Let’s face it — when most people think of trekking in India, the Himalayas come to mind. Snowy peaks, high altitude, maybe a temple or two. Nothing wrong with that. But trekking in Meghalaya offers something entirely different: fewer crowds, more greenery, and a kind of magic you didn’t know you were missing.
It’s a little state way up in the northeast corner, so easy to overlook, but with wild trails, misty cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and these incredible bridges made of living tree roots. It’s like a fairy tale, but totally real — and closer than you ever imagined.
We’ve selected some of Meghalaya’s best trekking routes — whether you’re a beginner, a weekend warrior, or in need of a shot of adrenaline. And if you don’t want to bother with permits, planning, or just rolling up and hoping for the best, Tripjyda, a Meghalaya outfitter, will do it all for you — guides, accommodations, transportation, you name it.
1. Double Decker Living Root Bridge Trek – Nongriat
- Level: Moderate
- Starting Point: Tyrna Village
- Focus: You go down (and up) 3,000+ steps. Legs will remember.
This one’s legendary. If you’ve ever seen photos of root bridges, this is the place. The trek starts around Cherrapunji, and you descend a gazillion stone steps into dense, green forest. Along the way, you’ll cross streams, small villages, and old hanging bridges until you arrive at Nongriat — home of the world-renowned double-decker root bridge.
These bridges aren’t constructed — they’re cultivated. Residents lead rubber tree roots across rivers until they’re passable. It’s alive, breathing engineering.
Tip: Have Tripjyda arrange a local guide and accommodation in Nongriat. They know the best places and the friendly aunties who serve up tasty Khasi food.
2. David Scott Trail – Mawphlang to Lad Mawphlang
- Level: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: ~16 km
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours
If you want a day hike that doesn’t kill your legs, this is ideal. First built during the British era, it runs along meadows, pine woods, and streams. Expect monoliths, ancient stones, and tiny Khasi villages that feel frozen in time.
It’s more of a “walk with great views” than a climb.
Bonus: Booking with Tripjyda means local stories, historical context, and sacred grove insights — way more memorable.
3. Sohliya Village Bamboo Trail – Unconventional and Serene
- Level: Easy
- Location: Near Umiam Lake (Ri-Bhoi District)
Not on most tourist maps — and that’s the charm. Sohliya’s bamboo trail winds through forests, orange groves, and rivers. It’s quiet, and the locals care for the trail themselves.
You’ll pick up on local plants, woodlore, and maybe even grab some fresh oranges on lucky days.
Tip: Let Tripjyda tie this in with a Umiam Lake visit or a local farm homestay.
4. Smit to Laitlum Canyon Trek – Views That Hit Different
- Level: Moderate
- What’s Awesome: Laitlum Canyon is breathtaking, but hiking to it makes it 10× better
You can drive to Laitlum Canyon, but trekking from Smit is way more rewarding. The trail passes through terraced fields, sacred groves, and open hilltop ridges — and then suddenly, you’re at the edge of the world.
Get there early for clear skies — or embrace the foggy mystery.
Heads up: There are no signs. Get Tripjyda to send a guide who knows the trail and weather.
5. Shnongpdeng to Darrang – Jungle Meets River
- Level: Moderate
- Best For: A little adventure, a little peace
Shnongpdeng is famous for its glass-clear river, but head into the hills and you’ll find a 10 km trek to Darrang village. The path is lush, the views stretch to the Bangladeshi plains, and the trail has rope bridges, birds, and forest ridges.
Fun Idea: Trek up, then float back via the Umngot River. Tripjyda handles both.
6. Mawryngkhang Bamboo Trail – Not For the Faint of Heart
- Level: Moderate to Difficult (if you’re scared of heights)
- Location: Wahkhen village
- Nickname: The Bamboo Trail
This is for the brave. You’re walking on narrow bamboo bridges built over gorges, climbing ladders, and gripping handrails. At the end stands U Mawryngkhang — a massive rock with myths and legends wrapped around it.
Tip: Don’t go solo. Tripjyda’s guides know the trail and tell the folklore as you go.
7. Krem Liat Prah Cave: Longest natural cave in Southeast Asia
- Level: Difficult (and muddy)
- Where: East Jaintia Hills
Less of a walk, more of a crawl-climb-scramble. Krem Liat Prah is one of India’s longest caves. Think underground rivers, rock passages, stalactites, and stalagmites. It’s raw and wild, and you must go with a guide.
8. Mawphlang Sacred Grove Loop – Ancient and Alive
- Level: Easy
- Location: Mawphlang Village
This isn’t a long-distance trek — it’s more of a circular walk through history. The Sacred Grove in Mawphlang is a protected forest believed to be home to ancient spirits, and the local rules strictly forbid taking anything—not even a leaf—out of the forest. The trail loops through thick trees, monolith altars, and moss-covered paths where every step feels like you’re entering a story.
Tip: A local guide is a must—not just for direction, but to unlock the legends that live in the grove. Tripjyda works with guides who know the lore firsthand.
9. Rngain to Pung Thymmai Trek
- Level: Moderate
- Distance: ~12 km
- Where: South West Khasi Hills
Want something totally off the tourist grid? This route through Rngain village leads to Pung Thymmai, passing through thick jungles, hillside farms, and remote Khasi hamlets where time moves slowly. It’s ideal for those who want raw, rural Meghalaya without crowds.
Good to know: You’ll need someone who speaks the local dialects and knows the village paths. Tripjyda can make it happen.
10. Laitkynsew to Nohkalikai Viewpoint
- Level: Easy to Moderate
- Highlights: Waterfalls, cliffs, legendary views
Start from the peaceful village of Laitkynsew and take a gentle hike toward the Nohkalikai Falls viewpoint — India’s tallest plunge waterfall. The trail offers sweeping views, valleys layered in cloud, and when the skies are kind, a full-frontal look at the falls with no railing in sight.
Add-on: Combine this with a homestay in Laitkynsew. Tripjyda can organize stays with local Khasi families who’ll make you feel at home.
Last Thoughts about Trekking in Meghalaya
Trekking in Meghalaya is different. It’s not about conquering peaks, it’s about wandering through living landscapes. About being small in a big, magical world. Every trail has a story, every step offers a surprise.
And yes, you can go it alone. But with Tripjyda, you’re not just trekking. You’re connecting with locals, with nature, and with the real Meghalaya.
