Meghalaya Northeast States, India Travel Guide
Meghalaya experiences distinct seasons. Summer (March-May) brings pleasant temperatures (15-25°C), fresh air, and moderate humidity; pre-monsoon showers begin in late May. Monsoon (June-October) brings heavy rainfall (10-20°C) with high humidity, waterfalls at full force, and misty hills. Winter (November-February) offers cool to cold conditions (2-16°C), clear skies, and crisp air, ideal for outdoor pursuits. Higher elevations around Shillong Peak experience near-freezing temperatures at night.
The monsoon season (June-October) has exceptionally heavy rainfall. This brings high humidity, slippery conditions on roads and trails, and potential for landslides in hilly areas. Travel during this period calls for appropriate waterproof gear, with preparation for continuous rain and travel disruptions. Roads pose a challenge, and certain trekking routes might close for safety. Local advice on road conditions holds significance.
High Season (October-April) aligns with Meghalaya's winter and spring, providing highly favorable weather. Shoulder Season (May, September) transitions between seasons. Low Season (June-August) covers the heart of the monsoon.
High season brings pleasant temperatures and clear skies, ideal for all outdoor pursuits. All major attractions are accessible. Many cultural festivals occur, offering rich cultural immersion. The Umngot River shows its clearest waters. Shoulder season has fewer crowds and potentially lower accommodation prices. May brings pre-monsoon freshness, with increasing greenery. Low season reveals Meghalaya's monsoon in full glory, with roaring waterfalls. Fewer tourists result in lower prices for accommodation and tours, an unique viewing of the "Abode of Clouds."
Peak Travel
Ideal weather, clear skies, all attractions open, cultural festivals.
Higher tourist numbers, increased prices, crowded sites, book ahead.
Transitional Period
Fewer crowds, lower prices, May's pre-monsoon freshness.
May humidity/showers, September residual heavy rains, road conditions.
Monsoon Peak
Monsoon in full glory, roaring waterfalls, fewer tourists, lower prices, dramatic scenery.
Heavy rainfall disrupts travel, slippery/dangerous trails, restricted activities, high humidity.
Heavy rainfall during the monsoon (June-October) brings continuous rain and potential travel disruptions. Roads become challenging to navigate, and certain trekking routes might close for safety. Local advice on road conditions holds significance for travelers in this period.
Local weather conditions shift rapidly. One moment, clear skies dominate, the next, a dense mist rolls in, transforming the landscape. Travelers staying informed about local advisories during their trip helps.
Best from October to April when trails are dry and visibility clear.
Most spectacular from July to September during the monsoon season.
Clearest water for boating from November to May.
Monsoon season captures unique misty and moody shots.
Always check the current weather forecast prior to travel, especially for shoulder or low seasons.
For most foreign nationals, an Indian Visa forms a required step for entry into Meghalaya. The process operates straightforwardly when following guidelines. Familiarization with visa types and documentation helps a smooth entry into India.
E-Visa (Tourist Visa) is the most common and convenient option for citizens of many countries (USA, UK, Canada, Australia). This visa permits a stay of up to 30, 90, or 180 days, depending on type and nationality. The application process occurs online through the official Indian e-Visa website. Regular Tourist Visas are available at an Indian Embassy or Consulate if e-Visa is not an option.
E-Visa fees vary by nationality and duration. Upon arrival at designated international airports (e.g., Delhi, Guwahati), e-Visa holders proceed to specific counters for biometric verification and immigration clearance. Regular visa holders use standard immigration counters. Disembarkation cards may need completion.
Tipping is not mandatory in India but sees appreciation for good service. A tip of 5-10% of the bill is common for good service in restaurants; check for service charges. For bellhops or housekeeping, ₹50-₹100 works. Drivers/Guides typically receive ₹200-₹500 for a full day. Bargaining is common in local markets for souvenirs and non-fixed price items, but not in established shops or restaurants.
Your well-being receives top priority when traveling. This section covers various health and safety facets, from vaccinations to emergency contacts.
A certificate is needed if arriving from or transiting through a Yellow Fever endemic country. Verify current requirements before travel.
Routine vaccinations, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Rabies, and Japanese Encephalitis are recommended. Discuss with your doctor 4-6 weeks before travel.
Seek personalized health advice and vaccination recommendations for India from a travel clinic or your doctor.
Prevention strategies are for a healthy trip.
Traveler's Diarrhea is the most common ailment. Drink only Bottled water (check seal) or purified water. Avoid ice, uncooked food, and unpeeled fruits. Carry a basic Travel first aid kit with Anti-diarrhea medication and oral rehydration salts.
Mosquito-borne diseases (Dengue, Malaria) have presence. Use Insect repellent with DEET or Picaridin. Wear long sleeves and pants, notably at dawn and dusk. Leeches are common during monsoon in forested areas; use long Socks or gaiters.
Dust and pollution in urban areas affect those with respiratory sensitivities.
Shillong has well-equipped hospitals like NEIGRIHMS, Nazareth Hospital, and Civil Hospital. Smaller towns might have limited facilities.
Readily available in towns and cities; many common medications can be purchased over the counter.
India uses a single emergency number, 112, for police, fire, and ambulance services.
Meghalaya generally holds safety for tourists; violent crime against tourists rarely occurs. Petty crime like pickpocketing happens in crowded areas like markets and bus stands. Shillong is generally safe, but caution in busy market areas (Police Bazaar) after dark is sensible. Rural areas maintain high safety; locals are welcoming.
Always drink bottled water; check the unbroken seal. Alternatively, use boiled or purified water with a Portable water filter or purification tablets. Avoid tap water and ice unless verified as purified. Eat hot, freshly cooked food. Avoid raw salads or unpeeled fruits from street vendors, as they might have washing in unsafe water. Opt for busy eateries with high food turnover.
Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid tap water and ice.
Eat hot, freshly cooked food. Caution with raw salads or unpeeled fruits.
Favor well-known or busy eateries for higher food turnover and freshness.
