This home is a good starting point for exploring the Khasi Hills. The state capital, Shillong, is the main hub for planning day trips. From here, you can drive to Cherrapunji (Sohra), the Umngot river at Dawki, and Mawlynnong village.
The living root bridges are a highlight of the region. The most famous, the double-decker bridge in Nongriat, is reached by a descent of 3,500 steps into the valley. It's a challenging but rewarding trek.
Near Cherrapunji, you can explore the Mawsmai and Krem Phyllut caves. These limestone cave systems are well-lit and accessible for most visitors, offering a look at the region's unique geology.
The Umngot river in Dawki, on the border with Bangladesh, is famous for its clear water. Between January and March, the water can be so transparent it looks like boats are floating in mid-air.
Mawlynnong is often called 'Asia's Cleanest Village'. It's a small, well-maintained village with bamboo dustbins and clean pathways. Nearby, the Riwai sky walk offers views over the plains of Bangladesh from a bamboo platform.
Nohkalikai Falls, India's tallest plunge waterfall at 340 metres, is another worth seeing. The view of the water dropping into a turquoise pool is dramatic, especially just after the monsoon.
By air: The nearest airport is Shillong Airport (SHL) in Umroi, about 30km away. It has limited flights, mostly connecting through Kolkata. The more common arrival point is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (GAU), Assam, which is 100km away and a 3-hour drive to Shillong.
By rail: Meghalaya has no rail lines. The nearest major railway station is in Guwahati, 100km from Shillong. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab.
By road: Shillong is the main road hub for the region. The home is easily accessible from the city. Roads to Cherrapunji (53km) and Dawki (95km) are winding but scenic.
The best time to visit the Khasi Hills is from October to April, when the weather is dry and pleasant. The skies are clear, and all attractions are accessible.
The monsoon season, from June to September, is intense. The region receives over 10,000mm of rain, and the landscape turns a brilliant, deep green. While some waterfalls and caves may be closed due to the heavy water flow, the rain-washed scenery is a sight in itself.
