Meghalaya offbeat places

A Guide to Offbeat Treasures in Meghalaya: On the journey of Discovering Unusual Places in Meghalaya, which is famous for its breathtaking views and flourishing landscapes. Despite the fact that Shillong and Cherrapunji are typically the focus of attention, the state is home to a great number of unusual locations that are beautiful in their own amazing ways. From the serene Nongjrong Viewpoint to the exhilarating Wari Chora Canyon, each of these places provides a unique stance of natural beauty that Meghalaya has to offer. Using this book, we will travel to six offbeat places in the northeastern part of India, including Nongjrong, Phe Phe Falls, Wari Chora, Sohbar Bridge, Nohwet Village, and Shella Village. Here you’ll find the reasons why each of these places are into the bucketlist of Meghalaya’s offbeat places. Along with travelling paths of each and insights to as many travel alternatives and tactics for visiting at a low cost.

1. Nongjrong: A Place of Peace and Quiet

What Is It About Nongjrong That Is So Incredible? The village of Nongjrong, is a tranquil destination that offers broad views and very comfortable atmosphere. In the East Khasi Hills district, Nongjrong Viewpoint is an excellent location for taking pictures and relaxing since it provides a clear view of the hills and valleys that are located in the surrounding area. In contrast to the hectic city life of Shillong, to avoid daily rush and hustle for a short while this serene break is all you need.

How to plan affordable trip to Meghalaya?

The journey from Shillong to Nongjrong is around 65 kilometers long. In most cases, the journey takes between three and four hours.

When it comes to travel and expenses, the cost of a cab ride for one way is approximately INR 2,000–3,000 approximately.

Cheapest way to travel to Nongjrong? The cost of a bus ride ranges from INR 150 to INR 200 per person, Bus can be your go to option as well.

For lodging, the cost of a night at a basic guesthouse in Nongjrong might range anywhere from INR 500 to INR 1000.

Travel advice: If you want to reduce the amount of money you spend on transportation, you should consider sharing a taxi with other passengers or arranging a reservation for the entire trip in advance.

A few convenient options exist to travel from Shillong, which is the capital of Meghalaya. The closest airport to Shillong is Umroi Airport, which lies approximately 30 kilometers from Shillong. Once you arrive, there is transportation ready available like taxis or buses that would take you to Nongjrong Village. The travel over a bus will have many options from state-run to private services. This generally takes about 1.5 hours. 

The ideal time to visit Nongjrong Village is between October to May. Tourists can enjoy the favorable weather during this season and set eyes on the lush, green sceneries that the village houses. This is now the time to venture outdoors and explore the fabulous natural beauty of the village. And, a good period because you have an excellent time and chance to participate in local festivals and their traditional cultural activities.

Secondly, Phe Phe Falls is a waterfall that is tucked away.

In the South West Khasi Hills, Phe Phe Falls is one of the waterfalls in Meghalaya that is not as well-known as others and is very breathtaking. And by breathtaking I mean not only the falls famous for natural beauty, but this place is famous for the relatively natural surroundings that surround them. Due to the background noise of the running water and the abundance of flora, this place is perfect for travelers who have a deep appreciation for nature.

How to plan a trip to Phe Phe falls? Phe Phe Falls is approx fifty kilometers distant from Shillong and is just twenty km out of Jowai. 

Travelers can first take a rickshaw or taxi from Shillong to Jowai and then change to another taxi towards the falls.

The waterfall is quite conveniently located next to the trail connecting Jowai and Dawki, and it’s only a short ride from Jowai.

Train your choice? No problem! If you reach Karimganj Junction, Longai, or Guwahati Railway Station, you will be near Phe Phe Falls. Book your ticket to any of these stations, and you have quite a few options to carry on with your journey.

In which way would you reach the falls by using an airplane? The nearest airport is the Shillong Airport, lying about 84 kilometers away. Once reaching this place, you can try different means of going towards the enticing Phe Phe Waterfall from the airport.

Strategies Regarding Travel and Expenses: A one-way taxi ride will cost approximately INR 1500–2500. 

Because there are not many amenities in close proximity to the falls, it is recommended that you bring some food and water with you.

3. South Garo Hills Canyon, also known as Wari Chora

Why Wari Chora Incredible? 

By its unique rock formations and lush vegetation, with a spectacular view. Trekking and exploring geological structures that are rarely seen by the average traveler are both wonderful activities that can be enjoyed in this place.

The closest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, which is 220 kilometers away. It’s well linked with flights from major cities in India. From Guwahati, using local taxis or private cabs/automobiles, Wari Chora can be reached in 6-7 hours via the Dudhnoi route.

Wari Chora is best reached by train from Guwahati Railway Station. Guwahati has good connectivity to most Indian cities. Dudhnoi is the nearest railhead to Wari Chora From Dudhnoi, a private car, cab, or local taxi can reach Wari Chora in 4-5 hours to cover a distance of 133 km.

By Road—Tura is the next major town to Wari Chora, connected with major Indian cities via highways. Tura to Emangre village near Wari Chora is 147 km and takes around 5-6 hours. You can also drive from Guwahati or Shillong via Meghalaya’s beautiful scenery.

Strategies Regarding Travel and Expenses:

Prices for taxi rides range from 6000 to 8000 Indian rupees (INR).

Accommodations: Tura is the largest town that is nearest to you; you can stay in motels or guesthouses in the surrounding area.

4. The Sohbar Bridge, one of the most captivating bridges

Also known as the Sohbar Suspension Bridge, and is a masterpiece of engineering that can be found settled in the middle of gorgeous environment of Meghalaya. That is what makes the Sohbar Bridge so amazing. The bridge offers a unique perspective that encompasses the valleys and rivers that are located in the region. The monsoon season is particularly beautiful since it is during this time that the rivers are full and the greenery is at its peak occurrence.

Directions to Get There: The distance between Shillong and Sohbar Bridge is around 70 kilometers. The trek typically takes two hours to complete. The most convenient way to get around is to take a taxi, although there are situations in which local buses are available.

Strategies Regarding Travel and Expenses:

Fare for a taxi ride: between 2,000 and 3,000 Indian rupees (INR)

A helpful travel tip is to go to the bridge in the late afternoon or early morning. This will allow you to see the best light and there will be fewer people around.

5. The Nohwet Village, also known as the Kingdom of Bamboo

Exactly What Makes Nohwet Village Such a Wonderful Place: The village of Nohwet, which is frequently referred to as the Bamboo Kingdom, is exceptional for its traditional architecture. With addition to breathtaking scenery, a genuine glimpse into the way of life in rural Khasi communities is must to see for travelers. 

How to Get There: The journey from Shillong to Nohwet Village, is 60 kilometers away, takes roughly two hours. By road (taxi) is the mode of transportation that makes the most sense.

Strategies Regarding Travel and Expenses: Fare for a taxi ride: between 2,000 and 3,000 Indian Rupees (INR).

6. Shella Village is a Place of Peace and Quiet

Exactly What Makes Shella Village Such a Wonderful Place:

There is no better spot to get a taste of the tranquility and peace that rural Meghalaya has to offer. Given the village’s location in close proximity to the Dawki River, it is possible to go boating and take pleasure in the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Road trip from Shillong to Shelly Village is around 90 kilometers long and takes approximately three hours. Shelly Village is located south of Shillong. Cabs are the most convenient mode of transportation for getting to Shella; however, public transportation is also available, albeit on a less frequent basis.

Strategies Regarding Travel and Expenses:

A taxi ride costs between INR 2500 and INR 3500 for a round trip.

Guests can find a variety of lodging options in the area, including homestays and inexpensive guesthouses.

If you want to avoid crowds and get better discounts on lodging, it is recommended that you plan your vacation during the off-peak season.

My Final Words

If you are looking for a pleasant change from the well-traveled roads of more well-known destinations, then you may consider exploring these odd Meghalayan locations. The beautiful scenery of Nongjrong and the rich culture of Nohwet Village are only two examples of the unique experiences that may be had in each location. By making preparations in advance and making use of these useful travel suggestions, you will be able to make the most of your vacation to these unknown jewels without exceeding your spending budget. Now is the time to gather your luggage, get ready for the adventure, and explore the lesser-known wonders that Meghalaya has to offer.