Trails of Meghalaya | Caves, Cascades & Canopies
Trip Highlights
From misty cliffs and limestone caverns to living root pathways and clear mountain rivers, explore Meghalaya, popularly known as the Abode of the Clouds.
Trek thousands of steps to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat, a Khasi marvel where roots form natural walkways over emerald pools.
Float on the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River in Dawki, where boats appear to glide mid-air and river beaches frame serene border landscapes.
Seek blessings at Kamakhya Temple on Nilachal Hill, a revered Shaktipeeth where tantric traditions blend with sweeping views of the Brahmaputra valley.
Marvel at Nohkalikai Falls, India’s highest plunge waterfall, as it drops into a blue pool with mist rising from the cliffs around, creating a stunning panorama.
Know Before You Go
- Carry original government photo IDs for all travelers (including children) for hotel check-ins, police/forest check posts, and any state entry formalities.
- Expect standard hotel check-in after 2:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM; early check-in/late check-out is subject to availability and may be chargeable.
- Understand that hotels in the hills may have limited room sizes, intermittent Wi-Fi, power backups, and non-AC rooms by default due to cool weather.
- Follow a flexible itinerary; sightseeing order can change due to traffic, local events, fog, or rain, with missed spots replaced by feasible alternatives.
- Wear sturdy trekking shoes, carry a rain jacket/poncho, quick-dry layers, a cap, sunscreen, and insect repellent; monsoon months can bring leeches on forest trails.
- Attempt the Nongriat Double Decker trek only if fit for steep ascents/descents (~3,500 steps each way); not recommended for knee, back, or cardiac issues.
- Keep hands free for railings on the Nongriat trail; carry a small backpack, 1–2 liters of water, and light snacks; avoid plastic litter and always bring waste back.
- Use life jackets for all boating/kayaking on the Umngot; swimming is discouraged due to currents and changing depths.
- Expect Umngot River clarity to be seasonal—clearest typically in winter; water may be less transparent after rains or during monsoon.
- Treat all adventure activities at Dawki/Shnongpdeng (boating, kayaking, zip-line) as optional and payable directly; operators may close during bad weather or high water.
- Dress modestly for Kamakhya Temple; long queues are common, and special darshan/locker/shoe-keeping charges (if any) are paid directly; photography may be restricted in inner areas.
- Expect patchy mobile network and data speeds outside cities; download maps, keep offline tickets, and inform family of low connectivity windows.
- Carry sufficient cash for small vendors and rural stops; UPI works in many places but can be unreliable with poor signal.
- Respect local customs—avoid loud music, seek permission before photographing people, and refrain from alcohol in public or sacred spaces.
- Understand that vehicle AC may be turned off on steep climbs for engine efficiency, and night driving in the hills is generally avoided for safety.
- Know that driver duty is typically 8–10 hours per day; additional hours, detours, or spots outside the plan may attract extra charges.
- Expect entrance fees at viewpoints, caves, skywalks, and activities to be excluded unless mentioned; keep small change handy for local tickets.
- Inform the team in advance about dietary preferences (vegetarian, Jain, vegan); breakfasts are included as per the package, while other meals are on your own.
- Keep medicines for motion sickness, acidity, and minor injuries; declare any health conditions to your coordinator, and consider travel insurance for the trip.
- Use reusable water bottles; many natural sites discourage single-use plastics—help keep Meghalaya clean by carrying your trash back to bins.
- Anticipate that heavy rain, landslides, or official advisories can force closures; in such cases, suitable alternatives will be offered in place of cash refunds.
Additional Information
About the Tour:
Spend 5 Days discovering Meghalaya’s icons on a scenic loop through Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki and Guwahati. Chase cascades at Elephant Falls, Mawkdok Dympep Viewpoint, Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters and walk the fossil-lit chambers of Arwah Cave. Also, trek from Tyrna to Nongriat’s Double Decker Living Root Bridge & float on the glass-clear Umngot River at Dawki/Shnongpdeng (boating/kayaking optional). Moreover, enjoy your stay in Shillong and Cherrapunji & conclude the journey with a visit at Kamakhya Temple.