How to Reach Meghalaya: Travel Options from Major Cities

 






Are you dreaming of escaping to the misty hills, waterfalls, and vibrant cultures of Mesmerising Meghalaya? If yes, you're not alone! Known for its lush greenery, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, Meghalaya has become one of India’s most popular travel destinations. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a long vacation, getting to this beautiful northeastern state is easier than ever. In this guide, we will break down how to reach Meghalaya from major Indian cities and help you discover the best way to reach Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya.

Let’s get started and make your journey as seamless as your destination is magical!

Why Visit Meghalaya?

Before we jump into the travel routes, let’s take a quick look at why Meghalaya should be on your travel list.

  • Natural Beauty: From the living root bridges of Cherrapunji to the crystal-clear waters of Dawki, Meghalaya is a nature lover’s paradise.

  • Pleasant Weather: The state enjoys cool and comfortable weather almost year-round.

  • Cultural Richness: Meghalaya is home to the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes, who have preserved their traditions beautifully.

  • Adventure and Trekking: Activities like caving, hiking, and kayaking are popular among thrill-seekers.

With that, let’s see how you can reach this Mesmerising Meghalaya and start your dream vacation!

How to Reach Meghalaya by Air

The fastest way to reach Meghalaya is by air. Though Meghalaya has its own airport, the best-connected airport is in Guwahati, Assam.

1. Nearest Airport to Meghalaya

  • Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati (Assam)

    • Distance to Shillong: Approx. 120 km

    • Travel Time by Road: 3–4 hours

Guwahati Airport is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, and Hyderabad with daily direct flights.

2. Direct Flights to Shillong

Shillong does have a small airport at Umroi, located about 30 km from the city. However, it has limited connectivity. As of now, Alliance Air operates regional flights from Kolkata.

Tips:

  • If you're flying from cities with no direct flights to Shillong, fly to Guwahati and then take a taxi or shared cab to Shillong.

  • Prepaid taxis and shared Sumos are available outside the Guwahati airport.

How to Reach Meghalaya by Train

Meghalaya does not have a railway station yet. The nearest railway station is in Guwahati, Assam.

1. Guwahati Railway Station

  • Code: GHY

  • Distance to Shillong: Approx. 100 km

  • Travel Time by Road: 3–4 hours

This station is a major hub and connects to all major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore.

Recommended Trains:

  • Brahmaputra Mail (15955/15956) – From Delhi

  • Kamrup Express (15959/15960) – From Howrah

  • Saraighat Express (12345/12346) – From Kolkata

After arriving in Guwahati, hire a cab, taxi, or take a shared Sumo to Shillong.

How to Reach Meghalaya by Road

Traveling by road is one of the best ways to reach Shillong, especially if you're already in Northeast India.

1. From Guwahati to Shillong

  • Distance: Approx. 100–120 km

  • Travel Time: 3–4 hours

  • Transport Options:

    • Private Taxi: INR 2,000–2,500

    • Shared Taxi: INR 300–400 per person

    • Bus (MTC or ASTC): INR 100–150

The road journey is smooth and scenic, with beautiful hills and forests all around. It’s an experience in itself.

2. From Other Northeastern Cities

  • Tezpur to Shillong: 280 km (6–7 hours)

  • Itanagar to Shillong: 400 km (8–9 hours)

  • Agartala to Shillong: 600 km (10–12 hours)

Interstate buses and taxis are available, though it's recommended to travel via Guwahati for better convenience.

Reaching Meghalaya from Major Cities in India

Let’s explore how travelers from various Indian cities can reach Meghalaya easily.

1. From Delhi

  • By Air: Direct flight to Guwahati (2.5 hours), then 3-hour drive to Shillong.

  • By Train: Take Brahmaputra Mail or North East Express to Guwahati (approx. 28–30 hours), then cab to Shillong.

2. From Mumbai

  • By Air: Direct flights to Guwahati (3.5–4 hours), then road to Shillong.

  • By Train: Take Lokmanya Tilak Express to Guwahati (approx. 45 hours).

3. From Bangalore

  • By Air: Direct flights to Guwahati (3 hours), then cab to Shillong.

  • By Train: Take a train to Howrah, then another train to Guwahati.

4. From Kolkata

  • By Air: Direct flight to Guwahati or Shillong (Umroi Airport).

  • By Train: Multiple trains like Saraighat Express to Guwahati.

5. From Chennai

  • By Air: One-stop flights via Kolkata or Delhi to Guwahati.

  • By Train: Travel to Howrah and then to Guwahati.

Travel Tips for Visiting Meghalaya

  • Best Time to Visit: October to April (Avoid heavy monsoon from June to September)

  • Weather: Pack warm clothes, especially if visiting hill stations.

  • Local Transport: Cabs, bikes for rent, shared Sumos

  • Permits: Indian citizens don’t need permits; foreigners need to register.

Final Thoughts

Planning a trip to Mesmerising Meghalaya is easier than it seems. Whether you're flying in from a metro city or traveling from within the Northeast, multiple options are available to suit your budget and comfort. The journey, especially from Guwahati to Shillong, is as beautiful as the destination itself.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the best way to reach Shillong?

Answer: The best way to reach Shillong is by flying to Guwahati Airport and then taking a taxi or bus to Shillong, which is about 3 hours away.

Q2. Does Shillong have an airport?

Answer: Yes, Shillong has a small airport at Umroi, but it has limited flight options. Most travelers use Guwahati Airport for better connectivity.

Q3. Can I travel to Meghalaya by train?

Answer: Meghalaya doesn’t have its own railway station. The nearest one is in Guwahati, from where you can reach Shillong by road.

Q4. Is the road to Shillong from Guwahati safe?

Answer: Yes, the road is safe and scenic. It’s a well-maintained highway with beautiful views throughout.

Q5. How far is Cherrapunji from Shillong?

Answer: Cherrapunji is about 55 km from Shillong and takes around 2 hours by road.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Ultimate Meghalaya Travel Guide 2025: Comprehensive Information for First-Time Visitors

Image
 Meghalaya, the "Abode of Clouds," is one of India’s most stunning destinations. With lush green landscapes, rolling hills, waterfalls, and unique culture, it offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you are an adventure seeker, nature lover, or someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Meghalaya is the perfect place for you. This Complete Guide to Explore Meghalaya will help first-time visitors plan their trip effortlessly. Why Visit Meghalaya in 2025? Meghalaya is one of the most picturesque states in India, with incredible natural beauty. Here are some top reasons why you should plan your visit in 2025: Pleasant Weather : The state enjoys cool and comfortable weather throughout the year. Breathtaking Landscapes : Rolling green hills, dense forests, and crystal-clear rivers. Rich Cultural Heritage : Home to indigenous tribes like Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo. Adventure Activities : Trekking, caving, boating, and much more. Unique Cuisine : Delicious loca...
Read more

Discovering Shillong's Cafes and Markets

Image
  Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is a paradise for travelers who love exploring unique cafes and vibrant markets. From cozy coffee spots to bustling local bazaars, this charming hill town has something for everyone. Whether you plan to   visit  Cafe Shillong Restaurant   for a delightful meal or enjoy a cup of coffee at   Dylan’s Cafe Shillong , you are in for a treat! The Cafe Culture in Shillong Shillong boasts a thriving cafe culture that blends local flavors with global cuisines. Many cafes offer live music, cozy interiors, and scenic views, making them perfect spots to relax and unwind. 1. Cafe Shillong Restaurant Located in Laitumkhrah,  Cafe Shillong Restaurant  is a must-visit for food lovers. This charming eatery is known for its warm ambiance and delicious menu. Serves North-Eastern and Continental cuisines. Famous for their smoked pork and chicken wings. Offers a cozy and homely atmosphere with live music performances. 2. Dylan’s Cafe S...
Read more

Meghalaya on a Budget: Affordable Travel Tips

Image
 Meghalaya, the "Abode of Clouds," is a paradise for travelers. This northeastern gem is known for its lush green landscapes, breathtaking waterfalls, and unique culture. But can you explore it without breaking the bank? Absolutely! Here are some essential Meghalaya Travel Tips to help you plan a budget-friendly trip without missing out on the fun. Budget-Friendly Transport Options One of the best ways to save money is by choosing the right transport options. Public Transport: Buses and shared taxis are the cheapest ways to travel within Meghalaya. A shared sumo (jeep taxi) ride from Guwahati to Shillong costs around ₹300-₹500 per person. Self-Drive or Bike Rentals: If you're comfortable riding a two-wheeler, you can rent a scooter for ₹400-₹700 per day, which is more affordable than hiring a private cab. Walking Tours: Shillong and Cherrapunji have many attractions within walking distance, saving you extra transport costs. Affordable Accommodation Choices Staying in ...
Read more