Explored all of Meghalaya and now looking for new tourist places in Meghalaya?
If you are also searching for Meghalaya packages, then Markham Valley is the perfect hidden gem for you. Located in the West Khasi Hills, this valley is one of the most beautiful offbeat places in Meghalaya.
Dommurok View Point, which is about 67 km from Shillong, is the main draw here. It has amazing views of the valley and the hills around it. It is a must-see for photographers and nature lovers, especially at sunrise and sunset. People often call this place the "Mini Dzukou" of Meghalaya. It's a great place to go trekking, hiking, and birdwatching because the natural beauty hasn't changed.
Markham Valley is best visited between October and April, when the weather is cool and pleasant. If you want a peaceful trip away from the usual tourist routes, this Markham Valley travel guide will help you plan a perfect visit to this hidden paradise.
Best Time to Visit Markham Valley
October to April is the best time to visit Markham Valley. The weather is nice, the skies are clear, and the valley looks new and green during these months. It's a great time to see things and take pictures.
November to February are the best months to plan your trip if you want clear views, nice weather, and easy travel plans. March to April is a great time for people who like flowers, plants, and softer light.
Heavy rain, slippery roads, and poor visibility make the monsoon season from June to September the worst time to travel.
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How to Reach Markham Valley
Markham Valley Location: Laitnongrim Rd., Mawkyrwat, Meghalaya 793121
- Guwahati to Markham Valley Distance: The Markham Valley entry point is around 140 km from Guwahati, with a scenic drive of about 4-5 hours.
- Markham Valley Distance from Shillong: Markham Valley entry point is located about 57.3 km from Shillong. It takes roughly 3 hours by road, with beautiful views of hills, forests, and small villages along the way.
Reaching Markham Valley location is quite easy, and the journey itself is very scenic.
Shillong Airport is the closest airport, and it's about 82 km away. You can get to Markham Valley from there by taxi or local bus.
Guwahati, which is about 142 km away, is the closest train station. You can drive from Guwahati to the valley.
Meghalaya has good roads, so you can drive or take a bus to Markham Valley. The drive is beautiful, with views of rolling hills, green fields, and small towns.
How to Reach Markham Valley from Shillong?
To reach Markham Valley from Shillong, you can travel by road which is the best and most convenient option. The valley is about 58-60 km away and it usually takes around 2 to 2.5 hours to reach.
From Shillong, drive toward Nongstoin via NH106 and reach Mairang first. From Mairang, follow the road toward the Dommurok View Point; note that the final 10-15 km stretch involves narrow village roads that may be rough or muddy.
You can book a private taxi or join a shared cab from Shillong. If you prefer public transport, you can take a bus or shared jeep to Mairang or Mawphanlur and then hire a local taxi to reach the valley.
Places to Visit in Markham Valley
Markham Valley, also called Dommurok View Point, is full of natural beauty and scenic spots. Here are some must-visit places:
- Dommurok View Point - The main viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and surrounding hills. Great for taking pictures of the sunrise and sunset.
- Rolling Hills & Green Landscapes - Explore the lush green hills, meadows, and fields that stretch across the valley, ideal for nature walks and leisurely drives.
- Local Villages - Visit nearby villages to experience Khasi culture, traditional lifestyle, and local handicrafts.
- Photography Spots - The entire valley is a photographer’s paradise with misty mornings, vibrant greenery, and scenic backdrops.
- Trekking Trails - Short treks around the valley offer a perfect taste of trekking in Meghalaya, letting you soak in lush forests, flowing streams, and the peaceful countryside.
- Rivers & Streams - Small rivers and streams flow through the valley, adding charm to the landscapes and perfect for some tranquil moments.
- Markham Valley Entry Point - The starting point for treks and exploring the heart of the valley.
- Waterfalls - Small hidden waterfalls in Meghalaya scattered around the valley add charm and make for perfect photo spots.
Things to Do in Markham Valley Meghalaya
Here are some of the best things to do in Markham Valley Meghalaya, if you love nature and peaceful experiences.
- Trekking and Nature Walks: Markham Valley is perfect for trekkers and nature lovers. The trails pass through dense forests, open meadows, and gentle streams, making the experience refreshing and peaceful.
- Bird Watching: The valley is a birdwatcher's paradise because it is home to many colorful birds. Bring your binoculars and enjoy watching them in their natural setting.
- Camping Under the Stars: Set up a camp and spend the night under a clear sky filled with stars. The calm surroundings and fresh air make it one of the best things to do in Meghalaya.
- Photography: Markham Valley is a photographer's dream because of its beautiful scenery, lush greenery, and rich plant and animal life.
Places to Stay in Markham Valley
Here are some great places to stay in Markham Valley Meghalaya, from cheap to expensive:
- Sri Valli Vilas Residency is about 2.4 km from the Markham Valley View Point. A nice mid-range place to stay near the main road.
- Hotel Vaigai is only 1.9 km from the Markham Valley View Point. A good choice for short, simple stays that won't break the bank.
- Harsha Haritha Residency is about 2.4 km from Markham Valley View Point. A simple and clean choice for people on a budget.
- Chan Beach Resort & Hotel is about 9.7 km from Markham Valley View Point. A highly rated place to stay that is known for its clean rooms, quiet atmosphere, and good value for money.
- The Lagoon Sarovar Premiere Resort is about 16 km from the viewpoint. A high-end resort with cozy rooms and a calm atmosphere.
Tips for Visiting Markham Valley
- The best times to go to the Dommurok View Point are early in the morning or around sunset, when the light is soft.
- Wear shoes that are comfortable because you might have to walk or hike on uneven ground.
- Bring light jackets because the weather can get cool, especially in the morning and evening.
- Bring snacks and water because there aren't many places to eat in the valley.
- Keep an eye on the weather and don't go when it's raining hard.
- Keep the area clean, don't litter, and respect nature and the local villages.
- Markham Valley in Meghalaya, India, is a beautiful natural place to visit, but it is not a formal ticketed park, so the government does not charge a set fee to get in. Local communities usually collect small fees of about ₹30 to ₹40 for parking or getting to a viewpoint, so it's best to have some cash on hand.
Markham Valley is one of those places that sticks with you long after the trip is over. If you like to travel slowly and enjoy nature at its best, this is the place for you. It's quiet, green, and far away from the usual tourist crowds. When you stand at Dommurok View Point and look out at the hills that seem to go on forever, you feel calm and refreshed.
Markham Valley is a great place to go if you want to see some really offbeat places in Meghalaya. This Markham Valley travel guide is for people who like to drive through beautiful scenery, have quiet times, and have simple experiences in nature.
