Weekend Getaway to Shillong and the Khasi Hills
Sometimes, all you need to get excited in life again is a charming little short weekend getaway to the hill-station of Shillong.
Shillong is one of India’s most charming hill-stations, nestled in hills that receive some of the highest rainfall in the world. Shillong has a rich history and was one of the beloved headquarters for the British Raj. The influence of the Raj culture is still present in modern-day Shillong that combined with the warm hospitality of the indigenous Khasi people provides the hill town a very alive and charming ambiance.
There are many things to do in and around Shillong. You can visit some of the many waterfalls and lakes that are a treat for the eyes. Then there are peaks which provide breathtaking panoramic views. A trip to Cherrapunji is certainly a highlight, as you get to be in the rainiest and wettest place of the entire world, where yearly monsoons have carved many natural wonders in the landscape such as seemingly countless caves, waterfalls and lush rolling grasslands.
Another highlight and an absolute charm is a visit to Mawlynnong, considered as Asia’s cleanest village. Here you can interact with the Khasi Tribe who are Christians but still follow ancient traditions and have numerous folk dedicated to natural elements. Lastly, a visit to the recently re-discovered living root bridges will take you to a world of fantasy, as if like a page in one of J.R.R. Tolkien’s novels.
At a Glance
Vibrant Hill Station
Explore Shillong, one of the most aesthetic and beautiful hill-stations in the country.
Gorgeous Landscapes
A road trip through the simply awe-inspiring landscapes of the state of Meghalaya.
Village Walks
Visit Mawlynnong, one of the cleanest villages of Asia and home to a living root bridge.
Day by Day
Guwahati - Shillong
Upon arrival at Guwahati Airport, you will drive to Shillong (3-4 hours), a charming hill-station and the capital of the state of Meghalaya. En route you will visit the famous Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati which is an important center of the Shakti sect of Hinduism that is devoted to the worship of the feminine energy. Evening will be at leisure.
Shillong - Cherrapunji - Shillong
Leave early morning for a sightseeing tour of Cherrapunji (1.5 hours), which along with nearby Mawsynram village will bring you to the wettest and rainiest place on planet earth where the extreme weather has influenced local culture, lifestyle and landscape. As time permits and your interest, spend the morning sightseeing around, where you will visit some beautiful waterfalls such as the Seven Sisters, Dainthlen, Kynrem and Nohkalikai Falls, intriguing Mawsmai caves, Ka Khoh Ramhah monolith, landscape viewpoints and an eco park. Witness water gushing down the falls and the lush green monsoon landscape of the Meghalaya plateau during the summers. Return to Shillong by lunch. Rest of the day will be spent in and around Shillong, exploring the many sights and secrets of the charming hill station. Visit places such as Don Bosco Centre for indigenous culture, Lady Hydari Park, Ward’s Lake and old churches. Also visit Shillong Peak, the highest point on Khasi Hills and the majestic Elephant Falls. If time permits, witness Siat Khnam archery, which is a unique way of local gambling where Khasi men shoot arrows in a haystack. Evening at leisure to explore the upbeat markets and dine out in a nice restaurant.
Shillong - Mawlynnong - Shillong
Leave early to Dawki (3 hours), a beautiful picnic spot near Bangladesh border. Enjoy a ride in country boats in the clear winter waters of the Umngot River which are surrounded by steep gorges. Later, explore the nearby village of Mawlynnong (1 hr), considered to be Asia’s cleanest village with neat flower-laden lanes and cozy-looking sustainable houses. Explore the beautiful village, interact with the villagers and also enjoy the panoramic view of Bangladesh plains below. Also, visit the living Root Bridge at Riwai village nearby that will further marvel you at the magic that is Khasi Hills. Return to Shillong to continue some sightseeing and spend the evening at leisure.
Shillong - Guwahati
After a leisure breakfast, drive to Guwahati Airport (3-4 hours) for your return flight, preferably in the afternoon. 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.
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.”
Snapshots from the road
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.