Shillong - Mawlynnong - Nongriat - Cherrapunji
8D/7N
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 Shillong, 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.
Day 1 | 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 north-eastern 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.
Day 2 | 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.
Day 3 | Mawphlang/Mawsynram
Go on a day trip to Mawphlang (1 hour) to hike on the David Scott Trail. It is a heritage trail named after David Scott, one of the earliest British explorers of the region who tried to find a route from Bangladesh to Assam through the Khasi hills. The 14km long trek is suitable for travelers of all age groups. One can also explore the Sacred Grove Forest which is protected by the villagers and has many myths associated with Khasi culture. The age-old forest also has many historic monoliths which mark important events in local history. On Sundays, visitors can witness Siat Khnam archery in the Khasi Heritage Village. It is a traditional form of betting which is enjoyed by the locals in the afternoon.
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Drive to Mawsynram (2 hours), the rainiest place in the world. Perched atop a ridge on the Khasi Hills, it offers a beautiful view of the surrounding valleys which are green due to the abundant rainfall. The word Maw in the native Khasi language refers to rocks as this place is also well known for its unique rock formations. Visit the Mawjymbuin cave which has a natural structure that resembles a Shivalinga. The cave also has a dome-shaped rock with a flat top called the Symper Rock. Dwarksuid is another site to enjoy nature. The rock formations here are referred to by the locals as the Devil's Doorway. Return to Shillong by evening.
Day 4 | Shillong - Dawki - Mawlynnong
Leave early to the beautiful picnic spot of Dawki (3 hours) near the Bangladesh border. Enjoy a ride in country boats in the clear turquoise waters of the Umgnot 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. Later, 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. Your stay will be in a family-run guest house with basic amenities.
Day 5 | Mawlynnong - Cherrapunji
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. Later, explore the beautiful waterfalls and caves, which are the main attractions of Cherrapunjee. Visit the Seven Sisters Falls, Dainthlen Falls, and Nokhalikai Falls. Also, visit the stalagmites of the intriguing Mawsmai caves, visit Ka Khoh Ramrah monolith, landscape viewpoints, and the Eco Park. Bonfires can be arranged in the evening. Your stay will be at a hillside lodge with small cottages offering standard amenities.
Day 6 | Cherrapunji - Nongriat
After breakfast, drive to Tyrna village, the last motorable point. Then, go on a long guided trek (approx 3 hours) down three thousand steps to see the famous Double-Decker root bridge of Nongriat village, the most brilliant of all the living bridges found in Meghalaya. The root bridges are constructed by the native tribesmen using natural resources available in their surroundings. They guide the roots of large fig trees with the help of bamboos and intertwine them over the years to form strong bridges. The trek passes through numerous streams, hanging bridges, remote villages, lush green forests, and spots of extreme scenic beauty. The afternoon can be spent relaxing amidst the greenery of the forest or refreshing by swimming in the natural pools. One can also hike further to the spectacular Rainbow Falls. Your stay will be in a basic Rest House run by the local village community.
Day 7 | Nongriat - Cherrapunji
In the morning, trek back to Cherrapunjee (3 hours) and rest in your lodge after a long uphill climb. The afternoon will be free at leisure to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Meghalaya Plateau.
Day 8 | Cherrapunji - Guwahati
After breakfast, transfer to Guwahati airport (5 hours) for departure. End of tour.
Blissfully located in the high plateaus of Cherrapunji with grand vistas of the Bangladesh plains and run by an enthusiastic hospitable family, Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort is a nature based guesthouse more than a resort where visitors can stay in fairly modern rooms and comfort.
Homestays are part of the responsible tourism process practiced in Mawlynnong, Asia’s prettiest village. For visitors, it means close interactions with host Khasi families and lifelong bonds with new friends. Rooms are cozy, fairly standard, providing basic comforts suitable for the village life.
Cafe Shillong Bed & Breakfast is a standard boutique property housed in a typical old British India bungalow, offering a charming stay to visitors who come to the ‘Scotland of the east’. Belonging once to the Kharpuri family, the place has colorful character and rooms and facilities are updated to the comforts of modern hospitality. There’s a front-yard garden, a quiet spot for a morning tea or an evening drink.
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 travelling 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.
Booking Procedure
Our tours can be confirmed with an advance deposit of 30% which can be transferred to our bank account.
Please go through the Terms and Services listed in our website.
Cancellation Policy
Greener Pastures must receive notification of cancellation in writing, email or phone call. At the time we receive the request, refund will be based as follows:
1. Cancellation more than 15 days prior to departure = 75% refund of deposited advance amount.
2. Cancellation less than 15 days prior to departure = 25% refund of deposited advance amount.
