In ‘Meghalaya’, the home of clouds, the fun of monsoon should not become a punishment! Note these 5 most important things before leaving Don’t let the monsoon fun in ‘Meghalaya’—the abode of clouds—turn into a nightmare! Note down these 5 essential tips before you head out.

Meghalaya, famous for the highest rainfall in the world, looks no less than a paradise during monsoon. The lush green valleys spread all around, the hide and seek of clouds and the milky waterfalls falling from the mountains attract everyone. This is the reason why as soon as the rainy season starts, tourists from India and abroad start moving towards Shillong, Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong. But remember, this beautiful state of North East India is as attractive as it is during monsoon, it also presents equal challenges. If you too are going to visit Meghalaya in this season, then do not forget these 5 very important things.

1. Be prepared for excessive and unpredictable rains

The name of Meghalaya itself is ‘Meghon ka Aalaya’ i.e. home of clouds. During the monsoon months, there is such torrential rain that it is difficult for the people of the plains to imagine. Here the sunshine disappears within minutes and dense clouds block the entire path. So always carry a strong umbrella, high-quality raincoat and waterproof bag cover with you. Your packing should be such that your mobile, camera and clothes remain completely safe even in heavy rain.

2. Keep an eye on live updates of landslides and roads

Due to heavy rains, the risk of landslides increases significantly on the hilly roads of Meghalaya, especially the Shillong-Guwahati Highway and the internal routes of Cherrapunji. Many times, traffic comes to a standstill for hours due to huge stones falling on the roads. Keep an eye on local news, social media traffic updates and Meteorological Department (IMD) warnings before and during your journey.

3. Visibility problems and driving challenges

During the rainy season, the roads of Meghalaya suddenly become covered with such dense fog and clouds that it becomes impossible to see even a few meters ahead. If you are driving yourself or on a bike trip, then be extremely cautious and keep the fog lights and indicators of the vehicle in good condition. If you are not experienced in driving on winding and slippery roads in the mountains, the safest option is to take a local taxi or the help of an experienced local driver.

4. Carry waterproof trekking shoes and extra cash

To reach the most beautiful places of Meghalaya like the double decker living root bridge or the famous caves, you have to do a lot of walking and trekking. During monsoon, moss accumulates on these paths and stairs, causing heavy slipping. Therefore, instead of normal shoes, wear waterproof trekking shoes with good grip. Apart from this, online payments (UPI) fail due to severe network issues in interior areas, so keep enough cash with you.

5. Advance booking and following the guidelines of local administration.

Even during the monsoon season, there is a huge crowd of tourists in Meghalaya, due to which good hotels and homestays get full quickly. To avoid getting lost at the last moment, leave home only after confirming your booking in advance. Along with this, keep a note of the safety rules and helpline numbers issued by Meghalaya Tourism and local administration so that you can get immediate help in case of any emergency.