Explore Meghalaya

  • 07 Nights/ 08 Days
  • Best During

Tour Highlights

  • Umiam Lake
  • Elephant Falls
  • Double Decker Living Root Bridge
  • Natural Swimming Pools
  • The Arwah Lawshynna Cave Location
  • Nohkalikai falls
  • Nohsngithiang Falls
  • Dain-Thlen Falls

Tour Description

Tour Itinerary

DAY 1 –  GUWAHATI - CHERRAPUNJEE, MEGHALAYA

Receive at Guwahati Airport and drive to Cherrapunjee (180 kms/05 hrs). En-route visit Umiam Lake followed by visit to Elephant Falls.  Later continue drive to Cherrapunjee. On arrival check in at hotel in Cherrapunjee for 03 nights. Overnight at the hotel.

Meghalaya, swaddled amidst wraith-like mists is aptly called “the abode of clouds”. It is one of India’s prettiest states inhabited by the Khasis, Jaintias and Garos. It is known for its matrilineal society, which governs lineage and ancestral inheritance through the female line. It stands out for its traditional and natural beauty among the other states. Its historical strengths have been irreversibly linked with its superlative natural setting.

Umium lake popularly known as Barapani, this is the biggest artificial lake in the state. Surrounded by sylvan hills and wrapped in the beauty of an assortment of green Khasi-pines and the azure blue skies. Developed upon the reservoir of the Umium Hydro Electric Project, the Water Sports Complex provides a choice of row-boats, paddle- boats, cruise boats, sailing boats, water scooters and speed boats. This is a very popular place for picnic, fishing and watersports M.T.D.C had started operating water sports in the area.

Elephant Falls: 12 kms away, on the outskirts of the city, this mountain stream descends through two successive falls set in dells of fern-covered rocks. At a short distance beyond the falls, there are two smaller falls which are none the less beautiful and captivating. These are the Wei Iaplam Falls and the Wir Phang Falls. A well paved footpath and a small wooden bridge facilitate access to these falls.

CHERRAPUNJEE is 56 kms from Shillong and is literally the high point of any visit to Meghalaya -a destination renowned all over the world for receiving the highest rainfall in the world. Set against the backdrop of breath-taking landscape, it is a place to discover the Indian summer monsoons, a unique annual meteorological phenomena directly influenced by the south west monsoon and the north east winds. The heavy monsoon rains over these mountains undoubtedly creates in Sohra one of the rarest biodiverse vegetations in the world. Truly a beautiful corner in north-east India, waiting to be discovered and explored. The old Cherra or Sohrarim was the original Cherra village but with the coming of the British who set up their headquarters further south, the village came to be known as 'Sohra' or present day Cherrapunjee. It was here that the British realized the enormity and intensity of the rainfall and set up a meteorological office for measuring the rain. Sohra was declared by the British to be the capital of Assam in 1832, which was later shifted to Shillong in 1866 due to the inclement weather. 

DAY 2 – AT CHERRAPUNJEE, MEGHALAYA

Today after early breakfast go for full day trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge. Overnight at the hotel.

Double Decker Root Bridge and Natural Swimming Pools Duration: Total distance of approximately 10 + 10 km of which 5 + 5 km is by a beautiful mountain skirting road commanding a beautiful view of the valley and through three interesting Khasi villages and can be done by vehicle if anyone wants to save time and energy. This is one of the most beautiful and very popular treks. The high points of this trek are the Double Decker Root Bridge and the natural swimming pools in the river bed. The people of the gorge village Nongriat where the Double Decker Root Bridge is located are very friendly and very special. The trek down stone steps is steep for almost half of the trek down. This trek is open through-out the year and are being used by the villagers of Nongriat, Nongthymmai and Mynteng daily, when it rains and when the sun shines. The steps become slippery during the monsoon months and have to be negotiated with little care to avoid slipping. The rivers in spate and streams and waterfalls in full flow during the monsoon months add magnificence to the root bridges spanning these rivers and streams. Contemplate the raw force of nature, when the river is in spate after very heavy rainfall, standing on the Steel Rope bridges strung taut across the river 45 feet above normal water level, . You need to be strong willed and brave. Before reaching the Double Decker Root Bridge you come across more Living Root Bridges and Steel Rope bridges. The valley scenery is very impressive. Beyond the Double Decker Root Bridge you walk on level ground another 2 km (say 20 minutes) to reach Mawsaw Steel Rope Bridge. From here you access our famous natural swimming pools. The larger pool is deep and we recommend only good swimmers to attempt it. The smaller pool can be used by others. However, when the river is in spate please don't attempt swimming. When the flow is normal, you see the bottom of the pools very clearly, so clear is the water. The colour of the water is so inviting for a swim.

DAY 3 – AT CHERRAPUNJEE, MEGHALAYADAY 3 – AT CHERRAPUNJEE, MEGHALAYA

Full day explore Cherrapunjee. We visit visit Arwah Cave, Nohkalikai Falls, Ramakrishna Mission Museum , Dainthlen Waterfalls, Eco Park, Mawsmai Cave, Nohsngithiang Waterfalls, Thangkharang Park and Khoh Ramhah.

The Arwah Lawshynna Cave Location: East Khasi Hills District, Sohra This Cave lies in the slope of U Lum Lawshynna Hill. It is approximately one kilometre in length. It is adorned with different types of carving and formation designed by nature itself which adds lot of beauty to the place. A stream runs through the cave from beginning till the end, making us feel as if we are walking in a river. The height is very high and the breadth is very wide, but it gets narrower and narrower as we move further. Birds and bats frequently visit this cave and make it their home. The cave is covered by a thick forest, called the ‘Law Shynna’. Different types of local species of trees, orchids, wild flowers, shrubs, bamboos and coloured leaves are found in this forest. On the way to the cave, there is a viewpoint, from where we can see the beautiful Wahkaba Falls, the natural landscape and the river which flows to Bangladesh through Nongpriang Village and Sohkhmi Village. The hill where the cave is located is called ‘U Lum Shynna’. This hill is very high and it overlooked the Sohra town and even the plains of Bangladesh could be seen from this hillock. That is why it is called Lum Shynna which literally means Clearview. All through this hill, from North to South runs the David Scott Bridle path build by the British which once upon a time connects the Brahmaputra Valley and the Surma Valley in Bangladesh. This path was used by people to go to Shillong or Laban, to the market and to Bangladesh for trade. This path is still visible now, while some parts are destroyed due to soil erosion and landslide caused by coal mining. Resting places for those who are tired are also found along the route. At the foot of this hillock, there are the remnants of the ‘Kyntursniang Village’ a historical site where foundation of the present Sohra Syiemship was laid by Buh Sing Syiem and his myntris.

Nohkalikai falls: A hauntingly beautiful waterfall, cascading down from the top of the gorge to the mystic deep green pool below, reminds one of the tragic legend associated with it- of a grief stricken mother who plunged to her death, unable to overcome her sorrow of the murder of her daughter by her husband.

Nohsngithiang Falls also known as Mawsmai falls, is 1 km south of Mawsmai village and derives its name from where the waterfalls are situated- in a south westerly position and get illuminated by the sun from dawn to sunset. The vibrant colours of the setting sun on the waterfalls make it a sight to behold as at times one can even see the colours of the rainbow emitting from them.Nohsngithiang Falls also known as Mawsmai falls, is 1 km south of Mawsmai village and derives its name from where the waterfalls are situated- in a south westerly position and get illuminated by the sun from dawn to sunset. The vibrant colours of the setting sun on the waterfalls make it a sight to behold as at times one can even see the colours of the rainbow emitting from them.

Dain-Thlen Falls: Just before reaching Sohra, a road to the right, leads one to the falls which is 5 kms away. The waterfall derives its name from a Thlen or a snake of gigantic size which dwelt in a cave. Legend has it that the people destroyed the snake in order to rid themselves of its reign of terror. Adjacent to the very spot where the Thlen was slaughtered lie the Dain-thlen Waterfalls- Thlen locally is the symbol of greed, corruption and evil.

Eco Park: A large "Eco Park" established by the Meghalaya government in the plateau, houses several hybrid and indigenous orchids in the Green House donated by the Shillong Agri-Horticultural Society. From the Eco Park one can also have a breathtaking view of the distant Sylhet Plains of neighbouring Bangladesh.

DAY 4 – CHERRAPUNJEE –DAWKI – MAWLYNNONG - SHILLONG, MEGHALAYADAY 4 – CHERRAPUNJEE –DAWKI – MAWLYNNONG - SHILLONG, MEGHALAYA

Today post breakfast drive to Dawki (03 hrs) close to India-Bangladesh Border followed by visit to Mawlynnong Village. Place of interest to be found here includes natural beauty, excellent day walks for birding, a haven for botany, living root bridge crossing numerous streams, rivers and cascading waterfalls. Also option to visit Byrdaw Falls.

In the afternoon drive to Shillong. On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight at the hotel.In the afternoon drive to Shillong. On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Dawki - Just across the border of Bangladesh near the Tamabil-Dawki checkpost flows the beautiful Dawki river with greenish-blueish water so clear that one can see the bottom of the river even from as high as the bridge over the river. It flows very close to the customs checkpost at Dawki with Jaintia Hills District on one side and East Khasi Hills District on the other. As it enters the plains of Bangladesh it loses its beautiful color and becomes heavily strewn with rocks and small boulders.

Mawlynnong Village has earned the distinction of being the cleanest village in India. It is situated 90 kms. from Shillong and besides the picturesque village, offers many interesting sights such as the Living Root Bridge and a strange natural phenomenon of a boulder balanced on a rather small rock. Mawlynnong nestled in the pristine hill state of Meghalaya, is very close to the Indo-Bangla border. This cute and colourful little village is known for its cleanliness. The main occupation of the villagers is agriculture. They mostly grow betel nut. About 82 households live in Mawlynnong. Keeping the surrounding environment clean is an age old tradition. Discover India magazine declared the village as the cleanest in Asia in 2003. Dustbins made out of bamboo are found all along the village. Everyone makes it a point that dirt and waste are not thrown everywhere. All the waste from the dustbins is collected and kept in a pit, which the villagers use as manure. The villagers are now on a mission to ban plastic. The village with cent per cent literacy is conscious and they are spreading the message of conservation and protection of the forest. Locals plant trees to ensure that the virgin forest is kept intact and also replenished. Mawlynnong's fame is now drawing an endless stream of guests from across the country and abroad. Mawlynnong is an artist's delight and the sort of getaway that would titillate creative writers and poets.

Byrdaw Falls is located at Pomshutia village, in the East Khasi Hills District of Meghalaya. Approximately 70 kilometers away from state capital, Shillong on the way to Dawki lies the village of Pomshutia which houses the awe inspiring Byrdaw Falls. An adrenalin pumping hour long trek through slippery paths transports you to this mesmerising place where the water gushes down a steep precipice into a sea of mist, beguiling onlookers with the promise of an unforgettable experience.

SHILLONG - Shillong is the capital city of the state as well as the district headquarter of East Khasi Hills District. The name Shillong is derived from U-Shyllong, a powerful deity, and is situated at an altitude of 1,491m above sea level. This beautiful city is 103kms from Guwahati, the nearest air and train link. The presence of many well reputed educational institutions, many of them by missionary groups make Shillong the hub of education for the entire north-east.SHILLONG - Shillong is the capital city of the state as well as the district headquarter of East Khasi Hills District. The name Shillong is derived from U-Shyllong, a powerful deity, and is situated at an altitude of 1,491m above sea level. This beautiful city is 103kms from Guwahati, the nearest air and train link. The presence of many well reputed educational institutions, many of them by missionary groups make Shillong the hub of education for the entire north-east.

DAY 5 – AT SHILLONG, MEGHALAYA

Today post breakfast explore the beautiful city of Shillong and visit DBCIC Museum, Ward’s Lake Park and Archery Competitions in the afternoon. Evening option to explore Police Bazaar.

Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures (DBCIC): is a three-in-one Institution combining a museum with a research and publication centre, for promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of North East India -a unique fusion of all the sister states under one roof. DBCIC contains seventeen galleries displaying cultural artefacts and paintings. It offers study and research facilities throughout its specialised library of 10,000 volumes, a media hall and a conference hall. It is frequented by school students and older research students and anthropologists.

DBCIC Museum: The Museum has the following holidays – All Sundays, January 1, January 26, January 31, August 15, November 2, Second last Monday in November, December 22-25 (both days inclusive), December 31, Thursday before Easter to Easter Monday (both days inclusive).

The Ward’s Lake: is an important tourist site of Shillong. It is a horseshoe-shaped artificial lake close to the Raj Bhavan (Governor’s Residence) . The lake abounds in fish (grass carps) and feeding the fish from the bridge, which is the land mark of the lake, is a favorite pastime of the tourists. It is believed that a Khasi prisoner, who requested for some kind of work to get him out of his cell, initiated its construction. The lake has a charming winding walk-a-way in the midst of rolling flowerbeds and fairyland lighting with gradually undulating grounds, hemmed in by lush greens. Boats are also available, and the cafeteria provides refreshments.

Archery Competitions: Archery in Shillong is an age-old tribal skill in a new guise – the archery contest takes place every day (except Sunday) in Polo Grounds, about 3 km from the city center. It is quite a commercialized activity, with betting booths lining one side of the field. The atmosphere at the contest is very charged, much like a horseracing meet, with bookies and gamblers exchanging money, groups discussing the odds, and contestants gingerly fingering the tips of their arrows. The bows (straight not cross) and arrows are all handmade and local.

DAY 6 – SHILLONG – LAITLUM – JOWAI - SHILLONG, MEGHALAYADAY 6 – SHILLONG – LAITLUM – JOWAI - SHILLONG, MEGHALAYA

Today after early breakfast visit Laitlum Valley. Later drive to Jowai and visit the monoliths and Nartiang Durga Temple- one of the 51 Shakti Peethas . Afternoon visit Krang Suri Falls. In the evening drive back to the hotel in Shillong and overnight.

LAITLUM: - Perched in the East Khasi Hills of Shillong, Laitlum Canyons is a little-explored haunt of the mountainous state of Meghalaya. Laitlum translates to ‘end of hills’ and this sublimely beautiful hilltop appears to be true to its name. At Laitlum, all one can see are breathtaking gorges and steep winding stairways that snake their way down to the lush valley.

Jowai - The Nartiang village is famed for its monoliths and remnants of the Jaintia kingdom. Visit the erstwhile Summer Palace of the Jaintia Kings. The remnants of the summer Palace is located on a hillock with an arched gateway.

Adjacent to the ruins of the Summer Palace stands the 500 years old Nartiang Durga Temple. Being one of the 51 Shakti Peethas of Hindu Mythology, this temple is one of the holiest sites for devotees of the Shakti sect of Hinduism.

Nartiang monoliths are the biggest collection of monoliths stones in one single area. These consists of Menhirs (Upright stones) Moo Shynrang and Dolmens (flat stones in the horizontal position) locally known as Moo Kynthai. Within the perimetre of these Megalithic collection stands the tallest Menhir erected by U Mar Phalyngki a trusted lieutenant of the Jaintia King to commemorate his victory in battle. Other monoliths were erected by U Mar Phalyngki, U Luh Lyngskor Lamare and various clans of Nartiang village between 1500A.D.and l835A.D. Return to Shillong. Overnight to Shillong.

Krang Suri is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the District. It is located in the Amlarem Civil Sub Division. To transform the place into a tourists destination the District Administration has initiated steps to construct Chisseled and graveled footpaths and view points to enable visitors to better appreciate the beauty of the waterfall and its surroundings. The footpaths are hewn from the natural multi colored stones available in the area, no cement has been used and stones have been placed symmetri­cally to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area.

DAY 7 – SHILLONG – MAWSYNRAM - SHILLONG, MEGHALAYADAY 7 – SHILLONG – MAWSYNRAM - SHILLONG, MEGHALAYA

Today post breakfast drive to Mawsynram (60 kms/02 ½ hrs) – believed to be the wettest place on earth as it receives the heaviest rainfall. Drive down the beautiful valley exploring the scenic beauty defining explicitly the plateau formation and the presence of igneous rocks. We also visit Krem Puri Cave at Mawsynram.  Enroute   visit Mawphlang Sacred Forest. Afternoon drive back to Shillong.

At Mawsynram, option to visit Krem Puri Cave which is considered as the longest sandstone cave. In the afternoon drive back to Shillong. Evening option to explore Police Bazaar. Overnight at the hotel.

Mawphlang Sacred Forest - Just 28 kms away from Shillong is Mawphlang Sacred Forest, one of Meghalaya’s most celebrated sacred forests, as the world over, are steeped in spiritual belief and held in great veneration. They also represent some of the earliest representations of preserving the ancient ecosystems. This is a dense forest where the Lyngdoh (chief) used to offer sacrifices and prayers. Not a branch should be broken or else a curse may befall on that person. This grove is surrounded by a lush green valley and a great variety of plants like orchids, include the carnivorous varieties and ferns grow here.

MAWSYNRAM: Located approximately and acknowledged as one of the wettest place in the world, the mesmerizing village of Mawsynram is a nature lover's delight Mawsynram trounces Primarily due to the high altitude, it seldom gets truly hot in Mawsynram. Average monthly temperatures range from around 11°C in January to just above 20°C in August.

Krem Puri Cave: Krem Puri is a new cave discovered recently in the month of March, 2018. This cave is considered to be longest sandstone cave. Krem Puri is situated at a distance of approximately 60 kms from Shillong. The drive from Shillong to Krem Puri via Mawsynram gives a very beautiful view of the valley.

At 4,025ft (1227m) above sea level and overlooking a deep valley, the opening is at the base of a steep cliff. The cave is 24.5km (15 miles) long and covers an area of 13 sq kms - in lush green Mawsynram, reputed to be the wettest place on Earth.

Inside Krem Puri, the temperature is always a balmy 16-17 degree celsius, no matter what the temperature is outside. There's no shortage of oxygen because there is always air flowing in through small openings, cracks, and two entrances.

Note: Guests who wish to visit the cave have to go prepared and wear windcheaters/water proof jackets, water proof trousers, gum boots, etc. Fitness level of the guests have to be considered.Note: Guests who wish to visit the cave have to go prepared and wear windcheaters/water proof jackets, water proof trousers, gum boots, etc. Fitness level of the guests have to be considered.

DAY 8 –SHILLONG – GUWAHATI, ASSAM – FLY OUT

In time transfer to Guwahati airport to board flight for onward destination. 

Inclusions

Exclusions

Cancellation Policy

Krem Puri Cave
Krang Suri
Archery Competitions
The Ward’s Lake
Byrdaw Falls
Mawlynnong Village
Double Decker Root Bridge
Umium lake