My Solo Travel Experience in Meghalaya

Traveling solo has always been on my bucket list. The thrill of discovering a new place all by myself, making my own itinerary, and meeting new people without a companion was something I wanted to experience. So, when I finally decided to embark on my solo travel experience in Meghalaya, it turned out to be one of the most memorable journeys of my life. With nothing but my backpack, a camera, and a curious heart, I explored the clouds, waterfalls, caves, and villages of this magical state.

Thanks to WanderOn, I was able to plan my trip effortlessly. Their travel stories and guides made me confident and excited about my adventure. If you're planning a trip to Northeast India, I highly recommend using WanderOn as your travel companion online.

Why I Chose Meghalaya for My Solo Travel

I chose Meghalaya because of its natural beauty, friendly locals, and safety for solo travelers. Known as "the abode of clouds", this northeastern state in India offers misty hills, crystal-clear rivers, deep caves, and the cleanest villages in Asia.

Meghalaya is a paradise for nature lovers, trekkers, and photography enthusiasts. What intrigued me the most was their 8 Days Ultimate Adventure Trip to Meghalaya itinerary, which included all the famous spots and hidden gems. The promise of waterfalls, bridges made of roots, and untouched villages was too exciting to resist.

Day 1: Arrival in Guwahati and Transfer to Shillong

My solo trip began in Guwahati, Assam. From there, I took a shared cab to Shillong, which is about 100 km away. The ride was scenic, with winding roads, pine trees, and clear blue skies. I reached Shillong in the evening and checked into a cozy homestay.

Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is often called the “Scotland of the East”. It has a cool vibe, a bustling police bazaar, and local cafes playing retro music. I spent the evening walking around Ward’s Lake and savoring local street food like momos and Jadoh (rice with pork).

Day 2: Shillong to Cherrapunji – The Land of Waterfalls

The next morning, I left early for Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra. It’s one of the wettest places on earth and just two hours away from Shillong. On the way, I stopped at Elephant Falls and Mawkdok Dympep Valley View Point.

Cherrapunji was a dream come true. I visited Nohkalikai Falls, India’s tallest plunge waterfall. Standing near the edge, watching water fall into the deep blue pool below, was surreal. I also explored Mawsmai Caves — a natural limestone cave formation with narrow tunnels and unique rock shapes.

Day 3: Double Decker Living Root Bridge Trek

This was the most thrilling part of my journey — the trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat. The trek involves descending over 3500 steps into the valley. Though tiring, it was worth every drop of sweat.

The bridge, formed by intertwining tree roots, is over 150 years old. I spent the night in a homestay in Nongriat village, disconnected from the world but more connected to nature than ever before. The sound of waterfalls nearby and the kindness of locals made it unforgettable.

Day 4: Rainbow Falls and Back to Cherrapunji

The next morning, I went on a short hike to Rainbow Falls. The water was so clear that I could see colorful pebbles beneath the surface. The name comes from the rainbow that forms over the falls when sunlight hits the mist. A perfect spot for reflection and relaxation.

In the afternoon, I climbed back up to the road (a tough challenge!) and returned to my hotel in Cherrapunji. A hot meal and a warm bath never felt better.

Day 5: Mawlynnong – Asia’s Cleanest Village

My next stop was Mawlynnong, about 80 km from Cherrapunji. This village is internationally famous as the cleanest village in Asia. The streets were spotless, bamboo dustbins were everywhere, and people took pride in keeping it beautiful.

I walked to the nearby Sky View Point, a bamboo tower offering panoramic views of Bangladesh plains. The highlight was the Balancing Rock, a large boulder perfectly balanced on a small one — a true wonder of nature.

Day 6: Dawki and Shnongpdeng – The Crystal Clear River

From Mawlynnong, I traveled to Dawki, a small town near the Indo-Bangladesh border. The main attraction here is the Umngot River, known for its glass-like water. I took a boat ride on it, and it felt like floating in the air because the water was so clear that the boat's shadow was visible on the riverbed.

For the night, I stayed in a riverside camp at Shnongpdeng, a quieter and more serene place than Dawki. I lit a bonfire, had dinner under the stars, and felt deeply grateful for this solo journey.

Day 7: Back to Shillong – Souvenirs and Reflections

I made my way back to Shillong and spent the day visiting Don Bosco Museum, which beautifully showcases the culture of Northeast India. I also shopped for handmade crafts and Khasi traditional items in the Police Bazaar.

As I sipped hot coffee at a café, I reflected on my journey. Every day had brought a new experience, and traveling alone helped me grow in ways I never imagined.

Day 8: Return to Guwahati – Goodbye Meghalaya

On the final day, I returned to Guwahati with a heart full of memories. My solo travel experience in Meghalaya gave me confidence, peace, and a deep connection with nature and local people.

What I Learned From Solo Traveling in Meghalaya

Independence: Making my own plans and decisions made me more self-reliant.
Local Connection: Staying in homestays helped me connect with local families and their culture.
Natural Beauty: Meghalaya is raw, untouched, and magical.
Personal Growth: Facing challenges like the double-decker trek built my inner strength.

Tips for Solo Travelers in Meghalaya

Pack Light but Right – Include waterproof gear and trekking shoes.
Book Homestays – They are safer, affordable, and give a local touch.
Travel in Daylight – Roads are hilly and foggy at night.
Respect Local Culture – The Khasi people are warm but traditional.
Use Local Transport or Shared Cabs – Affordable and safe.
Stay Connected – Airtel and Jio work best in Meghalaya.

Budget for Solo Trip to Meghalaya (8 Days)

Expense	Estimated Cost (INR)
Travel (to and within)	₹5,000
Accommodation (Homestays)	₹6,000
Food	₹3,000
Activities & Entry Fees	₹2,000
Miscellaneous/Souvenirs	₹2,000
Total Estimated Budget	₹18,000

FAQs About Solo Travel in Meghalaya

Q1: Is Meghalaya safe for solo travelers, especially women?

Yes, Meghalaya is considered one of the safest states in India. The locals are polite, helpful, and respectful. I felt safe throughout my journey.

Q2: When is the best time to visit Meghalaya?

October to April is the best time to visit. The weather is pleasant, and waterfalls have plenty of water post-monsoon.

Q3: Do I need any permits to travel in Meghalaya?

No, Indian citizens do not need a permit. However, it’s always good to carry your ID proof at all times.

Q4: How can I plan a similar trip?

You can either plan it yourself or take help from travel platforms like WanderOn, which offer detailed itineraries, trip packages, and travel tips.

Final Thoughts

My solo travel experience in Meghalaya was more than just a trip. It was a journey of self-discovery, learning, and reconnecting with nature. From misty waterfalls and living root bridges to clean villages and crystal rivers, Meghalaya is truly a gem.

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