7-Day Meghalaya Nature and Culture Tour with Living Root Bridge

7 Days Round trip from Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Relax in Mawphanlur's rolling meadows and natural lakes, with time for gentle nature walks and outdoor activities
  • 02 Visit Elephant Falls and take in sweeping views from Shillong Peak
  • 03 Walk through the legendary Mawphlang Sacred Grove and explore Khasi heritage with local insights
  • 04 Experience Meghalaya's geological and rainy-season marvels around Mawsynram and Mawlyngbna, including caves, viewpoints, and waterfalls
  • 05 Discover Sohra's famous waterfalls and caves, with an option to trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge or visit the Garden of Caves

Discover Meghalaya over seven immersive days, blending misty highland landscapes, Khasi culture, and unforgettable hikes. From the tranquil "Land of Seven Lakes" at Mawphanlur to the sacred forests of Mawphlang and the rain-soaked wonders of Mawsynram, each day reveals a different side of this remarkable region. Explore Shillong's museums, lakeside corners, and lively markets, then head to Sohra (Cherrapunji) for dramatic waterfalls and limestone caves. Choose between the iconic trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat or a nature-filled visit to the Garden of Caves, before wrapping up with panoramic valley views and a final stop at Umiam Lake on the way back to Guwahati.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Guwahati, Shillong, Mawsynram, Cherrapunji
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Guwahati and Drive to Mawphanlur

Meet and greet upon arrival at Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati, in the morning, and then drive to Mawphanlur - a breathtaking, offbeat hamlet in Meghalaya's West Khasi Hills. Known as the "Land of Seven Lakes," it features rolling green meadows, tranquil natural ponds, and sweeping views of the Khasi Hills, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers to relax and admire the beauty of nature.

Check in at the Traveller's Nest/Homestays after a drive through beautiful green hills and forests filled with winding bends, gentle climbs, and descents through the scenic hills.

Activities that one can engage in here include nature walks, hiking, angling, kayaking, and boating. The classic Mawphanlur landscape - lakes, meadows, and sunset reflections - makes the area even more scenic and postcard-like.

Spend the evening at leisure and relaxation, with an overnight stay at Mawphanlur.

2
Day 02

Mawphanlur to Mawphlang via Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak

Check out after breakfast and drive to Mawphlang - a picturesque village located 25 km from Shillong in the East Khasi Hills. It is best known for the Khasi Heritage Village and the 800-year-old Mawphlang Sacred Grove. This sacred grove is said to be a storehouse of legends, indigenous cultures, religious beliefs, and biodiversity. To experience the best of Mawphlang, there is no better way to understand the history of a place than hearing it from the locals while taking a nature walk into the forest.

Hike the Mawphlang Dam View Point Trek. This scenic nature trail takes you to a nearby hilltop, offering spectacular panoramic views of the river, the dam's expanse, and the rolling Khasi Hills.

En route, visit Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak. At an elevation of about 1,965 meters, Shillong Peak is the highest point in the state of Meghalaya, promising an unforgettable experience filled with awe-inspiring sights.

Check in at the Maple Pine Farms cabin for relaxation and an overnight stay.

3
Day 03

Mawsynram and the Wonders of Mawlyngbna

After breakfast, drive to Mawsynram and Mawlyngbna. Mawsynram experiences heavy rainfall throughout the year, and the monsoon season from June to September offers a truly immersive experience for rain lovers. Apart from its natural wonders, Mawsynram also boasts a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant traditions of the Khasi tribe, known for their warm hospitality, traditional cuisine, and unique customs. Exploring quaint villages and interacting with the locals provides a deeper insight into the region's rich cultural tapestry.

The region offers a mix of geological wonders, dramatic viewpoints, and adventure. Key highlights include Mawjymbuin Cave, Mawsynram View Point, Khreng Khreng Waterfalls, Mawlyngbna Village, Umdikain Waterfalls, Pitcher Plant Garden, Split Rock, and Umkhakoi Water Park.

4
Day 04

Mawlyngbna to Shillong's Culture and City Life

In the morning after breakfast, drive to Shillong. Visit Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures - often hailed as the "Mirror of the Northeast" - displaying the rich history, culture, arts, and traditions of the indigenous tribes across North East India. Thereafter, visit Ward's Lake and the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians.

Later in the evening, do not miss Police Bazar. This bustling market area is a hub for shopping, dining, and experiencing local culture. From traditional handicrafts and clothing to delicious street food, Police Bazar offers a vibrant glimpse into Shillong's lifestyle.

Return to the hotel for an overnight stay at Shillong.

5
Day 05

Shillong to Sohra for Waterfalls and Caves

After breakfast, drive to Sohra, also known as Cherrapunjee. The primary attractions of Sohra are its breathtaking waterfalls - Nohkalikai Falls, Nohsngithiang Falls (Seven Sisters Falls), Wei Sawdong Falls, Wah Kaba Falls, and Ka Wah Bakra Shella - each with its own charm and beauty.

There is no shortage of adventures in Sohra. Exploring the limestone caves, such as Mawsmai Cave and Arwah Cave, along with photography, offers memorable experiences to travellers.

Overnight stay at Sohra.

6
Day 06

Nongriat Trek or Garden of Caves, Then Drive to Mawkdok

Trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat, near Sohra, a breathtaking 150-year-old bioengineering marvel. Grown by the Khasi tribe by interweaving rubber tree aerial roots across the Umshiang River, the hike features an unforgettable descent and ascent of over 3,000 steps through lush, tropical rainforests.

Starting point: Tyrna Village, which is about 12-15 km from Sohra.

One full day is required to undertake this adventure.

OR

Visit the Garden of Caves, which presents a captivating blend of natural beauty with verdant landscape. Listen to the soothing sounds of flowing streams, and discover geological marvels and adventurous experiences, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature.

In the evening, drive to Mawkdok for an overnight stay.

7
Day 07

Mawkdok Valley, Umiam Lake, and Departure to Guwahati

In the morning, rejuvenate yourself at Mawkdok Dympep Valley, a picturesque and serene destination nestled amidst the verdant hills. After a leisurely breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Guwahati, with drop-off at Guwahati Airport to board your evening flight for the onward journey with happy memories.

En route, stop to enjoy the picturesque surroundings of the much-known Umiam Lake.

Tour ends.

NB: All sightseeing is subject to the availability of time.

A guide is advisory throughout the tour, making travel smoother and helping you gain deeper knowledge about the places of visit.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport 4 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Standard accommodations with deluxe double-bedded rooms at the destinations as per the itinerary, with complimentary breakfast and dinner.
  • All applicable transfers and sightseeing by Swift Dzire (if 2 pax) as per the itinerary only (not at disposal).
  • Toll tax, interstate tax, parking, and driver allowance.
  • Accompanying English-speaking tour guide charges.
  • All entry fees mentioned in the itinerary.

What's Not Included

  • 5% GST.
  • Any adventure or leisure activities.
  • Cost of insurance premium, etc.
  • Cost of supplementary services, personal expenses, optional tours, and upgradation charges.
  • Cost of lunch, evening snacks, and tea.
  • Difference in cost arising due to extra usage of the vehicle, other than scheduled and mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

What to bring

  • For a comfortable journey, we advise carrying limited luggage.
  • Woollen clothes, jackets, an umbrella, and a good pair of shoes are advisable to carry, especially while visiting Meghalaya.

Know before you go

  • Understanding the guest itinerary, we request guests to book an early morning flight.
  • Guests with an adventurous mind should travel to North East India. Road conditions and connectivity may not be smooth in lesser-known and remote locations. The region is rich in nature, and the facilities available here cannot be matched to those available in other developed destinations in the rest of India. Guests who are unable to sacrifice their comfort should not opt to tour the region.
  • On some routes, there may be hardly any decent restaurant while travelling from one point to another in the region. Guests are advised to carry light snacks, packed food, fruits, and water during the road trip.
  • May to September is the season that gives Meghalaya the sobriquet - The Abode of Clouds. Guests opting to travel during this period are requested to enjoy the amazing attractions from a distance. Swimming and other water activities are strictly not permitted in most areas for safety reasons.
  • Being a mountain destination, the sightseeing points involve walking and climbing stairs. Guests are requested to carry comfortable walking shoes to avoid inconvenience and discomfort.
  • Mobile services may not be active in remote destinations.
  • Since most places in North East are mountainous, there is no direct relevance between distance and travel time, as it depends on road conditions and traffic congestion.
  • Assistance of a local guide is mandatory at some destinations.
  • It is best that guests do not venture out after sunset or after dark.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Exit gate of Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati, with a placard displaying the guest name
Tour start
Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 7 days finish where they began, in Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport.

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Estimated room rates

Single Room $2,000.00
Double Sharing $1,500.00

When

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