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Meghalaya (translated in English as ‘the abode of clouds’) is a state in North East India known for receiving the highest of rainfall compared to any other place in the world. The geography of the state consists of plateaus and hills, and an abundance of streams that become alive with tormenting rapids during the monsoons. The state is bound by Assam in north and east and by Bangladesh in the south. Meghalaya is home to three major and very intriguing tribal communities – the Khasis, Garos and Jaintias.
Your journey will start in the hill station of Shillong which is known as the ‘Scotland of the east’ due to its similarity with the Scottish Highlands. Here, rock music fans and connoisseurs are aplenty. You will get to visit many pretty looking lakes and waterfalls around Shillong and indulge in the local flavors. The market area of Shillong has a nice buzz and is a great place to hangout. The British-Raj legacy is still visible in architecture and food habits of the locals. Shillong has a majority of Khasi tribe, who are predominantly Christian. An interesting aspect of Khasis are that they are a matrilineal society – the mother is head of family, and the youngest daughter owns all the property and mothers surname is passed on to children.
From Shillong, you will visit the areas around Mawlynnong, which is considered as the cleanest village of Asia. The village is very beautifully laid out and very neat. The people of the village are the War Khasis and they are very passionate about flowers, as a variety of floras can be seen all around the village. Your stay here will be in the village tree house. Since Mawlynnong lies in the foothills of the South Khasi Hills, the village provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the plains of Bangladesh. During monsoons, one can observe that almost half of Bangladesh remains flooded, bringing much sorrow to the densely populated country. There are many delightful waterfalls around Mawlynnong which you will get to visit, and you’ll be free to swim in some of them.
From Mawlynnong, you will depart to a magical place called Cherrapunjee. The whole area is known to receive the highest rainfall in the whole wide world. During monsoons, the whole landscape becomes mystified by clouds, and countless water streams and waterfalls become alive with gushing rapids. You will also get to visit the caves around Cherrapunjee which are wonders of nature and of life without sunlight. The highlight of this whole tour will be a hike to the living root bridges of Meghalaya, which are manmade structures that are made by connecting and networking the roots of two living fig trees. The whole structure takes more than a century to be complete, and is used by future generations to cross tormenting streams during the monsoon season. It is fascinating to see such a sustainable piece of architecture, which is entirely connected to nature in all aspects of things.
Day 1 : Guwahati - Shillong
After arriving at Guwahati airport, drive to Shillong (3 hours), the capital of Meghalaya. It is a historic hill station established by British and is also referred to as ‘Scotland of the east’. Shillong was also the former administrative capital of entire north-eastern region, then known as Assam during British rule and still has an old charm. On the way, halt at the scenic Umiam Lake, also locally known as Barapani. One can enjoy boating in the pristine lake surrounded by beautiful pine forests of the Khasi hills. The panoramic vista of the lake is spectacular from the viewpoints on the highway. Reach Shillong and check-in at a boutique colonial style bungalow or at a luxurious heritage property of the former royal family of Tripura.
Day 2 : Shillong
Explore the charming town and enjoy local sightseeing, visit places such as Lady Hydari Park, Ward’s Lake and old churches. Don Bosco Musuem, the largest cultural museum in India, is also worth a visit for those interested in learning about the indigenous cultures of the tribes of Northeast India. Later, visit Shillong Peak, the highest point on the Khasi hills which offers a panoramic view of the town. Also visit the majestic Elephant Falls nearby, the stones of the cascades resemble like large elephants. If time permits, witness Siat Khnam archery, which is a unique way of local gambling where Khasi men shoot arrows in a haystack. Evening will be free at leisure in the upbeat Police Bazar market area, one can also buy handicrafts and souvenirs from the handloom emporiums.
Day 3 : Mawphlang/Mawsynram
Go on a day trip to Mawphlang (1 hour) for hiking in the David Scott Trail. It is a heritage trail named after David Scott, one of the earliest British explorers of the region who tried to find a route from Bangladesh to Assam through the Khasi hills. The 14km long trek is suitable for travelers of all age groups. One can also explore the Sacred Grove Forest which is protected by the villagers and has many myths associated with Khasi culture. The age old forest also has many historic monoliths which mark important events in local history. On Sundays, visitors can see Siat Khnam archery in the Khasi Heritage Village, it is a traditional form of betting which is enjoyed by the locals in the afternoon.
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Drive to Mawsynram (2 hours), the rainiest place is the world. Perched atop a ridge on the Khasi Hills, it offers a beautiful view of the surrounding valleys which are green due to abundant rainfall. The word Maw in native Khasi language refers to rocks, this place is also well known for the unique rock formations nearby. Visit the Mawjymbuin cave which has a natural structure that resembles Shivalinga. The cave also has a dome shaped rock with a flat top called the Symper Rock. Dwarksuid is another site to enjoy nature, the rocks formations here are referred by the locals the the devil’s doorway. Return to Shillong by evening.
Day 4 : Shillong - Dawki - Mawlynnong
Leave early to the beautiful picnic spot of Dawki (3 hours) near Bangladesh border. Enjoy a ride in country boats in the clear turquoise waters of the Umgnot River which is surrounded by steep gorges. Then, drive to Mawlynnong (1 hour), considered to be Asia’s cleanest village. Mawlynnong is a little hamlet which became famous as the ‘Clean Village’ due to the collective efforts of its local community. The villagers have beautifully maintained their village, which attracts numerous visitors and is also known as the Garden of God. Later, leisurely explore the village and interact with the Khasi villagers, one can also experience their Khasi cuisine in the little food stalls. Also, visit the Balancing Rock of Mawlynnong and the Living Root Bridge at Riwai village nearby. Enjoy the panoramic view of Bangladesh plains below from the Skywalk viewpoint. Your stay will be in a family run guest house with basic amenities.
Day 5 : Mawlynnong - Cherrapunji
Proceed to Cherrapunji (2 hours), renowned as one of the wettest place in the world and is well known for its serene landscape. It was historically known as Sohra, the land of oranges in native Khasi dialect and was once the capital of the region during the British era. Later, explore the beautiful waterfalls and caves, which are the main attractions of Cherrapunjee. Visit the Seven Sisters Falls, Dainthlen Falls and Nokhalikai Falls. Also walk through the stalagmites of the intriguing Mawsmai caves, visit Ka Khoh Ramrah monolith, landscape viewpoints and Eco Park. Bonfires can be arranged in the evening. Your stay will be in a hillside lodge with small cottages offering standard amenities.
Day 6 : Cherrapunji - Nongriat
After breakfast, drive to Tyrna village, the last motorable point. Then, go on a long guided trek (approx 3 hours) down three thousand steps to see the famous Double-Decker root bridge of Nongriat village, the most brilliant of all the living bridges found in the world. The root bridges are constructed by the native tribesmen using natural resources available in their surroundings. They guide the roots of large trees with the help of bamboos and intertwine them over the years to form into strong bridges. The trek passes through numerous streams, hanging bridges, remote villages, lush green forests and spots of scenic beauty of the Khasi Hills. Afternoon can be spent relaxing amidst the greenery of the forest or refresh by swimming in the natural pools. One can also hike further to the spectacular Rainbow Falls. Your stay will be in a basic Rest House run by the local village community.
Day 7 : Nongriat - Cherrapunji
In the morning, trek back to Cherrapunjee (3 hours) and rest in your lodge after a long uphill climb. Afternoon will be free at leisure to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Meghalaya Plateau.
Day 8 : Cherrapunji - Guwahati
After breakfast, transfer to Guwahati airport (5 hours) for departure. End of tour.
Payment Terms & Methods :
* Some Advance Percentage of total booking amount
* Airfare/Transport fare to be paid full at one time in advance.
Cancellation & Refund Policy :
* Upon cancellation, refund will be made after deducting the Retention Amount.
* Retention Amount varies as per the number of days left before your package start date.
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