Discover Meghalaya
Experiential travel to the enchanting hills of Meghalaya, highlighting both its secrets and attractions.
Meghalaya (translated in English as 'the abode of clouds') is a state in North East India known for receiving the highest rainfall compared to any other place in the world. The geography of the state consists of plateaus and hills, and an abundance of streams that come alive with torrential rapids during the monsoons. The state is bound by Assam to the north and east and by Bangladesh to the south. Meghalaya is home to three major and very intriguing tribal communities – the Khasis, Garos, and Jaintias.
Your journey will start in the hill station of Shillong which is known as the 'Scotland of the East' due to its similarity with the Scottish Highlands. Here, rock music fans and connoisseurs are aplenty. You will get to visit many beautiful lakes and waterfalls around Shillong and indulge in the local flavors. The market area of Shillong has a nice buzz and is a great place to hang out. The British-Raj legacy is still visible in the architecture and food habits of the locals. Shillong has a majority of the Khasi tribe, who are predominantly Christian. An interesting aspect of Khasis is that they are a matrilineal society – the mother is the head of the family, the youngest daughter owns all the property, and the mother's surname is passed on to the children. From there you head east into the Jaintia Hills around Jowai, past waterfalls and the ancient standing stones of Nartiang.
From Jowai, you will visit the areas around Mawlynnong, which is considered the cleanest village in Asia. The village is beautifully laid out and very neat. The people of the village are the 'War Khasis' and they are very passionate about flowers and a variety of flowers can be seen all around the village. Your stay here will be in a local homestay. Since Mawlynnong lies at the foothills of the South Khasi Hills, the village provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the plains of Bangladesh. During monsoons, one can observe that almost half of Bangladesh remains flooded, bringing much sorrow to the densely populated country. There are many delightful waterfalls around Mawlynnong that you will get to visit, and you'll be free to swim in some of them.
From Mawlynnong, you will depart to a magical place called Cherrapunjee. The whole area is known to receive the highest rainfall in the whole wide world. During monsoons, the landscape becomes mystified by clouds, and countless water streams and waterfalls come alive with gushing rapids. You will also get to visit the caves around Cherrapunjee which are wonders of nature and life thriving without sunlight. The highlight of this whole tour will be a hike to the living root bridges of Meghalaya, which are manmade structures that are made by connecting and networking the roots of living fig trees. The whole structure takes more than a century to be completed and is used by future generations to cross the many streams during the monsoon season. It is fascinating to see such a sustainable piece of architecture, which is entirely connected to nature.
At a Glance
Romanticizing Hill-Station
Visit the charming hill-station of Shillong – The Britons call it ‘the Scotland of the East’.
Charming Villages
The village life of the Khasi people at Mawlynnong, one of the cleanest villages of Asia.
Enchanting Landscapes
Visit Cherrapunji, the rainiest place on earth, where the rain has carved the landscape.
Day by Day
Guwahati - Shillong
After arriving at Guwahati airport, drive to Shillong (3 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 charm. On the way, halt at the scenic Umiam Lake, also locally known as Barapani. One can enjoy boating in the pristine lake surrounded by beautiful pine forests of the Khasi Hills. The panoramic vista of the lake is spectacular from the viewpoints on the highway. Reach Shillong and check in at a boutique colonial-style bungalow or a luxurious heritage property of the former royal family of Tripura.
Shillong
Explore the charming town and enjoy local sightseeing, visit places such as Lady Hydari Park, Ward's Lake, and old churches. The Don Bosco Museum, the largest cultural museum in India, is also worth a visit for those interested in learning about the indigenous cultures of Northeast India. Later, visit Shillong Peak, the highest point in the Khasi Hills which offers a panoramic view of the town. Also visit the majestic Elephant Falls nearby, whose cascades resemble large elephants. If time permits, witness the Siat Khnam archery, which is a unique way of local gambling where Khasi men shoot arrows in a haystack. The evening will be at leisure to explore the upbeat Police Bazar market where you can buy handicrafts and souvenirs from the handloom emporiums.
Shillong - Jowai
A slow breakfast, then drive east into the Jaintia Hills to Jowai. On the way, stop at Thwei Lyngksiar Falls and Tyrshi Falls, and at Nartiang, where the old Jaintia kings raised one of the largest groups of standing stones in the region, next to the old Durga temple of the Jaintia royal family. You stay at a quiet retreat in the countryside outside Jowai.
Jowai - Dawki - Mawlynnong
Drive south toward the Bangladesh border, stopping at Phe Phe Falls and for a swim below Krang Suri, one of the prettiest waterfalls in Meghalaya. Enjoy a ride in country boats in the clear turquoise waters of the Umngot River which is surrounded by steep gorges. Then, drive to Mawlynnong (1 hour), considered to be Asia’s cleanest village. Mawlynnong is a little hamlet that became famous as the 'Clean Village' due to the collective efforts of its local community. The villagers have beautifully maintained their village, which attracts numerous visitors and is also known as the Garden of God. Your stay will be in a family-run guest house with basic amenities.
Mawlynnong - Cherrapunji
Leisurely explore the village and interact with the Khasi villagers. One can also experience their Khasi cuisine in the little food stalls. Also, visit the Balancing Rock of Mawlynnong and the Living Root Bridge at Riwai village nearby. Enjoy the panoramic view of Bangladesh plains from the Skywalk viewpoint. Proceed to Cherrapunji (2 hours), renowned as one of the wettest places in the world and is well known for its serene landscape. It was historically known as Sohra, the land of oranges in the native Khasi dialect, and was once the capital of the region during the British era. Bonfires can be arranged in the evening. Your stay will be at a hillside lodge with small cottages offering standard amenities.
Cherrapunji
Explore the beautiful waterfalls and caves, which are the main attractions of Cherrapunjee. Visit the Seven Sisters Falls, Dainthlen Falls, and Nohkalikai Falls. Also, visit the stalagmites of the intriguing Mawsmai caves, visit Ka Khoh Ramhah monolith, landscape viewpoints, and the Eco Park. A leisurely day to explore more of the attractions and secrets of Cherrapunji. Visit Janialar Falls, Prut Falls and Wei Sawdong Falls where you can enjoy a swim in the natural pools with turquoise blue waters. Lunch at Jiva Resort is a popular stop amongst tourists. Afternoon can be spent at Thangkharang Park from where you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Bangladesh plains below. Evening at leisure. You can request a bonfire.
Cherrapunji - Guwahati
After breakfast, transfer to Guwahati airport (5 hours) for departure. End of tour.
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.
The Heritage Club — Tripura Castle
The only heritage property of its kind in Shillong, built as a retreat for the royal family of Tripura and still run in that spirit. Half-timbered cottages sit in wooded gardens above the town, with period rooms, open fires, and tables laid outside when the weather allows.
“Garden tables under the pines, on the first evening.”
Haven’s Cove
A quiet retreat at Syntu Ksiar, about 5 km outside Jowai, beside a stream in open farmland. You leave the car at the road and walk the last 15 minutes while the staff carry your bags. Rooms are clean and comfortable, the meals are home-cooked, and there are nature trails, fishing spots and a bonfire in the evening. There is no phone network at the property.
“The car stays behind, and the last stretch is a walk across the paddy fields.”
West Corner Homestay
A family homestay at the west end of Mawlynnong, a few minutes’ walk from the old parking lot, built from bamboo and wood with some concrete. It is an independent unit — one room sleeping three or four, with its own bathroom. Marcelos and his family host, and breakfast is served in the garden. The Riwai living root bridge is a mile or so away, and Dawki about an hour.
“Breakfast in the garden, and a village that sweeps itself.”
Sa-I-Mika Park
Sixty-nine acres of hillside at Wahshari, Khliehshnong, on the Sohra plateau. Most of its twenty-two rooms are individual cottages built in local Khasi style, with a restaurant and a bonfire most nights.
“Dinner by the bonfire, and the highest star density in the region overhead.”
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.