You know that feeling when the city chaos gets too loud, the vada pav starts tasting the same, and your soul starts craving clouds instead of concrete? That’s your sign to swap the Queen of the Arabian Sea for the Scotland of the East—yep, we’re talking Mumbai to Shillong! A Meghalaya trip is exactly what your city-tired soul needs.
From beachside hustle to misty mountain peace, this trip is like pressing the reset button on your brain. It’s not just a change of place, it’s a full vibe shift. Sure, there’s no Mumbai to Shillong direct flight, but that doesn’t mean the journey is any less exciting. In fact, the alternate routes are surprisingly scenic and fun.
You can check out our 5N/6D Mesmerising Meghalaya trip. Whether you fly, drive, or take the train, the journey from Mumbai to Shillong is just as memorable as the destination. Ready to trade traffic for tranquility? Let’s go!
How to Reach Shillong from Mumbai?
By Air – The Easiest and Most Popular Route
If you’re wondering how to reach Shillong from Mumbai by flight, this is the most preferred and practical option. While there are no direct flights from Mumbai to Shillong, getting there is still pretty smooth.
Step 1: Mumbai to Guwahati by Flight
Several airlines including IndiGo, Akasa Air, and Air India Express fly from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai to Guwahati. These are direct flights, and the Mumbai to Shillong flight duration via Guwahati is around 3 to 3.5 hours. Super manageable, right?
Now about the Mumbai to Shillong flight ticket price – it usually starts around ₹2500 to ₹4000 if you book in advance, but during busy travel seasons, it can shoot up to ₹6000 or more. Plan early if you can.
Step 2: Guwahati to Shillong by Road
Once you land in Guwahati, Shillong is just about 120 kilometers away. It takes around 3 to 4 hours by road, depending on the traffic and weather. But it’s a lovely drive – you’ll pass by hills, greenery, and sometimes even floating clouds.
Here are your options for this stretch:
- Prepaid Taxi or Private Cab: These are available right outside Guwahati Airport. You can book one easily and head straight to Shillong. Fares usually range from ₹2500 to ₹6000.
- Shared Cabs or Sumos: If you're on a budget or want to ride like the locals, shared taxis are a good choice. They cost around ₹500 to ₹1000 per person.
- MTC Buses: Want the cheapest ride? You can catch a Meghalaya Transport Corporation bus from Guwahati’s main bus stand (Paltan Bazaar). First, take a taxi from the airport to the bus stand. Bus fares are as low as ₹170 to ₹200.
- Helicopter Service: Feeling fancy or in a hurry? Pawan Hans runs a helicopter from Guwahati to Umroi Airport near Shillong. The flight takes only 20 minutes. Tickets cost about ₹1500 to ₹2200, but you’ll need to book early and hope for clear skies.
Suggested Read: 12 Cafes In Shillong For Coffee Lovers | Location, Cost, Time
By Train – For the Long-Haul Travel Lovers
If you’re in the mood for a proper cross-country journey, the Mumbai to Shillong train route is also an option. Here’s how to reach Shillong from Mumbai by train:
Step 1: Mumbai to Guwahati by Train
Catch a train from Mumbai (like from CSMT or LTT) to Guwahati or Kamakhya Junction. This ride takes over 50 hours – yeah, that’s more than two days of travel. But if you’ve got time, snacks, and good company, it can be a fun ride.
The Mumbai to Shillong train ticket price starts at just ₹390 for sleeper class, and goes up depending on what class you book. AC coaches obviously cost more, but are more comfortable.
Step 2: Guwahati to Shillong by Road
Once you reach Guwahati station, you’ll have to take a taxi, shared cab, or bus to Shillong. Same road options as the flight route apply here too.
So if you’re someone who enjoys long train rides, this can be an affordable and memorable journey.
By Road – The Ultimate Road Trip
Planning a Meghalaya trip by road all the way from Mumbai? Now that’s a serious adventure. This route stretches across more than 2500 kilometers, passing through several states, changing landscapes, food stalls, and maybe even a few flat tires.
While it takes multiple days, this kind of trip gives you full control. If you’ve got a solid car or bike, good driving experience, and a spirit for the open road, it could be the journey of a lifetime. Just be prepared for varied road conditions and factor in breaks and fuel stops.
You can also drive up to Guwahati and then do the final Shillong leg on local transport if that works better.
When’s the Best Time to Go from Mumbai to Shillong?
If you are planning a Mumbai to Shillong trip, the best time to go is from March to June. That is when the weather is cool, the skies are clear, and you can actually enjoy waterfalls, lakes, and local cafés without too much rain or cold. It is the kind of weather that makes you want to slow down and take it all in.
If you love the rains and do not mind some unpredictable plans, then July to September is when Shillong turns lush green and the clouds get dramatic. It is a whole mood. And if you prefer fewer crowds and quiet vibes, winter from November to February is lovely too, just a little chilly.
So whether you want sunshine, mist, or cozy winter evenings, Shillong has something beautiful to offer all year round.
Suggested Read: Day Trips from Shillong: 12 Best Ideas for Every Traveller
Handy Tips for Your Mumbai to Shillong Adventure
Packing Essentials for Your Meghalaya Trip
Meghalaya’s weather loves surprises. It can be sunny in the morning and cool by evening, especially in Shillong. Carry light clothes for the day and layer up with a sweater or jacket for the evenings. A mix of both will keep you comfy.
They don’t call it the Abode of Clouds for nothing! Even if it’s not peak monsoon (June to September), you can still get surprise showers. A good waterproof jacket or poncho, quick-dry clothes, and a sturdy umbrella will save the day.
You’ll be walking a lot—waterfalls, root bridges, local markets. Go for waterproof shoes with a good grip. Slippery stones and muddy trails are all part of the fun.
Carry essentials like band-aids, antiseptic, painkillers, and any personal meds. You might not always find a pharmacy nearby.
In remote areas or homestays, electricity can be patchy. A power bank is handy for your phone, and a small torch or headlamp helps if the lights go out.
Stay hydrated and avoid adding to plastic waste. Refill as you go—it’s good for you and the planet.
Even on cloudy days, the sun can surprise you. A little protection goes a long way.
Money & Mobile Network Tips
ATMs and UPI work fine in Shillong, but places like Mawlynnong, Dawki, and Cherrapunji may not have reliable digital payment options. Keep some cash for small shops, entry tickets, and food stalls.
Jio, Airtel, and Vi work well in Shillong and nearby areas. But once you go deeper into villages or offbeat spots of Meghalaya, the signal might disappear. BSNL sometimes works better in remote areas, but even that can be hit or miss.
Getting Around & Exploring More
Shared taxis are super common and budget-friendly. You can also get private cabs if you want more comfort and flexibility.
For Day Trips (like Dawki or Cherrapunji):
- Hire a Private Taxi: Best if you’re in a group or want to explore at your own pace. Always agree on the full-day price before starting.
- Join Group Tours: Great for solo travelers or couples. Local tour operators have affordable day trips with fixed routes.
- Self-Drive: If you’re confident on hilly roads, renting a car is an option. Just be cautious during monsoon when roads can get tricky.
Food, Culture & Being a Responsible Traveller
Don’t miss dishes like Jadoh (flavoured rice with meat), Doh Neiiong (pork in black sesame), and Doh Khleh (pork salad). It’s flavourful, homely, and very local.
They may look simple but serve some of the tastiest food around. Perfect for a quick, budget-friendly bite on the go.
- Chill at Cafés in Shillong:
Shillong has a lively café culture. Whether you want coffee, live music, or just good vibes, the cafés here are perfect for slow evenings.
You’ll be walking a lot and the weather can change, so keep sipping water.
- Respect Local Traditions:
The locals are warm and welcoming. Be mindful when visiting churches, traditional villages, or cultural spots. Dress modestly and always ask before taking photos.
Help keep Meghalaya beautiful. Don’t litter, don’t pluck flowers, and stay on marked trails, especially in natural areas.
No matter how you plan your trip, whether it's hopping on a Mumbai to Shillong flight, boarding a long-distance train, or hitting the highway, the journey itself becomes part of the story. The cool air, rolling hills, and peaceful pace of Shillong make every bit of travel worth it.
There are no direct flights, but you can fly to Guwahati and continue by road. The road trip is long but scenic, and the train journey is a good budget option. Both come with their own pros and cons, so just pick what suits you best—and let WanderOn help turn the journey into an adventure full of memories!
