Trekking in Meghalaya

The trekking potential in Meghalaya is unique in the sense that terrain is very rugged like in Himalayan areas but with the advantage of not being snowbound. An added attraction is the possibility of encountering many rare animals such as the slow loris, assorted deer and the occasional bear. Guides can be hired to take the keen trekker in terrain, which is characterised, by flowing rivers, rolling hills and towering waterfalls. Some of the noteworthy routes are:

Trek to Sing Song Gorge - This two day trek follows the trail from the State Library and after passing the Crinoline Falls enroute, it ascends till it reaches Laitkor at a distance of 6 kms and from there to Smit 4 kms away. From Smit via the villages of Thangsning and Mawblang to Mawlyngot a total distance of 13 kms, Mawlyngot is a fairly big village, connected by a motorable road. The trail after this village descends sharply till it reaches the Sing Song gorge (Um Song River). Both banks of Umsong River are covered by thick mix forest with dense undergrowth. The forest mostly comprises of bay leaf trees and other medicinal herbs thus making the surroundings a place of extreme interest for botanists. The trail after Umsong ascend sharply till it reaches the town of Pynursla at a distance of 6 kms. The routes are rugged with the main attraction being the superb views and unique experience of the Khasi villages and food and of course the challenge of the climb but without the extreme weather conditions.


Trek to the Jakrem Hot Springs - This is again a two day trek and starts from the village of Weiloi which can be reached from Shillong by car/bus. The distance is approximately 39 Km on the way to Mawsynram. From Weilot its a 8km hike to Ponkung and from there another 11kms to Umngi where two natural mineral water springs exist. In case hikers prefer a less exhausting trek from Weiloi, a shorter route via Mawblang can be an option.


David Scott Trail - This is one of the long bridle paths constructed by the erstwhile colonial rulers, this one being made by, you guessed it, Captain David Scott and runs from Ladmawphlang to Mawngap where you can partake of delightful Khasi cuisine and the local brew known as 'kiad' in the local language.