Travel time: Year-round
Meghalaya, aptly named the "Abode of Clouds," possesses one of the most distinctive climates on Earth. Dominated by its dramatic topography—a series of hills and plateaus rising sharply from the plains of Bangladesh—the region acts as a giant atmospheric ramp for moisture-laden winds. This geography creates a wide spectrum of weather, from temperate highland air to some of the highest precipitation levels ever recorded.
In the central and eastern highlands, such as the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, the weather is characterized by a "bracing" quality—cool, fresh, and perpetually moist. In the western Garo Hills, which sit at lower altitudes, the climate is noticeably warmer and more tropical.
Throughout the day, Meghalaya’s weather is famous for its unpredictability. A bright, sun-drenched morning can transform into a mist-filled afternoon in minutes as clouds drift up from the valleys. These "swirling mists" are a constant companion, often blanketing the landscape so thoroughly that landmarks like the living root bridges appear to float in a sea of white.
Contrary to the scorching heat of the Indian plains, Meghalaya’s summer is mild, with temperatures typically ranging between 15°C and 25°C. This is the season of "Spring-Summer," where clear skies are often interrupted by localized thunderstorms known as "Nor'westers." April and May see a dramatic increase in humidity as the monsoon approaches.
This is the defining season of Meghalaya. It is characterized by relentless, torrential rainfall, particularly in Mawsynram and Cherrapunji (Sohra). During these months, the state receives about 75% of its annual rainfall. The rain often comes in massive "dumping" events, turning once-dry gullies into thundering waterfalls. Temperature remains cool (18°C–23°C), but the air is saturated, often exceeding 90% humidity.
The retreat of the monsoon brings the most stable weather. Skies clear to a deep azure, and visibility is at its peak. Temperatures begin to dip (12°C–20°C), making it a favorite time for trekking. The landscape remains incredibly lush from the summer rains, but the risk of flash floods and landslides diminishes significantly.
Winters are dry and crisp. In high-altitude areas like Shillong, daytime temperatures are pleasant (15°C), but nights can be biting, dropping as low as 2°C or 4°C. Valleys are frequently filled with thick morning fog that clears by midday. This is the least cloudy time of year, offering sharp, golden light perfect for photography.
Elevation is the primary driver of weather diversity in Meghalaya:
Historically, Cherrapunji held the record for the wettest place on Earth, though recent decades have seen Mawsynram take the title. Locals have developed sophisticated methods to live with this water. Traditional Khasi architecture often features soundproof elements to dampen the deafening roar of rain on tin roofs.
A unique adaptation is the use of "Knups"—large, turtle-shell-shaped umbrellas made of woven bamboo and banana leaves. These allow farmers to work in the fields during downpours while keeping their hands free. Additionally, the famous living root bridges are a centuries-old response to the climate; where wooden bridges would rot and steel would rust in the humidity, these bio-engineered structures grow stronger with every monsoon.
Meghalaya is perhaps the world's best example of orographic precipitation. The Khasi Hills rise abruptly from the plains to nearly 1,500 meters. When the moist monsoon air from the Bay of Bengal hits these cliffs, it is forced upward so rapidly that it cools and condenses into massive rain clouds almost instantly. This "funnel effect" is why rainfall here is measured in meters rather than inches.