While planning a trip to any destination, one would precisely look at the region’s weather and climate conditions before planning their travel itinerary. Meghalaya is a perfect place to visit throughout the year- yes, even during monsoons. The weather is very pleasant during summers, fall, autumn and can get very cold during winters. However, the weather does change with the change in altitude.
Don't forget that Meghalaya is considered to be home to the wettest place on earth. This mountainous region receives an annual rainfall of approx. 12,000 mm (470in) in some areas. Before planning your trip, one must definitely find out about current weather in Meghalaya to ensure your travel experience is enhanced.
Most of the year, the Garo Hills experiences high temperatures due to low elevations whereas Shillong experiences pleasant to cold temperatures. The southern part of Shillong (Khasi Hills) hold the world record for receiving the longest duration of rainfall in a calendar year. Sohra (Cherrapunji) was first known to receive the highest rainfall in a year, in the world but now it is Mawsynram, which is about 2.44 hours from Cherrapunji. Therefore, don’t forget to carry your umbrella, raincoats, and gumboots when planning your trip to Meghalaya.
A fun fact: Sohra and Mawsnram are considered to be the rain magnets of Meghalaya.
One must also be aware that flood-affected areas are mostly in low altitudes that are bordering Assam and the International Border of India-Bangladesh. Because of the major development happening in Meghalaya, deforestation has been rampant, which has resulted in flash floods. Due to this reason, the floods have become a regular occurrence, especially in Assam, which is a 3-hour journey by road from Meghalaya.
The climate and the environmental conditions go hand in hand. Since this state is considered as being one of the wettest places in the world, Meghalaya’s forest areas are considered amongst the richest botanical habitats in Asia. Due to the abundance of rainfall, the forests are home to a variety of extravagant floral and faunal biodiversity which is not only a learning experience for geologists or scientists but also for all the nature lovers who exist on earth.
One of the most compelling facts that one can find in Meghalaya’s forest lands is the ‘Sacred Grooves’ which holds very religious significance, not only in India but around the world. It holds its significance since many centuries due to the mythological and cultural practices. It is basically a variant of trees that has been preserved by the communities of the state because of their special religious belief and no one can remove anything, pick up, break or trample, cause havoc or even dirty this enchanted forest. It is said that if one does that, the person will face serious consequences.
Along with diverse cultures, traditions, and foods, Meghalaya also has diverse climate conditions and floral diversity. This is the very reason the forests of Meghalaya are home to numerous parasites, epiphytes, plants, and shrubs. It also homes various mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects and other species.
Meghalaya has an agrarian economy and its weather conditions have played a vital role in its expansion. Since Meghalaya is enveloped by beautiful forests and hills, it has prevented the soil from leaching and erosion, helping to regulate and decrease the flow of the powerful streams during the monsoon season.
Apart from everything, the weather of Meghalaya is not consistent. It is unpredictable. At times, one will experience four seasons in one day. Unbelievable, right? But believe it. So, if you want to experience the wildness in this region’s climatic conditions and the atmosphere, take the feel of the range of temperatures fluctuating as per season in a single day, because this place can make that possible for you.
Beautiful weather, magical scenic views, amazing and warm people, and a cozy atmosphere.
Meghalaya has been rightly named, the "Abode of Clouds".