MEGHALAYA TRIP PLAN
A 6-day hills trip: one base in Shillong, then Sohra for waterfalls and a long walking day down to the double-decker bridge.
BEST TIME
Roads are easier and walks are less slippery. The monsoon is dramatic, but showers are frequent and some trails get messy.
HOW TO REACH
The road takes around three to three and a half hours. Shared cabs leave from the airport and from the city.
SHILLONG
Walk Ward’s Lake and the Police Bazaar side on day one. Keep Elephant Falls as a short add if you arrive early enough.
SOHRA
Cherrapunji, now often called Sohra, is the better base for Nohkalikai and the nearby viewpoints. Nights are quieter than in Shillong.
ROOT BRIDGES
The walk down to the double-decker living root bridge is steep, with many steps back up. Wear grip shoes and carry water and cash for the local ticket.
DAWKI
Dawki is a longer drive. The water looks clear in the dry months. Be gentle in the village and do not leave plastic on the riverbank.
FOOD
Jadoh, dohneiiong and smoked pork show up on many menus. Shillong also has plenty of cafes if you want a lighter meal.
BUDGET
That mid-range band is for one person over 6 days, covering stays, shared cabs, local tickets and food. Flights to Guwahati are extra.
TIPS
Do not stack Nongriat and Dawki on the same date. Carry a rain jacket in every season, and keep some cash; card machines drop off outside town.