Meghalaya Rivers, Rainforests & Living Root Bridges Retreat
Flowing rivers, misty hills, and ancient living architecture come together in this beautifully paced 7-day journey through Assam and Meghalaya. Beginning along the sacred banks of the Brahmaputra in Guwahati, the route rises into the pine-clad highlands of Shillong before drifting to the crystal-clear waters of Shnongpdeng and the rain-drenched cliffs of Cherrapunjee. Waterfalls, caves, forest trails, and Khasi villages reveal a landscape shaped by water and time. The highlight is a trek to the legendary single and double decker living root bridges—nature’s most extraordinary creations. Designed for travelers who value slow travel, nature immersion, and cultural encounters, this retreat offers a soulful and unforgettable exploration of Northeast India’s most magical terrain.
PROGRAM SUMMARY SNAPSHOT
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Day 1:
Arrival Guwahati | Overnight Guwahati
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Day 2:
Guwahati – Shillong | Overnight Shillong
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Day 3:
Shillong – Shnongpdeng | Overnight Shnongpdeng
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Day 4:
Shnongpdeng – Cherrapunjee | Overnight Cherrapunjee
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Day 5:
Cherrapunjee – Double Decker Living Root Bridge Trek | Overnight Cherrapunjee
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Day 6:
Cherrapunjee – Single Decker Living Root Bridge – Guwahati | Overnight Guwahati
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Day 7:
Guwahati – Departure
Key Highlights
Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya also known as the Scotland of East
Shnongpdeng by the crystal-clear Umngot River
Cherrapunjee amidst waterfalls and limestone cliffs
Scenic drives through Khasi Hills and pine forests
River boating and swimming at Umngot River (seasonal)
Visit to iconic waterfalls and viewpoints in Cherrapunjee
Guided trek to Double Decker Living Root Bridge (Nongriat)
Visit to Single Decker Living Root Bridge
Village trails through Khasi settlements
Forest walks through rain-soaked limestone terrain
Evening bonfires and quiet stargazing (weather permitting)
Detailed Itinerary
Click each day to expand details.
DAY 1
Arrival Guwahati
Upon arrival at Guwahati Airport, meet your representative and transfer to your hotel.
The rest of the day is at leisure—ideal to unwind after your journey.
In the evening, you may opt for a relaxed walk along the Brahmaputra riverfront or enjoy a quiet dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Guwahati
DAY 2
Guwahati – Shillong
After breakfast, depart for Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya (Approx. 100 km / 3–4 hours).
En route, stop at Umiam Lake, offering panoramic views of the reservoir surrounded by forested hills.
On arrival in Shillong, check in to your hotel.
In the afternoon, explore key attractions such as Ward’s Lake, Shillong viewpoints, and local markets.
Evening at leisure—perfect for strolling through Police Bazaar or enjoying Shillong’s café culture.
Overnight: Shillong
DAY 3
Shillong – Shnongpdeng (Umngot River)
After breakfast, drive to Shnongpdeng, a serene riverside village near Dawki (Approx. 80 km / 3 hours).
On arrival, check in to your riverside camp or eco-stay.
Spend the afternoon enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River. Activities may include boating, swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the riverbanks (subject to season and water levels).
As evening sets in, enjoy a bonfire by the river, listening to the gentle flow of water under the open sky.
Dinner at the camp.
Overnight: Shnongpdeng
DAY 4
Shnongpdeng – Cherrapunjee (Sohra)
After breakfast, depart for Cherrapunjee (Sohra) (Approx. 60 km / 2.5–3 hours).
On arrival, check in to your hotel.
Later, explore Cherrapunjee’s dramatic landscapes with visits to Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the plains of Bangladesh.
Evening at leisure, enjoying the cool mountain air and misty surroundings.
Overnight: Cherrapunjee
DAY 5
Double Decker Living Root Bridge Trek (Nongriat)
After an early breakfast, proceed to Tyrna village, the starting point for the Double Decker Living Root Bridge trek.
Begin the descent through forest trails and stone steps, passing waterfalls, streams, and small Khasi hamlets en route to Nongriat village. Visit the iconic Double Decker Living Root Bridge, a remarkable example of bio-engineering shaped over generations.
Time to relax near natural pools before beginning the ascent back to Tyrna.
Return to your hotel by evening for well-earned rest.
Dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Cherrapunjee
DAY 6
Single Decker Living Root Bridge – Cherrapunjee – Guwahati
After breakfast, visit a Single Decker Living Root Bridge located near Cherrapunjee, reached via a gentle forest walk—offering a quieter and equally fascinating perspective on these living structures.
Later, begin the drive back to Guwahati
(Approx. 150 km / 5–6 hours).
On arrival, check in to your hotel.
Evening at leisure to relax or enjoy a final dinner along the riverfront.
Overnight: Guwahati
DAY 7
Guwahati – Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Guwahati Airport for your onward flight, concluding a deeply immersive journey through rivers, rainforests, and living heritage landscapes of Northeast India.
Best months to visit:
October–May
(Monsoon months offer lush scenery but trekking can be challenging due to heavy rainfall)
Note: Overnight stays are planned in carefully selected heritage hotels (or similar category).