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Explore India's Living Wonders

Meghalaya Rainforest
& Root Bridges Tour

6 Days / 5 Nights
Shillong → Cherrapunji → Nongriat
Group / Private
4.8/5 Rating
Double Decker Root Bridge
Root Bridge Stream Crossing
Nohkalikai Falls Cherrapunji
Dawki River Crystal Clear
Mawlynnong Cleanest Village

Trip Overview

The Meghalaya Rainforest & Root Bridges Tour is an extraordinary adventure into one of India's most enchanting and untouched regions. This 6-day journey takes you deep into the heart of Meghalaya — the "Abode of Clouds" — where ancient living root bridges, cascading waterfalls, and pristine rainforests create a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth.

Begin your adventure in Shillong, the charming "Scotland of the East," before descending into the lush valleys of Cherrapunji (Sohra) — one of the wettest places on the planet. Trek through dense subtropical rainforest to reach the legendary Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat village, a UNESCO World Heritage nominee crafted entirely from the roots of the Ficus elastica tree over centuries by the Khasi tribe.

This carefully curated tour includes expert local Khasi guides, comfortable homestay and hotel accommodation, all trekking arrangements, and visits to spectacular waterfalls, crystal-clear rivers, and Asia's cleanest village. Whether you're a nature lover, trekking enthusiast, or cultural explorer, this tour offers an unforgettable experience of India's incredible biodiversity and indigenous heritage.

Duration

6 Days / 5 Nights

Destinations

Shillong, Cherrapunji, Nongriat

Stay

Hotels & Homestays

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Trek Level

Moderate

Guide

Local Khasi Guide

Highlights of the Tour

Trek to the legendary Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat — a UNESCO World Heritage nominee
Witness the majestic Nohkalikai Falls — India's tallest plunge waterfall at 1,115 feet
Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Dawki River (Umngot) — one of the clearest rivers in Asia
Visit Mawlynnong — officially recognised as the cleanest village in Asia
Explore the stunning Wei Sawdong three-tiered waterfall hidden in the rainforest
Experience the breathtaking Laitlum Canyons — "End of the Hills" panoramic viewpoint
Discover the unique Khasi tribal culture, matrilineal society & traditional cuisine
Walk through the sacred groves of Mawphlang — ancient protected forests with rare biodiversity
Explore Shillong — the "Scotland of the East" with its colonial charm and vibrant markets
Visit the Living Root Bridge at Riwai — an easily accessible single-decker root bridge

Tour: Detail Itinerary

DAY 1

Arrival in Shillong — City Exploration

Welcome to Meghalaya! Upon arrival at Guwahati Airport (nearest major airport), our representative will greet you and drive you to Shillong (approx. 3 hours). After freshening up at your hotel, begin exploring the charming capital city.

  • Scenic drive from Guwahati to Shillong through the beautiful Khasi Hills
  • Visit Ward's Lake — a picturesque artificial lake surrounded by gardens in the heart of Shillong
  • Explore Police Bazaar — Shillong's bustling main market for local handicrafts & Khasi shawls
  • Visit Don Bosco Museum — one of the finest museums of indigenous cultures in Asia
  • Evening stroll at Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills
Overnight stay in Shillong.
Laitlum Canyons Meghalaya
DAY 2

Shillong to Cherrapunji — Waterfalls & Caves

After breakfast, drive to Cherrapunji (Sohra) (approx. 2 hours) — one of the wettest places on Earth. The journey itself is spectacular with stunning valley views, waterfalls, and lush green landscapes.

  • Visit the magnificent Nohkalikai Falls — India's tallest plunge waterfall dropping 1,115 feet into an emerald green pool
  • Explore Mawsmai Cave — a stunning limestone cave with natural formations and easy walkways
  • Visit Eco Park for breathtaking views of the Bangladesh plains and deep gorges
  • Stop at Nohsngithiang Falls (Seven Sisters Falls) — a spectacular seven-segmented waterfall
  • Visit Mawkdok Dympep Valley viewpoint for dramatic canyon views
Overnight stay in Cherrapunji.
Nohkalikai Falls Cherrapunji
DAY 3

Trek to Double Decker Living Root Bridge

The highlight of the tour! After an early breakfast, begin the legendary trek to Nongriat village to witness the famous Double Decker Living Root Bridge. The trek involves approximately 3,500 steps down (and back up!) through dense subtropical rainforest.

  • Trek from Tyrna village through 3,500 stone steps descending into the lush valley
  • Cross the magnificent Double Decker Living Root Bridge — two bridges stacked one above the other, grown over 500+ years by the Khasi tribe
  • Swim in the natural Rainbow Falls pool — a stunning waterfall with rainbow mist (seasonal)
  • Learn about the Khasi root bridge cultivation technique — how generations of villagers trained Ficus elastica roots to form living bridges
  • Enjoy a traditional Khasi lunch at a local homestay in Nongriat village
Overnight stay in Cherrapunji (or Nongriat homestay for adventurous travellers).
Double Decker Root Bridge
DAY 4

Mawlynnong & Dawki River Day Trip

After breakfast, drive to Mawlynnong — Asia's cleanest village — and then continue to the stunning Dawki River on the India-Bangladesh border. This day showcases the pristine beauty of Meghalaya's countryside.

  • Visit Mawlynnong Village — officially recognised as the cleanest village in Asia, with immaculate pathways, bamboo dustbins & living root bridge
  • Walk across the Single Root Bridge at Riwai — an easily accessible living root bridge near Mawlynnong
  • Climb the Sky Walk (Bamboo Trek) — a bamboo platform offering stunning views of the Bangladesh plains
  • Drive to Dawki (Umngot River) — enjoy a boat ride on the crystal-clear turquoise water where boats appear to float in mid-air
  • Visit the India-Bangladesh border at Tamabil for a unique cross-border experience
Overnight stay in Cherrapunji / Shillong.
Dawki River Crystal Clear
DAY 5

Sacred Groves, Laitlum Canyons & Khasi Culture

After breakfast, explore the spiritual and cultural heart of Meghalaya. Visit ancient sacred forests, dramatic canyons, and experience the unique Khasi tribal heritage.

  • Visit the Sacred Groves of Mawphlang — ancient protected forests considered sacred by the Khasi tribe, home to rare orchids, medicinal plants & unique biodiversity
  • Trek to Laitlum Canyons — meaning "End of the Hills," offering breathtaking panoramic views of deep gorges and rolling green hills
  • Visit Wei Sawdong Waterfall — a stunning three-tiered waterfall hidden in the forest (short trek required)
  • Experience a traditional Khasi cultural evening — local music, dance, and a farewell dinner with authentic Khasi cuisine including Jadoh (rice & meat), Tungrymbai & local brew
Overnight stay in Shillong.
Khasi Tribal Culture
DAY 6

Shillong to Guwahati — Departure

After a leisurely breakfast, check out from the hotel. Depending on your departure time, you may have free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Shillong.

  • Optional visit to Umiam Lake (Barapani) — a stunning reservoir surrounded by pine forests, perfect for a morning walk
  • Last-minute shopping at Bara Bazaar for Khasi handicrafts, honey, local spices & traditional shawls
  • Drive back to Guwahati Airport (approx. 3 hours) for your onward journey
  • Optional: Visit Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati — one of the most sacred Hindu temples in India (time permitting)
  • Tour ends with wonderful memories of Meghalaya's living root bridges & rainforests!
Tour ends. We hope you had an amazing journey!
Meghalaya Rainforest Waterfall

Inclusion & Exclusion

What's Included

10 Items
  • 5 Nights accommodation in hotels & homestays (Shillong, Cherrapunji)
  • Daily breakfast & dinner (traditional Khasi meals included)
  • All transfers & sightseeing by private vehicle (Sumo / Scorpio / Innova)
  • Experienced local Khasi trekking guide for root bridge trek
  • All entry fees to waterfalls, caves, parks & viewpoints
  • Boat ride at Dawki River (Umngot)
  • Complimentary bottled water & light snacks during treks
  • All applicable taxes & permits
  • 24/7 on-trip support & assistance
  • Guwahati Airport pick-up and drop-off

What's Not Included

8 Items
  • Airfare / Train fare to and from Guwahati
  • Lunch during the tour (can be arranged at additional cost)
  • Porter services during the root bridge trek (optional — ₹500 per day)
  • Camera fees at certain viewpoints (where applicable)
  • Personal expenses — laundry, phone calls, tips, shopping
  • Travel insurance
  • Any services not mentioned in the inclusion list
  • Festival / Peak season surcharges (if applicable)

Get Your Custom Quote

Fill out this form and we'll send you a tailor-made itinerary within 12 hours at the best price.

  • 6 Days / 5 Nights
    Duration
  • Shillong → Cherrapunji → Nongriat
    Route
  • Group / Private
    Tour Type
  • 4.8/5 Rating
    Guest Reviews
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GUEST REVIEWS

What Our Travellers Say

"The trek to the Double Decker Root Bridge was absolutely life-changing! Standing on a bridge made entirely from living tree roots that are over 500 years old was surreal. Our Khasi guide Bah Kynmaw shared incredible stories about how his ancestors trained the roots. A must-do experience!"
J

James Whitfield

United Kingdom
"Meghalaya completely blew our minds! The Dawki River was so clear we could see every pebble on the riverbed. Mawlynnong village was spotless — puts most cities to shame. The homestay experience in Cherrapunji with a local Khasi family was the highlight of our entire India trip. Highly recommended!"
A

Anna & Peter Schmidt

Germany
"As a nature photographer, Meghalaya was paradise! Every turn offered a new breathtaking view — from the misty Nohkalikai Falls to the ancient sacred groves. The 3,500 steps to the root bridge were challenging but absolutely worth it. The team's support made everything seamless. Can't wait to return!"
R

Rachel Nguyen

Canada
FREQUENTLY ASKED

FAQ — Meghalaya Root Bridges Tour

What is the best time to visit Meghalaya and the root bridges?
The best time to visit Meghalaya is from October to May. October to December offers pleasant post-monsoon weather with lush green landscapes and full waterfalls. January to March is dry and ideal for trekking. Avoid the monsoon season (June–September) when heavy rainfall makes trekking dangerous and roads slippery. However, the monsoon season offers the most dramatic waterfall views if you don't mind the rain.
How difficult is the trek to the Double Decker Root Bridge?
The trek is rated as moderate difficulty. It involves descending approximately 3,500 stone steps to reach Nongriat village (about 2-3 hours down) and climbing back up (3-4 hours). The path is well-maintained with stone steps but can be slippery during rain. A reasonable level of fitness is required. We provide experienced local guides and the pace is adjusted to your comfort. Trekking poles are recommended and can be arranged.
Can the itinerary be customised?
Yes! We specialise in customised tours. You can extend the tour to include Kaziranga National Park (one-horned rhino safari), Majuli Island (world's largest river island), or Guwahati sightseeing. We can also adjust the trekking difficulty, upgrade accommodation, or add extra rest days. Just fill out the enquiry form with your preferences and we'll create a tailor-made itinerary.
What should I pack for the Meghalaya trek?
Essential items include: sturdy trekking shoes with good grip (most important!), a waterproof rain jacket/poncho, quick-dry clothing, a small daypack, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, energy bars/snacks, a headlamp/torch, and a waterproof bag for electronics. A light fleece is recommended for cool evenings. Pack light as you'll carry your own bag during the trek.
Is this tour suitable for families with children?
The tour is suitable for families with children aged 10 and above who are comfortable with moderate trekking. The root bridge trek involves 3,500 steps which can be challenging for young children. However, we can customise the itinerary to skip the Nongriat trek and instead visit the easily accessible Riwai Root Bridge near Mawlynnong. The Dawki River, waterfalls, and Mawlynnong village are perfect for families of all ages.
What type of accommodation is provided?
In Shillong, we provide comfortable 3-star hotels with modern amenities. In Cherrapunji, accommodation is in quality guesthouses or homestays run by local Khasi families — offering an authentic cultural experience with clean rooms, hot water, and home-cooked meals. For adventurous travellers, we can arrange an overnight stay at a Nongriat village homestay (basic but memorable). Luxury options are available in Shillong upon request.
How do I reach Meghalaya from the UK?
The nearest major airport is Guwahati (GAU) in Assam. From the UK, you can fly to Guwahati via Delhi, Kolkata, or Mumbai with airlines like Air India, IndiGo, or British Airways (with connections). The flight from Delhi to Guwahati takes about 2.5 hours. From Guwahati Airport, we provide a private transfer to Shillong (approx. 3 hours drive). Alternatively, Shillong Airport (SHL) has limited domestic flights from Kolkata.
Is Meghalaya safe for tourists?
Yes, Meghalaya is one of the safest states in India for tourists. The Khasi people are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. Meghalaya has a matrilineal society (lineage traced through the mother), and women enjoy a high status in society. Crime rates are very low in tourist areas. Our local guides ensure your safety throughout the trek and all activities. We provide 24/7 on-trip support for any assistance needed.

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