Best Time to Visit Meghalaya - A Month by Month Guide

Best Time to Visit Meghalaya — Month-Wise Weather & Travel Guide

Meghalaya, located in the North Eastern part of India, also known as "The Abode of Clouds", is one of India’s most beautiful and ecologically rich destinations. Whether you want to walk across ancient living root bridges, trek through misty landscapes, or experience rich tribal culture, knowing the best time to visit Meghalaya can help you plan a memorable trip. The Spring season is characterized by sunny days and cooler evenings, especially at higher altitudes. The monsoon season in Meghalaya is particularly known for its heavy rainfall, making it a lush, green landscape and waterfalls in full flow. During Autumn the rains subside, and the landscape becomes sunnier and more vibrant, with many traditional festivals taking place. In the Winter the temperature is pleasant and ideal for exploring the region, with potential for mild frosts in the higher reaches.

Each season is unique and brings with it its own natural charm and beauty. This guide gives you a month-by-month breakdown of Meghalaya’s weather, cultural highlights, and travel tips so you can decide the perfect season for your adventure.

Meghalaya in January: Cool and pleasant, with temperatures between 4°C and 15°C.

• Ideal for nature walks, hikes, and exploring places like Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong, and Dawki.
• Crystal-clear waters in Dawki and Shnongpdeng offer stunning views.
• Enjoy a peaceful trip with fewer tourists.

Tips: Pack light woollens. Great for photography!

Meghalaya in February: Slightly warmer, still dry and ideal for travel.

• Ideal time to trek to Double Decker Root Bridge in Nongriat.
• Clear skies make it perfect for camping and outdoor adventures.

Tips: Book accommodations in advance in popular spots like Shillong.

Meghalaya in March: Transition into spring with mild temperatures and blooming flora

• Excellent visibility and weather for exploring caves like Mawsmai and Arwah.
• Comfortable climate for family and solo travel.

Meghalaya in April: Warm days, occasional pre-monsoon showers begin

• Lush greenery starts to return.
• Great for travelers looking to beat the summer heat elsewhere in India.

Meghalaya in May: Weather: Pre-monsoon season, increased humidity and scattered showers

Pros:

• The landscape becomes even more lush and vibrant.
• Fewer crowds compared to summer destinations.

Cons: Rain might disrupt long treks.

Meghalaya in June:  Start of monsoon season; heavy rainfall begins

Why You Might Still Visit:

• Waterfalls like Nohkalikai and Elephant Falls are at their most powerful.
• Dreamy mist-covered valleys offer surreal views.

Caution: Trekking trails may be slippery; best for monsoon lovers and photographers.

Meghalaya in July & August:  Peak monsoon season. Heavy rain continues.

Is It the Best Time to Visit Meghalaya?

• Only if you love dramatic weather and offbeat experiences.
• Great for waterfall chasers and those interested in nature photography.

Travel Tip: Always check weather forecasts and local conditions.

Meghalaya in September:  Rain begins to subside; freshness everywhere

Why Visit in September:

• Waterfalls are still full and trails are starting to reopen.
• Less crowded than October, ideal for budget travel.

Meghalaya in October: Clear skies, fresh post-monsoon greenery, moderate temperatures.

Why October Is One of the Best Times to Visit Meghalaya:

Perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and exploring caves and waterfalls.

Festivals like Wangala (a harvest festival of the Garo tribe) begin.

Meghalaya in November: Pleasant and dry

Highlights:

Ideal time to visit places like Laitlum Canyons and Shnongpdeng.

Visibility is excellent for long drives and sightseeing.

Tip: Carry a light jacket as evenings can be cool.

Meghalaya in December: Cold but manageable (4°C to 15°C), festive vibe in the air.

Why Visit in December:

Christmas celebrations light up Shillong and other towns.

Great for cultural exploration and calm travel experiences.

Summary: What Is the Best Time to Visit Meghalaya?

Final Travel Tips:

Avoid peak monsoon (July–August) unless you’re prepared for heavy rain and slippery roads. October to April is widely considered the best time to visit Meghalaya for most travelers. If you love greenery and don’t mind getting a little wet, May and September are great offbeat picks. 

Written by Prerna

Prerna, a seasoned travel & hospitality expert, isn't just a writer – she's a curator of experiences. Leading the customer delight team at OurGuest, Prerna leverages her extensive background at Taj, Hyatt, ITC, and more. A Master's graduate in English Literature, Prerna's passion for storytelling is fueled by her childhood spent traversing India with her police officer father. Fluent in Bengali, Hindi, English, and Nepali, she fosters genuine connections across cultures. Join Prerna as she unveils the hidden gems and vibrant soul of Northeast India, one captivating story at a time.

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