Trips, no matter how meticulously planned, can sometimes throw unexpected challenges our way. My recent journey to Meghalaya was filled with uncertainties, last-minute hurdles, and unexpected joys. Here’s how it all unfolded.
A Rocky Start
Three weeks before our much-anticipated trip, I found myself nursing a toe injury while sporting a leg cast. With the trip booked well in advance, I was torn between keeping our plans or canceling them altogether. Unsure of how the rugged terrain would treat me, I was anxious about the challenges ahead.
To heighten the tension, I realized late in the planning process that many of the places we intended to visit involved short treks—something I hadn't accounted for when I envisioned peaceful drives and scenic views.
Racing Against Time to Recover
Once the cast was removed, I had a mere week to prepare physically. I focused on strengthening my legs, building stamina, and mentally gearing up for the treks ahead. It seemed like a tight deadline, but hope fueled my determination.
Just when I thought things were turning around, both my wife and I caught a cold three days before our departure. Exhausted and drained, we seriously considered canceling the trip. Yet, something kept urging us forward—perhaps the allure of serene hills and fresh mountain air, or simply our stubbornness. Ultimately, we decided to go.
Day 1: The Journey Begins
On the day of departure, we landed at Guwahati Airport, feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty.
Maa Kamakhya Temple – A Spiritual Detour
Before heading to Shillong, we took a spiritual detour to the famous Maa Kamakhya Temple, one of India’s revered Shakti Peethas. The temple visit was calming and instilled a sense of peace that kick-started our journey. After paying our respects, we continued our road trip to Shillong.
As we drove into the rolling hills, the air grew cooler, and we were soon enveloped by clouds. The moment we entered Meghalaya—the "abode of clouds"—a serene feeling washed over us. Despite everything, it felt right to be there.
Umium Lake – A Sight to Behold
One of our first stops was the breathtaking Umium Lake. Nestled amidst rolling hills, its pristine waters reflected the lush greenery and towering clouds above. The view was mesmerizing, but the real magic was yet to come. We took a jet ride across the lake, weaving through its curves and experiencing its beauty from a fresh perspective. The cold air brushed against our faces, but in that moment, all our worries melted away.
After our refreshing visit to Umium, we headed to Shillong. The town's charm, with its quaint streets and vibrant culture, quickly captivated me. I was enchanted by the warmth of the locals and their rich, authentic culture. It felt like stepping into a world untouched by time.
That night, we settled into our accommodations in Shillong, ready for the adventures that lay ahead.
Day 2: Exploring Waterfalls and Hidden Gems
On Day 2, we set off early for Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on Earth. The journey promised to be as memorable as the destinations.
Elephant Falls – Nature at Its Best
Our first stop was the magnificent Elephant Falls. The waterfalls cascaded through lush greenery, creating a breathtaking scene. Standing there, it felt like nature was embracing us, offering a moment of calm amidst the rushing waters. Elephant Falls was just one of the many stunning waterfalls Meghalaya has to offer—truly, we were in the lap of nature.
The Journey to Cherrapunji and an Unexpected Detour
As we continued our journey, we encountered a massive traffic jam due to a festival at the Garden of the Caves. Stuck for hours, it felt like the day might be slipping away. But luck was on our side; our resourceful driver found an alternative route and led us to a hidden gem called Lyngksiar Falls.
Lyngksiar Falls – A Hidden Treasure
Lyngksiar Falls was nothing short of magical. The crystal-clear water shimmered under the sunlight, offering a serene escape from the earlier chaos. A short trek led us to two stunning waterfalls and a small cave, each more captivating than the last. This hidden treasure provided a glimpse into Meghalaya's untouched beauty, allowing us a moment of tranquility far from the crowds.
Day 3: Journey Through the Caves and Waterfalls
Day 3 unfolded with a promise of adventure as we set out to explore the stunning caves and hidden waterfalls of Meghalaya.
Garden of Caves – A Natural Wonderland
Our first destination was the Garden of Caves. This unique spot features a complete ecosystem—waterfalls, caves, dense forests, hilltops, and even bamboo bridges. My wife was in awe, soaking in the raw beauty of nature surrounding us.
As we wandered through, we marveled at the vibrant flora and the serene waterfalls, which provided a perfect backdrop for our explorations. This enchanting garden was a reminder of the wonders that nature has to offer.
Caves – An Unforgettable Exploration
Next, we visited Arwah and Mawsmai Caves. It was our first cave exploration, and the short trek was entirely worth it. The rocky structures and fossils inside made the experience unforgettable.
One remarkable aspect of our Meghalaya journey was witnessing the locals' dedication to conservation. Their efforts were evident everywhere, from eco-friendly dustbins placed every 50 meters to the responsible guides who prioritized maintaining the area's integrity. This commitment to environmental ethics left a lasting impression on us.
Immersed with the unique experience, we were super excited to check out the awesome Seven Sisters Falls, but bummer - they were all dried up when we got there! The view was still nice though, so it wasn't a total loss.
NohKaLikai Falls – A Magical Sunset
To wrap up the day, we visited NohKaLikai Falls just in time for sunset. The story behind the falls was amusing, but what truly took my breath away was the view itself. Standing there felt surreal, as if I were gazing at a zoomed-in picture of a pristine waterfall—one that could grace the cover of a travel magazine. Spellbound, I found it hard to believe the beauty surrounding me.
As the sun set, warm hues painted the sky and reflected off the water, making this moment one I will cherish forever.
Day 4: Exploring the Beauty of Dawki, Single Root Bridge, and Mawlynnong Village
Dawki – A Serene Escape
Day 4 took us to Dawki, known for its stunning clear waters often showcased in reels. Located near the Bangladesh border, Dawki offered a serene landscape and crystal-clear river that sparkled in the sunlight. We took a boat ride through the clear waters, navigating between the rocks—a surreal experience and one of the highlights of our trip.
Single Root Bridge – A Marvel of Nature
After Dawki, we made our way to the famed Single Root Bridge in Nongriat village. The bridge is a marvel of nature and engineering, crafted from the roots of the Ficus elastica tree. Walking across it felt like stepping into a fairytale. The bridge stretched gracefully over a sparkling stream, surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees.
The craftsmanship of the local Khasi people is incredible; it takes years for the roots to grow and intertwine to form such a sturdy structure.
As I stood on the bridge, I couldn’t help but admire the breathtaking view of the cascading waters below and the dense forest enveloping us. It was an exhilarating feeling to be part of such a unique experience, connecting with nature in a way that was both humbling and awe-inspiring.
Mawlynnong Village – A Clean but Commercialized Experience
Afterward, we visited Mawlynnong Village, recognized as Asia’s cleanest village. While beautiful and well-maintained, it felt more like a commercialized destination rather than a residential area, lacking some authenticity. Nonetheless, it is still a must-see spot.
We settled in for the night in Dawki, feeling grateful for the day’s beautiful experiences.
Day 5: Return to Shillong and Departure
The next day, we returned to Shillong for local exploration and shopping. One highlight was visiting Police Bazaar, a must-visit spot for unique handicrafts, clothing, and local delicacies. The vibrant market allowed us to immerse ourselves in Shillong’s rich cultural heritage.
After a fulfilling shopping experience, we headed back to Guwahati Airport for our flight to Chennai. As we boarded the plane, we reflected on the incredible journey we had just experienced.
Final Thoughts on Our Meghalaya Adventure
If you’ve visited Meghalaya, you might wonder why I didn’t mention iconic places like the Double Decker Bridge, Rainbow Falls, Krang Suri, and Phe Phe Falls. Unfortunately, due to my leg condition and our limited time, we had to skip these stunning locations.
For anyone looking to experience the full beauty of Meghalaya, I highly recommend planning a 7-10 day trip. This would allow you to immerse yourself in all the breathtaking sights and hidden gems the region has to offer. Additionally, visiting between November to February is ideal, as the landscapes are lush and vibrant, with waterfalls flowing freely.
Our trip to Meghalaya was filled with challenges and unforgettable moments. Despite the hurdles, the experience taught us resilience and the beauty of unexpected detours. Meghalaya’s enchanting landscapes and warm-hearted locals left an indelible mark on our hearts, and I can’t wait to return to explore even more of this magical place.
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