Your Gateway to the Clouds
Your journey into the 'Abode of Clouds' will most likely begin in Guwahati, Assam, which has the nearest major airport and railway station. From Guwahati, the most budget-friendly way to reach Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is by hopping into a shared
Sumo taxi. The 100-kilometre journey takes about three to four hours and offers scenic views as you ascend into the hills. Shared taxis are a backpacker's best friend in this region, costing significantly less than a private cab. You can find them at the taxi stand right outside the Guwahati station. For an even cheaper option, look for government or private buses that ply the route.
Finding Your Base: Shillong and Cherrapunji
Shillong is a bustling hub and a great place to acclimatise. You'll find plenty of budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses, especially around the Police Bazaar area, with dorm beds available for a few hundred rupees per night. After a day or two exploring Shillong’s cafes and markets, your next base for the root bridges is Cherrapunji, locally known as Sohra. A shared taxi from Shillong to Cherrapunji is the way to go, taking about two hours. While many travellers do a day trip from Shillong, staying in Cherrapunji or even the trek's starting village, Tyrna, allows for a more relaxed experience and an early start to beat the crowds.
The Trek to the Double-Decker Bridge
The main event for many is the trek to the Jingkieng Nongriat, the famous double-decker living root bridge. The journey begins from Tyrna village, a short drive from Cherrapunji. From here, it's a challenging but rewarding descent of roughly 3,500 stone steps down into the valley to reach Nongriat village. The trek itself is an experience, taking you through lush forests and across smaller root bridges and narrow suspension bridges. Staying overnight in a basic homestay in Nongriat village is highly recommended. It allows you to see the bridge in the quiet morning light and gives you the energy for the strenuous climb back up the next day. These homestays are very affordable and offer simple, home-cooked meals.
Beyond the Bridge: Waterfalls and More
While in Nongriat, don't miss the trek further on to Rainbow Falls. The path is more rugged, but it leads to a stunning waterfall that creates a rainbow in its mist on sunny days. The pools at its base are a perfect spot for a refreshing, albeit chilly, dip after the hike. Back in the Cherrapunji area, you can use your time to visit other famous sights like the Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest plunge waterfalls in India, and the Mawsmai Cave, a well-lit cave system that's easy to explore. Entry fees for most of these natural attractions are minimal, making them perfect for a budget itinerary.
A Backpacker's Budget Breakdown
Meghalaya can be explored on a surprisingly tight budget if you travel smart. A 5-day trip can cost between ₹10,000 to ₹16,000 per person, excluding flights to Guwahati. Here's a rough daily estimate: Accommodation in hostels or basic homestays will be your cheapest option, ranging from ₹400-800 per night. For food, stick to local eateries where a hearty meal can cost as little as ₹150-300. Your biggest variable expense will be transport. Opting for shared Sumos and local buses over private taxis will save you a significant amount. A full day's private taxi can cost over ₹3,500, whereas using shared transport might only set you back ₹500-800 for the same routes. Always carry enough cash, as ATMs are scarce in remote villages like Nongriat.
