In this guide
Overview
Meghalaya, the 'Abode of Clouds', is famous for receiving the highest rainfall on Earth. Beyond the capital of Shillong lie ancient Khasi traditions, crystal clear rivers, and astonishing bio-engineering.
Why it is offbeat
To see the real Meghalaya, you have to hike. The best locations, like the double-decker root bridges and bamboo trails, are inaccessible by car and require descending thousands of stone steps into deep tropical canyons.
Best time to visit
October to May. Visiting during the peak monsoon (July-August) means spectacular waterfalls, but trekking paths will be dangerously slippery and infested with leeches.
How to reach
Fly into Guwahati (Assam) or Umroi (Shillong). From Shillong, hire a taxi to Tyrna village to begin the trek to Nongriat, or drive to Mawphlang.
Permit/visa notes
No ILP required for Meghalaya, though there has been political discussion about introducing one. Carry valid ID.
Things to do
- Descend 3,500 steps to Nongriat to see the Jingkieng Nongriat (Double Decker Living Root Bridge).
- Walk the Mawryngkhang Trek (the Bamboo Trek) in Pynursla.
- Explore the Mawphlang Sacred Grove, where Khasi rules strictly forbid taking even a single leaf out of the forest.
Where to stay
Stay in basic village homestays in Nongriat (like Serene Homestay) or eco-camps in Mawlynnong and Shnongpdeng.
Estimated budget
₹2,000 - ₹3,500 per day. Homestays are cheap (₹800/night), but private taxi hires between remote Khasi villages can add up quickly.
Responsible travel tips
The root bridges are living organisms. Do not pull on the roots or carve your name into them. Respect the strict rules of the Sacred Groves—violating them is deeply offensive to the locals.
FAQ
Do I need to be fit to visit Nongriat? Yes. The hike down is easy, but climbing 3,500 steep stone stairs back up to Tyrna is physically exhausting and takes 2-3 hours.
Written by PlanMyOffbeat Experts
Independent, verification-first travel guides for offbeat trips.
