A Backpacker's Travelogue: Exploring on a Budget

 


Introduction: Where the Clouds Kiss the Earth

Meghalaya, nestled in the northeastern part of India, is truly a backpacker’s paradise. Known as "the abode of clouds," it offers a spectacular mix of natural beauty, rich tribal culture, and endless adventure. If you're someone who wants to explore the unexplored, connect with nature, and yet save on expenses, Meghalaya is the place for you.

In this 8 Days Ultimate Adventure Trip to Meghalaya, I traveled through some of the most breathtaking locations, interacted with locals, and experienced the vibrant culture of this hidden gem. This blog will guide you through my backpacking journey, give you budget travel tips, and show you how I made the most of my trip with the help of WanderOn, one of the best community-based travel organizers in India.

Why Choose Meghalaya for Budget Travel?

Many people believe that Northeast India is expensive and inaccessible. But that’s not entirely true. Meghalaya is well-connected, incredibly scenic, and budget-friendly if planned wisely. From shared transport to homestays, there are many ways to travel without burning a hole in your pocket.

Here’s why Meghalaya is perfect for budget travelers:

  • Affordable accommodations and food

  • Easy transportation options

  • Rich cultural experiences

  • Unparalleled natural beauty

Planning the Trip: Route and Itinerary

Before I dive into the details, here’s a quick breakdown of my itinerary during my 8 Days Ultimate Adventure Trip to Meghalaya:

DayDestinationHighlights
1Guwahati to ShillongUmiam Lake, Police Bazar
2Shillong to CherrapunjiElephant Falls, Mawkdok Dympep Valley View Point
3CherrapunjiDouble Decker Root Bridge, Rainbow Falls
4Cherrapunji to MawlynnongCleanest Village, Living Root Bridge
5Mawlynnong to DawkiUmngot River boating
6Dawki to Krang ShuriKrang Shuri Waterfall trek
7Krang Shuri to ShillongLocal markets, cafes
8Shillong to GuwahatiShopping and departure

Getting There: Your Gateway to Meghalaya

The nearest airport is Guwahati International Airport in Assam. From there, Shillong is about 100 km and can be reached via shared taxi or private cab.

Budget Tip: Shared taxis from Guwahati to Shillong cost around ₹400-₹500 per person.

Shillong: Scotland of the East

Shillong was my first stop. This city is lively, green, and has a cool, laid-back vibe. The bustling Police Bazar is a haven for street shopping and local food.

Must-Visit Places:

  • Umiam Lake

  • Don Bosco Museum

  • Ward's Lake

Accommodation: I stayed in a budget hostel for just ₹600 per night.

Food: Try Shillong’s famous street momos and pork rice for ₹100–₹150.

Cherrapunji: The Rain Capital

Next on my journey was Cherrapunji (also called Sohra), famous for its rainfall and scenic landscapes.

Things to Do:

  • Trek to Double Decker Living Root Bridge

  • Visit Nohkalikai Falls, India’s tallest plunge waterfall

  • Explore Mawsmai Cave

Budget Tip: The root bridge trek is free, but local guides charge around ₹300-₹500, which is worth it!

Mawlynnong: The Cleanest Village in Asia

Mawlynnong is a model village when it comes to cleanliness and sustainability. It's great to see how locals maintain such hygiene and eco-friendliness.

Highlights:

  • Sky View Point (₹20 entry)

  • Single Root Bridge

  • Interact with the Khasi tribe

Stay: Homestays cost ₹700–₹1000 and often include meals.

Dawki: A River that Looks Like Glass

Dawki is known for the Umngot River, where the water is so clear it seems boats are floating in the air. It’s one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Meghalaya!

What to Do:

  • Boating (₹800 per boat for 45 mins)

  • Cliff jumping

  • Border visit to Bangladesh (India-Bangladesh border is nearby)

Pro Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds and capture the river in its calmest state.

Krang Shuri: Waterfalls Worth the Hike

My next destination was Krang Shuri, one of the most stunning waterfalls in India. The water here is turquoise blue, and the trek leading to the falls is refreshing.

Activities:

  • Swimming

  • Trekking through lush green paths

  • Camping options available

Camping Cost: Around ₹1000 including dinner and breakfast.

Shillong Again: The Final Chapter

I spent the last two days back in Shillong, chilling in cafes, buying souvenirs, and soaking in the vibe of this charming hill station.

Where to Eat:

  • Cafe Shillong Heritage

  • Dylan’s Café

  • Trattoria (famous for Khasi thali)

Souvenirs to Buy:

  • Bamboo handicrafts

  • Organic tea

  • Tribal jewelry

Budget Breakdown for 8 Days

CategoryEstimated Cost (in ₹)
Travel3000 (shared cabs, buses)
Accommodation5000 (hostels, homestays)
Food3000 (local food, cafes)
Activities2000 (treks, boating, camping)
Miscellaneous2000 (shopping, tips, snacks)
Total₹15,000 - ₹18,000

Yes, you read that right! You can explore Meghalaya in just under ₹18,000 if you plan wisely.

How WanderOn Helped Me Travel Smart

Planning a trip in Northeast India can be a little tricky. That’s where WanderOn helped me the most. Their community-based group tours are budget-friendly and offer authentic local experiences.

Why Choose WanderOn?

  • Curated itineraries

  • Local expert guides

  • No hidden costs

  • Great for solo travelers

Thanks to them, my trip was smooth and hassle-free, and I also made new friends along the way!

Backpacker Tips for Exploring Meghalaya

  • Pack Light: Carry only essentials. You’ll be trekking and moving a lot.

  • Carry Cash: ATMs are rare in rural areas.

  • Respect Local Culture: Meghalaya is home to tribal communities; always ask before taking photos.

  • Travel in Groups: It reduces costs and is more fun.

  • Best Time to Visit: October to April – for clear skies and good visibility.

FAQs: All You Need to Know

1. Is Meghalaya safe for solo backpackers?
Yes! Meghalaya is one of the safest places in India for solo and female travelers.

2. Can I travel Meghalaya on a tight budget?
Absolutely. With smart planning and community tours, you can travel under ₹20,000 for 8 days.

3. What’s the best season to visit Meghalaya?
Winter (October to April) offers the best weather. Monsoons are beautiful but come with landslide risks.

4. Is it better to go solo or with a group?
If you're new to the region, group tours like those organized by WanderOn are the best option.

5. What are the must-carry items?
Good shoes, raincoat, power bank, torch, basic medicines, and travel documents.

Final Thoughts: A Journey Worth Every Step

Meghalaya has been one of the most enriching and soul-refreshing trips I’ve ever taken. From walking on living root bridges to boating in crystal clear rivers and sleeping under the stars, every moment was unforgettable. And all of it was done on a budget!

If you’ve been putting off your trip due to financial reasons, I hope this blog proves that a dreamy Meghalaya trip doesn’t need to cost a fortune. Just plan it right, keep your backpack light, and let the journey surprise you.

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