ABOUT
When you look around, the clouds will bow down to kiss you, the trees will conspire to hug you, and the people will come together to make you smile. A place as magical as its name, Meghalaya is truly about romancing with the clouds. With a beautiful sunrise at 5 a.m. in morning and sunset at 5 p.m., Every day we will start our journey as early as possible for the best views.
It’s a place where every single step you take is an exploration within yourself, where every single day you live is a fulfilling experience, and every single minute you spend urges you to think: “Is this my imagination? Or am I really living this? The Meghalaya tour will make you live your wildest imagination.
So why just imagine? Let us make it into a reality. Join us, as we take you on the journey of your dreams, the Meghalaya trip!
DATES
- 23rd Dec 2023
- 30th Dec 2023
For other dates click here.
DURATION:
5N/6D
TRIP ROUTE:
Guwahati – Shillong – Cheerrapunjee – Nongriat Village – Dawki- Shongpedeng – Shillong – Guwahati
PRICE:
With Triple Sharing room – ₹28,999/- per person
With Dual Sharing room – ₹31,999/- per person
NOTE : Block your seat at just ₹2000/- and pay the rest 25 days before the trip date.
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day 1: Guwahati to Shillong | Sightseeing in Shillong
Report at Guwahati Airport at 10 am and prelude the Meghalaya trip. We will visit Umiam Lake which is situated in the North of Shillong with Lush green Hills all around. Overnight stay at Shillong.
Day 2: Shillong to Cherrapunji | Elephant Falls, Garden of Caves, Wei Sawdong
Drive from Shillong to Cherrapunji. There are ample local places for sightseeing in Cherrapunji. We will witness the beauty of the Elephant Falls and Arwah Caves and explore Nawlikai waterfall or the garden of caves. Also, visit Wei Sawdong Falls and admire the beauty of Dainthlen falls along the way. Overnight stay at Cherrapunji.
Day 3: Cherrapunji | Seven Sisters Waterfall, Double Decker Living Root Bridge
Enjoy the beautiful view of the Seven Sisters (Nohsngithiang) waterfall. Travel to the Nongriat village & trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge. Overnight stay at Nongriat village in a homestay and live a life like locals for a day.
Day 4: Nongriat to Shnonpedeng | Umngot River
Explore the crystal clear Umngot River in Dawki. Spend the night in a camp at Shnonpedeng.
Day 5: Shnonpedeng to Shillong | Krangshuri Waterfall
After breakfast, we drive to Jowai. Trek to the Krangshuri waterfall and a lot of masti in the water. We visit a Secret Waterfall if time permits and head for Shillong. Overnight stay at Shillong.
Day 6: Shillong to Guwahati | Laitlum Canyon
Drive back from Shillong to Guwahati. If time permits, on our way back we relax and rejoice in our moments of the trip at Laitlum Canyon. Head back home with happy memories from the enchanting and eventful Meghalaya trip; memories that will last a lifetime.
Note: If any places are closed due to Covid 19 then HikerWolf will not responsible for the same.
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INCLUSIONS
- Transfer to and from Guwahati Airport
- All internal transfers
- Accommodation for 5 days in homestay/Hotels/Guesthouse/Camps on a Twin or Multiple sharing basis. (1N at Cherrapunjee, 1N at Shnongpdeng/Dawki & 2N at Shillong)
- Barbeque and Bonfire
- Breakfast and Dinner at Dawki
- Breakfast at Cherrapunji and Shillong
- Taxes
- Driver allowance
- Guided Trek to various points
- Basic first aid
- HikerWolf expertise
- Services of HikerWolf trip leader
EXCLUSIONS
- Anything not included in inclusions
- Entry Fees for sightseeing
- Any other food or beverage charges that are not included in the package
- Mineral Water
- Insurance
- 5% GST
- Any other costing involved due to any kind of natural calamity forced circumstances, which are out of our control
THINGS TO CARRY
- Most Important your ID proof
- Cap/Hats
- Sunscreen, moisturizer
- Charger
- Camera
- Power-banks
- Bluetooth speakers
- Torch
- Glares
- Insect repellent
- Rainwear
- Sweater/Jacket
- Pair of clothes
- Towel
- Casual shoes and flip-flops
- Sanitary Kit
- Please avoid wearing Gold and other costly jewellery (at your own risk)
- Personal medicines (if any)An extra bag to keep your wet clothes
Water bottle (Minimum 1-2 litre)
Note –
1. In winter the water flow of the waterfalls will be comparatively less.
2. As it’s a backpacking trip, the stays will be provided accordingly.
3. On this trip you will find sunrise at 5 am and sunset at 4:30 pm so be ready to start your day very early!
- HikerWolf reserves the right to cancel the trip if the minimum batch size does not suffice.
- Trip Leaders will only accompany you if there are people more than the minimum batch size otherwise, the trip will be handled virtually.
DETAIL ITINERARY
Day 1: Guwahati to Shillong | Umiam Lake
Namaste! We’re happy to crossroads with you after days of containing the excitement. Today, as soon as we meet at Guwahati airport at 10 am, we’re pumped up like never before. With all that energy and excitement we start the Meghalaya trip, soon, we are onto a road trip to Shillong. You must have heard of the North-East part of India being untouched by human exploitation. You’ll realize that it’s very true as you breathe in the fresh air and see nature at its rawest and meet the warmest of locals who love to be in harmony with nature.
Baithe baithe kya Kare Karna hai Kuch kaam, and apart from getting to know this beautiful scenery, we will get to know each other’s naam.
We vroom through the road with the jazziest of songs and get lost in the surrounding beauty. By now, we would have indulged in some fun gossips with our fellow travellers. And just like that we reach Umiam Lake in the Hills 15 km north of Shillong. It’s a man-made reservoir that can beat the best of nature’s creations! Everywhere you look, you feel magic. Here, we spend our time staring at the magnificent lake, boating and photo-bombing each other like crazy, and bonding over stories from here and there. This lake is surrounded with lush green East Khasi hills that adds to the majesty of the lake and makes for the best panoramic views for all you nature lovers.
Following the meandering route, we soon reach our hotel and check-in for the day. We rest and relax for a while, and jazz up for our next exploration around the city. The magical first day of the Meghalaya trip has us brimming with the fervour of life already.
Next what? Abb bass bhi… Chalo abb waapis chalte hai!
Now that we are done for the day, let’s not forget that we got the night to ourselves. Time for some mini-party, and dancing over Ritviz Bacardi House Party sessions while playing some games. We spend an enthralling night in Shillong and gear up for the next day.
Day 2: Shillong to Cherrapunji | Elephant Falls, Garden of Caves, Wei Sawdong, Seven Sisters Waterfall
Today, you wake up amidst the breezy mountains and the chirping birds! We are only onto the second day of the Meghalaya tour but we all are so quickly dwelled in. We hop out of our beds, savour some delicious breakfast, continue with the blessed and beautiful Meghalaya trip. We ride for Cherrapunji at 6:30 am. Halfway through the drive, you will realize that we are driving on one of the most beautiful roads in India. The journey will be filled with joy, fun, and laughter over the lamest of jokes.
If there’s one thing we can assure you, it’s how even after days, looking back at North East India will give you an essence of untouched rawness and long-lasting purity. And this feels especially absolutely true when we visit the Majestic Elephant Falls named after an Elephant like a stone at its base. The journey becomes mysterious and wonderful when we walk inside the Garden of Caves which is an area that has a combination of Caves, Waterfalls and rock/stone formations making it one of the most mystical and sought after adventures in Cherrapunji. Undeniably the most beautiful caves in Cherrapunji, the structures and formations are the epitomai of the most beautiful creations on earth!
Later in the day, we also visit the Arwah caves and Danithlen Falls. The peace here is enigmatic. The whole aura feels so fresh and pure that it makes you forget your worries for a long time! It makes you feel like you’re on the edge of the hills- looking at the
panorama from here gives you an adrenaline rush like no other! The Meghalaya trip will make you feel like journeying through heaven on earth.
We then head towards the enchanting and one of the sights to behold at Wei Sodong waterfall. To witness the falls, which is beautiful beyond expression, you will have to pass a not-so-intense physical ability test. You will need to trek 200 meters stretch of almost a 75 to 90-degree angle. The villagers have made the path using bamboo trees, and so we would suggest you wear shoes which has an excellent grip. We splish splash in the waterfall and lose ourselves in the beauty of the place. Could this trip get any better? Yes, it can!
You will realize that our gang consists of some brilliant people who are not only crazy photo-bombers but are also great photographers! As we splash water onto each other, we dance and make the most of the moment. After all, every moment of this Meghalaya tour is precious and we treasure them in our palms like trying to hold onto the pristine water slipping through our fists. Only the traces of memories will remain.
The serene Meghalaya tour will serve you with a generous slice of heaven. Lush green stretches of hills and the clouds surrounding and blending with the mist beneath the waterfall- it’s like a treat to your senses.
After a long day full of madness, we finally check in to our hotel in Cherrapunji. I’m sure by now guys would have formed a great bond that we will have to tell you to retire for the day.
Day 3: Cherrapunji | Explore Cherrapunji
Another day, another exploration! The sun greets us with a mouth-watering breakfast at our table, which energizes us for our day hike. You read it right!
Day 3 of the Meghalaya tour will start with our journey of covering the local tourist spot, we will also come across the much-awaited Seven Sisters (Nohsngithiang) Falls. This is the waterfall where you literally feel like you’re in the abode of the clouds!
Post that we will travel to the Nongriat village and hike to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in the village. It’s a legendary bridge that is the heart of the Khasi tribes. This entire trek will fascinate you like no other- you will see lush greenery all around you, with strangled roots of trees and water so clear that you will be able to spot some beautiful fishes swimming in them. You’ll cross numerous stones, rain-fed rivers, and surrounding forests. As the bridges shake and swing over the river, it would almost be like living through an adventure.
Adventure enthusiasts are sure to fall in love with this 150-year-old man-made wonder, that’s no less than any creation of nature. Surrounding the bridge, there are waterfalls, dense forests, and natural swimming pools where we can swim until our souls have been purified! If you are afraid of water, don’t you worry! There will be someone crazy enough to give you swimming lessons.:P
After exploring the beautiful village for a while, we head back to our hotel tired as never! But no matter the exhaustion, our JOSH will be still at its peak. So let’s now lose our crazy minds over some fab ‘Never have I ever session’. Are you nervous?
After some fun nights, we sleep with the magical memories from the hike, ready to celebrate life on the next day of this enigmatic Meghalaya trip.
Day 4: Nongriat to Shnonpedeng | Umngot River
There’s a different kind of beauty in waking up amidst the hills! As soon as morning strikes, we have our breakfast and soon after, we continue our journey towards a hidden gem of Meghalaya, Dawki. With some more songs and masti in the car, we reach Dawki. Yay! The Umngot River at Dawki meanders through lush green Khasi and Jaintia Hills. It shines like a bright emerald stone under the sun. The water is so clean that you can literally see its bottom!
Several boats dot the surface of the water to offer you the most magical boating experience of your life. Once you see Dawki, you’ll start believing in fairy tales. At night, we camp at Dawki or Shnonpedeng to relish the most out of each other’s company while gazing at the stars. Soon, we feel an eerie feeling consuming us all as not all camping experience is complete without those spine-chilling ghost stories! evil grin Are you afraid?
Day 5: Shnonpedeng to Shillong |Krangshuri Waterfall
Dance underneath a majestic waterfall. On this day of our Meghalaya trip, we are going to tick your fancies off your bucket list. Early morning, we savour a sumptuous breakfast, post which we head to this majestic waterfall called the Krangshuri waterfall. The shimmering blue sapphire like water will lure you until you are absolutely spellbound! Soon, we put on our lifejackets, hold each other’s hand tight, and at the count of one, two, three…. You go, pal! Take that leap of faith!
While you leap, all of us will cheer you like mad- because that’s what friends do! You might have witnessed several beautiful waterfalls, but swimming in nature’s paradise is an incomparable experience. This will be the prime adventurous moment of your Meghalaya tour.
Once we fulfil our hearts by swimming in Meghalaya’s most beautiful waterfall, we shall take the route back to Shillong.
This is the last night in Shillong. At night, we explore the world-class cafes and get into the fanciest of all moods. We reminisce about all the nights we’ve spent with each other on our Meghalaya trip and realize that we’re gonna miss them for ages to come. So how can we let go of tonight so easily? Let’s spend the next one hour playing some crazy Dumb Charades with each other and obsessing over SRK and Bhai ke movies! Who’s going first?
Day 6: Shillong to Guwahati | Departure from Guwahati
It’s the last day of our Meghalaya tour, yet a memorable one. Our eyes are restless to soak in the beauty of the hills for one last time, following which, we meet each other for breakfast. Once we pack up, we check out of the hotel and start our journey back to Guwahati. If time permits, on our way back we head towards Laitlum Canyon. Situated at the edge of a cliff, this canyon gives a glimpse of the beauty of Shillong from a bird’s eye perspective that you will absolutely love. Situated in the Smit Valley, this canyon is almost always covered in fog which adds to the beauty of this place. With the amazing company, is perhaps one such moment that we will cherish years from now as treasured memories from our unforgettable Meghalaya trip. The three hours journey back to Guwahati will be all about hippie songs and recollecting the memories made in the last few days.
By 6 pm, we leave and bid each other goodbye with the tightest of hugs. Today, we promise to stay in touch and go on many more trips like this. We board our flight and head back home with the happiest of memories of the Meghalaya trip. So here, hasta la vista- until we meet again!
Note: If any places are closed due to Covid 19 then HikerWolf will not responsible for the same.
Terms of Service
While booking this trip you acknowledge that this trip is an adventure trip and like all adventure has a risk of physical injury and also death; you fully accept the responsibility for all such risks as a condition of participation and accept that the organizers on behalf of HikerWolf or HikerWolf as the firm cannot be held/ made liable for the same. We are just responsible for Hotel, Travel and Guide bookings for all the trips.
FAQ's
1. Can I join Solo for the HikerWolf’s Meghalaya Trip?
Yes, you are welcome to join Solo for the Meghalaya tour. We have many Solo Trippers on all of our trips. The Meghalaya trip is planned in such a way that you will not only enjoy yourself but also make new friends with the other fellow trippers.
2. What is the group size for the HikerWolf’s Meghalaya trip?
A group of 15-30 people is preferred on our Meghalaya trip. We prefer smaller groups because we think that a close-knitted group will help us in giving personal care to everyone, and also a small group makes it possible for everyone to know their fellow tourmates better, making the whole experience of the trip more enriching.
3. Who will accompany us on the Meghalaya tour?
Our travel coordinators will accompany you on the Meghalaya trip. HikerWolf’s travel coordinators are professionals, who are experienced in leading and hosting events, managing groups, and organizing various team-building games and activities. This type of team-building activity will help like-minded travellers to mix up, and bond with each other. They will make new friends and enjoy every moment of the trip.
4. What type of accommodation will be provided on the Meghalaya trip
5. Is there any age limit for the HikerWolf’s Meghalaya trip?
6. If I’m the only girl for the Meghalaya trip, is it safe to travel?
7. Is there any arrangement for a campfire during the Meghalaya trip?
Yes, a bonfire night is included in the Meghalaya trip at Dawaki, where we will be camping beside the Dawki river. Campfire jam, dancing, and soothing music sessions are our specialty. We will have an amazing time sharing stories, laughing, gossiping, and relaxing around the bonfire making memories for a lifetime
8. Are any meals included in the HikerWolf’s Meghalaya tour packages?
Yes, the Meghalaya tour package includes breakfast for the 5 days of the trip and we will also arrange for dinner at Dawki camping site.
9. What type of clothes should I bring for the Meghalaya tour?
For the Meghalaya tour, you should bring warm, woolen clothes as the weather in Meghalaya can be quite unpredictable. It is also essential that you carry waterproof jackets and umbrellas as protection from rain and wind.
10. What is the best time to go for a Meghalaya trip ?
People generally visit Meghalaya throughout the year. But, the best time to go for a Meghalaya trip is between October and June. The average temperature during that time ranges between 16°C to 30°C. But, Meghalaya has pleasant weather all year around and hence you can explore its beauty anytime.
11. What are the places included in HikerWolf’s Meghalaya tour package?
12. What is the speciality of the HikerWolf's Meghalaya tour package?
13. Are there any water sports activities included in the HikerWolf’s Meghalaya tour package?
Yes, water sport activities like kayaking and boating are included in the Meghalaya tour package. You can enjoy yourselves by having a thrilling experience in the Dawki river, which is the cleanest river of India. These water sports will provide you with a great lifetime experience and you will go back home with lots of memories. Braving the mighty waters, and the huge splashes will quench your thirst for adventure.
14. Does the HikerWolf’s Meghalaya tour package include any visit to any cave?
15. Does the HikerWolf’s Meghalaya tour package include a visit to any waterfalls?
16. How do I book the Meghalaya trip with HikerWolf?
17. Will we be assisted by the HikerWolf team to plan our travel from our hometown to meeting the Meghalaya trip?
Yes, as mentioned in the Meghalaya tour packages, we will provide you with complete assistance and guidance required in planning your trip from your hometown to meeting the Meghalaya trip. You are free to choose any mode of transportation, be it train, flight or bus services as per your budget and convenienc
18. What type of vehicle will be used for transportation for the Meghalaya tour?
For the Meghalaya tour, we will be using vehicles like Tempo Travelers, Inova, and others alike for transportation.
19. What is the list of medical things necessary during the Meghalaya tour?
During the Meghalaya trip, it is important that if you suffer from any particular illness like diabetes or high blood pressure you carry all the specific medications with you and inform us about the same beforehand in case of any emergencies. You must also bring medicines and pills for headache, vomiting, stomach pain, and digestive problems with you on the trip.
20. Is first aid included in the Meghalaya tour package?
21. Are there any network connectivity issues in Meghalaya?
There are usually no network issues in Meghalaya. The network connectivity is pretty good. While BSNL gives the best network connection, Reliance Jio also has a good network coverage. However, in remote areas, like villages or when you are exploring the caves down below the connection might fluctuate.
22. Are there any ATMs in Meghalaya?
Yes, there are many ATMs available in the main town of Meghalaya. However, although the rural areas do have ATMs they are comparatively fewer in number and you have to wait in long queues for transactions. Therefore it is advisable that you carry sufficient cash with you during the Meghalaya trip.
23. How many trippers will be staying in a room on the HikerWolf’s Meghalaya trip?
On the Meghalaya trip, the accommodation that will be given to the trippers will be on a triple sharing basis. Couples who need a dual sharing occupancy will have to pay an additional amount of ₹2500/- per person.
24. Can the Meghalaya tour package be personalized?
Yes, we can personalize the Meghalaya tour package for you if you have a group of more than 10 people for the trip. You can share your ideas and opinions and after analyzing them we can arrange the trip especially for your group on your preferred date.
25. Is Meghalaya a safe place to visit?
Yes, Meghalaya is absolutely a safe place for tourists to visit. The people of Meghalaya are still deeply connected to their roots and culture. The local people are extremely warm and welcoming to the tourists, and even the local authorities are quite friendly, making the place one of the safest states of India.
26. Is Meghalaya a good place for a honeymoon?
Yes, Meghalaya is definitely a good place for a honeymoon. Meghalaya itself is the source of alluring dream destinations, having several captivating sites that serve as romantic destinations.
You will come across gigantic waterfalls like the Seven Sisters waterfalls, the Dainthlen Falls, the crystal clear Dawki River, the double decker root bridge and many more gorgeous locations with lush greenery that serve as the perfect backdrop for a romantic honeymoon!
27. How does the temperature range in summer in Meghalaya?
The temperature range of Meghalaya in summer is around 16C°– 31C°. The summers here are quite pleasant with the sun often playing peek-a-boo, hiding behind the clouds, giving an overcast sky. This is the ideal time for adventure seekers to explore the untouched beauty of Meghalaya and the perfectly cool climate also allows you to rest indoors peacefully.
For those who want to learn about the Meghalayan culture, the summer months are also perfect for them as many festivals are held during that time. Shad Suk Mynsiem is one such festival that happens every year in April, which celebrates the indomitable spirit of the Khasi tribe
28. How does the temperature range in winter in Meghalaya?
The temperature range of Meghalaya in winter in Meghalaya is around 4-10°C. The days are quite warm in winter as the sun shines brightly during the daytime, however, the temperature drops significantly at night accompanied by chilly winds. Winters in Meghalaya are about enjoying the foggy weather and exploring the hamlets.
This season also has its fair share of memorable festivals. The Strawberry Festival being the most significant as it celebrates the hard work of farmers as well as the immense production of strawberries during the winter months.
30. Can children accompany me on the Meghalaya tour?
Yes, your children can definitely accompany you on the Meghalaya tour. For 3-8 year-old kids you are required to pay 50% while, for kids 8 years and above you need to make the full payment.
31. Is it safe for a female solo traveller on the Meghalaya tour?
Yes, Meghalaya is one of the safest places for female solo travelers. Women in Meghalaya are very empowered, handling family businesses and following a matrilineal tradition. In recent times many women travel solo to explore the heavenly beauty of Meghalaya.
32. What are the famous cuisines of Meghalaya which we can try on the Meghalaya tour?
Some of the famous cuisines found in Meghalaya which you can try on the trip are as follows:
- Jadoh – Jadoh is one of the most popular dishes of Meghalaya. The dish contains red rice served with pork. But you can also enjoy it with fish and chicken. Ingredients like bay leaves, turmeric, ginger, and black pepper make it smell and taste delicious!
- Nakham Bitchi – When in Meghalaya you can also try the Nakham Bitchi for snacks which is a delicious soup made out of Nakham or dried fish. The soup has a thick texture and the spicy chillies make it even more perfect.
- Doh-Khlieh – Another interesting dish of Meghalaya is Doh-Khlieh which is basically a tasty and healthy salad consisting of chillies, onions, and minced pork, often served with bread.
- Tungrymbai – This meal is made out of fermented soya beans and mixed with diced and boiled pork, black sesame, ginger, onion, and other tasty spices which brings out the wonderful flavor!
- Pukhlein – To satiate your sweet tooth, Meghalaya also offers you with its fantastic dish known as Pukhlein which comprises powdered rice, mixed with jaggery. This mixture is fried and after it gets thickened is served with meat or simply as a sweet dish.
33. What kind of wildlife is found in Meghalaya?
Meghalaya is a home to many wild animals. The wildlife commonly found here are barking deer, sambar, elephants, Himalayan Black bear, sloth bear, yellow throated Marten, and large Indian civets.
Predatory animals like leopards, Indian wolves, marbled cats, and Indian wild dogs are also found. Rare birds which inhabit the forests of Meghalaya are the Rufous Necked Hornbill, Himalayan Grey headed Fish Eagle, Blyth’s Baza Painted Stork, Long Billed Vulture, and the Wood Srupe.
One of the rarest animals found in Meghalaya is the clouded leopard which is also one of the most endangered species in India. Meghalaya is also inhabited by the Hoolock Gibbon which is the only ape that is found in India and the Capped Langur, both considered to be endangered species.
Meghalaya has 2 national parks and 4 Wildlife Sanctuaries.
National Parks:
- Balpakram National Park
- Nokrek National Park
Wildlife Sanctuaries
- Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary
- Narpuh Wildlife Sanctuary
- Siju Wildlife Sanctuary
- Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary
34. What are the exclusions of the Meghalaya tour package?
The exclusions of the Meghalaya tour package are as follows:
- Anything which is not included in the inclusions list
- Food or beverage charges which are not included in the package
- Insurance
- Costing charges are involved due to any kind of natural calamity, or forced circumstances, which are out of our control.
35. What will be the trip route for HikerWolf’s Meghalaya tour package?
The trip route for HikerWolf’s Meghalaya tour package will be as follows:
Guwahati–Shillong–Cherrapunjee–Dawki– Shongpedeng–Shillong–Guwahati
36. How to reach Meghalaya from Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore?
The fastest way to reach Meghalaya is by taking a flight from Mumbai to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport at Guwahati and then a road trip to Shillong through NH6 which is approximately 106 Kms.
The cheapest way to reach Meghalaya from Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore is to take a train to Guwahati from your respective towns. Afterwards, you can board a bus to Meghalaya or Shillong, the road distance between Shillong and Guwahati is around 100 Km via NH6.
37. What is the language spoken in Meghalaya?
The local language of Meghalaya spoken by the people residing there is Khasi. As the region is mainly populated by tribal, the principal languages spoken by the local people include Khasi, Garo, and Pnar. English is the official language which is spoken in Meghalaya.
38. What are the things I can buy while shopping in Meghalaya?
Meghalaya has many unique shopping items that cannot be found in any other region of India. The most famous of them are products made out of bamboo and cane. There are superbly designed items like mats, boxes, caps, and stools made completely out of bamboo that are both artistic and durable.The other things you can buy when in Meghalaya are as follows:
Shawls and Stoles – The most exquisite, handcrafted shawls and stoles carved in beautiful motifs are famous in Meghalaya, which can be an ideal gift to take back home or use it yourself! The shawls and stoles are available in a wide range of colors and are known to keep the cold at bay!
Handicrafts – Bamboo handicrafts are one of the famous handicrafts found in the local markets of Meghalaya, These handicrafts are usually known for their durability and strength. You can buy vases, bottles, and baskets carved out of the bamboo. Wooden handicrafts, showpieces, and other decorative items are also famous in Meghalaya.
Scottish Clothes – The Scottish dress materials, found in Meghalaya are quite fashionable. They are very beautiful and warm. You can easily make skirts, shirts, or jackets from these dress materials. Also, they come at a cheap price, Rs 250 per metre.
Organic products – Meghalaya has plenty of organic products for you to select from. You can buy delicious jams and jellies which are made from the Meghalayan local fruit called Sohiong, organic peaches, and pineapple, along with fresh turmeric, and cashews. Essential oils like perlia, Cedar, and lemongrass are also bought widely.
39. How are the road conditions in Meghalaya?
The roads in Meghalaya are mostly in good condition. The roads are broader allowing the easy flow of traffic. But some stretches like a patch of road about 10kms from Shillong to Dawki are in a little bad shape. But apart from that places like Cherrapunjee, Mawlynnong, Shillong have great roads, without any curves which you will surely enjoy!
40. Which is the nearest airport to Meghalaya?
Umroi which is located at a distance of about 35kms from Shillong is the nearest airport to Meghalaya.The distance between Umroi to Meghalaya is 121.9 kms via NH106. It will take you approximately three and a half hours.
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport at Guwahati is the second nearest airport to Meghalaya. It is situated at a distance of 128kms from Shillong. The distance between Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport and Meghalaya is 154.5kms via SH 3.
41. What are the best places to visit in Meghalaya?
Meghalaya is a collection of unexplored natural beauty like the aggressive waterfalls, the deep, dark caves, the exotic root bridges, and glistening lakes. The best places to visit in Meghalaya are as follows:
Living root bridge: One of the main attractions in Meghalaya is the living root double-deckered bridge which is made naturally out of intertwined roots by the surrounding trees. It is located at a height of 2400ft and is about 3kms long!
Umiam Lake: The Umiam Lake is another interesting place to visit, especially for adventure-lovers as they can enjoy yachting, boating, and skiing in it. This artificial lake used for hydroelectric power generation by storing the water via the damming process is located at a gorgeous location, encircled by the lush green Sylvian hills.
Maswami Caves and Arwah Caves: Made out of limestones, fossils of dead animals, shells, with scary stalagmites and stalactites hanging, the Maswami and Arwah caves are both a major tourist spot. You can venture inside upto 150mts and explore them.
Nohkalikai Falls: The mighty Nohkalikai falls plunges down from a height of 1,115ft and creates a massive green pool down below which is truly a great sight to behold.
Mawlynnong village: One of the greatest romantic getaways is the Mawlynnong village which is the cleanest village in Asia. The place is famous for the awe-inspiring natural beauty and the mesmerizing root bridges.
Dawki-Umngot river: The Umngot river in Dawki is so clean and crystal clear that you can even see the reflection of your boat clearly. Located close to the Bangladesh border, Dawki is surrounded by dense green forests and is perfect for clicking stunning pictures.
42. What are the adventure activities to do in Meghalaya?
The serene beauty of Meghalaya also offers a spectacular option for adventure sports. The following are the most anticipated and celebrated adventure activities in Meghalaya.
- Canyoning – Canyoning is a thrilling activity which can be enjoyed in the waters of Umngot river in Meghalaya. There will be an instructor who will guide you in braving the aggressive water splashes and you will have a great time!
- Trek to Double Decker Living Root Bridge – The trek to the double decker living root bridge in Meghalaya is about an one and a half hour walk amongst dense forests, filled with the sound of ruffling water streams and lots of birds and crickets. It is quite interesting and gives you the experience of a lifetime.
- Cave explorations – Cave explorations comprise the key highlight of the Meghalaya tour. Exploring the Maswami Caves and Arwah Caves is an adventurous activity as you witness the dark, curving rocks made of limestones and marvel at how deep they go!
Ziplining: Ziplining at Cherrapunji is a must do activity while on the Meghalaya tour. The rush and feel of ziplining, gliding across in the air, amongst the clouds looking down upon the beautiful valley at Mawkdok and Dympep will give you a superb adrenaline rush!
43. Is smoking and drinking allowed on the Meghalaya tour?
Yes, you can drink alcohol only during the night. Smokers can smoke, provided that they don’t make the others around them or the non-smoking people uncomfortable.
44. What are some of the cultural facts about Meghalaya?
Some of the notable cultural facts about Meghalaya are as follows:
Literacy: Meghalaya is the only state which has a literacy rate of 75.48%, higher than the average literacy rate of India, which is 74.4%.
Matrilineal tradition: Meghalaya is also the only state of India which strictly follows the matrilineal tradition where the inheritance of a family is passed through the women and women here often take over the family business.
Religion: Meghalaya also falls under one of the three states in India which follows Christianity as the chief religion. About 70% of the residents of Meghalaya follow Christianity.
45. What is the distance between Shillong and Meghalaya?
The distance between Shillong and Meghalaya via NH106 is about 96.9kms. It is approximately a three hour journey by road.
46. What are some of the famous markets one can visit in Meghalaya tour?
Some of the famous markets one can visit in the Meghalaya tour are as follows:
Dawki market: Located along the banks of Dawki river, the Dawki river hosts a wide variety of eateries which serve delicious dishes like rice cakes, spicy non-veg curries, and steamed rice. You can also visit the Dawki Kali Mandir there.
Hat Thymmai: The Hat Thymmai market has loads of items stocked up from daily groceries, essential medicines, organic cosmetics, delicious chocolates, and even a pint of beer. Once a week the market also displays exotic Bangladeshi products.
Gokolgre Daily Market: If you want to try some authentic, local Meghalayan cuisine, then Gokolgre Market is your ideal place! Several grocery items, clothing, and meat shops are also found here.
Lew Sohra Bazaar: The Lew Sohra Bazaar is one of the famous markets of Meghalaya especially for fashion enthusiasts as they provide some of the best jewelleries and accessories at a cheap price! Be it junk jewellery, hats, sandals, or souvenirs like miniature figurines, and wooden items, Lew Sohra Bazaar is a must visit!