Meghalaya to Arunachal Pradesh – A Combined Itinerary

 




Northeast India is truly magical. From lush green hills to crystal-clear rivers, and vibrant tribal cultures to breathtaking landscapes—this region has it all. If you're someone who enjoys scenic beauty, peaceful vibes, and adventurous journeys, then combining Meghalaya to Arunachal Pradesh in one itinerary will give you the best of both worlds.

Start your journey with a Meghalaya tourist package and get ready to explore hidden treasures, cleanest villages, and mystical caves. As you move towards Arunachal Pradesh, you'll discover valleys, Buddhist monasteries, and high-altitude passes. This travel plan will help you cover the most iconic spots, enjoy local food, and meet warm-hearted locals.

Let’s dive into the complete itinerary!

Day 1-3: Exploring Meghalaya – The Abode of Clouds

Day 1: Arrival in Shillong

  • Arrive at Shillong Airport or Guwahati Airport.

  • Drive to Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya (approx. 3 hours).

  • Visit Umiam Lake on the way—perfect for a short stop and photos.

  • Check-in to your hotel and explore the local markets in the evening.

Day 2: Cherrapunji Sightseeing

  • Head out early to Cherrapunji (2 hours drive).

  • Places to visit:

    • Nohkalikai Falls – India’s tallest plunge waterfall.

    • Mawsmai Caves – limestone caves with stalactites and stalagmites.

    • Seven Sisters Falls.

    • Eco Park.

  • Optional: Trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat (requires a full day and stamina!).

A Meghalaya Road Trip to Cherrapunji is filled with foggy roads, cliff views, and pure air. It’s truly heaven on Earth.

Day 3: Mawlynnong & Dawki

  • Visit Mawlynnong, Asia’s cleanest village.

  • See the living root bridge here as well.

  • Later, head to Dawki and enjoy a boat ride on the Umngot River—famous for its crystal-clear water.

  • Return to Shillong by evening or stay overnight in Dawki for a more relaxed pace.

Day 4: Drive from Meghalaya to Tezpur (Assam)

  • Check out from Shillong and begin your journey towards Tezpur (approx. 7-8 hours drive).

  • On the way, you can stop for lunch in Guwahati.

  • Tezpur is a lovely city on the banks of the Brahmaputra River.

  • Rest for the night and get ready to enter Arunachal Pradesh.

Day 5-6: Welcome to Tawang via Bomdila

Day 5: Tezpur to Bomdila

  • Early morning start for Bomdila (5-6 hours).

  • En route, visit Bhalukpong, the entry point to Arunachal Pradesh.

  • At Bomdila, explore the Buddhist Monastery and enjoy the cool mountain weather.

  • Overnight stay in Bomdila.

Day 6: Bomdila to Tawang

  • Start your drive towards Tawang, the most beautiful destination in Arunachal Pradesh.

  • Cross the Sela Pass at 13,700 ft—one of the highest motorable passes in the world.

  • Visit Jaswant Garh War Memorial en route.

  • Check-in to your hotel in Tawang and rest.

Day 7-8: Tawang Sightseeing

Day 7: Explore Tawang

  • Visit the Tawang Monastery—second-largest in the world.

  • Discover the Tawang War Memorial, dedicated to Indian soldiers of the 1962 Sino-Indian War.

  • Explore the local market and enjoy traditional Monpa cuisine.

Day 8: Day trip to Bum La Pass

  • Take a permitted trip to Bum La Pass, near the Indo-China border.

  • On the way, visit:

    • Madhuri Lake (Sangestar Tso)

    • PTSO Lake

  • Return to Tawang by evening.

Note: You will need a special permit to visit Bum La.

Day 9: Tawang to Dirang

  • Start your return journey by heading to Dirang.

  • Visit the Dirang Dzong, hot water springs, and Sangti Valley.

  • Overnight stay in Dirang.

Day 10: Dirang to Guwahati

  • Drive back to Guwahati (approx. 9-10 hours).

  • Stay overnight in Guwahati.

  • Optional: Visit Kamakhya Temple if time allows.

Day 11: Departure

  • Depending on your flight/train schedule, you can do last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

  • Fly back with unforgettable memories from Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh!

Best Time to Travel

  • October to April is the best time.

  • Avoid the monsoon season (June–September) due to heavy rainfall in Meghalaya and possible landslides in Arunachal Pradesh.

Permits Required

  • Meghalaya: No permit required for Indian tourists.

  • Arunachal Pradesh: Indians need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), which can be obtained online or from designated offices in Guwahati or Tezpur.

How to Reach

  • By Air: Guwahati Airport is the major gateway. Shillong has a small airport too.

  • By Train: Guwahati Railway Station is well connected to major cities.

  • By Road: Roads are good but winding. Plan for early morning drives.

Travel Tips

  1. Always carry cash. ATMs may not be available in remote areas.

  2. Network can be limited in high-altitude zones—inform your family in advance.

  3. Respect local culture and traditions.

  4. Carry warm clothes, especially for Arunachal Pradesh.

  5. Travel with a local guide or through a trusted tour operator for better experience.

Estimated Budget (For 11 Days)

Expense CategoryApproximate Cost (INR)
Transportation₹15,000 - ₹20,000
Accommodation₹12,000 - ₹18,000
Food₹5,000 - ₹7,000
Permits & Entry Fees₹1,000 - ₹2,000
Miscellaneous₹2,000 - ₹3,000
Total₹35,000 - ₹50,000

Prices can vary depending on the type of package, accommodation, and season.

Why Choose a Combined Meghalaya-Arunachal Itinerary?

Combining Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh in one trip lets you experience:

  • Lush green hills and waterfalls in Meghalaya.

  • Snow-covered passes and Buddhist culture in Arunachal.

  • Warm hospitality from different tribes and communities.

  • A mix of adventure, culture, and spirituality.

It’s truly an offbeat experience that few Indian destinations can offer together.

FAQs

1. Is it safe to travel from Meghalaya to Arunachal Pradesh?

Yes, both states are safe for tourists. However, stick to the main routes and avoid night travel in remote areas.

2. Can I rent a car for the entire trip?

Yes, renting a vehicle from Guwahati or Shillong is common. Make sure to hire an experienced driver familiar with mountain routes.

3. Are there direct flights between Meghalaya and Arunachal?

No direct flights. The best way is to travel by road, enjoying scenic beauty along the way.

4. How many days are enough for this trip?

10 to 12 days is ideal to cover the major attractions without rushing.

5. Can I do this trip with family or kids?

Absolutely! Just avoid high-altitude zones like Bum La if traveling with very young children or elderly people with health issues.

Final Thoughts

A journey from Meghalaya to Arunachal Pradesh is not just a road trip—it's an emotional, spiritual, and adventurous ride. Whether you’re cruising through the living root bridges of Meghalaya or admiring the peaceful monasteries of Tawang, this itinerary offers memories that will last a lifetime.

So pack your bags, get your permits, and book a Meghalaya tourist package that extends all the way to Arunachal for an epic journey across the Northeast!

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