A few months ago, I found myself in Meghalaya – a state in the far North East of India which is known for its beautiful mountainous terrain and Cherrapunji, the rainiest place on Earth (or the second rainiest one now since it has been taken over by a nearby village Mawsynram). However, the many wonderful facts about the state that make it such a fantastic Indian state to visit are somewhat shrouded till you actually make it there. Here’s an attempt to give you a preview in the hopes that you someday visit:
- There are a few living roots bridges in the area which have been created by the inhabitants of the state by pulling prop roots across rivers/ streams through hollowed out tree trunks. A true example of “jugad” or frugal innovation in the scenic mountains of Meghalaya
- The literacy rate in Meghalaya is not the top most in India but is still commendable given that much of the state is rural in nature. The state was said to have ~75% literacy rate in 2017 and this is visible in the fact that even young children in very rural areas of Meghalaya can be found reading the newspaper in the morning
- Perhaps you knew this one but it’s still an important point to highlight. Unlike majority of the Indian states, Meghalayan society is matriarchal leaving property rights with women. In fact, the Khasi and Garo population of Meghalaya goes as far as to suggest that all the inheritance should belong to the youngest daughter in the family who carries forward her mother’s name. A beautiful contradiction to much of the world where women are often not top of mind in these matters
- The state has banned the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in 2014 declaring a push towards safer produce for consumers
- Meghalaya’s mountains have their fair share of caves, from those in Mawsmai to those in Arwah. The fantastic part about visiting the Arwah caves and navigating through the narrow passages often jumping over streams and puddles of water while being surrounded by stalagmites and stalactites is that you can clearly spot fossils along its walls
- And then there’s the final surprise – it turns out the cleanest village in Asia is in Meghalaya. The quaint little village of Mawlynnong is a treat for the eyes. It’s small enough to where one can walk all the streets without breaking into a sweat and provides a wonderful journey to a hilly paradise. It’s not just the cleanest village I have ever seen but also the most beautiful. A haven for those of us who just want to enjoy the quiet of a village, hills to hike, and good company
This beautiful state with its friendly people is a must visit for those of you looking for a North East India adventure. So, get your hiking boots and make that trip!
PS: many places in Meghalaya start with the word “Maw”. That means stone in Khasi, in case you were wondering.
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