Offbeat Meghalaya Escape: Caves, Clouds & Wild Trails

Start early in the morning for a Jeep Safari in Kaziranga National Park.

The park is known for its population of one-horned rhinoceroses. Also, keep an eye on elephants, wild buffalo, and a variety of birdlife.

After the safari, return to the hotel and have breakfast.

Post breakfast, we’ll begin our journey towards Jowai (approx. 7–8 hours).

The drive gradually shifts from Assam’s plains to Meghalaya’s rolling hills, with winding roads and greener landscapes along the way.

We’ll take a short stop at Umiam Lake, one of the most scenic spots near Shillong.

Spend 15–20 minutes here for photos and to take in the wide lake views before continuing.

By evening, we’ll reach Jowai and check into the stay.

You’ll have some time to relax after the long drive.

If time and energy permit, you can step out for a short walk around the town or explore nearby local spots.

Overnight stay in Jowai.

Start your day (by 6 AM) with an early breakfast and gear up to explore one of Meghalaya's best-kept secrets, Krem Chympe.

We’ll spend 2-3 hours exploring this massive cave system and its turquoise river mouth and navigate the hidden passages.

After the cave exploration, board the vehicle for a 2-hour transfer to the crystal-clear waters of Shnongpdeng.

Check into your riverside camp or homestay and spend the evening listening to the river flow or sharing stories by the water.

Enjoy a BBQ dinner around the campfire with your group under the stars (if weather permits).

Overnight stay in Shnongpdeng.

Start your day with a fresh breakfast by the Umngot River.

You are free to enjoy exciting water activities like kayaking, cliff jumping, or snorkeling in the transparent waters before checking out.

En route to Cherrapunjee (Sohra), we’ll drive uphill to the Dawki Viewpoint for a stunning bird’s-eye view of the international borders and the plains of Bangladesh.

Next, a scenic 1.5 hour drive leads us to Mawlynnong, known as the cleanest village in Asia where you can explore its bamboo-lined lanes.

You can walk around the village and interact with the villagers to understand their lifestyle.

Then, we’ll begin the 4-5 hour drive toward Cherrapunjee (Sohra).

Upon arrival, check into your hotel by evening and enjoy a warm dinner.

Overnight stay in Cherrapunjee.

After an early breakfast, gear up for the iconic Nongriat Trek in Meghalaya.

We’ll head out by 6:00 AM to reach Tyrna Village, the starting point of our legendary trek into the valley.

Begin the 3,500-step descent into the Nongriat Jungle, crossing narrow steel suspension bridges that sway over turquoise river pools.

We’ll reach the ancient Double Decker Living Root Bridge, a marvel of Khasi bio-engineering, after about 1.5-2 hours.

Experience walking on the living root bridge and soak your feet in the cold, crystal-clear waters of Umshiang River.

If the squad is feeling fit, we’ll push further to the majestic Rainbow Falls (1 hour away), where the mist creates a permanent rainbow in the sunlight.

After spending enough time around the bridges/ waterfall, climb back up and head to the hotel for a much-deserved rest.

Overnight stay in Cherrapunjee.

Wake up to a refreshing morning in Cherrapunjee and have your breakfast.

Get ready to explore some of the most iconic natural wonders of Meghalaya before heading to Shillong.

We will start by visiting the stunning Wei Sawdong Falls, a hidden three-tiered waterfall known for its crystal-clear blue waters and scenic setting.

Next, we head to the breathtaking Nohkalikai Falls viewpoint, one of the tallest plunge waterfalls in India, where you can soak in panoramic views of the lush green valleys.

We will then explore the fascinating Mawsmai Caves, known for their natural limestone formations and narrow passages that make for a fun and adventurous walk.

Post sightseeing, we will board our transfers and drive towards Shillong, the charming “Scotland of the East”.

Upon reaching check-in to the hotel and rest for some time.

By evening, you can step out to explore Shillong’s vibrant café culture or stroll through the lively Police Bazaar for some shopping and local food.

Overnight stay in Shillong.

We’ll start very early, around 2:00–2:30 AM, and drive towards Nongjrong.

Reach in time for the Nongjrong sunrise, which is the key highlight of the day.

This viewpoint is known for its sea of clouds with layered hills in the background, but the experience is completely weather dependent.

After spending some time here, we’ll begin the return journey towards Shillong (approx. 3–4 hours).

It’s a long stretch, but manageable with breaks along the way.

Once back, you can freshen up and relax for a bit before we continue further.

Later, we’ll drive towards Guwahati for your onward departure.

From Guwahati, head home wrapping up the trip with an early start and one of Meghalaya’s best viewpoints.