Recommended Length
7 Days
Itineraries
Landscapes and Scenic Routes
Destinations Covered
Chandigre, Nokrek, Shillong, Mawphlang, Sohra, Shnongpdeng, Mawlynnong, Krangshuri, Nartiang, Umiam Lake
Drive Start Time
07:30 AM
We would like to call this an all-encompassing circuit for Meghalaya. A no-rush itinerary that focuses on the scenic journeys and experiences rather than just racking up numbers – this is for travellers willing to spend more time.
Landscapes and Scenic Routes
Chandigre Rural Resort
Start early from Guwahati and enjoy this five-hour road journey through the thickly forested hills of the Garo Hills. Land at Chandigre Village Resort where you will spend your night. Located on the fringes of the Nokrek National Park, the village features local architecture and different traditional motifs that will keep you occupied as you cool your heels.
Alternative – Daribokgre also can be your base camp, situated close to the Nokrek National Park.
Nokrek Trek
Dedicate this day to guided trekking through the thick slopes. Nokrek is one of India’s eighteen biosphere reserves and with a local guide, you will come across many treasures, including one of the oldest wild citrus species in the world. It is also home to the rare Hoolock Gibbon.
The Beautiful Tura-Nongstoin Highway
After a day of trekking and resting, the next one is all about the journey. The gleaming highway between Tura and Shillong is one of the most beautiful in the region. You will be accompanied by undisturbed stretches of forests at many times. The terrain changes from the lush landscapes of the Garo Hills to the highland meadows and pine groves of the West Khasi Hills. It is usually a six-hour journey but we recommend stops at Nongstoin or Mairang towns where you can sample some local cuisine.
Shillong Evening Scenes
Step back into the urbanscape when you arrive in Shillong. An evening spent in one of the few Police Bazaar nightspots or cafe-hopping around town will familiarise you with the young vibe of Meghalaya’s capital. If you have enough time, you can try spotting some iconic town landmarks like the Cathedral, the All Saints Church or the immaculately manicured Ward’s Lake.
Mawphlang Sacred Grove
An early start is recommended as you head south of Shillong town to Mawphlang to see the Sacred Groves, an important cultural and natural site for the Khasis.
Time – Approx 2 hours
To Sohra
From Mawphlang, get back on the Shillong-Sohra state highway. The waterfalls and caves of Sohra await you. On the way to the town, you can enjoy stops at Mawkdok-Dympep Valley View Point and Arwah Cave. Spend the evening relaxing in Sohra as you have quite a bit of waterfall chasing to do the next day. If the light is still fine, head to the Nohsngithiang Falls or Seven Sisters Falls – the sunsets here are considered spectacular.
Where to Dine : Eateries along the way serve delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian fares. Always be ready for surprises – the cuisines here are very distinct. Additionally, many restaurants and eateries serve regular Indian highway menus, so fret not in case you start missing vegetarian food or Indian curries.
Travel Tips :
- This is just a guide and we recommend that you book your lodging in advance after you have scheduled your trip.
- Book a local vehicle and local driver. They will have a better idea of detours and details relating to the spots that you visit. The other option is self drive. Choose a trusted car rental provider in Guwahati.
- There are numerous small waterfalls and scenic spots along the way. So, to make the most of this particular road trip, keep your eyes on either side of the road and stop at any place to admire the beauty.
- The weather changes frequently. Keep an umbrella handy along with warm clothing, necessary medicines and insect repellents.
- Days are shorter in the eastern part of the country – so remember – early to bed, early to rise.
- Take it easy. It is ok to miss a spot on the itinerary because of time constraints. The more important part is that you are having fun. Soak in the present.
