faq.subtitle Shillong
October-May is ideal. June-September is monsoon season with heavy rainfall - Cherrapunji gets 12000mm annually. Winter (November-February) is cool and sunny, perfect for sightseeing
Nearest major airport is Guwahati (125 km). From there take shared taxi (500-700 INR) or bus (150-250 INR). Journey takes 4 hours through scenic hills
Yes, Meghalaya is considered one of the safest states in India. Low crime rates, friendly locals who mostly speak English. Tourist police available in Shillong, Cherrapunji, and Dawki
Natural bridges created by Khasi people by guiding rubber tree roots over 15-20 years. The Double Decker Root Bridge in Nongriat is most famous - requires 3500 steps trek down and back up
Jadoh (red rice with pork), Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame), Doh-Khlieh (minced meat salad), Tungrymbai (fermented soybeans). Wash down with Kyat, local rice beer. Pork dominates - vegetarians try Pumaloi steamed rice
No, Meghalaya does not require ILP for Indian or foreign tourists. You can enter freely. However, some border areas near Bangladesh may need additional permits
Useful tips for visiting Shillong
Pack waterproof gear and anti-slip shoes - Meghalaya is one of the wettest places on Earth. Even in dry season, sudden showers are common
Do not drive at night between Cherrapunji and Shillong, especially during monsoon - risk of landslides and foggy conditions make roads dangerous
For the Double Decker Root Bridge in Nongriat: prepare for 3500 steps down and back up. Start early morning, bring water and snacks. Takes 4-5 hours round trip
Carry enough cash - ATMs are rare outside Shillong and cards may not work in remote areas. UPI works in main towns but not villages
Respect local customs: ask permission before photographing locals, remove shoes when entering homes, avoid touching peoples heads. The Khasi are a matrilineal society - women are highly respected
Drink only bottled water - tap water is unsafe. Carry basic medicines and first aid kit. Nearest major hospital is in Shillong
Visit Iewduh (Bara Bazaar) market in Shillong - Asias largest traditional womens-run market. Best for local produce, spices, dried fish, and authentic Khasi food stalls
Do not miss Dawki - the crystal clear Umngot river at Bangladesh border. Boats seem to float in air. Best time: November-April when water is clearest
Average temperature by month
location.transport.subtitle
| location.transport.title | location.transport.price | location.transport.app | location.transport.note |
|---|---|---|---|
location.transport.bus | 150 ₹ ~1.6 $ | MTC Bus | MTC and ASTC buses from Guwahati. 150-250 INR. 4-hour journey. Buses run 6am-5pm |
location.transport.taxi | 500 ₹ ~5.5 $ | Uber | Shared taxis 500-700 INR per person from Guwahati. Private cab 2500-3500 INR. Yellow taxis in city, Uber available |
location.transport.train | 500 ₹ ~5.5 $ | IRCTC | No railway in Meghalaya. Nearest station: Guwahati (104 km). Take train to Guwahati, then bus/taxi to Shillong |
Cost of food, accommodation and services
Prices are approximate and may vary by season and area.
Hotels and rental prices
Prices are approximate. Book in advance during high season.
location.payment.subtitle
Cash essential outside Shillong. ATMs rare in remote areas like Nongriat, Mawlynnong, Dawki. Carry at least 2-3 days worth of cash when venturing out
Indian Rupee (INR). Currency exchange available in Shillong main market. Bring USD or EUR for best rates. Some hotels also exchange. International cards work at major bank ATMs
Tipping not customary but appreciated. 10% in upscale restaurants is optional. Guides and porters appreciate tips of 200-500 INR per day
Attractions and points of interest