Best Time to Visit Meghalaya (Weather, Events, & More)

Planning your next getaway and wondering about the best time to visit Meghalaya? Nestled in the northeastern part of India, Meghalaya is a gem that boasts lush landscapes and vibrant culture. Whether you're a nature lover or a culture enthusiast, timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience. Let's dive into what makes certain months in Meghalaya truly magical for travelers.

Best Overall Time to Visit Meghalaya

The best time to visit Meghalaya is undoubtedly during the months of October to April. During this period, the weather is pleasantly cool and perfect for exploring the stunning landscapes, from the lush green hills to the majestic waterfalls. The skies are generally clear, offering breathtaking views, making it an ideal time for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers to visit.

Visiting Meghalaya in the low season, which spans from May to September, has its pros and cons. On the upside, you'll encounter fewer tourists, which means less crowded attractions and potentially lower prices on accommodation and travel. However, this period also coincides with the monsoon season, leading to heavy rainfall that can disrupt travel plans and outdoor activities. While the rains bring out the region's lush beauty, they can also cause occasional inconveniences like landslides, making it essential to consider these factors when planning your trip.

Monthly Overview of Meghalaya

Detailed Monthly Analysis

Here’s what to expect in Meghalaya in each month of the year:

Meghalaya in January

Visiting Meghalaya in January is a refreshing escape from the typical winter blues. This northeastern state of India is relatively dry and cool during this month, making it perfect for exploring its stunning landscapes without the heavy rainfall that characterizes other times of the year. The pleasant weather allows for uninterrupted travel through its rolling hills, majestic waterfalls, and quaint villages.

• Average Temperature: 12°C / 54°F
• Days of Rainfall: 2 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Cave exploration, trekking, cultural festivals like the Nongkrem Dance Festival

Meghalaya in February

Visiting Meghalaya in February is a delightful experience, as you're catching the tail end of the dry season. The weather is pleasantly cool, and the landscapes are still lush from the preceding monsoon months. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty without the hindrance of heavy rains.

• Average Temperature: 15°C / 59°F
• Days of Rainfall: 2 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Cave exploration, trekking, visiting waterfalls, cultural festivals like Shillong Carnival

Meghalaya in March

Visiting Meghalaya in March is a delightful experience as you're catching the tail end of the dry season. The weather is pleasant, making it perfect for exploring the stunning landscapes and lush greenery. It's an ideal time to witness the blooming of orchids and other local flora, adding a splash of color to the already breathtaking scenery.

• Average Temperature: 15°C / 59°F
• Days of Rainfall: 5 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Orchid festivals, cave explorations, trekking

Meghalaya in April

Visiting Meghalaya in April is a delightful experience as you're just ahead of the heavy monsoon season. The weather is pleasantly cool and the landscapes are vibrant with blooming flowers and lush greenery. It's an ideal time for those looking to explore the outdoors without the heavy rains typical of the later months.

• Average Temperature: 17°C / 63°F
• Days of Rainfall: 15 days
• Season: Transition from dry to wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Trekking in the Khasi Hills, exploring the root bridges, visiting the waterfalls

Meghalaya in May

Visiting Meghalaya in May is a mesmerizing experience as the pre-monsoon showers begin to breathe life into its verdant landscapes. The weather is pleasantly cool, and the rain, while frequent, often falls in short, manageable spells, making it possible to enjoy the lush greenery and blooming orchids.

• Average Temperature: 20°C / 68°F
• Days of Rainfall: 15 days
• Season: Pre-monsoon
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Orchid festivals, cave explorations, waterfall visits

Meghalaya in June

Visiting Meghalaya in June is quite the adventure, as you're stepping right into the heart of the monsoon season. This northeastern gem of India turns exceptionally beautiful with its rolling hills and landscapes bathed in varying shades of green. While the frequent rains might suggest packing a sturdy umbrella, they also create breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls and lush surroundings that are uniquely enjoyable during this time.

• Average Temperature: 20°C / 68°F
• Days of Rainfall: 25 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Exploring living root bridges, visiting waterfalls, enjoying local festivals like the Behdienkhlam festival

Meghalaya in July

Visiting Meghalaya in July is truly a dive into nature's dramatic play. This northeastern gem of India is at its wettest, with frequent and heavy showers that transform the landscape into a vibrant, emerald paradise. The rains bring out the best of Meghalaya's famed waterfalls and the lush greenery is simply mesmerizing. It's the perfect time for those who don't mind getting a bit wet to experience the raw beauty of nature in full swing.

• Average Temperature: 22°C / 72°F
• Days of Rainfall: 25 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Exploring waterfalls, visiting root bridges, enjoying local festivals like Behdienkhlam

Meghalaya in August

Visiting Meghalaya in August is truly a dive into nature's dramatic play. It's the heart of the monsoon, so the landscapes are vibrantly alive, with waterfalls at their majestic best and the hills wrapped in mist. While the heavy rainfall might challenge your outdoor plans, it also offers a unique charm with fewer tourists and lush scenery.

• Average Temperature: 17°C / 63°F
• Days of Rainfall: 25 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Exploring living root bridges, attending the Behdienkhlam festival, waterfall hopping

Meghalaya in September

Visiting Meghalaya in September is a mesmerizing experience as you catch the tail end of the monsoon season. The landscapes are vibrantly green and waterfalls are at their most majestic. While you should be prepared for frequent showers, the rain often adds to the beauty, enhancing the mystic feel of the cloud-covered hills and lush forests.

• Average Temperature: 20°C / 68°F
• Days of Rainfall: 20 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Exploring living root bridges, attending the Autumn Festival, visiting waterfalls

Meghalaya in October

Visiting Meghalaya in October is a delightful experience as it marks the transition from the rainy season to the drier months. The landscapes are vibrant with lush greenery, and the waterfalls are at their majestic best, thanks to the preceding monsoon months. The weather is pleasantly cool, making it perfect for exploring the outdoors.

• Average Temperature: 20°C / 68°F
• Days of Rainfall: 10 days
• Season: Transition from wet to dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Exploring waterfalls, cave visits, trekking, and attending autumn festivals

Meghalaya in November

Visiting Meghalaya in November is a delightful experience as it marks the transition from the rainy season to the drier months. The landscapes are still vibrant with lush greenery, and the waterfalls, full from the monsoon rains, are spectacular. The weather is pleasantly cool, making it perfect for exploring the outdoors.

• Average Temperature: 12°C / 54°F
• Days of Rainfall: 5 days
• Season: End of wet season, beginning of dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Exploring living root bridges, visiting waterfalls, cave exploration, attending the Wangala Festival

Meghalaya in December

Visiting Meghalaya in December offers a refreshing escape from the typical winter chill. This northeastern state of India is relatively dry and cool during this month, making it perfect for exploring its famous living root bridges and clear, starry nights.

• Average Temperature: 12°C / 54°F
• Days of Rainfall: 2 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Exploring living root bridges, attending the Tysim Festival, cave exploration, village walks

Special Events in Meghalaya to Look Out For

Nongkrem Dance Festival

• Date: November (usually the first half of the month)
• Description: A five-day festival celebrated by the Khasi tribe to thank the gods for a good harvest. The festival is famous for its vibrant cultural dances and traditional rituals.

Wangala Festival

• Date: November (typically the second week)
• Description: Known as the Festival of 100 Drums, this is a harvest festival celebrated by the Garo tribe. It features traditional drum playing, dancing, and a variety of indigenous foods and drinks.

Behdienkhlam Festival

• Date: July
• Description: One of the most important festivals for the Pnar tribe of Meghalaya, marked by ceremonial dances, religious rituals, and the symbolic driving away of evil spirits and plagues with wooden structures called 'rots'.

Shad Suk Mynsiem

• Date: April
• Description: Translating to 'Dance of the Joyous Heart,' this is a thanksgiving festival celebrated by the Khasi community. It involves traditional dances performed by men and women dressed in exquisite tribal attire.

Cherry Blossom Festival

• Date: Mid-November
• Description: Celebrating the unique autumn flowering of Himalayan Cherry Blossoms in Shillong, this festival includes live music, traditional dance performances, and stalls showcasing the region's food and crafts.

Autumn Festival

• Date: Late October to Early November
• Description: Organized by the Meghalaya government, this multi-cultural event features fashion shows, rock concerts, flower shows, and sports competitions, drawing tourists from across the globe.

Ahaia Festival

• Date: March
• Description: A festival that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Meghalaya with traditional music, dance, arts, and crafts. It's a great platform for local artists to showcase their talents.

Pro Tips for Traveling to Meghalaya

• Cash Over Cards: Always have cash on hand in Meghalaya, as many local shops, markets, and rural areas do not accept credit cards.
• Tipping Culture: Tipping is not customary, but it is appreciated. Consider tipping service staff and guides if you're pleased with their service.
• Drink Safely: Opt for bottled water rather than tap water to avoid health issues. Also, make sure the seal on the bottle is intact when purchasing.
• Public Transport Know-How: Utilize shared taxis and local buses for an authentic and cost-effective travel experience. Be prepared for winding and bumpy roads, especially in rural areas.
• Respect Local Norms: Dress modestly, especially in rural and traditional areas; shoulders and knees should be covered to respect local customs.
• Savor Local Cuisine: Don't miss trying local delicacies like Jadoh, a Khasi-style red rice, or Tungtap, a spicy dried fish chutney.
• Language Courtesy: Learn a few basic phrases in Khasi or Garo to show respect and connect better with locals.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Be respectful when visiting sacred forests and during local festivals. Always ask permission before taking photographs of people or religious sites.
• Stay Eco-Friendly: Preserve the natural beauty by avoiding littering and by using eco-friendly products. Meghalaya is known for its pristine environment, and every effort to keep it clean is appreciated.
• Prepare for the Weather: Carry an umbrella or raincoat, as Meghalaya is one of the wettest places on earth, especially during the monsoon season.

Meghalaya Travel FAQ

Do I need a visa to visit Meghalaya?
Yes, international travelers need a visa to visit Meghalaya, which is part of India. You can apply for an e-Visa, which is available for tourists from many countries and allows a stay of up to 60 days. Make sure to check the latest visa requirements and travel advisories from your home country before planning your trip.

What currency is used in Meghalaya?
The Indian Rupee (INR) is the currency used in Meghalaya. It's advisable to carry some cash, especially when traveling to rural or remote areas, as ATMs might not be readily available and not all places accept credit cards.

What should I pack for a trip to Meghalaya?
Due to Meghalaya's varying climate, it's wise to pack layers. Include light clothing for daytime and a jacket for cooler evenings, especially in the hill stations. Don't forget an umbrella or a raincoat, as Meghalaya is one of the wettest places on earth. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the natural terrain. Also, carry insect repellent and a basic first aid kit.

Do I need to speak the local language to visit Meghalaya?
No, you don't need to speak the local languages (Khasi, Garo) to visit Meghalaya. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, making communication fairly easy. However, learning a few basic phrases in Khasi or Garo can enhance your interaction with local communities.

Is Meghalaya safe for tourists?
Meghalaya is generally safe for tourists. Common sense safety precautions are advisable, such as guarding personal belongings and avoiding travel to isolated areas late at night. Always stay informed about the local news and follow the advice of local authorities.

Is Meghalaya accessible for tourists with disabilities?
Accessibility in Meghalaya can be challenging due to its hilly terrain and limited infrastructure. Major hotels and tourist attractions in urban areas are making efforts to improve accessibility, but rural areas may still lack adequate facilities. It's recommended to check with specific venues and accommodation providers regarding their accessibility features before booking.

What type of outlet is used in Meghalaya?
In Meghalaya, the standard electrical outlet is Type D (three-pin), and the standard voltage is 230V. It's a good idea to bring a universal adapter if your devices use different plugs.

What is the best time to visit Meghalaya?
The best time to visit Meghalaya is between October and June. The weather during these months is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the outdoors. The monsoon season, from July to September, sees heavy rainfall, which can affect travel plans but also enhances the scenic beauty of the state's waterfalls and landscapes.