- Nongriat Double-Decker Living Root Bridge — A one-of-a-kind, two-level bridge grown from rubber tree roots by the Khasi for generations. The trek down (and back up) through mossy jungle to reach it is part of the charm — you literally walk into a living structure. Personal favorite: nothing else like this on earth.
- Umngot River, Dawki — Crystal-clear water so transparent a boat looks like it’s floating on air. Short boat rides with local rowers give you close views of riverbeds, borderland scenery and little riverside markets. Best for a relaxed half-day trip and photos that don’t need filters.
- Nohkalikai Falls (Sohra / Cherrapunji) — India’s dramatic plunge waterfall dropping into a deep emerald gorge. It’s iconic for a reason: thunderous water, sheer cliffs and viewpoints that feel cinematic.
- Nongriat Double-Decker Living Root Bridge — A one-of-a-kind, two-level bridge grown from rubber tree roots by the Khasi for generations. The trek down (and back up) through mossy jungle to reach it is part of the charm — you literally walk into a living structure. Personal favorite: nothing else like this on earth.
- Umngot River, Dawki — Crystal-clear water so transparent a boat looks like it’s floating on air. Short boat rides with local rowers give you close views of riverbeds, borderland scenery and little riverside markets. Best for a relaxed half-day trip and photos that don’t need filters.
- Nohkalikai Falls (Sohra / Cherrapunji) — India’s dramatic plunge waterfall dropping into a deep emerald gorge. It’s iconic for a reason: thunderous water, sheer cliffs and viewpoints that feel cinematic. Easy access from Cherrapunji makes it a must-see natural spectacle.
- Mawlynnong Village — Famous for being painstakingly clean, but more than a gimmick: live Khasi homestays, bamboo walkways, and a sky-view tower that looks over Bangladesh. It’s a neat microcosm of community-led tourism and rural Khasi life done respectfully.
- Mawsmai Cave (Cherrapunji) — A visitor-friendly limestone cave with tight passages, stalactites and little sunlight shafts. Short, clearly marked routes make it an easy, atmospheric stop after the nearby cliffs and falls.
- Mawphlang Sacred Grove — (Hidden gem) An ancient Khasi sacred forest where elders still protect trees, rituals and biodiversity. Feels like stepping into an old world: mossy trunks, rare plants, and local guides who explain cultural taboos and stories tied to the land.
- Laitlum Canyon (Pynursla) — (Hidden gem) Big, jaw-dropping canyon views with thin ridges and plunging valleys — fewer tourists, epic sunrise/sunset spots and simple village teahouses nearby. Perfect if you want dramatic vistas without busloads of people.
- Nartiang Monoliths (Jaintia Hills) — A uniquely Meghalaya historical site: rows of ancient monoliths and megalithic stones tied to Jaintia tribal customs. It’s quieter than big archaeological parks but full of local stories and palpable history.
- Arwah / Krem Arwah Caves (near Jowai) — (Hidden gem) Limestone caves with delicate formations and tiny underground chambers. Not a show cave — you’ll usually go with a local who knows the passages. Good for those who want hands-on exploration without the crowds.
- Thadlaskein Lake, Jowai — A culturally important lake surrounded by folklore and local festivals. Visit to see Jaintia hillscapes, meet locals who’ll tell origin stories, and catch traditional rituals during certain seasons. A gentle, authentic slice of regional life.
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Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.