Are you someone whose idea of a vacation is a peaceful village where life slows down and nature takes over? Nongjrong Village, tucked away in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, feels like a hidden discovery you instantly want to keep secret.
Located about 2 hours from Shillong and 4 hours from Guwahati, it offers a calm, off-the-beaten-path escape. Including it in your Meghalaya trip brings a sense of calm and peace you didn’t know you needed.
Often called the “Village Above the Clouds,” Nongjrong is famous for its breathtaking sunrise views, where golden light breaks over a sea of clouds filling the valleys below. Despite going viral online, the village has managed to remain quiet and crowd-free, preserving its natural beauty and traditional way of life. The best time to visit Nongjrong is October to April, when the weather is pleasant and cloud views are clearest. A small vehicle entry fee is charged at the viewpoint.
If you love early mornings, fresh mountain air, and untouched landscapes, Nongjrong offers a serene side of Meghalaya that feels truly special.
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Best Time to Visit Nongjrong
The best time to visit Nongjrong is between October and April, when the weather is clear and pleasant. This is the perfect season to catch the famous sunrise views and enjoy the misty landscapes without heavy rain. Winters are especially popular, as the skies stay clear and the mornings feel calm and peaceful.
How to Reach Nongjrong Village
- Nongjrong to Cherrapunji Distance: ~100 km
- Nongjrong Distance from Shillong: Approximately 49-50 km
- Nongjrong Distance from Guwahati: Around 140-150 km
Nongjrong Village is located in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya and is best reached by road. Most travelers visit it from Shillong or Guwahati, depending on where they’re coming from.
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From Shillong
Shillong is the most common starting point. The Nongjrong distance from Shillong is around 50 to 60 km, and it takes roughly 2 hours by car. You can easily hire a taxi or cab from Shillong city or the airport. The drive is scenic and smooth, making the journey enjoyable.
From Guwahati
Guwahati is the nearest major travel hub with an airport and railway station. From Guwahati, Nongjrong is about 145 km away and takes around 4 hours by road. You can hire a private taxi and enjoy beautiful hill views along the way.
Places To Visit in Nongjrong Village
Nongjrong Village may be small, but it has a few beautiful spots worth visiting, from its hilltop viewpoint to a peaceful waterfall nearby. Here are some of the best places to visit in Nongjrong Village:
Nongjrong Viewpoint
This is the star attraction of the village. The hilltop viewpoint is famous for its magical sunrise, where a thick sea of clouds blankets the valley below and the Umngot River can be seen flowing through the landscape. An early start from Shillong around 3 AM is recommended to catch the best views from the Nongjrong Viewpoint.
Nongjrong Falls
Located about 3 km from the village, Nongjrong Falls is a peaceful spot surrounded by dense greenery. A short hike leads you to the waterfall, which looks especially beautiful during the monsoon season. It’s a great place to relax and soak in nature.
Village Walks and Cultural Experience
Simply walking around Nongjrong village in Meghalaya is an experience in itself. You can interact with the local Khasi community, observe their traditional homes, and get a feel of their slow, sustainable way of life. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy cultural immersion along with natural beauty.
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Where To Stay in Nongjrong Village
Staying within or near the village is perfect for experiencing the local culture and catching the famous sunrise views.
There aren’t many homestays in Nongjrong, but the ones available offer a warm and authentic rural experience. Most are simple yet clean, often including home‑cooked meals that make your stay feel homely and welcoming. Some of the popular places to stay in Nongjrong include:
- Pamela's Mountain View Homestay - Just a 10‑minute walk (around 800 meters) from the main viewpoint, this homestay is loved for its warm hospitality, delicious food, and comfortable rooms.
- Iohhun’s Sunrise Homestay - Marketed as the closest stay to the viewpoint, guests can often enjoy the view right from the property. Highly rated for cleanliness and friendly hosts.
- Lara Homestay - Situated beside the Presbyterian Church and just a minute’s walk from the main viewpoint. Visitors frequently praise the hospitality and food.
- Ritz Homestay Nongjrong - About 5 km from the main viewpoint, offering homely food and tidy rooms.
For more amenities and a slightly more relaxed stay, you can also choose to stay in nearby towns while still enjoying easy access to Nongjrong. These options make it easy to plan your trip while staying comfortable and close to the sunrise views.
Where Can We Eat in Nongjrong
Food options in Nongjrong are limited, but what you get here is authentic, home‑style goodness that adds charm to your stay. Most meals are served at the local homestays in Nongjrong, where hosts often cook traditional Khasi dishes using fresh local ingredients.
You can expect simple yet flavorful dishes such as steamed rice, Jadoh (rice cooked with meat and spices), tungrymbai (a fermented soybean dish), dohneiiong (pork cooked with black sesame), seasonal vegetables, and local greens. These meals give you a genuine taste of village life and reflect the traditional food of Meghalaya.
Since there aren’t many standalone restaurants in the village, your best bet is to enjoy meals where you’re staying or ask your hosts for recommendations. They might even prepare special local recipes or snacks that give you a taste of real village life.
If you want more variety, you can also eat at small eateries in nearby towns during your day trips.
Places to Visit Near Nongjrong Village
About 30 km from Nongjrong, Jowai is the district headquarters of West Jaintia Hills. Explore local markets, try traditional Jaintia food, and soak in the laid-back town vibe.
Around 35 km away, this serene lake is a perfect place to visit near Nongjrong for a peaceful stroll. Surrounded by hills and greenery, it’s a quiet spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Located roughly 40 km from Nongjrong, this waterfall is a refreshing place to visit near Nongjrong. A short trek brings you to the cascading waters surrounded by lush forest.
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, head to Shnongpdeng, about 45 km away. It’s a riverside village where you can try kayaking, river rafting, and enjoy the natural beauty.
About 25 km from Nongjrong, this viewpoint offers panoramic views of rolling hills and valleys, especially stunning during sunrise or sunset.
Nongjrong is one of those places that just slows you down and makes you soak in the moment. Catching the sunrise from the Nongjrong sunrise point or taking in the views from the Nongjrong viewpoint is something you’ll remember forever. And if you’re up for more adventure, the drive from Nongjrong to Cherrapunji is full of scenic hills and greenery. Whether you’re an early bird chasing misty mornings or just love peaceful village vibes, Nongjrong is the kind of spot that stays in your heart long after you leave.
