Garo, Khasi and Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya Plateau: Map & Facts

Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia Hills form the Meghalaya Plateau in northeast India. The state of Meghalaya shares its borders with Assam on the north and east, and Bangladesh on the south and southwest.

These hill ranges stretch across the central part of Meghalaya – Garo Hills in the west, Khasi Hills in the centre, and Jaintia Hills in the east. Together, they act as a connecting upland between the Brahmaputra Valley in the north and the Surma Valley in the south.

Major Hill Ranges of Meghalaya

1. Garo Hills

• Located in western Meghalaya, extending close to the Bangladesh border.
• The Tura Range forms the main ridge, with Tura Peak (872 m) being the highest point.
• Known for dense tropical forests, rich biodiversity, and tribal culture of the Garo people.
• Rivers such as Simsang (Someswari) and Bogai originate here, flowing southward into Bangladesh.
• The region features deep gorges, waterfalls, and limestone caves, adding both ecological and tourism value.

2. Khasi Hills

• Situated in central Meghalaya, forming the heart of the Meghalaya Plateau.
• Contains Shillong Peak (1,965 m), the highest point in the state and a well-known tourist spot.
• Receives some of the heaviest rainfall in the world, particularly in Cherrapunji and Mawsynram.
• Rivers such as Umiam, Umngot, and Kynshi originate here, creating dramatic valleys and waterfalls.
• The Khasi tribe dominates the region, known for their matrilineal society and eco-friendly living bridges made of living roots.

3. Jaintia Hills

• Lies in eastern Meghalaya, bordering Assam in the north and Bangladesh in the south.
• The area is rich in limestone and coal deposits, making mining a key activity.
• Major rivers include the Myntdu and Lukha, flowing southward into Bangladesh.
• The Jaintia tribe primarily inhabits this area, with ancient dolmens and monoliths reflecting their traditional heritage.
• The hills feature rolling plateaus, forested slopes, and caves such as Krem Mawmluh and Krem Liat Prah.

Rivers Originating from the Meghalaya Plateau

• Simsang River (Garo Hills) – Flows south into Bangladesh.
• Umiam River (Khasi Hills) – Feeds the Umiam Lake, a key hydropower and water source near Shillong.
• Umngot River (Khasi Hills) – Known for its crystal-clear water near Dawki.
• Myntdu River (Jaintia Hills) – Joins the Surma-Meghna system in Bangladesh.