Shillong & Cherrapunji

Overview

Meghalaya is one of the wettest places on Earth, and its hills are full of waterfalls, caves and living root bridges. Shillong is the lively capital; Cherrapunji (Sohra) and Mawlynnong are the headline day trips. The rains make everything green but can close roads.

Best time to visit

1. ●Jan
2. ●Feb
3. ●Mar
4. ●Apr
5. ◐May
6. ◐Jun
7. ◐Jul
8. ◐Aug
9. ◐Sep
10. ●Oct
11. ●Nov
12. ●Dec

● best time · ◐ okay · ✕ best avoided

How to reach

• By air

  ~3 h from Guwahati

  Guwahati's airport is the main gateway; Shillong is about 100 km away (3 hours by road).

• By road

  3–4 h

  Shared cabs and buses run from Guwahati to Shillong all day.

Where to stay

• Shillong

  ₹1,000–6,000 / night

  Cafés, hostels and mid-range hotels.

• Sohra, Mawlynnong, Dawki side

  ₹800–4,000 / night

  Homestays and small lodges; book in advance.

Things to do

• Double Decker Living Root Bridge

  Full day

  Trek down thousands of steps to the famous root bridge near Nongriat.

• Dawki and Umngot River

  Full day

  Clear river at the Bangladesh border; boat rides in season.

• Mawlynnong

  Half day

  Known as a clean village; weekends are busy.

• Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak

  Half day

  Easy sights near Shillong.

Food

• Jadoh and doh khleh

  ₹150–400

  Rice with pork and pork salad; vegetarian options exist too.

Safety & permits

Permits & entry

• Tourist registration

  Check before travel

  Meghalaya does not currently require an Inner Line Permit from visitors. A tourist registration system modelled on one has been proposed, and homestays and hotels have been told to register guests through the state tourism app. In East Khasi Hills, treks and outdoor activities have required a registered guide. Rules are changing, so confirm with the Meghalaya Tourism Department before you travel.

Places in Shillong & Cherrapunji

Tips & questions

Quick tips, questions and photos from people who've been — or are going.

Reviews & tips