Meghalaya is often simply referred to as “The Abode of Clouds” in Sanskrit and is an enchanting gem nestled within the northeastern part of India. Replete with beautiful valleys of lush green and waterfalls with intricate designs, serene forests, and cloaked in misty clouds, this destination is certainly breathtaking for nature lovers and adventure-seekers alike. If you’re looking for a trip that your family can never forget, Meghalaya best time to visit with family is between October and April. The climate is simply perfect with pleasant temperatures that rarely go above 30°C.
Cherrapunji is home to its famous Living Root Bridges, the superb Mawsmai Caves, and Nohkalikai, India’s highest plunge waterfall. Balpakram National Park and Tura in Garo Hills would acquaint visitors with the wealth of wildlife that the region owns, such as leopards, wild cats, and many others. Meghalaya’s unique combination of natural beauty and diverse biodiversity ensures an awe and serenity-filled family holiday.
When planning your trip, knowing the seasonal weather changes will make the most out of your time spent here. Equipped with these insights and vital traveling tips, you will be sure to have an unforgettable adventure. Enjoy your journey through this enchanting paradise!
Meghalaya Best Time to Visit with Family
From April to June, or during the peak season, temperatures go from 16°C to 31°C. The pleasant weather during these months makes it Meghalaya’s best time to visit with your family, offering the perfect blend of outdoor exploration and indoor relaxation. Be it a family retreat or adventure, the summer season of Meghalaya lets you experience both worlds at their best.
Meghalaya during Summer (April to June)
This is the best time to take your family to Meghalaya, and here spring is refreshingly pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius plunging to 11°C at night. The time makes it an ideal escape from the summer heat in other parts of India. During these months, Meghalaya presents a perfect blend of overcast conditions and damply sultry afternoons to venture into adventure treks, sightseeing, or discovery of the famous living root bridges within thick forests.
Do not miss the beauty of Elephant Falls in Shillong or the magnificent waterfalls of Cherrapunji. Head towards Mawlynnong, Asia’s cleanest village, for a boat ride on the crystal clear waters of Umngot River in Dawki. Umiam Lake, Laitlum Canyon and Mawsynram’s misty realms are other attractions. In April, the vibrant Shad Suk Mynsiem festival celebrates the heritage of the Khasi tribe in colorful attire with traditional dance and rhythmic music that represents an unforgettable cultural experience.
Monsoon Season in Meghalaya – (July – September)
Meghalaya literally translates into “Abode of Clouds,” and the state is a lush paradise during monsoon season from June to September. The state would experience temperatures from 24° to 33°C, and there are some massive showers witnessed during these months. Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, part of Meghalaya, form part of the five wettest places on Earth. The spot is apt for family relaxation and soaking in hill beauty. While outdoor exploration is limited, misty mornings, lush meadows, and cascading waterfalls create a mesmerizing atmosphere.
A highlight of this season is Behdienkhlam, celebrated every July, marking the triumph of good over evil. Locals take pleasure in feasts, dance, and music as they celebrate their rich cultural heritage. For an enjoyable trip, check weather forecasts, prepare waterproof clothing, and keep looking for off-season discounts. Even with road conditions getting tricky, don’t forget to carry an umbrella, mosquito repellent, and sturdy shoes for your family.
Autumn Season in Meghalaya – (October – November)
One of the best places to visit with family is Meghalaya during the post-monsoon autumn, which falls between October and November. Lush waterfalls and rivers abound in every turn as the monsoon rain fades away, but the hills are still an irresistible shade of green. Though frequent short showers would linger on, the skies would start clearing up, and the sun shines brighter on the state, making it a perfect time for a sightseeing tour.
The advent of autumn further brings cooler temperatures in areas and frost in some with the approach of winter. It is the season for harvest time and is marked by numerous festivals enjoyed traditionally by different cultures. The city of Shillong comes alive with displays of festivities, which include the annual Autumn Festival. Time to behold the cherry blooms, a wonderful site that depicts the beauty of the location. This season is bound to become a memory for families looking to explore Meghalaya with its mix of natural splendor and cultural vibrance.
Winter Season in Meghalaya – (December – March)
From December to March, winter in Meghalaya is a cool, misty experience with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 16°C. This season is, therefore, the best for families seeking a peaceful getaway, as the weather conditions are ideal for viewing and outdoor activities. The region is as mystical as it is during the foggy mornings and evenings; the daytime being cool and pleasurable allows for great explorations of attractions such as Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Mawlynnong Village, and Umiam Lake.
As January and February bring cooler temperatures, the crisp air and serene landscapes make it a great time to enjoy the natural beauty of Meghalaya. The winter season provides a tranquil escape with fewer crowds, allowing families to fully immerse themselves in the region’s charm. Whether you’re trekking, sightseeing, or simply relaxing, winter is one of the best times to visit Meghalaya with family, offering a memorable experience amidst its fog-covered hills.
How to Reach Meghalaya?
To reach Meghalaya is relatively easy by air or train routes. If you’re traveling by road, bus, car, or taxi, you can easily find routes to Meghalaya. Here’s how you can reach if planning a family trip to Meghalaya.
By Air: The nearest airport to Meghalaya is the Umroi Airport at Shillong. However, it offers really limited connectivity. The best alternative for better connectivity would be Guwahati Airport. It connects to most of the major Indian cities. So, it will be relatively easy to travel to Meghalaya with your family.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Meghalaya is Guwahati. Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai are directly connected to Guwahati. The journey is very scenic by taxi or bus from Guwahati to Meghalaya, so it is also not a nuisance on the part of families.
By Road: Meghalaya is road-connected to nearby towns like Guwahati, Shillong, Kolkata, and Tezpur. Therefore, family travelers can drive or take buses to Meghalaya, which allows ample flexibility.
By Bus: Meghalaya also has good connectivity through buses. There have been regular bus services from the neighboring states of Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland.
By Taxi: Taxis and cabs are easily available in Guwahati and Shillong for an hasslefree journey to Meghalaya. This makes the trip perfect for families.
After traveling however you would like, it’s also a good time to take your family with you in Meghalaya when you can view this serene beauty of a place and its cool climate.
Food to Try in Meghalaya
There are a number of unique and flavored dishes to challenge the taste buds of a food lover, including must-try local delicacies like Jadoh, a traditional Khasi dish made of rice, tender pork or chicken, and a medley of aromatic spices, and Tungrymbai, fermented soybean that is spicy and savory, with the aroma perfectly capturing the essence of Meghalayan cuisine. Bamboo shoots are a quintessence of many recipes. They find their way into dishes like bamboo shoot fry and bamboo shoot pickle that offer a unique flavor in every bite.
A meal to remember would be about paying a visit to City Hut Family Dhaba located at Shillong famed for the lip-smacking Indian and Chinese and Jiva Veg Restaurant at Cherrapunji- a haven for vegetarians.
Whether you’re enjoying a cozy family meal or venturing into the heart of local flavors, Meghalaya’s rich culinary landscape is sure to elevate your journey. It’s the perfect way to savor the tastes of this enchanting state during the Meghalaya best time to visit with family.
Popular Events and Festivals in Meghalaya in Winter
Shillong Winter Festival (December)
Host: Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation
Highlight: Celebrates the state’s cultural heritage
Attractions: A variety of vibrant cultural events and activities
Chad Sukra Festival (December)
Community: Pnar Tribe
Significance: Marks the harvest season
Traditions: Rituals, sacrifices, and ancestor worship
Major Attraction: The lively Chad Sukra dance performed by young Pnar men and women
Wangala Drum Festival (January)
Community: Garo Tribe
Annual Celebration: A grand event in January
Focus: Celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Garo tribe
Major Attraction: The exhilarating Wangala drumming, with 20-30 musicians performing
Laho Dance Festival (February)
Community: Jaintia Tribe
Annual Celebration: A February festivity
Focus: Showcasing the cultural vibrancy of the Jaintia tribe
Showcases: Traditional dances and cultural rituals
Strawberry Festival (February)
Location: Sohra (Cherrapunji)
Purpose: A celebration of the strawberry harvest
Unique Feature: Known for its high-quality strawberries
The best time to visit Meghalaya with family happens between October and April when cool and dry weather becomes prevalent. November to February has been proved to be ideal in that regard because of the cool temperatures with few rainy days, offering perfect opportunities for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Clear blue skies and pleasant weather during this period enable you to explore the beautiful landscapes and cultural treasures of the state. It’s always helpful to know about the weather conditions prevailing throughout the seasons, as it would greatly affect travel.
If one plans a family vacation that is calm and enjoyable with their family, then this time period is most favorable with minimal humidity and crowds. Trekking through the picturesque hills, visiting waterfalls, or getting acquaintance with the uniqueness of Meghalaya can be best done during this time and, sure enough, will have a memorable family trip. So, plan your visit between the months of October and April for the best experience in Meghalaya.
Read Next
10 Best Places to Visit in Mumbai with Family
10 Best Places in Bangalore to Visit with Friends
14 Tourist Places in Tamil Nadu