The living root bridges: Nature’s miracles!

Step into a realm of natural wonder in Meghalaya – the living root bridges, a breathtaking testament to human ingenuity and nature's artistry. Recently added to UNESCO's tentative world heritage site list, these bridges are meticulously woven from intertwined roots. Crafted over centuries by the indigenous Khasis and Jaintias, these bridges celebrate sustainability, tradition, and the enchanting spirit of coexistence. Meghalaya boasts of around 100 such wonders scattered across different villages. Among the most renowned are those in Nongriat, Sohra (Cherrapunjee), Nongbareh, and neighbouring locations.

Meghalaya embodies nature's other treasures.

Venture deep into West Garo Hills for an incredible adventure at Siju Caves and Rock Formations; famed bat caves known for being one of the world's longest cave systems! Or experience Khasi culture through Mawphlang Sacred Groves of East Khasi Hills where rare plants, mushrooms, as well as ancient coronation sites can be found tucked within their lush forest setting. Further captivating must-see attractions are Nartiang Monoliths from West Jaintia Hills that dated back pre-Christian times with towering stone structures built as monuments honouring ancient kings! Finally don't miss Nartiang Monoliths which provides access into Khasi culture through East Khasi culture through these East Khasi Hills sacred haven.

Mawsmai and Krem Phyllut caves, with their stunning stalactites and stalagmites, captivate adventure seekers, whilst Nohkalikai Falls--India's highest plunge waterfall--is sure to wow them as well! River rafting or kayaking along Dawki's Umngot River rapids or rock climbing at Laitlum Canyon also provide thrill-seekers an adventureful escape!

Meghalaya's biodiversity makes it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife admirers. Visit Nokrek National Park, popularly known for the rare and endangered Red Panda, Hoolock Gibbon, and Clouded Leopard; Balpakram National Park provides birdwatchers with stunning avian species; Siju Bird Sanctuary has over 200 bird species; Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary features diverse animal life; making Meghalaya an unforgettable journey!

Meghalaya offers more than its breathtaking natural scenery:

It also holds many spiritual and religious sites that feed into its diverse population, who practice various faiths ranging from Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism and native animistic religions - from Christianity to Hinduism, Buddhism to indigenous animistic practices such as Nartiang Durga Temple in which an annual Durga Puja festival takes place with great gusto each year; Mawphlang Sacred Forest and Lum Sohpetbneng also hold great religious importance among Khasi and Jaintia tribes alike!

Meghalaya's bustling markets are known to provide shoppers with exquisite indigenous crafts, hand-woven textiles, bamboo products, organic produce and rare or exotic items - offering everything from modern and traditional shopping options in Shillong's Police Bazaar to the Iewduh market of Shillong or Bara Bazaar where visitors will find local handicrafts and ethnic clothing as well as unique tribal lifestyle and heritage pieces from Tura and Jowai markets that give insight into tribal life in Meghalaya as well as souvenirs or gifts unique to Meghalaya!

Meghalaya's artistic traditions reflect its rich tribal heritage and diverse ethnic communities, such as Khasi and Garo tribes weaving intricate designs on garments with their delicate threads, while musical instruments such as duitara, tangmuri, drums and bamboo flute can often be found used during traditional dance performances and cultural festivals in Meghalaya. Plan a trip here now, and be amazed by Meghalaya's art!

Meghalaya's cuisine is famed for using locally sourced ingredients that give each dish an exquisitely authentic flavour. Experience an exciting range of culinary traditions influenced by Khasi, Garo and Jaintia tribes along with neighboring states such as Tungrymbai (fermented soybean curry) Nakham Bitchi smoked pork with bamboo shoot and Pumaloi (rice and jaggery dessert). Enjoy these delicacies either in traditional village settings or modern restaurants for an unforgettable dining experience!

Celebrate diversity through festivals

Meghalaya is home to vibrant cultures and traditions. With an annual calendar full of captivating festivals that draw tourists in to experience its heritage, the state invites travellers from near and far. April sees the Shad Suk Mynsiem Festival hosted by Khasi tribe offering three days of colorful cultural immersion; in July comes Pnar's Behdienkhlam Festival where locals seek blessings for an abundant harvest - both are surefire ways to experience rich heritage first-hand!

October marks the Doregata Dance Festival, hosted by Karbi tribe members to showcase their unique cultural expressions. Meanwhile in November is Nongkrem Dance Festival; an exciting five-day spectacle in Smit village offering visitors an entrancing glimpse into Khasi traditions, while Garo tribe members mark harvest time celebrations with rhythmic dancing and exuberant festivities during Wangala Festival held during that month.

Meghalaya provides an unforgettable cultural experience during these festivals that showcases its long and rich history as well as diverse ethnic traditions.