Introduction: Why Meghalaya is a Food Lover’s Hidden Gem 🍴

Meghalaya is often celebrated for its enchanting landscapes — mist-laden hills, cascading waterfalls, pristine caves, and lush green valleys. But beyond the scenic beauty lies another world that remains lesser-known to many travellers: Meghalaya’s diverse and delicious food culture.

Here, food is not just about filling your stomach. It’s a window into the tribal way of life, the traditions passed down through generations, and the deep-rooted connection the locals share with nature. The cuisine of Meghalaya, dominated by the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes, offers a delightful fusion of earthy ingredients, slow-cooked flavors, and health-conscious methods like steaming, fermenting, and boiling.

If you are travelling through Meghalaya, whether solo, with friends, or on a family trip, indulging in the local cuisine will enrich your experience in a way that no tourist attraction can. This blog brings you a detailed guide to the must-try dishes of Meghalaya — from comforting rice preparations to smoky pork curries and even fermented delicacies.

🍚 1️⃣ Jadoh – The Pride of Khasi Kitchens

What is it?

Jadoh is arguably the most famous and widely loved dish among the Khasi people. It is a beautiful combination of red rice cooked in pork fat with succulent chunks of meat, often enhanced with aromatic spices, turmeric, bay leaves, ginger, and green chillies.

Why You Should Try It

This is not just a meal; it’s a cultural experience. Every bite brings out the rustic flavors of tribal kitchens. Whether you’re sitting in a small Shillong eatery or joining a local family for a meal, Jadoh will likely find a place on your plate.

👉 Pro Tip: Some versions come with chicken or fish if you don’t prefer pork. Pair it with chutney and a salad of fresh onions and green chillies for the authentic experience.

🐖 2️⃣ Dohneiiong – Pork Cooked to Perfection with Sesame

What is it?

The love for pork runs deep in Meghalaya, and Dohneiiong is a standout example of the state’s culinary genius. Tender pieces of pork belly are cooked slowly with a rich paste of roasted black sesame seeds, giving it an earthy aroma and a thick, flavorful gravy.

Why You Should Try It

The nutty flavor of the sesame blends beautifully with the fatty goodness of pork, resulting in a unique taste you won’t easily find elsewhere in India. It’s a must-try for anyone wanting to understand the depth of flavors Meghalayan cuisine can offer.

👉 Best enjoyed with: A warm plate of steamed rice or Pumaloi (more on that below).

🫘 3️⃣ Tungrymbai – Fermented Soybean Magic

What is it?

Not for the faint-hearted, Tungrymbai is a pungent yet delicious dish made from fermented soybeans, cooked with pork, ginger, onion, garlic, mustard oil, and local spices. It reflects Meghalaya’s tradition of fermentation, which is key to preserving ingredients in these high-altitude regions.

Why You Should Try It

Tungrymbai offers a flavor profile that’s earthy, bold, and complex. Though it may take a bite or two to acquire the taste, it rewards those who dare with rich umami flavors and a hearty, comforting feel.

👉 Best served with: Plain rice or local steamed rice cakes like Pumaloi.

🍚 4️⃣ Pumaloi – The Softest Steamed Rice Delicacy

What is it?

Pumaloi literally means ‘powdered rice’ in Khasi, and this dish is made by steaming finely ground rice in special earthen pots. Unlike boiled rice, Pumaloi is light, fluffy, and slightly crumbly in texture.

Why You Should Try It

Pumaloi is an essential part of any Khasi household, especially during celebrations and community gatherings. It pairs exceptionally well with spicy curries and pickles, balancing out the strong flavors with its mild softness.

👉 Pro Tip: Don’t expect it to taste like regular steamed rice; Pumaloi has its own charm!

🍺 5️⃣ Kyat – The Traditional Rice Beer of Meghalaya

What is it?

Kyat is Meghalaya’s traditional rice beer, usually home-brewed and served during festivals, family gatherings, and special occasions. Made from fermented rice, Kyat is mildly tangy, light, and easy on the palate — perfect for sipping slowly while sharing stories.

Why You Should Try It

It’s not just a drink; it’s an invitation into the social fabric of Meghalaya. Sharing Kyat with locals, often served in bamboo mugs, is one of the warmest gestures of hospitality you’ll experience here.

👉 Caution: Kyat is mild but can sneak up on you after a few rounds!

🚶‍♂️ How to Reach Meghalaya

  • ✈️ By Air

    ➡️ The nearest airport to Meghalaya is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) in Guwahati, Assam – approximately 120 km from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya.

    ✅ Direct Flights Available From:

    • 🏙️ Delhi
    • 🏙️ Mumbai
    • 🏙️ Kolkata
    • 🏙️ Bengaluru
    • 🏙️ Chennai

    🚖 From Guwahati Airport to Shillong:

    • Private Taxi: ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 (approx. 3–4 hours) 🚕
    • Shared Taxi: ₹500 – ₹700 per person 🚐
    • State Transport Bus: ₹150 – ₹300 per person 🚌

    👉 Tip: Prepaid taxis are available at the airport – safest and most comfortable option!

    🚆 By Train

    ➡️ Meghalaya does not have a railway station. The nearest major railhead is Guwahati Railway Station (GHY), about 100 km from Shillong.

    ✅ Trains to Guwahati Available From:

    • 🏙️ Delhi (Rajdhani Express)
    • 🏙️ Kolkata (Saraighat Express)
    • 🏙️ Mumbai (LTT Guwahati Express)
    • 🏙️ Chennai (Dibrugarh Express)
    • 🏙️ Bengaluru (Guwahati Express)

    🚖 From Guwahati Station to Shillong:

    • Private Taxi: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 (approx. 3 hours) 🚖
    • Shared Taxi: ₹400 – ₹600 per person 🚐
    • State Bus: ₹150 – ₹300 🚌

    👉 Tip: Taxis and shared cabs are easily available outside the station.

    🚌 By Road

    ➡️ Meghalaya is well-connected to Assam and neighboring northeastern states by road. The roads are scenic, with lush green hills and misty valleys. 🌿

    ✅ Road Routes to Meghalaya:

    • From Guwahati to Shillong: 100 km (3 hours) via NH6 🛣️
    • From Kaziranga to Shillong: 260 km (6 hours) via NH27 🌄
    • From Siliguri to Shillong: 560 km (12 hours) via NH27 🚗

    🚍 Options:

    • State Transport Buses: Affordable but slow
    • Private Buses (Volvo, AC): Comfortable and faster
    • Shared Cabs: Convenient for small groups

    👉 Tip: Take a window seat – the views along the road are breathtaking! 🌲

    🚙 Self-Drive

    • ✅ Well-maintained roads – but expect sharp bends and hilly terrain
    • ✅ Fuel stations available along the route
    • ✅ Rent a car from Guwahati if you prefer driving yourself

    👉 Tip: Start early to avoid foggy weather, especially in the mornings. 🌫️

Where to Stay in Meghalaya

Meghalaya offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly lodges. Some popular options include:

Luxury

  • Polo Orchid Resort
  • Abode of Clouds Resort

Eco-luxury

  • Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort

Mid-range

  • Serene Homestay

Budget-friendly

  • Odyssey Stays Nongriat

Final Thoughts

🥗 Other Honourable Mentions to Try If You Have Time:

✅ Nakham Bitchi – A spicy Garo soup made with dry fish and chillies.
✅ Smoked Pork Curry – Pork smoked over firewood, then slow-cooked with bamboo shoot.
✅ Black Sesame Chutney – Served as a side with rice meals.

💚 Final Thoughts: Eat Like a Local, Travel Like a Local

Meghalaya’s food is rooted in community, culture, and connection with nature. It’s simple yet sophisticated, humble yet bursting with unique flavors. As you travel through the hills, make sure to ditch the fast food joints and explore the hidden gems — local eateries, village kitchens, and roadside stalls.

Because in Meghalaya, every meal tells a story.

🌟 Final Thoughts – Discover One of India’s Most Underrated Travel Destinations

Whether you’re a solo traveler, nature lover, family explorer, or travel agency curating Northeast packages — Cherrapunji deserves your attention. It’s peaceful, eco-friendly, affordable, and rich in experiences that no crowded destination can match.

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