Tucked away in India’s Northeast, Meghalaya — the “Abode of Clouds” — is an adventure seeker’s paradise. The state’s dramatic terrain of misty valleys, high plateaus, and gushing rivers has given rise to experiences that are as raw as they are beautiful. Here are ten unforgettable ways to explore Meghalaya if you have a taste for adventure.
1. Trek the David Scott Trail (Khasi Hills)
One of the most iconic treks in Meghalaya, the David Scott Trail dates back to the British era. This 16-km route between Mawphlang and Lad Mawphlang winds through pine forests, hanging bridges, bubbling streams, and meadows that open up to sweeping valley views. It’s a perfect introduction to the Khasi landscape — moderate in difficulty but high on scenic reward.
2. Descend into the Mawmluh Cave (Sohra)
For those who like their adventures subterranean, Meghalaya’s cave systems are legendary. The Mawmluh Cave near Sohra (Cherrapunji) is one of India’s longest, stretching over 7 km. Guided expeditions take you through narrow limestone passages, stalactite-studded chambers, and pools of mineral-rich water. It’s humid, claustrophobic, and utterly fascinating.
3. Cross the Double-Decker Living Root Bridge (Nongriat)
This one is pure Meghalaya magic. In Nongriat village, a two-tiered bridge made of living rubber fig roots connects two sides of a rainforest valley. The trek to reach it — about 3,000 steps down from Tyrna — is challenging, but the payoff is walking on a bridge grown by human hands and nature over centuries. For extra adventure, continue on to Rainbow Falls, another hour’s trek deeper into the forest.
4. Kayak and Cliff-Jump at Shnongpdeng (Dawki)
The Umngot River at Shnongpdeng, near the Bangladesh border, is famous for its crystal-clear waters — so clear that boats seem to float on air. Here you can go kayaking, snorkelling, ziplining, or even take a leap from a riverside cliff into the emerald depths below. Camping by the river adds to the thrill of it all.
5. Hike the Laitlum Canyon (East Khasi Hills)
Laitlum literally means “the end of hills,” and the hike to this canyon is nothing short of spectacular. The trails, fringed with wildflowers and panoramic ridges, lead you to a breathtaking viewpoint where the world seems to fall away into mist. Adventurous souls can descend into the canyon to reach the tiny Rasong village, accessible only by foot.
6. Go Canyoning in Sohra
Near the valleys of Sohra, adrenaline junkies can try canyoning — a mix of abseiling, climbing, and swimming through waterfalls and rock pools. The Wah Kaba and Lyngiong routes are among the best, offering heart-stopping descents and cool plunges. Local adventure operators ensure it’s safe but still full of edge.
7. Explore Nongkhnum Island (West Khasi Hills)
India’s second-largest river island, Nongkhnum, is an underrated gem for those who like a mix of soft and wild adventure. You can cycle along its sandy trails, swim in secluded river bends, and picnic near the Wei Phang Falls. It’s remote, rustic, and best experienced at a slow pace — ideal for those who prefer solitude with their adventure.
8. Camp by the Krang Shuri Falls (Jaintia Hills)
Few places in Meghalaya are as photogenic as Krang Shuri. The azure waterfall in the Jaintia Hills invites trekkers, campers, and swimmers alike. You can trek down to the plunge pool, set up a tent near the falls, or take a guided hike along the surrounding forest trails. By night, the roar of the waterfall becomes your lullaby.
9. Go Mountain Biking in the Sohra Plateau
The rolling hills and red-earth trails around Sohra (Cherrapunji) offer some of the most scenic biking routes in Northeast India. Ride through misty pine forests, local hamlets, and along ridges overlooking gorges. The terrain alternates between challenging climbs and thrilling descents — a dream for seasoned riders.
10. River Trekking in the Umden and Mawlyngot Valleys
In the Ri-Bhoi district, near Umden and Mawlyngot, adventurers can experience “river trekking” — walking, wading, and sometimes swimming upstream through forested riverbeds. These areas, also known for silk-weaving and tea estates, offer a rare mix of culture and wilderness. It’s not just about reaching the destination, but about moving with the rhythm of water.
Meghalaya’s adventures are not the manufactured kind; they are woven into the fabric of its land — organic, unpredictable, and soul-stirring. Whether you’re spelunking through ancient caves or walking on bridges made of living roots, every experience here draws you deeper into nature’s embrace. In Meghalaya, you don’t just seek adventure — you find yourself in it.