Shillong is the capital city of the small hill state of Meghalaya. This state is known for its lush greenery, its unique culture and spectacular landscapes. With many points of visual delights, Shillong is an easy choice for any nature lover with a streak of adventure. Shillong, as the capital, has many short hiking and trekking trails while also being the starting point for many other trekking points that branch out to other districts of Meghalaya. With thundering waterfall trails and blooming rhododendron treks, travellers have plenty to be mesmerized about in Shillong.
Whether seasoned or beginner, you can never go wrong with Shillong’s trekking trails. So read on to find out what they are and embark on your own adventure.
Trekking Trails in Shillong:
- David Scott Trail:
The David Scott Trail begins in the East Khasi Hills District of Meghalaya in the village of Mawphlang, which is at a distance of 26 km from Shillong. It is an average 60 minutes drive. The trail itself came into existence when a British officer David Scott was in charge of making a road connecting Khasi Hills to Sylhet.
You will pass by quaint villages, the glistening River Umian and mesmerising hills full of cheery flora. With fluffy clouds overhead and a gentle breeze passing you by, you can complete the trek in over 4 hours.
A thorough research beforehand and a guide are a few requisites that have to be fulfilled.
- Living Root Bridge Trail:
The Living Root Bridge Trail is a trek to the double-decker living root bridges which are located in the village of Nongriat, Cherrapunji. It is around 65 km from Shillong and takes a little more than 2 hours to reach.
The Living Root Bridges are bridges over streams made from the roots of the rubber trees that line the streams. These bridges are over hundreds of years old and made by the inhabitants.
The trial consists of very steep steps which you need to descend while going towards the bridges, but the way is scenic due to the variety of stunning views and exceedingly green surroundings. A nominal fee is charged to visit the bridge as well as to take pictures. Furthermore, fines are charged if anyone is found throwing waste in the surroundings.
The best time to visit is between November and March as rains start in April itself and continue till October.
- Weiloi to Umngi Trek:
The Weiloi to Umngi Trek is a total of 18 km which may take about 5-6 hours in total. The trek begins from a village in the East Khasi district of Weiloi which is around 50 km away from Shillong taking one and a half hours to arrive by car.
The trek is immensely scenic with winding pathways and gentle hillocks which will make you fall in love with this place. The ultimate destination is the Umngi village which has hot springs giving you a perfect end to your trek.
- Smit Trek:
The Smit trail for trekking starts from the State Library in Shillong and ends at Crinoline Falls. The trek level is moderate but it takes upto 2 days. From the Smit trek trail, you can also veer towards the Grand Canyon of Shillong, the Lailtlum Stroll which is around 8 km from the trail.
Apart from the gorgeous vegetation, you will also see beautiful lakes, ponds and waterfalls along this route. The most popular stop point is Shillong Peak which has the highest elevation. It has an observatory as well that is decked with a telescope for your viewing of the hills nearby.
- Mawlyngot Trek:
Located 50 km away from Shillong, the Mawlyngot trek is charming, to say the least. You will cross hills decked with verdant greens, and beauteous winding rivers as well as the tea gardens which are the main highlight.
The Mawlyngot trek is at an easy level and takes about 2 hours to complete. You can also take a quick detour to Pynursula village from the Umsong River.
- Mawlongbna Village Trekking:
The Mawlongbna Village trail is about 75 km from Shillong. This trail of lush green forest has a host of fascinating points that includes sightings of rare pitcher plants and birds. The forest is a community forest, which means it is protected by the community living here. Further along the trail, you can also witness fossils of sea creatures reminiscent of the times when this part of the land was underwater.
The trek ends when you reach a man-made Umkhakoi Reservoir where fishes are aplenty and other water activities can be done.
- Umden Village Trek:
The Umden Village is located around 73 km away from Shillong and is known for its production of Eri Silk. A short hike is possible through the village while witnessing its various attraction points.
The village itself has luxuriant forests and other sightseeing points travellers can witness are tea gardens, strawberry fields, and bamboo forests. The CFT Rock Garden is a point from where you can see the Shillong hills.
- Shillong Peak Hike
The Shillong Peak View Hike takes you up on the highest elevation in Shillong. The trail passes through reserve forests which means that the flora and fauna remain undisturbed by humans. The Peak itself once reached offer panoramic views of the hills and the plains of Bangladesh. You can also take a detour and explore the Rhododendron trails, especially while it is in bloom.
- Tura Peak Hike
The Tura Peak Hike is a short hike from the Tura Village which is in the West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya. The peak is located amidst the dense forests of Nokrek National Park, therefore, tourists can sight rare birds and Hoolock Gibbons which have unique hoots. The Tura Peak has a cinchona plantation as well and the locals are friendly to visitors.
It is an easy trek which may not take more than two hours.
- Krem Mawsmai, Krem Mawmluh, and Krem Umshyrpi Caves Trail:
Meghalaya is full of natural wonders and more especially the underground natural cave systems that has many of us in thrall. The Krem Mawsmai, Mawmluh, and Umshyrpi caves are some of the most stunning caves with magnificent features. They have streams and pools formed due to nearby rivers, and stalactite and stalagmite formations. These limestone caves are around 40 ft deep and some of the parts have never seen sunlight.
Hiking along these spectacular caves that are 7 km in length is the most exhilarating experience in Meghalaya. So be sure, not to miss it.
In this article, we have explored the deep recesses of caves, stunning landscapes and breathtaking man-made bridges, which we hope entices you to travel right away. Hop on to this adventurous escape and return fully enriched!
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