About this North East Tour
Ancient forests and living Khasi culture
A culture-and-nature trip centred on the revered Mawphlang Sacred Forest - an ancient grove protected for centuries by Khasi tradition, where nothing may be removed. Combine it with the sights and cafes of Shillong, Umiam Lake, and a day among the waterfalls of Cherrapunji.
A gentle, meaningful trip for those drawn to indigenous culture, sacred landscapes and easy nature walks.
Trip Highlights
Sacred groves, culture and waterfalls
The ancient Mawphlang Sacred Forest
Living Khasi culture & monoliths
Shillong Peak & Elephant Falls
Umiam Lake & cafes
Cherrapunji waterfalls & caves
A gentle, cultural pace
Trip Gallery
A taste of the trip
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Four cultural days around Shillong
- Arrive at Guwahati; drive to Shillong via Umiam Lake.
- Evening at Police Bazaar and the cafes.
- Guided walk in the Mawphlang Sacred Forest with a Khasi guide.
- Learn about sacred-grove taboos, monoliths and medicinal plants.
- Afternoon at Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls.
- Day trip to Cherrapunji - Nohkalikai and Seven Sisters falls.
- Mawsmai Cave and Eco Park.
- Optional Don Bosco Museum, then drive to Guwahati.
- Onward flight.
What's Included
Transparent pricing — no hidden surprises
- All arrival & departure transfers (Guwahati/Shillong)
- 3 nights hotel/homestay stay (Meghalaya)
- Daily Breakfast & Dinner
- All sightseeing & transfers by private vehicle
- Driver allowance, fuel, tolls & parking
- 24x7 on-trip support
- Air/train fare to Guwahati
- Lunches & personal expenses
- Boat rides, entry tickets & activity charges
- Camera fees & optional experiences
- GST as applicable
- Anything not listed under inclusions
Things to Carry
Rain-forest holiday essentials
Important Notes
Please read before booking
Best Time: October–May is ideal, with clear skies and pleasant weather. June–September is the monsoon — Cherrapunji and Mawsynram are the wettest places on earth — when waterfalls are at their fullest but rain is heavy.
How to Reach: Fly into Guwahati (Assam), the gateway to the North East; Shillong is about a 3-hour scenic drive. Shillong also has a small airport at Umroi. We handle all transfers.
Weather: Carry rain protection year-round — showers can pop up even outside the monsoon. Mornings are best for boating and waterfalls before clouds build.
Money & Network: ATMs are reliable in Shillong and Guwahati; carry cash for villages, boats and entry fees. Mobile network is patchy in remote valleys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you book
It is one of Meghalaya's most revered sacred groves, protected for centuries by Khasi tradition. Home to ancient trees, orchids, medicinal plants and monoliths, it is believed to be guarded by a local deity - and by custom, nothing may be taken from it.
Yes - entry is with a local Khasi guide, who shares the forest's ecology, sacred taboos and legends. It is included in the tour and greatly enriches the visit.
It leans cultural - the sacred forest, Khasi traditions and monoliths - while still including Shillong's sights and a Cherrapunji waterfall day. It suits travellers curious about indigenous culture and gentle nature.
Not at all - it is a flat, shaded, easy walk suitable for all ages, following your guide along forest paths. It is more of a gentle interpretive stroll than a trek.
Yes - the David Scott Trail starts near Mawphlang, so keen walkers can add the trek. We can extend the itinerary to include it.
The grove is sacred to the Khasi community and legally and traditionally protected. Visitors must not remove anything (not even a leaf or stone), stay on paths and follow the guide - it is a living cultural and ecological treasure.
October to May for pleasant weather and clear forest walks. The monsoon makes paths muddy and slippery, though the forest is lush and atmospheric then.
Very - the pace is gentle, the walks are easy, and the cultural focus appeals to those who prefer meaning and calm over adventure. We tailor the days to your comfort.
