Exploring Meghalaya: A Step-by-Step Travel Guide

Nestled in the heart of Northeast India, Meghalaya, often referred to as the ‘Scotland of the East,’ is a haven of unspoiled beauty, mystical caves, and cascading waterfalls. A paradise for adventurers, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts, Meghalaya offers a unique blend of serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This travel blog aims to guide you through the essence of traveling to Meghalaya, ensuring you experience the best of what this majestic land has to offer.

Best Time to Visit Meghalaya

To fully appreciate Meghalaya’s splendor, timing is everything. The best season to visit Meghalaya is between October and June, when the weather is pleasant—making it ideal for exploring the lush landscapes and engaging in outdoor activities. This period avoids the heavy monsoon rains, allowing travelers to comfortably trek to the famous living root bridges or enjoy the clear waters of Dawki.

Day 1: Exploring Shillong – The Capital City of Meghalaya

Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, is your gateway to the enchanting beauty of the Northeast. Known for its colonial legacy, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culture, Shillong offers a perfect blend of historical charm and natural beauty. Embark on your journey through Shillong with these carefully selected attractions and experiences, ensuring a memorable start to your Meghalaya adventure.

Morning: Visit Elephant Falls

• Starting Point: Begin your day with a visit to the majestic Elephant Falls, located just 12 km from the city center. Named by the British due to a rock resembling an elephant near the falls, this three-tiered waterfall is a sight to behold. The falls are nestled in dense greenery, and the cascading water creates a serene ambiance. It’s an ideal spot for photography and soaking in nature’s tranquility.

Late Morning: Explore Shillong Peak

• Next Stop: Head to Shillong Peak, the highest point in Shillong, offering panoramic views of the entire city, the green surroundings, and the Himalayan ranges. Standing at an altitude of 1965 meters above sea level, it’s a perfect place for nature lovers and photo enthusiasts. The view from the top is breathtaking, especially on a clear day.

Afternoon: Lunch and Local Markets

• Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Khasi lunch at one of the local eateries in Shillong. Savor dishes like Jadoh, a popular Khasi rice dish made with pork and spices, offering a taste of the rich culinary traditions of Meghalaya.
• Local Markets: Post lunch, stroll through the bustling local markets of Shillong. Police Bazar, the main market, is an excellent place for shopping and experiencing the local life. From traditional handicrafts to stylish clothes, and from local spices to exotic fruits, you’ll find an array of items to browse and buy.

Evening: Ward’s Lake and Lady Hydari Park

• Relaxation: After the hustle and bustle of the market, relax at Ward’s Lake, a beautiful artificial lake surrounded by lush gardens. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake or indulge in boating. The calm waters and the greenery make it a peaceful retreat.
• Lady Hydari Park: Conclude your day with a visit to Lady Hydari Park, named after the wife of the first Governor of Assam. The park is a blend of a Japanese garden and a mini zoo. It’s a great place to unwind, enjoy the floral diversity, and if you’re traveling with kids, the mini zoo offers a delightful experience.

Dinner: End Your Day with a Local Delight

• Culinary Wrap-up: For dinner, choose one of Shillong’s restaurants offering panoramic views of the city. Try more local delicacies or international cuisine as you reflect on the day’s journey.

Day 2: Cherrapunji – The Realm of Clouds and Waterfalls

Cherrapunji, locally known as Sohra, is renowned for its lush landscapes and is historically recognized as the wettest place on Earth. This enchanting destination offers a plethora of natural attractions, including breathtaking waterfalls, mysterious caves, and stunning viewpoints. Embark on an immersive journey to explore the wonders of Cherrapunji, ensuring a day filled with awe-inspiring natural beauty and adventure.

Morning: Nohkalikai Falls

• Starting Point: Begin your day early with a visit to Nohkalikai Falls, India’s tallest plunge waterfall. The falls are a spectacular sight, dropping from a height of about 340 meters (1115 feet) into a turquoise pool below. Surrounded by verdant rainforest, the viewpoint offers a stunning panorama of the waterfall and the lush landscape around it. The tragic legend associated with Nohkalikai adds a mystic allure to the visit.

Mid-Morning: Seven Sisters Falls and Eco Park

• Next Stop: Continue to the Seven Sisters Falls, also known as Nohsngithiang Falls. This seven-segmented waterfall dramatically cascades over limestone cliffs, especially visible during the monsoon season. The falls offer a picturesque view of the limestone formations of the Khasi Hills and the plains of Bangladesh in the distance.
• Eco Park: Created by the Meghalaya government, Eco Park features several viewpoints that provide breathtaking views of the green canyons of Cherrapunji and the plains of Bangladesh. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk amidst nature.

Afternoon: Lunch and Mawsmai Caves

• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or café in Cherrapunji, sampling more of the local cuisine, which might include dishes prepared with local pork, beef, and a variety of fresh vegetables.
• Mawsmai Caves: Post lunch, visit the Mawsmai Caves, one of the most accessible and popular caves in the Cherrapunji region. These limestone caves are well lit and offer a fascinating walk through narrow passages and chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. The natural formations inside the cave are a marvel of geology, showcasing the natural artistry of millennia.

Late Afternoon: Dainthlen Falls and Thangkharang Park

• Dainthlen Falls: Next, head to Dainthlen Falls, which is less crowded but equally magnificent. The falls are associated with a local legend that adds to their charm. The approach to the falls through the plateau offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation.
• Thangkharang Park: Visit Thangkharang Park, which provides a panoramic view of the plains of Bangladesh and the Kynrem Falls cascading in the distance. The park is also home to the Khoh Ramhah rock, a giant natural Shiva linga-shaped formation, adding a spiritual element to the natural beauty.

Evening: Return to Shillong

• Journey Back: As the day winds down, start your journey back to Shillong. The drive itself is an experience, with the changing landscapes and the sun setting over the hills.
• Dinner: Once back in Shillong, choose a cozy restaurant for dinner to reflect on the day’s adventures. This is an excellent opportunity to try out other Meghalayan specialties or enjoy familiar comfort food.

Day 3: Trek to the Double Decker Root Bridge – A Journey Through Nature’s Marvel

The trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat Village is a highlight for many travelers visiting Meghalaya. This unique bio-engineered structure, made from the roots of ancient rubber trees, represents the harmonious relationship between the indigenous Khasi people and their natural environment. The trek is an adventure that not only showcases the breathtaking beauty of Meghalaya’s dense forests and rivers but also offers an insight into the sustainable living practices of the local communities.

Early Morning: Preparation and Journey to Tyrna Village

• Starting Point: Begin your day early to maximize your time on the trek. Have a hearty breakfast in Shillong, as you’ll need the energy for the day ahead. Pack essentials like water, snacks, comfortable trekking shoes, and a first-aid kit.
• To Tyrna Village: The trek to the Double Decker Root Bridge starts from Tyrna Village, about a 2-hour drive from Shillong. The road to Tyrna offers scenic views and a glimpse into the rural life of Meghalaya.

Morning: Begin the Trek to Nongriat Village

• The Trek: Starting from Tyrna, the trek involves descending around 3500 steps. The path winds through a lush forest, crossing several suspension bridges over crystal-clear streams, and passing by smaller root bridges and waterfalls. The trek is moderately challenging but incredibly rewarding, with the lush greenery and the sound of flowing water accompanying you.

Mid-Morning: Arrival at the Double Decker Root Bridge

• Exploration: Upon reaching Nongriat, take your time to marvel at the Double Decker Root Bridge, an astounding example of living architecture. The bridge is strong enough to hold several people at once and spans across a beautiful stream. It’s a perfect spot for photography and to take a moment to appreciate the ingenuity of the Khasi tribes.

Afternoon: Explore Nearby Attractions

• Rainbow Falls: For those who wish to extend their trek, a further hike leads to the Rainbow Falls, a secluded waterfall that offers a serene spot to relax. The waters here are crystal clear, and on sunny days, you might see rainbows forming in the mist.
• Lunch: Enjoy a packed lunch or a simple meal at a local homestay in Nongriat. This is also a great opportunity to interact with the locals and learn more about their way of life.

Late Afternoon: Trek Back to Tyrna

• Return Journey: Begin your trek back to Tyrna in the late afternoon. The climb up can be more challenging than the descent, so take it slow and steady. Ensure you leave enough time to return before dusk for safety.

Evening: Return to Shillong

• Relaxation: Once back in Shillong, the rest of the evening is for well-deserved relaxation. After such an adventurous day, a quiet dinner might be the best way to recharge. Opt for a restaurant offering views of the city or the surrounding hills to reflect on the day’s journey.

Day 4: Dawki – A Serene Adventure by the Crystal Clear Umngot River

Dawki, a small but significant town in the East Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya, is famed for its crystal-clear Umngot River and the India-Bangladesh border trade. A day trip to Dawki offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and the unique experience of boating on one of the clearest rivers in India. Here’s how to make the most of your day in Dawki.

Early Morning: Departure from Shillong

• Starting Early: Begin your day with an early breakfast in Shillong to embark on the approximately 2-3 hour drive to Dawki. The journey itself is scenic, with lush green hills, waterfalls, and the beautiful countryside of Meghalaya unfolding along the way.

Morning: Arrival and Boating in Umngot River

• Boating Experience: Upon reaching Dawki, head straight to the Umngot River for a boating experience unlike any other. The river is so clear that boats appear to float in mid-air! The serene waters, surrounded by lush greenery, offer a peaceful retreat and a photographer’s paradise. Opt for a traditional wooden boat to gently glide over the river, exploring its natural beauty.

Late Morning: Explore the Dawki-Tamabil Border

• Border Visit: After your boating adventure, take a short drive to the Dawki-Tamabil border between India and Bangladesh. The friendly relations between the two countries can be witnessed here, with a bustling trade market and people from both sides mingling freely. It’s a unique experience to see the cultural exchange and the simplicity of border life.

Afternoon: Lunch and Visit to Nearby Villages

• Local Cuisine: Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, sampling dishes made with fresh river fish and local ingredients. Dawki’s proximity to Bangladesh influences its cuisine, offering a blend of flavors worth trying.
• Village Tour: Post-lunch, visit one of the nearby Khasi or Jaintia villages. This is a great opportunity to observe local lifestyles, traditional homes, and possibly interact with the residents. Learning about their customs, traditions, and daily routines offers insightful perspectives into the rich cultural tapestry of Meghalaya.

Late Afternoon: Mawlynnong – Asia’s Cleanest Village

• Mawlynnong Visit: A short drive from Dawki is Mawlynnong, dubbed ‘Asia’s Cleanest Village’. Explore this picturesque village, known for its cleanliness, community-based ecotourism, and the living root bridge. Walking through the village, you’ll notice beautifully kept gardens, bamboo dustbins lining the streets, and a 100% literacy rate signboard that marks the community’s commitment to education and the environment.

Evening: Return to Shillong

• Journey Back: Start your return journey to Shillong in the late afternoon, allowing you to soak in the views of the Khasi hills as the sun begins to set. The drive back is an opportunity to reflect on the day’s experiences and the natural and cultural richness of Meghalaya.
• Dinner in Shillong: Once back in Shillong, end your day with a relaxing dinner. Choose a restaurant that offers local delicacies or international cuisine to suit your palate, celebrating the adventures of the day and the beauty of Meghalaya.

Day 5: Leisure, Culture, and Culinary Exploration in Meghalaya

On the final day of your Meghalaya journey, immerse yourself in the local culture, indulge in some leisurely shopping, and explore the culinary delights that this beautiful state has to offer. This day is designed to be more relaxed, allowing you to soak in the essence of Meghalaya at your own pace and create lasting memories.

Morning: Cultural Tour of Shillong

• Heritage Walk: Start your day with a leisurely heritage walk through Shillong’s historical locales. Visit the All Saints Church, an architectural marvel from the colonial era, and the Don Bosco Museum, which offers a comprehensive insight into the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous tribes of Northeast India. The museum’s panoramic viewing gallery also provides a breathtaking view of Shillong.

Late Morning: Handicraft Shopping

• Local Crafts: Head to the Government Handicrafts Shop and local markets like Lewduh (Bara Bazar), one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in the Northeast. Here, you can find a variety of Khasi handicrafts, woven baskets, handloom shawls, and other souvenirs that reflect the artistry of Meghalaya. It’s a great way to support local artisans and take a piece of Meghalaya back home with you.

Afternoon: Culinary Delights

• Local Cuisine: For lunch, explore one of the many eateries serving traditional Meghalayan cuisine. Dishes you might want to try include ‘Dohkhlieh’ (pork salad), ‘Nakham Bitchi’ (a spicy fish soup), and ‘Dohneiiong’ (pork cooked with black sesame seeds), offering a taste of the local flavors that are both unique and delicious.

Late Afternoon: Relaxation and Sunset at Umiam Lake

• Umiam Lake: Spend the late afternoon at Umiam Lake, a beautiful man-made reservoir located just outside Shillong. The lake offers a tranquil setting for relaxation and leisure activities such as kayaking, water cycling, and boating. It’s also a perfect spot for a picnic with breathtaking views of the sunset over the water, providing a serene end to your day and your journey through Meghalaya.

Evening: Farewell Dinner

• Celebration: Conclude your Meghalaya adventure with a farewell dinner at one of Shillong’s finest restaurants. This is an opportunity to reflect on your journey, the beauty you’ve witnessed, the people you’ve met, and the experiences you’ve cherished. Enjoy the ambiance, the food, and the company, celebrating the end of a memorable trip.

Conclusion of the Journey

This itinerary for Day 5 offers a blend of cultural immersion, leisure, and culinary exploration, providing a gentle conclusion to your adventure in Meghalaya. It’s a day to relax, reflect, and revel in the experiences that have made your trip unforgettable. Meghalaya, with its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality, leaves you with memories that will last a lifetime, urging you to return and explore even more of what this enchanting state has to offer.

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