Meghalaya Alive!
A treat to the senses as you explore the inspiring landscape of Meghalaya while staying in top-notch luxury properties.
An immersive and bespoke journey to the high plateau of Meghalaya, amongst the top offbeat destinations in the country, to indulge in a meaningful luxury travel experience. Explore the mesmerizing landscape, enchanting history and vibrant culture while staying in the best properties the region has to offer, such as lakeside cottages and cabins hanging on the cliff with private plunge pools.
You will start this journey at Guwahati. The bustling city serves as a doorway to the northeastern states and offers a mix of activities such as visit to souvenir shops, the museum, cultural centers, interesting temples, cafes and restaurants.
From Guwahati, you will traverse the high plateau of the Khasi Hills to arrive at Cherrapunji, located right at the plateau’s southern edge from where it panoramically overlooks the plains of Bangladesh. You will find Cherrapunji to be out of a page of a dreamy fantasy novel, with mesmerizing landscapes, countless waterfalls, natural pools and friendly locals.
From Cherrapunji, the journey will move onto the high Pynursla Hills. At the foothills, you will visit the tiny village of Mawlynnong where the mindful villagers take extra care in keeping their village clean, flowery and beautiful. A short hike here will take you to the living root bridges, which are marvelous man-made structures built by the locals over streams and rivers by connecting the roots of living fig trees. An hour away from Mawlynnong, you will visit Dawki, located at the Bangladesh border where the waters of the Umngot River has a magical turquoise hue. Nearby, enjoy a swim at a secretive waterfall.
The tour will finally cover the charms and secrets of Shillong, a hill-station established during the times of the British. There are numerous activities here. You can visit the cultural museum and the butterfly museum. Go exploring the lakes and waterfalls. Drive to the top of the Shillong Peak for a panoramic view. The bustling local markets where you can buy lovely souvenirs. Eat out in delightful cafes and restaurants. Watch a game of local archery gambling in the afternoon.
A fascinating journey to one of India’s most beautiful states, while staying in gorgeous awe-inspiring luxurious properties and going off the beaten path to surreal landscapes inhabited by hospitable charming folks. Meghalaya is an experience, unique in all its aspects, where cloudy foggy mornings give way to delightful days of joy and wonder.
At a Glance
Luxury Travel
Indulge yourself with inspiring luxury stays available in the northeast of India.
Enchanting Landscapes
Visit Cherrapunji, the rainiest place on earth, where the rain has carved the landscape.
Romanticizing Hill-Station
Visit the charming hill-station of Shillong – The Britons call it ‘the Scotland of the East’.
Day by Day
Guwahati
Upon arrival at Guwahati Airport, you will drive to the city and check in to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure to explore the sights and secrets of Guwahati. You will get to visit the Kamakhya, Umananda and Navagraha temples which are very fascinating and alive with history and myth. Visit the Guwahati museum and the Brahmaputra Heritage museum. Enjoy a sunset cruise in the mighty Brahmaputra River. Evening can be spent exploring shops and emporiums.
Guwahati - Cherrapunji
After breakfast, proceed to Cherrapunji (5 hours), renowned as one of the wettest places in the world. Cherrapunji is located in the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya and is well known for its serene landscape. It was historically known as Sohra, the land of oranges in native Khasi dialect and was once the capital of the region during the British era. En route if time permits you can stop by at the silk-producing village of Umden and meet the artisans there. Also visit the spectacular Umiam Lake and enjoy a leisurely boating at the lake. Evening at leisure.
Cherrapunji
Spend the day at leisure exploring the sights and secrets around Cherrapunji, where you will visit beautiful waterfalls such as the Seven Sisters, Dainthlen, Khynrem and Nohkalikai Falls, intriguing caves such as Mawsmai and Arwah, and the eco park. You can visit the offbeat Garden of Caves to spend some private time with nature where you can observe subtle natural formations. You can go on a fun short hike to the secretive and pristine Wei Sawdong Falls. You can also interact with the locals to learn about their unique lifestyles and culture. For lunch, you can visit the well-reviewed restaurant of Jiva Resort. Other times at leisure to explore the dreamy landscape. A visit to Thangkarang Park is highly recommended in the late afternoon where you can just relax and enjoy breathtaking views of the Bangladesh plains below. Evening at leisure.
Cherrapunji - Mawlynnong - Dawki - Shillong
After an early breakfast, you will leave on a scenic day excursion to Mawlynnong (3 hours), considered to be Asia’s cleanest village and located on the lush Khasi foothills overlooking the plains of Bangladesh. Enjoy the drive along the deep valleys of Pynursla. Explore the beautiful village and interact with the villagers. Also, a very short hike will take you to the Living Root Bridge at Riwai village nearby that will further marvel you at the magic that is Khasi Hills. After an early lunch, you will continue to Dawki, a beautiful picnic spot near the Bangladesh border. Enjoy a ride in country boats in the clear turquoise waters of the Umngot River which are surrounded by steep gorges. You can then proceed to the secretive Bardaw Falls which can be reached through a short fun hike and can enjoy a swim in the pristine pool. By late afternoon, proceed to Shillong (2 hours), the capital of Meghalaya. It is a historic hill station established by the British and is also referred to as ‘Scotland of the East’. Shillong was also the former administrative capital of the entire northeastern region, then known as Assam during British rule and still has an old-world charm. Evening at leisure.
Shillong
Spend the day exploring the charming hill-station and enjoying local sightseeing, visiting places such as Lady Hydari Park, Ward’s Lake and old churches. Don Bosco Museum, the largest cultural museum in India, is also worth a visit for those interested in learning about the indigenous cultures of the tribes of Northeast India. The butterfly museum is another interesting attraction for those interested and has a fascinating collection of butterflies. Later, visit Shillong Peak, the highest point on the Khasi Hills which offers a panoramic view of the town. Also visit the majestic Elephant Falls nearby, the stones of the cascades resemble large elephants. If time permits, witness Siat Khnam archery, which is a unique way of local gambling where Khasi men shoot arrows in a haystack. Evening will be free at leisure to explore the upbeat Police Bazar market area, one can also buy handicrafts and souvenirs from the handloom emporiums. You can try out some of the nice cafes and restaurants for lunch and dinner.
Shillong - Guwahati
After a leisurely breakfast, leave for Guwahati Airport (3 hours) for your departure flight. Tour ends.
Your Retreats
When you travel with us, we make sure that you stay in the best available accommodations in the places you visit, especially since many areas in Northeast India are remote and do not have many options to stay. These properties are highly reviewed by our team of experts and are aesthetic in nature when possible. Our itineraries are flexible, highly customizable, and you can always choose a different property depending on budget and style.
Radisson Blu
Guwahati's best 5-star hotel, Radisson Blu offers warm, modern rooms that come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and desks. Upgraded rooms add tea and coffeemakers, and free breakfast. Executive rooms provide access to a private lounge. Suites include living areas. Room service is available 24/7. There's a high-end Asian restaurant, a relaxed all-day cafe and a cosmopolitan bar. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, a hot tub and a gym, as well as a business center and meeting space. Spa services are available.
“A proper city hotel for the night before the hills.”
Polo Orchid Resort
Overlooking the lush valleys of Cherrapunjee, Polo Orchid Resort evokes modernity & the unmistakable Sohra Spirit, showcasing relaxation in the form of grand architecture, sun-drenched balconies, wide shady corridors, flower-lined patios. With rooms that are the epitome of comfort, overlooking the breathtaking view of the waterfalls — the tranquil hilltop resort provides an experience of unique hospitality & a homely feeling to their guests.
“Balconies over the valley, with the falls in view.”
Ri Kynjai
Set among hills and forests overlooking Umiam Lake, Ri Kynjai is a tranquil luxury property located on the outskirts of Shillong. Airy, relaxed rooms and cottages feature TVs, living areas, and balconies with lake views. The red pine cottages are set on stilts, and add fireplaces, lofts, and traditional Khasi architectural details. A bright, eclectic restaurant with a bar serves Chinese and international cuisine. There's a spa area offering a range of traditional Khasi massage treatments, as well as a conference hall with lake views.
“Red pine cottages on stilts above Umiam Lake.”
Why Travel With Greener Pastures?
Curated Experiences
Our itineraries are one of a kind, curated from our own personal travel experiences, from choosing the best logistically correct routes to the most interesting stay options.
Native Guides
Our tour guides are native to the region, and bring you an insider view into the life and culture of Northeast India, sharing with you authentic local experiences and fostering friendships.
Experts in Tours
When traveling with Greener Pastures, you can be assured that you are in the hands of experts who are knowledgeable and passionate about the region. Expect hassle-free, easy-going, and insightful travel.
“By choosing us, we share together a pledge towards responsible tourism, and share a belief that travel has the power to positively transform local livelihoods, cultures and environment.”
— The Greener Pastures Promise
Read the travel guide to Meghalaya for the seasons, the festivals and what else is worth the detour.
Travel news from Northeast India.
Stories from the field, our upcoming experiences, and other travel related news from Northeast India.