The abode of the clouds is a cool, fresh and incredibly apt name for the state of Meghalaya.

Taken out of Assam in 1972, Meghalaya is a hilly state in direct contrast to the sweltering Assam plains. Meghalaya claims two of the wettest places on earth: Cherapunji and Mawsynram and the higher than average precipitation makes for some absolutely incredible waterfalls.

Tribal Meghalaya

Coming from the east and central Meghalaya are several tribal people.  The closely related Jaintia, Pnar and Khasi people are originally inhabitants of south East Asia. In the west of the state however is an unrelated tribe known as the Garo tribe.  What is amazing is that despite their different ethnic backgrounds the two sets of people use a matrilineal system of inheritance.  Children take the mothers family name here and it is a common sight to see babies carries upon the backs of their fathers.

There are several different legends about the Khasi, Jaintia and Garos tribes.  It is said that the Khasis were the earliest migrants to the area.  Making their way across northern Myanmar to Khasi where they established a new home being just one such example.

Rock and river

Known as the Meghalaya Plateau the area consists mainly of Achaean rock formations with Coal, limestone, uranium and sillamanite as rich deposits found in these rock formations. 

The rivers of Meghalaya are many however is rain fed and so are seasonal. In the southern Khasi Hills Region, these rivers have created deep gorges and several beautiful waterfalls.

Tourism in Meghalaya

Meghalaya has many things to offer tourists.  From its wonderful climate and picturesque settings to its rich cultural heritage and natural attractions abound.  Meghalaya has some of the thickest surviving forests in the country and as such it constitutes one of the most of important ecotourism circuits in the country to date. The Meghalayan subtropical forests support a vast variety of flora and fauna and Meghalaya has 2 National Parks and 3 Wildlife Sanctuaries that are perfect for families and tourists to enjoy when visiting the area.

Cherapunji is one such place.  Settled 1300 meters above sea level and only 56km from Shillong it is a wonderful trip to discover ravenous waterfalls storming through deep gorges in one of the wettest places in the world.  Famous also for its limestone caves and orange honey Cherapunji is home to the oldest Presbyterian Church in the area along with the Ramakrishna Mission.

For those wanting a little history you cannot pass up the chance to see the ancient monoliths and table stones in the Khasi hills.  The ashes of the dead are deposited on cairns or cenotaphs which commemorate memorable events.  The upright stones here generally represent men and are of a great size, sometimes rising up 6 meters from the ground.

The Tura peak is the ideal place for anyone wanting a little adventure, nature, a workout or a selection of any of the above.  Great for rock climbing, hikers and naturalists the scenery is stunning and the panoramas breathtaking.