Offbeat Meghalaya Trip – Hidden Waterfalls, Caves, and River Camping
Discover a side of Meghalaya that most travelers never experience. This offbeat Meghalaya trip is designed for explorers who want more than just the usual tourist trail. We take you deep into the heart of the state, where quiet waterfalls, crystal-clear natural pools, untouched caves, and scenic landscapes create unforgettable moments.
Our route blends a few popular highlights with remote locations that don’t show up on standard itineraries. You’ll get to camp beside a peaceful river, explore hidden caves, trek through pristine forest trails, and unwind in serene spots far away from the crowds. This is about slowing down and truly experiencing Meghalaya’s raw natural beauty.
Travel in a small group of like-minded people who value good vibes, nature, and authentic experiences over rushed checklists. No crowds, no rush just fresh air, new trails, and real stories waiting to unfold.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone who enjoys meaningful travel, this journey through Meghalaya’s unexplored side promises memories that last a lifetime.
Trip Highlights – Offbeat Meghalaya Adventure
- Secret waterfalls with swim-friendly lagoons
- Ancient caves away from tourist crowds
- Riverside camping under the stars
- Villages untouched by mass tourism
- Crystal-clear rivers and natural pools
- A group full of good energy, humour and easygoing travellers
7-Day Offbeat Meghalaya Short Itinerary
Day 1: Guwahati ➝ Khliehriat
- Arrive afternoon in Guwahati and drive towards Khliehriat. Overnight in Khliehriat.
Day 2: Khliehriat ➝ Jowai
- Visit Krem Chympe Falls and explore Khaddum Cave, one of Meghalaya’s hidden gems. Drive to Jowai. Overnight in Jowai.
Day 3: Jowai ➝ Shnongpdeng
- Visit scenic Phe Phe Falls, then head to Shnongpdeng. Check in to riverside tents for camping by the Umngot River.
Day 4: Shnongpdeng ➝ Mawlynnong
- Enjoy morning water activities like kayaking or boating. Post lunch, drive to Mawlynnong, explore the Living Root Bridge and Asia’s cleanest village. Overnight in Mawlynnong.
Day 5: Mawryngkhang Trek ➝ Sohra
- Trek the thrilling Bamboo Trail at Mawryngkhang, then drive to Sohra (Cherrapunjee). Overnight in Sohra.
Day 6: Sohra ➝ Shillong
- Visit Pung Lyer Falls in the morning, then continue to Shillong for an overnight stay.
Day 7: Shillong ➝ Guwahati
- Morning visit to Wards Lake and souvenir shopping at Police Bazaar. Drive back to Guwahati. Book return flights after 9 PM.
Trip Dates -
- 29th Nov - 04th December (6 Nights & 7 Days)
- 21nd - 27th December (6 Nights & 7 Days)
Trip Fees
- Triple sharing: ₹24,999 || Double Sharing: ₹26,999
Inclusions – Meghalaya Offbeat Trip
- Transportation: All local transfers in an AC Tempo Traveller from Guwahati to Guwahati, ensuring comfortable travel throughout the journey. Includes 4x4 vehicle charges for Krem Chympe, making even remote locations easily accessible.
- Accommodation: Stay for 6 nights in cozy and comfortable homestays and 1 night of riverside camping in tents on a double/triple sharing basis. Experience authentic local hospitality and scenic stays close to nature.
- Meals: Enjoy complimentary breakfast from Day 2 to Day 7 and dinner at Shnongpdeng on Day 3, giving you a taste of local cuisine while ensuring hassle-free mornings.
- Activities & Sightseeing: All listed activities and sightseeing experiences are included in the package, so you can fully immerse yourself in the adventure without worrying about extra costs. Boating at Shnongpdeng is included.
- Trip Guide: Travel with the support of experienced trip leaders and local guides, including a local expert for the Mawryngkhang Bamboo Trail Trek, ensuring safety, insights, and smooth coordination throughout the trip.
- Expenses: All tolls, parking fees, driver charges, and fuel costs are included for a seamless, stress-free experience.
Exclusions – Meghalaya Offbeat Trip
- Meals: Any meals not mentioned in the itinerary, as well as personal food expenses, are not included in the package.
- Activities and Sightseeing: Entry fees, activity charges, and personal expenses are not included unless specifically stated in the inclusions.
- Krem Chympe Bamboo Raft: ₹1200 per person (optional), payable directly at the site for those who wish to explore inside the cave.
- Shnongpdeng Activities: Ziplining, kayaking, cliff jumping, and snorkelling are optional and can be paid directly at the spot.
- Miscellaneous: Any services or items not mentioned in the inclusions are the responsibility of the traveller.
- Additional Services: Porterage at hotels and airports, tips, travel insurance, laundry, and alcoholic beverages are not part of the package.
- Natural Calamities: Costs incurred due to unforeseen events such as landslides, roadblocks, or natural calamities are not included.
- Transportation: Airfare, train tickets, and bus tickets to and from Guwahati are not part of the tour package and must be arranged separately by the traveller.
- Insurance: Health, medical, life, or accidental insurance is not included and should be arranged individually by each participant.
Day 1: Guwahati ➝ Khliehriat or Jowai – Waterfalls and Scenic Drive
Begin your Meghalaya journey early in the morning (around 02-03 PM) and drive towards Khliehriat, located in the lesser-explored eastern part of the state.
By evening, continue the drive to Khliehriat.
Overnight stay: Khliehriat
Day 2: Khliehriat ➝ Jowai – Hidden Caves and Krem Chympe Falls
Start the day with an excursion to Krem Chympe Falls, one of Meghalaya’s most spectacular and remote waterfalls. This lesser-known natural wonder is surrounded by dense forest, offering a truly offbeat experience.
Next, explore the Khaddum Cave, a stunning limestone cave that remains untouched by mass tourism, ideal for travelers who love nature and adventure.
Later, drive to Jowai, a charming town in the Jaintia Hills known for its scenic landscapes and cultural richness.
Overnight stay: Jowai
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 3: Jowai ➝ Shnongpdeng – Phe Phe Falls and Riverside Camping
Begin the day by visiting the scenic Phe Phe Falls, known for its turquoise pools and untouched surroundings. Spend the first half of the day enjoying this breathtaking natural site.
Later, drive towards Shnongpdeng, a peaceful riverside village located along the crystal-clear Umngot River. Check in to your riverside tents, unwind by the river, and soak in the serenity of this offbeat location.
Overnight stay: Shnongpdeng (Riverside Camping)
Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 4: Shnongpdeng ➝ Mawlynnong – Water Activities and Living Root Bridge
Start your morning with water activities such as kayaking, boating, or cliff jumping on the Umngot River. The transparent waters make this a truly unique experience.
After lunch, drive to Mawlynnong, famously known as the cleanest village in Asia. Walk through the village, experience the local lifestyle, and explore the Living Root Bridge, an extraordinary example of natural architecture.
Overnight stay: Mawlynnong
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 5: Mawryngkhang Trek ➝ Sohra (Cherrapunjee) – Bamboo Trail Adventure
Begin the day early with the Mawryngkhang Bamboo Trail Trek, one of Meghalaya’s most thrilling experiences. This scenic trail, made entirely of bamboo bridges, winds through forests and over deep gorges, leading to stunning viewpoints.
After the trek, drive to Sohra (Cherrapunjee), a region famous for its waterfalls, caves, and misty landscapes.
Overnight stay: Sohra
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 6: Sohra ➝ Shillong – Waterfalls and Scenic Drive
In the morning, visit Pung Lyer Falls, a beautiful and less-crowded waterfall surrounded by greenery. After sightseeing, drive towards Shillong, the charming capital of Meghalaya, known for its colonial architecture, lively cafes, and rolling hills.
Overnight stay: Shillong
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 7: Shillong ➝ Guwahati and Departure
Drive back to Guwahati. Book your return flights or trains after 9 PM to allow ample travel time.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Things to Carry – Meghalaya Offbeat Trip
1. Travel Essentials
- Valid ID proof (Aadhaar / Passport / Driver’s License)
- Printed or digital copies of flight/train tickets and booking confirmations
- Personal travel insurance documents
- Small daypack for daily excursions
2. Clothing
- Light, quick-dry T-shirts and trekking pants
- Warm layers (sweatshirt/jacket) – Meghalaya evenings can get cold
- Rain jacket or poncho (weather can be unpredictable)
- Comfortable walking shoes or trekking shoes with good grip
- Floaters or sandals for riverside and water activities
- Extra pairs of socks and undergarments
- Cap/hat and sunglasses for sun protection
3. Toiletries & Personal Care
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and deodorant
- Quick-dry towel and wet wipes
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Personal hygiene products and sanitary items
- Insect repellent
4. Health & Safety
- Personal medication (if any) and a basic first-aid kit
- Reusable water bottle (preferably 1L)
- ORS sachets or electrolytes to stay hydrated
- Small torch or headlamp with extra batteries
5. Gadgets & Accessories
- Mobile phone and power bank
- Chargers for all electronic devices
- Camera or GoPro for photography (optional)
- Waterproof pouch or dry bag to protect electronics during water activities
6. Miscellaneous
- Small amount of cash (ATMs are limited in remote areas)
- Snacks or energy bars for treks and long drives
- Lightweight scarf or stole for sun and dust protection
- Eco-friendly toiletries and avoid single-use plastics
Booking Terms & Conditions – Meghalaya Offbeat Trip
Booking Confirmation:
- To secure your slot, a non-refundable deposit of ₹5000 must be paid at the time of booking.
Final Payment:
- The remaining balance must be paid at least 7 days before the trip start date. Failure to complete the payment by the deadline may result in the cancellation of your reservation.
General Booking Policy:
- All bookings made with SAHYADRI RANGERS TREKS AND TOURS (hereafter referred to as the company) are subject to these terms and conditions. The person signing the booking form accepts these conditions and will be referred to as the client.
Liability:
- The company is not responsible for delays, cancellations, or changes arising due to weather conditions, flight or train disruptions, political unrest, strikes, or any force majeure events. The company reserves the right to modify itineraries or use alternative transport in case of illness, breakdowns, or other unforeseen circumstances. Any additional expenses such as extra accommodation or transport will be borne by the client.
Assumption of Risk:
- Clients acknowledge the inherent risks associated with adventure and cultural travel. Participation is voluntary and at the traveller’s own risk. The company is not liable for death, illness, injury, or loss of property during the trip.
Travel Insurance:
- All participants are required to have valid travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, baggage loss, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen expenses.
Trip Leader Authority:
- Participants agree to follow the instructions and decisions of the trip leader appointed by the company. Any disruptive behaviour may result in removal from the trip without refund, with additional costs to be covered by the client.
Responsibility:
- The organisers and affiliates are not liable for accidents, natural calamities, or events beyond their control.
Zero Tolerance Policy:
- SAHYADRI RANGERS follows a strict zero-tolerance policy against harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate conduct. Any incidents will be investigated promptly, and appropriate action will be taken to ensure a safe and respectful travel environment for all participants.
What is included in the tour
- Transportation: All local transfers in an AC tempo traveller from Guwahati to Guwahati, including 4x4 vehicle charges for Krem Chympe.
- Accommodation: 6 nights in basic yet comfortable homestays with 1 night of riverside camping in tents double/triple sharing basis.
- Meals: Complimentary breakfast from Day 2 to Day 7 and dinner at Shnongpdeng on Day 3.
- Activities & Sightseeing: Enjoy peace of mind knowing that all activities and sightseeing are seamlessly included in your package, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the adventure without any additional expenses. Boating at Shnongpdeng is included.
- Trip Guide: Benefit from the expertise of knowledgeable guides throughout the journey, including a local guide for the Mawryngkhang Trek.
- Expenses: All tolls, parking fees, driver, and fuel costs are included for a hassle-free experience.
What is NOT included in the tour
Exclusions – Meghalaya Offbeat Trip
- Meals: Any meals not mentioned in the itinerary, as well as personal food expenses, are not included in the package.
- Activities and Sightseeing: Entry fees, activity charges, and personal expenses are not included unless specifically stated in the inclusions.
- Krem Chympe Bamboo Raft: ₹1200 per person (optional), payable directly at the site for those who wish to explore inside the cave.
- Shnongpdeng Activities: Ziplining, kayaking, cliff jumping, and snorkelling are optional and can be paid directly at the spot.
- Miscellaneous: Any services or items not mentioned in the inclusions are the responsibility of the traveller.
- Additional Services: Porterage at hotels and airports, tips, travel insurance, laundry, and alcoholic beverages are not part of the package.
- Natural Calamities: Costs incurred due to unforeseen events such as landslides, roadblocks, or natural calamities are not included.
- Transportation: Airfare, train tickets, and bus tickets to and from Guwahati are not part of the tour package and must be arranged separately by the traveller.
- Insurance: Health, medical, life, or accidental insurance is not included and should be arranged individually by each participant.
