GI Products of Meghalaya

About Meghalaya

Meghalaya, meaning the abode of clouds, lies in north-east India with a landscape of rolling hills, waterfalls, caves and some of the wettest places on earth. The state is home to the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo communities, many of which follow matrilineal traditions. Its living root bridges, sacred groves and village markets are known worldwide, and traditional festivals such as Nongkrem and Wangala remain central to community life.

Crafts, food and farm traditions

Ryndia silk, also known as eri or peace silk, is the state's GI craft in this catalogue. It is spun and woven in villages, especially in Ri-Bhoi district, and used for warm shawls and wraps. Meghalaya is also known for products such as Lakadong turmeric, bamboo and cane craft, and Garo textiles, many of which support community livelihoods and sustainable practices.

Visiting and buying

When buying from Meghalaya, look for cooperative outlets such as the state's handloom and handicraft emporia, and ask for handloom labels. Natural fibres like eri need gentle washing, and sellers should be able to describe the fibre source. This page shows the Meghalaya products currently in this catalogue, with buying guidance for each.

Best time to go and practical notes

October to April is the driest and best time to visit, with Shillong as the main hub, reached through Guwahati or Shillong's own small airport. The Ri-Bhoi district lies north of Shillong, where eri silk is reared and woven. The monsoon is extremely wet and can cause landslides, so plan carefully between June and September. Festivals such as Nongkrem in autumn offer a chance to see traditional dress and textiles.

Things to know before you buy

Shillong's Iewduh market, also called Bara Bazar, is one of the region's oldest and largest, and it is a good place to see eri silk, shawls and local produce side by side. Ask for handloom tags and the weaver's name, and check that the fabric feels soft and warm rather than shiny. Wash eri gently by hand in cool water, and dry it in the shade to protect the natural fibre.