One of the seven sister states of India, Meghalaya. A hilly state is famous for its dense forests, varied biodiversity and high rainfall. Meghalaya has more than just thunderclouds, and landscapes. You just certainly plan a trip to Meghalaya. To explore the vivid nature and tons of waterfalls. One of the places to explore the unfiltered beauty is Khasi Hills. It is one of the districts located in the state of Meghalaya. The Khasi Hills entire region is mostly covered with an abundance of wonders. Cherrapunji one of the capitals of Meghalaya is also located on the greener slope landscapes of Khasi Hills.
The Garo, Khasi, Jaintia hills are the three mountain ranges that constitute a big part of the region in Meghalaya. One of them is Khasi Hills, where indigenous tribes have their unique landscapes. Tourists pay a visit to this place for a quiet natural retreat from their chaotic life. Khasi Hills has the unparalleled beauty of Hill resorts and man-made attractions. It never ceases to amaze you with the Mystical charm. Shillong, the capital city, is also part of the Khasi hills.
The rich biodiversity is a complex landform of rounded hills, rolling uplands and steep slopes with deep valleys. Due to its higher altitude of dense forests and untainted nature. Khasi Hills is known as one of the wettest places in Asia. From the majestic caves, waterfalls and rivers flowing through the creeks, green lush forests, wet grasslands cover the whole region of khasi hills.
The Khasi Hills cover 75% of the forests in the region. It is divided into east Khasi hills and west Khasi hills. This region is an untouched beauty of rural mountains located in the northeastern part of the Khasi hills. From tropical moist deciduous forests to fragments of subtropical, evergreen, semi-evergreen forests, persisting as sacred groves or confined to deep slopes. Khasi hills have a mixed topography of diverse forests and climate conditions. It is why Meghalaya is mostly called the 'abode of the clouds. Khasi Hills is a famous prime hotspot for ecological diversity in the world.
Places to visit in West Khasi hills
West Khasi Hills are one of the tourist spots in the state of Meghalaya. It is the land of valleys and lakes. It is among the largest cities where tourists flock together in pursuit of peace and a serene atmosphere. Due to its rich biodiversity, the Khasi hills region has gained the title of 'Scotland of the East. The Nongkhum island is situated in this region. It receives the highest annual rainfall in the world.
With its indigenous cultures and exciting sceneries. The west Khasi hills tourist spots will charm you into its landscapes of breathing valleys and lakes. Some of the attractions with the innate picturesque and serene atmosphere are
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Mawkyrwat
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Jakrem
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Marang
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Mawthadraishan Peak
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Ranikor
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Nongkhnum Island
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Kyllang Rock
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Langshiang and Thum Falls
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Wah Rilang river
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War lake
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Embroidery stone
Each of these attractions is situated in the West Khasi hills. Each place has its own defined speciality which charms the traveller's in their every visit to this untouched place. Just like Nongkhum island which is the second biggest river island in Asia. The Mawthadraishan Peak is the highest peak with panoramic views. Tourists can enjoy sightseeing and trekking into this enchanting beauty. Other attractions near West Khasi hills are Kyllang Rock with igneous rock and a magnetic field that is perfect for adventure activities. Taking a shower in the Langshiang and Thum Falls is enticing to look and feel refreshed in its atmosphere.
Valleys of East Khasi hills
East Khasi hills also serve as a perfect spot for all nature lovers and for those who want to relieve themselves from the bustling city life. The drive through capital city Shillong to the cleanest village Mawlynnong. It is the best experience Tucked away amid the scenic hills and views situated in this district.
As beautiful as paradise east Khasi hills receive heavy rainfall for several months. But the winters here are almost dry. There are several viewpoints en route to the destination. Cherrapunji is situated in this region located between thunderous waterfalls and deep gorges. It takes you to the spectacular glimpses of valleys and enchanting landscapes offers a surreal experience.
Some of the attractions to visit in East Khasi hills are
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Mawlynnong Village
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Smit
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Mawsynram
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Umiam Lake
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Laitkynsew village
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Mawphlang
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Dainthlen waterfall
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Kynrem falls
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Dawki river
The Mawlynnong Village is the cleanest in Asia. Apart from that, the living root bridge and double-decker root bridge is situated in Laitkynsew village. from the nature lovers, adventure enthusiast to photography buffs loves to visit for its soothing sound of the river flowing in the streams and clam environment. The Mawphlang is a sacred forest preserved for centuries. The place disobeyed for its serenity and tranquil atmosphere.
The Dawki river is one of the incredible spots for picnics in this region. It gives eccentric vistas of the Khasi hills at one side and another side, it gives spectacular glimpses of Bangladesh.
Best Time to visit Khasi hills
From October to April is the ideal time to visit the Khasi hills. Although most of the year the region receives the highest rainfall. Travelling during this time is considered risky. But it is preferable to travel in august before the season ends. To witness the spellbound beauty of waterfalls and deep gorges. But the downside is most of the places in Meghalaya are closed. So avoid travelling during the monsoon season.
Activities to do in Khasi Hills
Khasi Hills are located in the centre region of Meghalaya. It offers plenty of options to explore eccentric vistas. By various activities such as trekking, camping, cave exploring, rock climbing, boating, and not the least nature walks.
The Khasi hills have amazing ecological diversity, impressive monoliths, an abundance of lakes, and quaint little towns. To explore the countless peaks, caves are a sight to behold. Meghalaya houses one of the largest cave networks in the world. These activities offer tourists rare opportunities to enjoy. So that one can immerse oneself in the tranquillity of the area.
How to reach
By Air:
Guwahati airport is the nearest airport link to reach Shillong. Helicopter services are also available in Shillong. There are also daily routine buses and taxi services from Guhawati to Shillong.
By Train:
The nearest railway station is in Guhawati. It is the closest rail link that heads to Khasi hills. From station one can avail cab services or bus to Shillong. To witness the spellbound beauty of Khasi hills.
By Road:
The best way to reach Khasi hills is by road. Both private and government buses and taxi services are available to this untouched place from all the important cities of the country.
Conclusion
You will be amazed to explore the serene beauty and one of the highest regions to receive heavy rainfall in the world. The distinctive culture of the Khasi people includes indigenous tribes, religious and modern legal influences. Remember to feast your eyes on these gorgeous landscapes from these attractions.
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