In 2021, India’s tourist sector contributed $178 billion, or almost 5.8%, to the GDP of the nation. According to government estimates, this will more than double to $512 billion by 2028. About 137 million employment is generated by the tourism industry. The industry has been observing historically high rate and occupancy demands, together with a rise in domestic travel. Meghalaya has a variety of celebrations planned for the new year in addition to its natural beauty, which is guaranteed to appeal to all types of tourists.

Under the direction of Chief Minister Shri Conrad Sangma, the government of Meghalaya aspires to rank among the top 10 states in the nation, and tourism is essential to accomplishing this objective. The government’s initiatives and activities are aimed at making Meghalaya the most popular tourist destination possible. Meghalaya, often known as the “Abode of Clouds,” is well-known for its diverse ecosystems, renowned monsoons, and spectacular landscape. However, Meghalaya also has a rich cultural and natural legacy, and numerous festivals are held all year long to honor this. This makes Meghalaya the ideal vacation spot for ardent tourists from all over the world who want to immerse themselves in the state’s vibrant cultural history. These celebrations are crucial to showing the cultural wealth of Meghalaya and unlocking its potential through tourism.

The four major cultural and religious festivals of the State are the Wangala Dance (Garo hills – November), Shad Suk Mynsiem and Nongkrem Dance Festival (Khasi hills – April and November), and the Behdeinkhlam Festival (Jaintia hills – July). In addition to these, the Government of Meghalaya also organizes a calendar of curated festivals ranging from Kayaking to music and literature. The significant among these are the Kayaking festival (October), the Autumn festival (October), the Boating Regetta (November), the International Film Festival (December), and the Winter Tales Festival (December).

The most prominent festivals are the Cherry Blossom festival and the Me. Gong Festival.

The Cherry Blossom Festival, which takes place in Shillong each year, is one of Meghalaya’s most colorful and stunning events. Shillong celebrates the Cherry Blossom Festival in November to commemorate the blooming of the pink cherry flowers. It is a 10-day festival that features a number of activities, such as music and literary festivals. In the first week of December, the Garo Hills celebrate the Me. Gong festival. Me. Gong is the name of the festival, which was inspired by a flower that flourishes in the Garo Hills. Through games, concerts, and other activities, the celebration highlights the customs and cultures of the populace. Additionally, the three-day festival features beverages from the entire region.

With its unforgettable landscapes, table-top heights brimming with waterfalls, streams, and forest trails, and postcard-perfect representations of life – complete with pastel green meadows, tall pine groves, crisp cool air, and quiet villages with quaint cottages and wooden fences spread across the countryside – Meghalaya has a lot to offer to the zealous traveler. The State’s array of festivities, which are a result of its numerous unique tribal residents and a bustling, contemporary State capital, are what really set it apart. Meghalaya is the ideal representation of the Northeastern region of this beautiful country and a must-visit location for travelers from around the world.