Meghalaya Northeast States, India Travel Guide
Mainly Shillong, hostels for backpackers, solo travelers, and budget-friendly, social atmosphere. Zostel Shillong. Hostels dormitory beds and sometimes private rooms, for meeting other travelers.
Abundant across the state, especially Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki, Mawlynnong. Guesthouses smaller, privately run establishments. Homestays a more local, personalized experience, often by families welcoming guests into their homes. Quality from basic, clean rooms to comfortable stays with modern amenities. They often home-cooked meals, a taste of local cuisine.
Budget to mid-range and a few luxury options, mostly in Shillong. Outside the capital, luxury hotel options limited, guesthouses and resorts more common. Hotels standard amenities like room service, private bathrooms, reception services.
Upscale resorts located on the outskirts of Shillong or in scenic locations near Cherrapunji and Umiam Lake. These properties often more amenities like swimming pools, spas, recreational activities, with a focus on leisure and scenic views. They generally a higher level of comfort and service.
Prevalent in villages like Mawlynnong and near the Living Root Bridges (Nongriat). They basic amenities (shared bathrooms, simple furnishings) but an authentic, immersive cultural exchange. Profits from these homestays often directly back into the community.
Few properties, especially around Mawlynnong, rustic treehouse stays. These an unique, back-to-nature experience, blending simple comfort with the natural environment. Expect basic facilities but a memorable setting.
Not widespread as in major metropolitan cities, the option for vacation rentals and apartments growing, mainly through platforms like Airbnb in Shillong. These useful for longer stays or for families seeking more space, self-catering facilities.
Organized campsites in scenic spots like Umden or near Dawki and Shnongpdeng. These often basic facilities like tents, shared toilets, communal cooking areas. Wild camping not advised without local guidance or prior permission, as local customs and terrain important for safety.
Each area a distinct character.
All listed areas generally safe for tourists. Basic precautions in crowded markets (like Police Bazaar) for petty theft. Rural areas very safe, locals generally welcoming.
Police Bazaar noisy and bustling. Laitumkhrah a moderate noise level. Upper Shillong, Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong, Dawki generally peaceful and quiet, a serene natural ambiance perfect for relaxation.
Booking platforms and local customs.
Policies significantly by property. Always check deposit requirements and cancellation policy before finalizing booking. Many homestays or smaller properties ask for an advance deposit to confirm reservation. The terms to avoid unexpected charges.
Accommodation prices notably higher during high season and major Indian holidays. During monsoon season, slight reductions in prices, value for budget-conscious travelers.
Police Bazaar (Shillong) best access to transport hubs. Cherrapunji best base for waterfalls, caves. Mawlynnong/Dawki unique for village/river, but specific transport to reach.
A helpful comparison of accommodation options, followed by specific recommendations to choose a stay that your travel style.
Lively atmosphere for backpackers.
Basic community homestays in Mawlynnong or Nongriat.
Shillong, comfort and location.
Cherrapunji, comfortable stay amidst nature with various amenities.
Near Umiam Lake, luxurious stays with stunning lake views.
A premium experience in the heart of the capital.
Spas, pools, recreational activities at higher-end resorts.
Often on outskirts or near natural attractions.
Cherrapunjee Holiday Resort activities suitable for kids. Homestays experiential learning opportunities. Ri Kynjai resort amenities, lake access for family fun.
Hostels in Shillong for meeting other travelers, finding companionship for day trips. Homestays a deep cultural connection and often safer, more personalized experiences.
Shillong has most amenities for longer stays (apartments, markets). Many guesthouses/homestays might quarterly rates, especially off-season.
Old colonial bungalows in Shillong converted to charming guesthouses. Homestays in traditional villages direct cultural immersion.
Dorm beds, shared common areas. Local hospitality, sometimes shared bathrooms. Budget-friendly.
Standard amenities, room service, reception. Extensive facilities, larger rooms, focus on leisure.
When booking homestays in remote areas like Nongriat (for the Double Decker Living Root Bridge), inquire if meals are included. This simplifies your planning, as dining options are limited there.
For Shillong Peak, check conditions before you go. Visibility can be low due to mist, especially outside clear seasons.
Local guides are available for hire at the trailhead for Living Root Bridges and are recommended, especially for first-timers.
