Offbeat Meghalaya - Clouds, Rivers, and Living Bridges
A journey through misty hills, crystal rivers, and forests that grow their own architecture.
Forget the rushed sightseeing tours. Meghalaya isn't meant to be "seen"; it's meant to be felt. Your journey begins at Umiam Lake, its still waters mirroring the hills as you climb toward Shillong, a hill town of colonial bungalows and quiet lakes, where the pace of the plains already feels far away.
From here, the land turns wilder. Descend through cascading falls at Tyrshi and Krang Suri toward Dawki, where the Umngot River runs so clear that boats appear to float on air. Spend a night camped on its banks, the river's hush the only sound after dark. By day, wander into Mawlynnong, where the forest has been shaped by hand into a living root bridge, and walk the Wahkhen Bamboo Trail as the valley opens up beneath you.
Beyond the villages, Cherrapunji waits: one of the wettest places on earth, carved by centuries of rain into waterfalls, caves, and canyons. Stand before Wei Sawdong Falls, step into the quiet dark of Arwah Cave, and trace the Garden of Caves before the land delivers its final view: Laitlum Canyon, the so-called "Grand Canyon of the East," where the hills fall away into cloud.
Comfortable stays, unhurried mornings, and a landscape that rewards patience. This is Meghalaya experienced: rivers you can see through slowly, bridges grown rather than built, and hills that disappear into mist. Spaces are limited, and the clear-water season is short. Join us before the rivers cloud with monsoon.
- Float on a Clear River - Glide across the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River in Dawki, where the riverbed is visible from your boat.
- Asia's "Cleanest Village" - Walk through Mawlynnong, known for its spotless streets and beautifully maintained gardens.
- The Famous Bamboo Trail - Enjoy a scenic walk on the unique bamboo trail at Wahkhen, a local initiative offering stunning valley views.
- Stunning Waterfalls - Discover the turquoise pools of Krang Suri Falls and the cascading Wei Sawdong Falls, tucked into the hills near Cherrapunji.
- Exploring the Underground - Venture into the limestone formations of Arwah Cave and the serene Garden of Caves.
- Grand Canyon of the East - Take in sweeping views at Laitlum Canyon, one of the most dramatic viewpoints in Meghalaya.
- Riverside Camping - Spend a night camped on the banks of the Umngot River at Shnongpdeng, falling asleep to the sound of the water.
Day 1: Guwahati – transfer to Shillong
Arrive at Guwahati Airport and begin the scenic drive to Shillong. En route, stop at the picturesque Umiam Lake for photographs and refreshments. Upon reaching Shillong, explore the charming Ward's Lake and enjoy an evening stroll through the bustling local market. Overnight Stay: Shillong
Meals: Packed Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 2 | Shillong – Tyrshi Falls – Krang Suri Falls – Shnongpdeng
After breakfast, drive towards Shnongpdeng. Along the way, visit the beautiful Tyrshi Falls and the stunning turquoise waters of Krang Suri Falls. In the evening, experience a peaceful boat ride on the crystal-clear Umngot River, famous for its transparent waters. Overnight Stay: Riverside Camp, Shnongpdeng.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Shnongpdeng – Mawlynnong – Wahkhen – Cherrapunji
Begin the day with a visit to Mawlynnong, renowned as one of Asia's cleanest villages, and explore its iconic Living Root Bridge. Continue to Wahkhen for the scenic Bamboo Trail Trek, offering breathtaking views of Meghalaya's lush landscapes. Later, proceed to Cherrapunji. Overnight Stay: Cherrapunji.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4: Cherrapunji Exploration
Spend the day discovering some of Meghalaya's most spectacular natural attractions. Visit the mesmerising Wei Sawdong Falls, explore the fascinating Arwah Cave, and wander through the beautiful Garden of Caves, known for its waterfalls, streams, and unique rock formations. Overnight Stay: Cherrapunji.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Cherrapunji – Laitlum Canyon – Guwahati
After breakfast, drive back towards Guwahati. En route, stop at the breathtaking Laitlum Canyon, popularly known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," offering panoramic views of Meghalaya's dramatic valleys. Continue onward to Guwahati Airport for your departure.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
(Note: Dinner is not included)
Travel Arrangements to and from Guwahati :
When planning your journey, please ensure you arrive in Guwahati by 7:00 AM on the first day.
For your departure, please schedule your flight or train for after 10:00 PM.
If you need assistance with booking your flights or other travel arrangements, please contact our travel counsellor. We're here to help you out!
What is included in the tour
- AC surface transport from Guwahati
- Accommodation on a twin/triple-sharing basis
- All meals as mentioned in the itinerary
- Bamboo Trail trek at Wahkhen
- Boat ride on the Umngot River at Shnongpdeng
- Entrance fees for monuments and sightseeing attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
- All road taxes, parking fees, and interstate taxes
- Inner Line Permit for Indian nationals
- Services of an expert trip leader from Team Foliage
What is NOT included in the tour
- Flights or train travel to and from Guwahati
- Dinner on last day.
- Personal expenditure of any kind (porterage, telephone, laundry, room service, etc.)
- Tips to drivers, guides and hotel staff
- Camera/Video Camera Charges at tourist attractions, monuments, caves, waterfalls, parks, and viewpoints (where applicable).
- Drone permits and drone usage charges.
- Travel insurance
- Restricted Area Permit for foreign nationals (if applicable)
- Expenses that are incurred due to reasons beyond the control of the organisers
- Anything not specifically mentioned under 'What is included in the tour'
- Goods and Services Tax (GST)
