About Meghalaya Tour plan
Meghalaya is regarded as northeast India's most popular tourist attraction, with a legit crown of Abode of clouds.
Bangladesh borders it on the south and southwest, while the Indian state of Assam borders it on the north and northeast. The hill town of Shillong, which is situated in east-central Meghalaya, serves as the state capital.
Due to the large amount of rain that falls on the land of Meghalaya, it is the only state in India that is gifted with natural beauty. Because of its natural beauty, Meghalaya is frequently referred to as "Scotland of the East."
It acquired the name Meghalaya due to the presence of the rain-bearing Cloud Nimbus and other clouds like cumulus, stratus, cirrus, etc.
The large metropolis of Guwahati is located in the northeastern Indian state of Assam, close to the Brahmaputra River. It is well-known for its sacred locations, including the hilltop Kamakhya Temple with its temples to Shiva and Vishnu.
Guwahati, also known as the "Gateway to Northeast India," is a very famous city. Meghalaya is visible from every part of the city. Due to the abundance of locations within 200 kilometres of it, including Meghalaya, Manas, and Kaziranga, it is a popular tourist destination.
How to reach Meghalaya
If you want to come to Meghalaya for the Meghalaya trip plan, you can come in all three ways by flight, train or bus.
By Air
Meghalaya's only airport to come by flight is in Shillong, whose name is Umroi Airport. But, its connectivity is so bad from some cities of India, very few tourists come from here to Meghalaya.
The best way to come to Meghalaya by flight is to come from Guwahati. There is Gopinath Bordoloi Airport in Guwahati which is only 128 km away from Shillong. From the airport you can hire a taxi or cab to reach the destination. So, it's advisable to take a flight from Guwahati Airport.
There is also a helicopter service that visitors may use to get to Meghalaya, and because it is affordable, some people choose to do so. Helicopter travel to Shillong from Guwahati only takes 20 minutes, and it's also rather convenient. Note, on Sundays, the service is not available.
By train
In Meghalaya, there is neither a train station nor any railway lines. Only Guwahati has the nearest one. Guwahati is like a backbone of the Meghalaya trip plan. It is the most convenient source of Meghalaya tour packages.
It can be used to travel to the capital of Meghalaya, which is about 100 kilometres from Shillong. The Guwahati station has excellent connections to all of India's other cities and is frequently used as a route into the state of Meghalaya.
By Bus
Buses are a popular choice for transportation since they are quick, cheap, and convenient. You may select from a variety of tourist buses, both premium and standard, depending on what is most convenient for you.
There are two important highways that connect Shillong and Tripura, NH 44 and NH 40, which provide access to the capital city of Meghalaya. Bus service operated by Meghalaya Transport Corporation is accessible from Guwahati and nearby places.
Local buses are an option for getting around places like Shillong.
There are two different bus types in Shillong:
- The Shillong City Bus - This is for tourists and other visitors.
- The Bazaar Bus - This is for villagers travelling to Shillong from other regions of Meghalaya.
Although slow and not the most pleasant mode of transportation, local bus travel is quite cheap.
Best time to visit Meghalaya/Shillong
April - June, Summer seasonin Meghalaya
You may fill your curiosity while you explore the area outside in the delightfully warm weather. As a result, visiting Meghalaya is best done during the summer, making it the best time to visit Meghalaya and indulge in some adventurous activities.
This time of year is ideal for individuals who wish to learn about the village's culture as well as those who are looking for adventure and exploration. The majority of festivals and activities take place throughout the summer, bringing together residents and visitors from all walks of life. At this time of year, there is never a boring moment in Meghalaya.
The three-day Shad Suk Mynsiem festival that takes place in April is the climax of this season. This celebration, also known as the Dance of Contentment, honours the Khasi tribe's character. The Khasi tribe performs it as part of their yearly gratitude dance in anticipation of the bumper harvest.
July - September, Monsoon season in Meghalaya
Meghalaya experiences rapid downpours during this time of year. Behdienkhlam, which is extensively seen in the northeastern state of Meghalaya, is the season's high point.
It is not advisable at this time of year to get outside and explore the neighbourhood. The area makes up for it, though, with foggy mornings, lush, dewy meadows, and waterfalls that crash down on the rocks with unrelenting force that makes the most beautiful sight to behold.
This is the best time to visit Meghalaya if you want to unwind, and enjoy this rainy state's splendour with your family. At the Elephant Falls, take in the soothing sound of the water pouring as it cascades over the rocks. You may appreciate the misty beauty of Meghalaya away from the crowds due to the relatively short tourism season.
October - November, Autumn season in Meghalaya
Several festivals are scheduled at this time of year to draw travellers from throughout the nation. The Autumn festival, which is held in the Meghalaya capital of Shillong, is one of the major celebrations that highlight and mark the beginning of this season. That is why it is considered as Meghalaya tourism's best time to visit.
This event, which takes place in October, highlights the spirit and diverse culture of the area. Visitors will have the opportunity to take part in a variety of events, including the food and wine festival, musical performances, and flower exhibitions.
The state's beauty is at its peak now, making it the ideal time to visit. Cherry trees in full bloom is another captivating feature of autumn. You'll almost think you're in a Japanese garden when you see it decorated with pink and white flowers during this time of year. This is not less than being in a paradise.
December - February, Winter season in Meghalaya
Christmas and New Year's celebrations start in the winter. The activities that take place in Meghalaya do not, however, just cease with the start of the new year. Every year, the Strawberry Festival is held to honour and promote strawberry producers and the cuisine they create.
This is the best time to visit Meghalaya if you want to enjoy foggy mornings and a day well spent exploring the village.
You may also go on hiking excursions and explore nearby locations like Shillong, Tura, and Guwahati owing to the weather. You may also go to places like the Living Root Bridge and Balpakram National Park, which becomes much more majestic during this season.
Weather and Temperature
When to travel to your selected vacation spot depends a great deal on the weather and Temperature conditions. The weather and temperature of Meghalaya changes throughout the year.
April - June
This time of year is ideal for explorers since the sunbeams are evident in every aspect of this rainy region. Since it might become a little hot in the afternoons, you might decide to retreat indoors and unwind then.
Nights are usually windy and peaceful. All in all, the weather remains in your favor during these months.
Temperature - The temperature of Meghalaya in summer ranges from 31 degree celsius in a day to 16 degrees Celsius during night.
July - September
During these months, Meghalaya is covered in tiny droplets. The weather remains a bit cold and windy during the day and very cold during the night. The season's rains give the village a mysterious and otherworldly allure that makes it seem more inviting.
Temperature - The temperature of Meghalaya in monsoons ranges from 27 degree celsius during day to 14 degree celsius during night.
October - November
The constant rain makes the fall weather in Meghalaya chilly, damp, and humid. The days and nights both feel intense. Since winter is quickly approaching, carry some light wool clothing with you at all times.
Temperature - The temperature of Meghalaya in Autumn ranges from 22 degree celsius during day to 11 degree celsius during night. With winter just around the horizon, the temperatures begin to fall in this season.
December - February
In Meghalaya, the winters are comfortably chilly. The temperature drops more during the course of the day. The sun, however, makes the days rather pleasant, while the nighttime brings some chilly winds. Comparing December to January and February, the month of December is not as chilly. But the skies are clear.
Temperature - The temperature of Meghalaya in Winter ranges from 16 degree celsius during day to 4 degree celsius during night.
Major attractions in Meghalaya
One of the most well-liked tourist destinations in Meghalaya is Shillong and with good reason. You must schedule a trip to Meghalaya and include Shillong on the list due to the city's picturesque beauty, climate, and wooded hills.
The elephant-shaped stone at the base of the waterfalls gives Elephant Falls its name. Three waterfalls along it i.e. Nohkalikai Falls, Nohsngithiang falls, and Krang Suri falls make up one of Meghalaya's greatest tourist destinations. You won't get bored of snapping photographs here since it's so amazing! You will feel serenity and beauty here.
Umiam Lake has the most breathtaking outlook and is surrounded by lush, green trees. If you don't want to engage in any other water sports, you may also take a lengthy boat trip and view the majestic sight of the sunset here.
The most picturesque location in Meghalaya is Cherrapunji, where there is a double-decker living root bridge. The 3 km-long bridge is constructed from the roots of an Indian rubber tree. The exact spot will require a hike, but it will be worthwhile as it is full of scenic views and hues.
The Garo Hills and the Jaintia Hills are well-known not just for their magnificent scenery but also for the local tribes and their cultural practices. The breathtaking waterfalls in this area are the vacation's cherry on top.
Living Root Bridges, Meghalaya is famous for its living root bridges, which are handmade from the aerial roots of rubber fig trees. The Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat village and the single-root bridge in Mawlynnong are among the most famous.
Dawki famous for its crystal-clear Umngot River, Dawki is a border town between India and Bangladesh. The river is known for its stunning turquoise waters, making it a popular destination for boating and other water activities.
Mawlynnong often referred to as the "Cleanest Village in Asia," Mawlynnong is known for its well-maintained cleanliness, living root bridges, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Nongstoin the headquarters of the West Khasi Hills district, Nongstoin is known for its scenic landscapes, limestone caves, and the Mawthadraishan Peak, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
Siju Caves are situated in the Garo Hills, the Siju Caves are known for their stalactite and stalagmite formations. The caves are home to various species of bats and swiftlets.
Jaintia Hills, this region is known for its picturesque landscapes and the Jaintia tribe's unique customs and traditions. Places of interest include Jowai town, Thadlaskein Lake, and Syntu Ksair.
Balpakram National Park is located in the South Garo Hills, Balpakram National Park is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including various species of orchids, elephants, and wild water buffaloes.
- Meghalaya Tour plan
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Day 1: Arrival at Guwahati and Drive to Shillong
- Distance - 100 km
- Time taken - 3 hours
- Major attractions - Umiam lake, Double decker root bridge, Mawphlang sacred grove forests, Dawki's river.
- Places to explore - Shillong, Mawlynnong and Laitlum canyon.
Guwahati airport would be the starting point of this trip to Meghalaya as we aforementioned that Guwahati would serve as the central point to travel to Meghalaya. You will be flying to Shillong from the airport. The distance between Guwahati to Shillong is approximately 100 km.
While going from Guwahati to Shillong, you will pass through the Umiam Lake (Barapani), where you can have majestic views of its breathtaking beauty. En route would be Mawphlang sacred grove forests.
The highlights of this route are the Special Fusion of Engineering and Nature at the Double Decker Root Bridge, the Magnificent View of the Dawki River's Crystal Clear Water. Mawlynnong, the most pristine village in Asia and the site of the Garden of God. The Laitlum Canyon and the breathtaking sight of the cloud-covered valley.
Day 2: Shillong - Cherrapunjee via Laitlum Canyon
- Distance - 54 km
- Time taken - 1.5 hours
- Major attractions - Shillong Peak, The Arwah Cave, NohKalikai Falls, Eco Park, Mawsmai Cave, Seven Sister Falls, Thangkharang Park, and Kynrem Falls.
- Places to explore - Cherrapunjee, Laitlum Canyon.
Proceed for a full-day Cherrapunjee trip from Shillong after breakfast to see the stunning waterfalls, mystic caves, and calm environment amid the rain and clouds.
Shillong Peak, The Arwah Cave, NohKalikai Falls, Eco Park, Mawsmai Cave, Seven Sister Falls, Thangkharang Park, and Kynrem Falls too are worthy to watch.
Day 3: Cherrapunjee - Nongriat Trek - Cherrapunjee
- Distance - 12.1 km
- Time taken - 3 hours
- Trek type - Moderate to difficult
- Major attractions - Double decker root bridge, waterfalls.
After staying the night cozily at Cherrapunjee, rise with a spirit of trekking the Nongriat trek that is approximately of 3 hours. This walk begins in the other direction from the majority of other hikes, with a substantial dip immediately at the beginning and the most of the upward trekking occurring on the way back, making the return considerably more challenging.
For Nongriat Trek, you will reach the Double Decker Living Root Bridge by descending and ascending roughly 3500 steps. You will actually be taken aback by the live root bridge when you first see it.
After the hike is over, visit Cherrapunjee's local churches, marketplaces, and stores.
Day 4: Cherrapunjee - Mawlynnong - Shnongpdeng/Dawki
- Distance between Cherrapunjee to Mawlynnong - 110 km
- Time taken - 2 hours
- Major attractions - Mawlynnong village's sky view, Bangladesh's scenery, Church of Epiphany, single decker living root bridge, Umngot river.
- Activities - Boating, kayaking, snorkelling, zip line, camping, and fishing.
After enjoying breakfast at Cherrapunjee, drive to Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Meghalaya which is about 110 km from Cherrapunjee. It will hardly take 2 hours to reach there.
Mawlynnong Village's Sky View is a lookout point and a well-liked tourist destination. This bamboo observation tower is 85 feet tall. You will be stunned by the stunning vistas once you reach the summit. You may also observe Bangladesh's scenery because the area is located near the border with Bangladesh.
The Church of Epiphany, a prominent landmark in Mawlynnong Village, is a 100-year-old building that nevertheless exudes a classic elegance.
You can trek later to the town of Riwai to see the Single Decker Living Root Bridge.
Mawlynnong and Dawki—The Umngot River runs past the settlement of Dawki, which is well-known for its pristine waters. It is located on the Indo-Bangladesh border. It is approximately 8 km away from Shnongpdeng.
Dawki is more tranquil, peaceful, and pleasurable for travellers. One can see well into the river below from the suspension bridge. Activities like boating, kayaking, snorkelling, zip line, camping, and fishing are all possible here.
At Shnongpdeng, there are several homestay, bamboo hut, and camping possibilities. At Dawki, homestays are also an option. However, staying at Shnongpdeng is preferable as the facilities are much better than at Dawki.
Day 5: Shnongpdeng/Dawki - Jowai - Shillong
- Distance - 58 km(Shnongpdeng to Jowai), 66 km(Jowai to Shillong)
- Time taken - 1 to 2 hours
- Major attractions - Jaintia hills, Thadlaskein Lake, Lalong Park, Syntu Ksi, Elephant falls, Lady Hydari Park.
- Places to explore - Don Bosco Museum, Shillong Golf Links, Laitumkhrah Cathedral, All saints church.
In the Jaintia Hills region, Jowai is renowned for its pastoral environment, breath-taking views, and the ideal fusion of tradition and culture. Similar to Cherrapunji, Jowai takes great pleasure in being a popular location for beautiful drives and possessing lakes, huge open valleys, and waterfalls. Thadlaskein Lake, Lalong Park, and Syntu Ksiar are all well-known tourist attractions. Syntu Ksiar is a well-liked location on the banks of the Myntdu River.
After leaving for Shillong on to Shillong Peak to get a picture-perfect perspective of the city, en route would be Elephant falls.
You can also visit the well-known Lady Hydari Park on the same day, then pay a visit to the Laitumkhrah Cathedral and All Saints Church. In addition, you can also go to the Don Bosco Museum and the renowned Shillong Golf Links.
Then, spend the night in your hotel and engulf in the memories you have till now.
Day 6: Drop at Guwahati Airport
- Distance - 100 km
- Time taken - 3 hours
- Major attractions - Hills, waterfalls, picturesque views, stunning landscapes.
The ride from Shillong to Guwahati airport would be approximately 3 hours. Enjoy the last picturesque views on the way.
