds like Hornbills, Partridges, Teals, Snipes and Quails. Meghalaya is dotted with numerous tourist spots. Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya has many beautiful sites such as Lady Hydari Park, Elephant falls, Ward's lake, Shillong peak, and the golf course, one of the best in the country.
Endowed with incredible natural beauty, Meghalaya is one of the most beautiful states in North-east India. Meghalaya has great tourism potential, which is still largely untapped and unexplored.
Meghalaya Tourism Department has formulated many plans and tourism policies, to attract more domestic and international tourists, which would lead to economic development and generation of ample employment opportunities in the state. Meghalaya tourism is focused on developing infrastructure and public facilities at all tourist spots, along with the development of various areas of tourism in the state such as Nature based tourism, Cultural tourism, Health resort tourism, and Art and Craft tourism.
Meghalaya tourism also emphasizes on adventure tourism in Meghalaya that includes trekking, caving, and water sports. Rock climbing and Hand gliding are also being promoted with recognized adventure and sports associations.
The best time to visit Meghalaya is on the months of March and July, when the weather is uniquely pleasant and caressing.
Uniam Lake, Kyllang Rock, Ward's Lake, Lady Hydari park, Polo ground, Mini zoo, Shillong peak, Nartiang, Nohsngithaing falls, limestone caves, Tura peak are some of the prime tourist attractions in Meghalaya. Meghalaya travel destinations also include Cherrapunji, Mawsynram, Jakrem, and Jowai.
By Air : The nearest major airport is located at Guwahati in Assam, which is about 128 Kms from Shillong. Guwahati is well connected to Kolkata, New Delhi, Baghdogra and Bangkok by regular flights. Taxis can be hired from Guwahati Airport to Shillong. There is a helicopter service from Guwahati Airport to Shillong.
By Rail : The nearest railhead is at Guwahati, which is located at a distance of 103 Kms from Shillong.
By Road : Meghalaya Transport Corporation and Assam State Transport Corporation buses are available, that frequently ply from Guwahati to Shillong.