Cover Image Credit: Pixabay
For all the magical experiences that it offers, Shillong is nature’s adorable paradise. The subdued city in the northeast flourishes and continues to enchant people. Peeping from the world of fluffy clouds and mist-laden jungles are the rustic trails that make trekking in Shillong an absolutely thrilling affair. While you walk across the scenic outdoors of Shillong, it’s the enormous surroundings that leave you spellbound. Not too far from the town market, there are a few exciting villages in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, caves under the ground, and few other trails on the road leading to Cherapunji.
As you set out to explore the wild and the gorgeous beauty makes sure that you manage to walk those tricky trails. The villagers in this part of the country are welcoming and receptive towards the travelers. Make sure that you walk these exciting trails as you prepare to go trekking in Shillong!
10 Best Trails For Trekking In Shillong
Here are the 10 most popular trails for trekking as well as camping in Shillong. Take a look at all of them and get ready to have a blast on your vacation.
- David Scott’s Trail
- Krem Mawsmai, Krem Mawmluh, and Krem Umshyrpi Caves Trail
- Living Root Bridge Trail
- Smit Trail
- Mawlyngot Trail
- Weiloi To Umngi Trail
- Dawki Trekking
- Umden Village Trek
- Mawlongbna Village Trekking
1. David Scott’s Trail
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Lush greenery and sublime views define David Scott’s trail – one of the most popular trails for trekking in Shillong. This route apart from being a historic one is grueling as well as enchanting, hence it offers a perfect opportunity for everyone willing to explore the lush green surroundings of Shillong. At 4892 feet, the David Scott trail is certainly a daunting one in the Shillong region. Overall the trek spans 16 km and takes 4-5 km to complete. Over the course of the trail, you’d realize that it transforms from easy to moderate in difficulty level.
You begin with a gradual downslope for 1 hour and followed by a flat walk for 2-3 hours, and further 1 hour upslope towards the end. The famous trek route, which also happened to be controversial at one point in time, stretches from Cherrapunji to Bangladesh.
The trek stretches from Mawphlang to Lad Mwphlang. Both the places are easily reachable from Shillong main town area. If you start from Mawphlang things become more simple and most part of the journey is a descending trail. If by chance you happen to lose your way, the locals in the region would surely help you make it to the correct path. Head to the north of the village and you are already on the right course. Watch out for the water points en route.
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Distance: 16km
Duration: 4 – 5 hours
Attractions: Mawsahep, Mawsahep
Must Read: The Ever Growing Living Root Bridges, Meghalaya – A Nature’s Marvel In The Northeast
2. Krem Mawsmai, Krem Mawmluh, and Krem Umshyrpi Caves Trail
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Walking the limestone caving trail is another exciting part of your journey to the abode of clouds. The vast labyrinth of the Khasi and Jaintia hills are the keepers of infinite surprises. Amidst all the surprises, lie the Krem Mawsmai, Krem Mawmluh, and Krem Umshyrpi limestone caves. Believed to be one of the longest in the Indian subcontinent, these caves exhibit strange formations by nature that are incredibly outstanding.
The limestone caves go 40 feet deep into the ground and can be covered on foot. Walk through the photogenic interiors, these caves make for a wonderful trail in the hilly region of Shillong. This is one of a kind experience that makes will surely tend to your fantasy of trekking in Shillong.
Difficulty: Very Difficult
Distance: 7 km
Duration: 5 – 6 hours
Attractions: Creepers and waterfalls
Suggested Read: 31 Popular Places To Visit In Shillong That Will Treat Your Eyes, And Calm Your Soul
3. Living Root Bridge Trail
Trek to the double-decker living root bridge in Tyrna Village is another adventure quest tailor-made for all the adventure seekers. 2.5 hours drive (65 km) from Shillong will take you to the village from where the trail to the exciting bridge starts. Also, Tyrna is located some 27 km from Cherrapunji, another important town near Shillong from where you can easily reach. The trek to the bridge is 7 km into the forests. You won’t necessarily need the help of guides and porters because most of the path in the trail is cemented and comfortable to walk on.
This part of the country is so lush and sprawling green, hence a trek here can be planned except for the monsoon season. From Cherrapunji, Mawsmai caves and Noh Ka Likai falls are located at a distance of 5 km and 6 km respectively. So these places can be covered with double-decker bridge.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 8 km
Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Attractions: Double-decker living roots bridge and waterfalls.
Suggested Read: 31 Popular Places To Visit In Shillong That Will Treat Your Eyes, And Calm Your Soul!
4. Smit Trail
Smit trek is one of the scenic experiences that you can go for if you are planning a trekking in Shillong. The trek starts from State Library and takes to the Crinoline Falls, it reaches Laitkor. The path is mostly elevated towards the end of the trek. The entire trek can be easily covered in 2 days. Walking on the trail isn’t much tough because there is the metalled road mostly.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Duration: 1 – 2 days
Attractions: Lakes and ponds
Suggested Read: 19 Places To Visit Near Shillong For Experiencing Meghalaya’s True Beauty!
5. Mawlyngot Trail
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Mawlyngot is a picturesque village in the East Khasi Hills and an ideal place to spend a remarkable day out trekking in Shillong. Mawlyngot, a popular village with better road connectivity, is neatly tucked in nature’s embrace at an altitude of 4800 feet some 40 km from Shillong main town. The trail starts from the village itself which goes through a lot of ups and downs until it makes its way to the Singsong gorge located along the Um Song river.
After crossing Um Song the trial ascends suddenly as continues till it leads to Pynursla town. Um Song to Pynursla is another wonderful trek which looks fascinating! This trek can be clubbed with Mawlyngot trek and turn the trek into one memorable journey in the northeast.
A wonderful mix of thick forest and majestic nature can be seen all around as you walk this scenic trail. The locals in the village are quite helping and they are always there to help guide you through the correct route in case you find yourself lost.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Distance: 6 km
Duration: 2 hours
Attractions: Tea gardens
Suggested Read: 19 Places To Visit Near Shillong For Experiencing Meghalaya’s True Beauty!
6. Weiloi To Umngi Trail
Weiloi village trail is popular among nature enthusiasts because of the fact that it encompasses some of the most scenic natural attractions en route. The village can be reached easily by car/bus from Shillong. As you begin the trek from the village the fascinating escapes including two natural mineral water springs make for a grand spectacle and a refreshing breakpoint for all the hikers.
As you reach Weiloi Village, you can also take up another shorter and less exhausting route via Mawblang. With a few canopies and scenic bridges en route, Weiloi to Umngi makes for an exciting trail to go trekking in Shillong. This trip is all about an eventful nature walk and can be pulled off during the daytime.
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Distance: 18 km
Duration: 5 – 6 hours
Attractions: Umngi hot water springs
8. Dawki Trekking
Dawki, a gorgeous town near Shillong is known for its lush greenery, coal mines, and limestone exports. It is also considered one of the best spots for trekking near Shillong as it is located quite near the city. Explore the most famous tourist attractions in Shillong and then reach Dawki till evening. On the next day, you can head on your trek in this serene town. Get ready to be surrounded by greenery and mesmerizing view of the valleys.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Duration: 8-9 Hours
Attractions: India-Bangladesh Border, Dawki Market
9. Umden Village Trek
This village trek is quite fascinating in its own way surrounded by the forest which is known for producing silk. Often called the land of silk in the area, this trek is quite easy and perfect for newbies. This local trek route in Meghalaya gives a peek to the village culture of the place and also offers a great opportunity to enjoy the solace. Alongside that the adventure junkies can explore the beautiful tea plantations and the strawberry fields.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Duration: 9-10 Hours
Attractions: CFT Rock garden, Silk Manufacturing
10. Mawlongbna Village Trekking
Image Credit: ExcitingIndia.in
This trekking experience gives a chance to enjoy a time amidst nature’s finest beauty and also gives a chance to enjoy camping. This is a short trek with an overnight stay in the village. The trek offers a plethora of things to do which includes canoeing and zip-lining. This is considered to be one of the best treks to experience in Shillong.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Duration: 1.5 Day
Tips For Trekking In Shillong
Here are a few trips for your adventurous trekking experience. Take a look!
- Carry comfortable clothes and trekking shoes
- Keep your backpack light so that you can easily move around
- Carry sunscreen, a water bottle and sunglasses
- Do carry your binoculars
- Follow all the instructions given by the instructors and stay with your group
Further Read: 7 Reasons Why Shillong Is Called Scotland Of The East
The capital city of Meghalaya is a surreal place endowed with incomparable beauty! Let trekking in Shillong be your excuse to explore the enchanting outdoors of Shillong. If you’re not sure about your next vacation destination, let our trip specialist help you plan your Shillong trip with ease.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurants In Leh
How many days are enough for Shillong?
In order to make the most of your trip to Shillong, 4 days are considered enough. You can keep a day or two for exploring the mountains and lakes, one day for visiting the natural tree bridge, and two for visiting Cherrapunjee, which is one of the best places to visit near Shillong.
Is Shillong safe for Solo Travellers?
Yes, the city of Shillong is considered to be one of the safest places in India for solo travelers. The tourist destination is also ideal for female solo travelers.
What is the best time to visit Shillong?
The ideal time to visit Shillong is considered to be between September and May. During this time of the year the weather is quite pleasant and trekking can be enjoyed without a hassle, as there are no rains.
What is Shillong famous for?
Shillong is known for its amazing weather and picturesque locations. The culture and traditions of this place also attract people from all over the country.
Is Shillong beautiful?
Yes, the city of Shillong is extremely beautiful and a must-visit destination for all those who have a thing for picturesque landscapes. The amazing weather simply adds up to the overall beauty of this place.
Is it cold in Shillong in October?
The city of Shillong welcomes autumn between the months of October and November. The weather during this time is quite pleasant.
How can I go to Shillong?
The nearest airport in the city of Shillong is Umroi Airport that is located at a distance of 25 kilometers near the city. If you want to come via train, then you can deboard at the Guwahati Railway Station – the closest railway station from Shillong. When traveling from Guwahati to Shillong, you can take a bus for a hassle-free journey.
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