Why Choose Thrillophilia for Your Meghalaya Trip?
1.Customisation options: Personalize your Meghalaya adventure with packages that let you choose your preferred stays in Shillong, treks through the Khasi Hills, or boat rides on Umiam Lake. You can also select meals, transport, and activity levels in your Meghalaya trip, to suit your preferences.
2.Seasoned Destination Experts: Thrillophilia's local experts, deeply rooted in Meghalaya's culture, will create itineraries that take you to hidden treasures like the living root bridges and the serene Mawphlang Sacred Forest.
3. Premium Inclusions: Our Meghalaya packages offer seamless travel, including stays in charming hilltop resorts, local transport, expert guides, and delicious meals, so you can focus on admiring the stunning landscapes.
4. 24/7 customer support: From the misty hills of Cherrapunji to the winding trails of Nongriat, our support team is always available to answer all your queries before or during the trip. We offer timely assistance and local insights throughout your journey.
5.Tours and Activities: Thrillophilia offers a variety of activities that you can choose to include in Meghalaya trip packages. From trekking along the hills in Cherrapunji and exploring the crystal-clear waters of Umiam Lake to discovering the ancient traditions of its tribes, we cover it all.
6. Exciting Experiences: We offer a wide range of experiences on our tours, from trying the popular Khasi delicacies in Shillong to visiting Mawlynnong, Asia's cleanest village. You can choose to hike through the lush green forests or explore hidden gems and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty at every turn.
7.Diverse options: From budget-friendly explorations of Meghalaya to luxurious riverside escapes, we provide packages designed for every traveller, ensuring a personalized journey.
How to Reach Meghalaya?
Departure Airports: Major cities like New Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Bengaluru offer flights to Meghalaya.
Arrival Airport: Shillong Airport (located approximately 20 km from Shillong)
Flight Duration: Direct flights to Shillong Airport from major towns like New Delhi or Kolkata take approximately 2-3 hours. Connecting flights may take longer depending on layover locations included.
Major Airlines: Airlines like Air India, Indigo, and SpiceJet offer flights to Shillong from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
Options Other Than Flights:
By Train: The nearest railway station is Guwahati, which is well-connected to major cities like Kolkata, New Delhi, and Chennai. From there, you can take a cab or bus to reach Shillong, which takes around 3-4 hours.
By Road: Meghalaya is accessible by road, with well-maintained highways leading to Shillong and other key destinations.
You can alternatively choose to book Thrillophilia’s Meghalaya holiday packages that include seamless transportation.
Best Time to Visit Meghalaya:
The ideal time to visit Meghalaya depends on the experiences you wish to enjoy and the type of weather you prefer, whether it's for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion.
Peak Season (March-June)
Weather: The weather is warm with clear skies, mild winds, and pleasant evenings perfect for outdoor activities.
Activities to Enjoy: You can enjoy hiking, sightseeing, trekking, boating, exploring caves, visiting waterfalls, and photographing scenic landscapes.
Shoulder Season (October-February)
Weather: The air is cool, with occasional foggy mornings and moderate temperatures, perfect for outdoor exploration.
Activities to Enjoy: You can also include nature walks, hiking, sightseeing tours in your Meghalaya travel packages, visit museums, and markets, or try delicious regional cuisine.
Waning Season (July-September)
Weather: The rainy season brings cooler temperatures, lush greenery, and occasional mist, ideal for experiencing nature's beauty.
Activities to Enjoy: Enjoy indoor activities like visiting museums, and exploring tea gardens, or outdoor adventures like trekking across the lush green hills in the rain.
Places to Visit on Meghalaya Trip:
Here are some of the best places to visit in Meghalaya:
1. Shillong: Often called the 'Scotland of the East', Shillong is a charming hill station with lush green landscapes and vibrant local culture. Ward's Lake and Elephant Falls are some of the most popular places to visit in Shillong.
2. Cherrapunji: Famous for its stunning waterfalls and the living root bridges, Cherrapunji offers breathtaking views and is a must-visit for nature lovers during their Meghalaya trip.
3. Nohkalikai Falls: As one of the highest waterfalls in India, Nohkalikai Falls in Cherrapunji cascades down an 1100-foot drop, creating a stunning sight surrounded by lush greenery.
4. Mawlynnong Village: Known as Asia’s cleanest village, Mawlynnong offers an immersive experience in rural Khasi culture, with clean streets and a peaceful atmosphere among nature.
5. Umiam Lake: It's a peaceful, man-made reservoir located near Shillong, perfect for boating tours and picnic spots, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and crystal-clear waters.
6. Mawphlang Sacred Forest: A deeply sacred place for the local Khasi tribe, this ancient forest is rich in biodiversity and makes for a unique addition to Meghalaya packages.
7. Living Root Bridges (Nongriat): The living root bridge, created by the Khasi tribe, are unique natural bridges that are grown by weaving tree roots together, showcasing nature’s incredible beauty.
8. Elephant Falls: Located near Shillong, Elephant Falls is a series of three waterfalls that offer visitors magical views. It's known among the most popular places for photography and nature walks.
9. Laitlum Canyons: An offbeat gem located near Shillong, Laitlum Canyons offers panoramic views of the deep valleys and rolling hills, perfect for trekking and photography.
10. St. Peter's Cathedral, Shillong :You can also include St. Peter’s Cathedral in your Meghalaya trip packages, and experience the peaceful atmosphere, or learn about its significance among Shillong’s Christian community.
11. Syntu Ksiar: A lesser-known gem, Syntu Ksiar in West Khasi Hills offers lush green landscapes, beautiful rivers, and opportunities for boat tours and peaceful picnics.
12. Dawki: A hidden treasure in Meghalaya, Dawki is famous for the Umngot River, where you can enjoy boating on crystal-clear waters surrounded by scenic hills and villages.
13. Nohwet Village: Located among the Khasi Hills, Nohwet Village is an offbeat destination known for its untouched natural beauty and traditional Khasi culture. It’s a perfect escape for those planning to add some rural charm to their Meghalaya tour.
14. Wari Chora: Situated near the Mawphlang Sacred Forest, Wari Chora is a historical site associated with ancient Khasi legends. The area offers scenic views of surrounding landscapes, perfect for those interested in history and local culture.
15. Konthong Village: Famous for its unique tradition of calling people by musical tones, Konthong Village is an incredible place in Meghalaya. Known as the 'Whistling Village of India’, it’s a peaceful, culturally rich destination.
Things to Do on Meghalaya Tour:
Here are some of the best things to do in Meghalaya:
1.Trek to Nongriat Village: Hike through forests and hills to reach Nongriat, a village famous for its living root bridges, made from tree roots by locals.
2.Boat Ride on Umiam Lake: A boat ride on Umiam Lake, surrounded by green hills and stunning views, is almost always an incredible inclusion in tour packages for Meghalaya.
3.Explore the Living Root Bridges: Visit the unique living root bridges in Cherrapunji and Nongriat, where tree roots are woven together to create natural bridges.
4.Visit Mawlynnong Village: Explore Mawlynnong, known as Asia's cleanest village, with neat paths, beautiful gardens, and amazing views of nature all around.
5.Hiking at Laitlum Canyons: Trek through Laitlum Canyons and enjoy incredible views of valleys and hills, offering a peaceful escape into nature’s beauty.
6.Waterfall Hunting in Cherrapunji: Discover stunning waterfalls in Cherrapunji, like Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters Falls, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
7.Experience Khasi Culture in Shillong: If you wish to immerse yourself in the Khasi culture, try local food, explore lively markets, and include visits to heritage sites in your itineraries for Meghalaya trips.
8.Visit Smit Village: Discover the peaceful Smit Village, where you can experience the traditional Khasi lifestyle and enjoy beautiful views of the hills.
9.Explore Mawphlang Sacred Forest: Take a walk through Mawphlang Sacred Forest, a peaceful place with ancient trees, rich wildlife, and strong spiritual ties to the local Khasi people.
10.Caving at Siju Caves: Explore Siju Caves with their amazing limestone formations, underground rivers, and exciting caves, making it a perfect adventure for thrill-seekers.
11.Enjoy River Cruises in Dawki: Take a boat ride on the clear Umngot River in Dawki, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and crystal-clear waters, offering a relaxing experience.
12.Visit St. Peter’s Cathedral: The best Meghalaya tour packages always include a visit to St. Peter’s Cathedral in Shillong, a beautiful church with lovely architecture, surrounded by peaceful grounds.
Top Things to Do in Meghalaya For Families:
1.Visit the Don Bosco Museum: Explore the Don Bosco Museum in Shillong, offering interactive exhibits about the region's history, culture, and art, fun for both kids and adults.
2.Go to Elephant Falls: Visit Elephant Falls, a beautiful and easy-to-access waterfall in Shillong, perfect for a family picnic and a short walk to admire nature’s beauty.
3.Explore Shillong’s Lady Hydari Park: Take a stroll through Lady Hydari Park, a lush green park with a zoo, a pond, and lovely flowers, great for a relaxing family day out.
4.Visit the Shillong Golf Course: Remember to spend some time at the Shillong Golf Course during your Meghalaya tours. It’s one of the oldest in India, where families can enjoy a walk or a picnic while admiring the scenic views.
Shopping Places in Meghalaya:
1.Police Bazar (Shillong): Police Bazar, located in Shillong, is where you can shop for a variety of items such as traditional Khasi handicrafts, woollen clothes, jewellery, souvenirs, and local spices. It's a great place to pick up unique gifts and local products.
2.Mawlongbna Village (Mawlongbna): If you’re looking for an immersive shopping experience, remember to add a visit to the markets of Mawlongbna Village to your Meghalaya package. Get a chance to purchase handmade pottery, bamboo crafts, and items made from local materials.
3.Khublei Market (Jowai): Located in the Jowai region, Khublei Market is known for its vibrant collection of traditional fabrics like "Khasi" cotton saris and handwoven textiles. You can also buy handcrafted wooden items, local jewellery, and indigenous food products like honey.
4.Bara Bazar (Shillong): Tura's Bara Bazar is an excellent spot to buy local produce, spices, and homemade products like pickles and dried fruits. It’s also known for selling colourful Naga shawls, handmade bags, and local woven baskets.
5.Wah Umngot (Dawki): While enjoying boat tours along the Dawki River is a great experience, you can also include a visit to its nearby markets in your Meghalaya package tour. Wah Umngot also has a small market where you can find handicrafts, locally-made souvenirs, honey, tea, and organic skincare products.
How To Get Around Meghalaya?
1. Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Meghalaya, especially in Shillong and other major towns. They are a convenient option for tourists looking to travel around the city or between nearby attractions. You can hire taxis for both short trips and day tours.
2.Shared Taxis: Shared taxis are a popular and affordable way to get around Meghalaya. They operate on fixed routes and are commonly used for intercity travel. These are ideal for budget travellers and tourists heading to nearby towns like Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong, or Jowai.
3. Buses: State-run buses are available for travel between major cities and towns within Meghalaya. They are a more economical option for Meghalaya tourist packages but may not be as comfortable or frequent as private taxis. For shorter trips, you can also find local buses in Shillong and other towns.
4.Auto Rickshaws: Auto rickshaws are available in Shillong and some other urban areas. They are good for short distances within the city or to nearby attractions. It's recommended that you negotiate the fare before starting the ride.
5.Rental Cars: Renting a car with a driver is another good option for tourists. Several agencies in Shillong and other towns offer this service. This gives you flexibility and comfort while exploring Meghalaya at your own pace.
6.Private or Shared Jeeps: For more remote areas and treks, private or shared jeeps can be hired. These are especially useful when visiting locations like Nongriat, Mawphlang, and other offbeat destinations in your Meghalaya tour packages.
7. Bicycles: In some areas like Shillong, renting bicycles is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore. You can ride around the town, visit local parks, and enjoy the beautiful weather.
8.Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Meghalaya, especially in areas like Mawlynnong, Nongriat, and other scenic spots. Many towns and villages are walkable, allowing tourists to experience the landscape up close.
Tips For Commuting in Meghalaya:
1.Book in Advance for Long-Distance Travel: For long-distance travel between towns, it's best to book your taxi or shared vehicle in advance for your Meghalaya solo trip packages as well as family tours. This ensures availability and avoids last-minute hassles, especially during peak tourist season.
2.Confirm Fares Beforehand: Always confirm the fare before starting a ride in a taxi, auto rickshaw, or shared vehicle to avoid misunderstandings or disputes later. Carrying small changes can also be very helpful to ensure smooth transactions.
3.Be Prepared for Hilly Terrain: Meghalaya has many hilly and winding roads, especially in remote areas. If you're prone to motion sickness, carry some medication, and ensure your driver is familiar with these conditions for safety.
4.Pack Light for Remote Areas: If you’ve got destinations like Nongriat or Mawphlang included in your tour packages to Meghalaya, it's recommended to pack light as vehicles can’t carry heavy luggage on narrow roads.
5.Use Local Transport for Short Distances: For short distances within cities like Shillong, consider using local transport like auto rickshaws or walking. These are inexpensive, convenient, and give you a more immersive experience of the local area.
6.Check Road Conditions in Monsoon: During the monsoon season (June to September), some roads in Meghalaya may be damaged or slippery due to heavy rains. Always check the weather forecast and road conditions before heading out with our Meghalaya tour packages.
Street Food Items to Try in Meghalaya:
1.Jadoh: A popular dish among the Khasi people, Jadoh is a flavorful rice dish cooked with meat (usually pork or chicken), spices, and herbs. It's commonly enjoyed as street food and is a must-try for meat lovers on their Meghalay trip.
2.Pork with Bamboo Shoot: This dish is a favourite in Meghalaya, where tender pieces of pork are cooked with fermented bamboo shoots, giving it a unique, tangy flavour. It’s a popular street food choice for both locals and tourists.
3.Nakham Bitchi: This street food item is a simple yet delicious dish that combines the flavours of fish, and local spices in soup. It's considered one of the best things to try on a cold day.
Local Restaurants to Visit in Meghalaya:
1.Lamee Restaurant (Shillong): Located in the heart of Shillong, Lamee is famous for serving traditional Khasi dishes like Jadoh (rice with meat) and pork with bamboo shoots.
2.Cherrapunjee Café (Cherrapunji): Situated in Cherrapunji, this café offers a cosy spot to enjoy both local dishes and continental meals. Their local pork dishes and Khasi specialities are highly recommended to try on your trip to Meghalaya.
3.City Hut Family Dhaba (Shillong): A family-friendly restaurant offering a variety of local Khasi dishes and North Indian favourites. It's perfect for a comfortable dining experience with dishes like pork with bamboo shoots and chicken curry.
Tips to Visit Meghalaya:
1.Respect Local Traditions: Be mindful of the local customs, dress modestly, and ask for permission to take photos.
2.Expect Hilly Roads: Meghalaya’s roads can be winding and steep, so be ready for a bumpy ride.
3.Carry Cash: ATMs are scarce in rural areas, so carry some cash with you for small purchases.
4.Carry Motion Sickness Medication: If you're prone to motion sickness, it’s wise to carry medication while travelling with Meghalaya tour packages.
5.Avoid Littering: Keep the environment clean by avoiding littering, especially in natural spots and trekking routes.
6.Be Prepared for Limited Connectivity: Internet and phone networks may be weak in remote areas, so plan accordingly.
What to Pack for a Meghalaya Trip:
1.Pack Layers of Clothing: The weather can change quickly, so pack light layers, including warm clothes for chilly evenings.
2.Bring Waterproof Gear: Carry a waterproof jacket, umbrella, and shoes to stay dry in case of sudden rain.
3.Include Sturdy Footwear: Pack comfortable, waterproof shoes for trekking and exploring uneven, muddy paths.
4.Pack Sun Protection: Even with rain, sun exposure can be strong, so carry a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses while vacationing with our Meghalaya tour packages.
5.Pack a Power Bank: With limited electricity and connectivity in remote areas, a power bank is essential.
6.Include Personal Medications: If you take any regular medication, make sure to pack enough for the entire trip.
7.Bring a Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while exploring the iconic landmarks with our Meghalaya tour packages. Try and reduce plastic waste by carrying a reusable water bottle.
Cultural Etiquettes to Maintain in Meghalaya:
1.Respect Local Traditions: The people of Meghalaya have rich cultural traditions, so it's important to respect their customs, particularly in sacred spaces.
2.Dress Modestly: It’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting sites that carry religious importance or local villages.
3.Ask Before Taking Photos: Always seek consent before photographing people, especially in rural areas or near sacred sites.
4.Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Public displays of affection are not common in Meghalaya, so it's advisable to keep such gestures private.
5.Respect the Elders: In Khasi culture, elders are highly respected at this destination. So, while travelling with Meghalaya tour packages it is important to greet them politely and be courteous in their presence.
Popular Meghalaya Tour Packages
Meghalaya Tour Packages | Duration | Price |
---|---|---|
Private Tour Of Mesmerising Meghalaya | 6D/5N | ₹ 24,999 |
Mesmerising Meghalaya Tour Package | 6D/5N | ₹ 18,999 |
4D/3N Meghalaya Tour Package | 4D/3N | ₹ 16,500 |
Meghalaya Adventure Package With Trekking Tour | 8D/7N | ₹ 27,800 |
6 Days Romantic Meghalaya Tour Package | 6D/5N | ₹ 34,999 |