How to Plan a Meghalaya Trip from Delhi/Mumbai/Kolkata

 


Planning a trip to the northeast of India can be one of the most exciting adventures of your life. And when it comes to stunning landscapes, lush green hills, and magical waterfalls, Meghalaya stands out as a top destination. Whether you're traveling from Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata, this guide will help you plan the perfect Meghalaya vacation. If you want to make the most of your journey, combining a Meghalaya With Kaziranga Road Trip is an excellent idea, offering a complete experience of northeast India’s beauty.

For an even smoother and more memorable experience, many travelers choose to go with a trusted travel company like WanderOn. They offer curated travel packages, including road trips, stays, and local experiences, that remove all the stress from planning.

Why Visit Meghalaya?

Meghalaya, also known as the "Abode of Clouds," is one of India’s most picturesque states. It is famous for:

  • Lush green valleys

  • Crystal-clear rivers

  • Majestic waterfalls

  • Unique living root bridges

  • Rich tribal culture

Meghalaya is also home to Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, two of the wettest places on Earth. Whether you love nature, adventure, or culture, Meghalaya has something for everyone.

Best Time to Visit Meghalaya

The ideal time to visit Meghalaya is:

SeasonMonthsHighlights
WinterNov - FebCool and pleasant, great for exploring
SummerMar - JunWarm but manageable, fewer tourists
MonsoonJul - SepWaterfalls at full force, but risky

Tip: Avoid peak monsoon if you're not a fan of continuous rain or if you’re traveling with children or elderly people.

Reaching Meghalaya from Delhi, Mumbai & Kolkata

From Delhi

  • Flight: Take a flight to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi Airport, Guwahati (Assam) – the nearest airport to Meghalaya.

  • Travel Time: Approx. 2.5 hours

  • Cost: ₹4,000 – ₹7,000 (one way)

  • Road Trip: Guwahati to Shillong – 100 km (3 hours drive)

From Mumbai

  • Flight: Direct flight to Guwahati from Mumbai available.

  • Travel Time: Around 3 hours

  • Cost: ₹5,000 – ₹9,000 (one way)

From Kolkata

  • Flight: Direct and frequent flights to Guwahati

  • Travel Time: 1.5 hours

  • Cost: ₹2,000 – ₹4,500 (one way)

From Guwahati, you can either book a private cab or hop on a shared taxi to Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. The scenic drive through the winding roads, lush hills, and tea gardens will leave you speechless.

How to Plan a Meghalaya With Kaziranga Road Trip

If you want to explore more of Northeast India, consider a Meghalaya With Kaziranga Road Trip. Start your trip in Kaziranga National Park (Assam) before heading to Meghalaya.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1-2: Kaziranga National Park

  • Jeep Safari & Elephant Safari

  • Spot the One-Horned Rhinoceros

  • Visit Orchid Park and local villages

Day 3: Drive to Shillong

  • Drive: Approx. 6 hours

  • Enjoy scenic views along the way

  • Explore Shillong city (Police Bazaar, local cafes)

Day 4: Shillong to Cherrapunji

  • Stop at Elephant Falls, Mawkdok Viewpoint

  • Explore Arwah Caves and Nohkalikai Falls

Day 5: Double Decker Living Root Bridge

  • Trek to Nongriat Village

  • Enjoy crystal-clear natural pools

Day 6: Dawki & Mawlynnong

  • Boat ride on Umngot River in Dawki

  • Visit Asia’s cleanest village – Mawlynnong

Day 7: Return to Guwahati

  • Stop at Umiam Lake

  • Optional: Kamakhya Temple visit

Top Places to Visit in Meghalaya

1. Shillong – The Scotland of the East

  • Ward’s Lake

  • Shillong Peak

  • Don Bosco Museum

2. Cherrapunji – Land of Waterfalls

  • Nohkalikai Falls

  • Seven Sisters Falls

  • Mawsmai Caves

3. Mawlynnong – Cleanest Village in Asia

  • Bamboo Sky View

  • Root Bridge

  • Local village walks

4. Dawki – Crystal Clear River

  • Umngot River boating

  • Indo-Bangladesh Border

5. Nongriat – Home to Living Root Bridges

  • Double Decker Bridge

  • Natural pools

  • Trekking trails

Where to Stay in Meghalaya

There are various options available for every kind of traveler:

TypePrice Range (Per Night)Best Areas
Budget Hotel₹800 – ₹1,500Police Bazaar, Sohra
Mid-range₹1,500 – ₹3,000Laitumkhrah, Mawlynnong
Luxury Resort₹3,000 – ₹7,000Umiam, Cherrapunji

Pro Tip: Book your stay early during peak seasons (October to March).

Local Food to Try

Don’t miss these local Meghalaya dishes:

  • Jadoh – Spiced rice with meat

  • Dohneiiong – Pork with black sesame

  • Tungrymbai – Fermented soybean

  • Pukhlein – Sweet rice cake

Vegetarian options are available, especially in bigger towns.

What to Pack for Meghalaya

  • Light woollens (weather can get chilly)

  • Comfortable shoes (for trekking)

  • Raincoat or umbrella (sudden rains are common)

  • Power bank and torch

  • Travel documents and ID

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

  • Carry cash – ATMs are limited in remote areas

  • Respect local traditions and cultures

  • Avoid plastic and maintain cleanliness

  • Always ask permission before clicking local pictures

  • Start your day early – sunsets happen early in the hills

Why Choose WanderOn for Your Meghalaya Trip?

Planning a trip can be stressful – booking hotels, transport, finding hidden spots, and managing local logistics. With WanderOn, you get:

  • Pre-planned group tours or customizable packages

  • Comfortable stays and safe transport

  • On-ground team for local guidance

  • Best itinerary covering popular and offbeat places

Thousands of travelers have shared positive reviews of WanderOn, making it a go-to choice for adventure seekers and solo travelers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is Meghalaya safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Meghalaya is considered one of the safest states in India. The locals are friendly, and the crime rate is low. Still, it’s best to avoid traveling alone at night in remote areas.

Q2. Can I drive from Guwahati to Meghalaya on my own?

Absolutely. The roads are well-maintained and safe. You can rent a self-drive car from Guwahati or hire a private taxi.

Q3. How many days are enough for a Meghalaya trip?

A 6 to 8-day trip is ideal to cover major destinations like Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki, and even Kaziranga if you choose the extended itinerary.

Q4. Are permits required to visit Meghalaya?

Indian citizens don’t need any permits. Foreign tourists need to register with local authorities upon arrival.

Q5. What is the cost of a Meghalaya trip from Delhi/Mumbai/Kolkata?

An average 7-day trip from Delhi or Mumbai can cost around ₹25,000–₹35,000, depending on flights, stay, and activities. Budget travelers can do it for even less.

Conclusion

Planning a trip to Meghalaya from Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata is now easier than ever. From mesmerizing waterfalls and scenic valleys to unique cultures and food, Meghalaya is a dream come true for nature lovers and explorers. Whether you go solo, with family, or on a group tour, the experience will stay with you for a lifetime.

For a wholesome adventure, add Meghalaya With Kaziranga Road Trip to your plan and let nature surprise you at every turn. And if you want to avoid the hassle and travel like a pro, WanderOn has your back with tailor-made trips.

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