Hansraj’s Scenic Family Retreat Amid Meghalaya’s Mystical Charm
Dear Diary,
I finally have a quiet moment to sit down and write. The past few days have been a whirlwind of laughter, adventure, and breathtaking views. I’d been so caught up in soaking in every moment of my recent incredible trip with my family that I barely had time to pen it all down. But here’s where it begins…
Day 1: Hello, Shillong!
We landed in Guwahati early in the morning and drove to Shillong, the "Scotland of the East." The journey itself was beautiful, with lush green hills and winding roads. My kids were glued to the windows, pointing out every waterfall and colourful bird they spotted. My parents, on the other hand, were quietly soaking in the serenity.
Our first stop was Umiam Lake, a massive water body surrounded by hills. The kids ran around the shore, trying to skip stones, while my wife and I sat with my parents, enjoying the cool breeze. The lake had this calming effect, and I could already feel the stress of city life melting away.
Later, we checked into a cosy hotel in Shillong and headed out to explore the local market. The vibrant stalls, selling everything from bamboo crafts to woolen shawls, were a treat for the senses. My wife bought a beautiful handwoven scarf, and the kids insisted on getting handmade bamboo toys. Dinner was a feast of local Khasi dishes- Jadoh, a flavourful rice dish, and Dohneiiong, pork cooked in black sesame.
Day 2: The Beauty of Cherrapunji
This morning, we left Shillong and headed toward Cherrapunji. The drive was spectacular, with misty hills and cascading waterfalls at every turn. Our first stop was Elephant Falls, a three-tiered waterfall. The kids loved climbing down to the base, where they got drenched in the mist. My parents found a bench nearby and enjoyed the view while we clicked a hundred pictures.
Next, we stopped at Mawkdok Dympep ViewPoint, where the panoramic views of the valleys left us speechless. My son tried to act brave by leaning too close to the edge, giving us all a mini heart attack!
Oh, how can I forget about the Nohkalikai Falls? It is India’s tallest plunge waterfall, and goodness, it was a sight to behold. The kids were fascinated by the legend of Nohkalikai, and my wife and I spent some quiet moments admiring the beauty of the falls. We also visited Seven Sisters’ Falls, where the water cascaded down like ribbons.
Our last stop for the day was the Mawsmai Caves. The narrow passages and natural formations were thrilling to explore. My daughter held my hand tightly, alternating between awe and nervous giggles. By the time we reached our hotel in Cherrapunji, we were exhausted but happy.
Day 3: Conquering the Nongriat Trek
Today was the most adventurous day of our trip- the Nongriat Trek to the famous Double Decker Living Root Bridge. It was a 3,000-step journey, and I wasn’t sure how my parents or the kids would manage. But Meghalaya’s beauty has a way of energizing you.
The trek took us through dense forests, over narrow bridges, and past small streams. My parents took their time, stopping often to rest and admire the surroundings. The kids, on the other hand, were unstoppable, racing ahead and cheering us on.
When we finally reached the bridge, it felt like a reward for all the effort. The intertwined roots, forming a natural masterpiece, were simply magical. We sat by the small pool beneath the bridge, soaking our feet in the cool water. My wife and I couldn’t stop marveling at the ingenuity of the Khasi people who created this wonder.
Day 4: Dawki’s Crystal Waters
We left Cherrapunji early and drove to Dawki, home to the stunning Umngot River. The moment we saw the river, we were all in awe. The water was so clear that the boats seemed to be floating in the air.
We took a boat ride, gliding over the transparent waters, with the surrounding hills creating a picture-perfect backdrop. The kids were thrilled to row the boat for a bit, and my parents couldn’t stop smiling.
In the afternoon, we tried ziplining- well, the kids did! Watching them zip across the valley, screaming in delight, was a highlight of the trip. My wife and I cheered them on from the sidelines, secretly relieved that we didn’t have to try it ourselves.
Day 5: The Waterfalls of Jowai
On our way back to Shillong, we stopped at Krang Suri Waterfalls in Jowai. This place felt like a hidden paradise. The turquoise water and the lush green surroundings were straight out of a dream.
The kids couldn’t resist jumping into the pool, and even my wife and I joined them for a quick dip. My parents, ever the spectators, sat on a rock nearby, laughing at our antics. It was one of those rare moments when you forget everything else and just live in the present.
Later, we visited Mawlynnong, Asia’s cleanest village. The cleanliness and the warmth of the locals were truly inspiring. We also saw the Balancing Rock, a natural wonder that left us scratching our heads in amazement.
Day 6: Goodbye, Meghalaya
Our last morning in Meghalaya was spent at a quaint café in Shillong, sipping hot coffee and reminiscing about the past few days. The kids were busy sketching their favourite moments from the trip, while my parents chatted about how Meghalaya reminded them of their childhood in the hills.
As we packed up to leave, I felt a pang of sadness. This trip had been more than just a vacation- it was a journey of bonding, laughter, and discovery. Meghalaya had given us memories that would stay with us forever, and I knew we would be back someday to relive its magic.
Final Thoughts:
Meghalaya, with its breathtaking landscapes, warm people, and rich culture, is a destination that has something for everyone. For our family, it was the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and togetherness. This trip reminded us of the joy of exploring new places and creating unforgettable memories with loved ones.
Until next time, Meghalaya!
Read More: Thrillophilia Meghalaya Reviews