Trekking in Meghalaya
Treks in Meghalaya
Meghalaya is a part of the seven sister states in India, the name of which literally translates to “the abode of the clouds” in Sanskrit. Meghalaya is a preferred gateway to a plethora of picturesque trekking destinations covered in greenery, surrounded by lush mountains, stretches of Pine forests, numerous waterfalls, caves and rapid streams. This beautiful region has many waterfalls and rivers, which please your eyes and keep the aura soothing. Trekking in such a beautiful environment is a different experience, which allures tourists from far-flung areas.David Scott trail is the most frequented hiking destination in Meghalaya where the route to the end point passes through valleys, green beds, rivers, pools, hanging bridges and remote villages. Though for the best trekking tours in Meghalaya; Living Root Bridge, Kyllang Rock and Sophet Bneng also offer a brilliant opportunity.
Meghalaya would leave one rejoicing in the breathtaking yet infrequent natural reserves like the trek to the living root bridge or the double decker root bridge near Tyrna village in Cherrapunji where one has to hike through thick jungles, water streams to reach the bridge. This trek introduces one to mesmerizing viewpoints. Among other notable treks, trekking in Dawki is also favoured by amateur trekkers and adventure lovers as the trails are easy to tread upon but it offers spectacular sights of the surrounding hills from above.
Too bogged down with the monotony and humdrum of the corporate world? Frustrated with the daily rush of traffic and crowds everywhere? Here’s our list of the best trekking tours in Meghalaya for a peaceful and delightful experience here.
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Meghalaya Trekking FAQs
Which are the best treks to do in Meghalaya?
Krem Mawsmai, Krem Mawmluh and Krem Umshyrpi Caves Trail: A natural web of caves invites you to go on an unraveling mystery surpassing an area of over 7 kilometers in Meghalaya. The Krem Mawsmai, Krem Mawmluh, and Krem Umshyrpi Caves Trail is one of the most thrilling and luring treks that one can experience. Nuzzled amidst the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, the limestone caverns are lit up with halogen lamps to show trekkers the way.
Moreover, many areas and paths are still unexplored and unmapped in these hollows, especially Krem Mawmluh and Krem Umshyrpi that are also more demanding and are not suited for amateurs.
Difficulty Level- Moderate to Difficult
Duration - 6 to 7 hours
Dawki Trek: A photogenic town near Shillong, Dawki is home to a plethora of natural attractions and is one of the trekking places in Meghalaya. Home to the transparent Umngot River, clean and unspoilt villages, and the international Border between India and the neighbouring country Bangladesh, you can explore all these and other places, even halt for a picnic at the river during a relaxing and blissful trek.
Difficulty Level - Easy
Duration - 9 to 10 hours
Mawlyngot Village Trek: Perched amid the Eastern Khasi hills, at an elevation of 4800 feet, the Mawlngot Village Trek lets you have a chance to spend ample time in the beauties of nature, making it one of the perfect trekking places in Meghalaya. Starting at the village, the 6 kilometres long trail takes you through lush forests, petit hills, tea estates before finally coming to an end at the serene Umsong River.
If you want to have a more wholesome experience, opt for meghalaya trekking packages that include additional adventures and overnight camping.
Difficulty Level - Easy
Duration - 2 to 3 hours
The Living Roots Bridge Trek: The prized possession of Meghalaya, the double-decker living roots bridge is a bridge made out of ancient rubber tree roots by the works of the native Khasi tribe. This alluring and wonderful site is situated in Tyrna, which is a good 2 hour drive from Shillong.
The adventure quest starts right from the village and ends at the Rainbow Falls, covering a distance of 8 kilometres. Although short, one cannot remiss such an exquisite place to enjoy Trekking in Meghalaya.
Difficulty Level - Easy
Duration - 2 to 3 hours
David Scott Trail: At an elevation of 4892 feet in Shillong, the David Scott Trail is named after the British administrator who once worked in the Khasi hills from 1802 to 1832. Also, It is among the most exhilarating sites to go Trekking in Meghalaya. Scattered generously with the bounties of nature, the lush and sublime sceneries offer an opportunity to refuel your deprived souls as well as have an adrenaline pumping adventure.
The trek consists of a 16 kilometre long path that gradually ascends from easy to moderate to difficult with some daunting stretches.
Difficulty Level - Moderate to Difficult
Duration - 7 to 8 hours
Which are the best treks to do in Meghalaya?
No. There are no trekking places in Meghalaya that experience snowfall. The north-easyetn state of India despite being on a higher altitude does not have favourable weather conditions for snowfall.
Which are the best treks to do in Meghalaya?
The best time to plan a trip to Meghalaya is during the summer and winter seasons that account during October till June. The temperatures during these months rarely dip beyond 30 degrees celsius with dry atmosphere, making it ideal for Trekking in Meghalaya.
Other than that monsoons can be avoided completely as the state receives heavy downpour, making it the wettest region in India.
Which are the best treks to do in Meghalaya?
Here are all the available modes of transportation to reach Meghalaya from different parts of the country.
Rail - The closest railway station from Meghalaya lies in Guwahati, Assam at a distance of over 180 kilometres. Many direct trains commute from Delhi, Bengaluru, Kolkata, etc. to the Guwahati junction and after getting off here, one can either board interstate buses or rent a cab to complete the rest of the journey.
Air - The closest airport is Umroi Domestic Airport in Meghalaya, at a distance of around 30 kilometers from the Shillong City. Another option is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, located at a distance of 158 kilometres from Meghalaya. Having a well-connected air route with other cities in India, the airport is situated in Guwahati, Assam. Much like with the rail travels, one can cover the remaining distance via buses or taxi rentals.
Road - For travellers visiting from nearby cities and states, they can pick the roadways and drive directly to Meghalaya in their personal vehicles or rented taxis, and even buses.
Which are the best treks to do in Meghalaya?
Yes. Meghalaya is a safe state to visit both as a tourist and as an avid trekker. There are no major instances reported involving travellers and as far as trekking trails are considered, there are many scenic paths for one to explore with guided and well-acquainted Meghalaya trekking packages that ensure safety and fun for all the participants.
Which are the best treks to do in Meghalaya?
The following list will help you pack and prepare for the trip and Trekking in Meghalaya.
- Comfortable Clothing: lightweight, cotton t-shirts, track-pants and leggings for women
- Sturdy Shoes: ideally with a good grip, comfortable and water-resistant
- A day backpack to carry essentials
- Raincover for bag and a raincoat (in case of unexpected drizzle)
- A scarf, cap and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
- Sunblock
- A few eatables (energy bars, candies, chocolates etc.)
- A reusable water bottle, preferably 1 litres capacity
These are especially for long duration treks and for independent trekkers:
- Flashlight (for the longer trudges)
- Camping gear: tent, poles, sleeping bag
- A fire starter kit, First-aid, Medication, Insect repellent
- Toiletries, wet-wipes/a small towel
- Slippers and extra pair of apparels
- A jacket (for colder weather)
Miscellaneous:
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Trekking Pole
- Any other personal belongings
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