Nestled within the lush, misty Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, India, ‘A Walk in the Clouds’ offers an enchanting walking holiday for nature enthusiasts. This eight-day journey immerses travelers in a world of breathtaking landscapes, from the iconic living root bridges to cascading waterfalls and remote caves. Beyond the stunning vistas, the trip promises a deeper exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage and wildlife, leaving visitors with an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking an immersive outdoor adventure or a chance to connect with a vibrant local community, this walking holiday promises to captivate and inspire.
Key Points
- An 8-day private hiking and wildlife journey through the stunning landscapes of Meghalaya, starting from Guwahati and featuring the world’s longest living root bridges.
- Opportunities to spot one-horned rhinos during a boat cruise in Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary and explore remote caves and cascading waterfalls in the Khasi Hills.
- Immersive experience with local accommodation, indigenous Khasi culture, and sustainable infrastructure like the centuries-old living root bridges.
- Comprehensive package including meals, accommodation, transportation, and guided activities, catering to diverse traveler needs for an enriching nature-focused holiday.
- Moderate physical fitness required, with considerations for accessibility and health conditions, ensuring the tour suits adventurous hikers with the right capabilities.
Contents
- Key Points
- Overview of the Trip
- Inclusions
- Meeting and Pickup Details
- Health and Accessibility Information
- Pricing and Reviews
- Exploring the Living Root Bridges
- Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary Boat Cruise
- Meghalaya’s Natural Wonders
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?
- Can We Book Additional Activities During the Trip?
- Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
- Can We Request Special Dietary Requirements?
- Is There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocol in Place?
- Recap
- More Tour Reviews in Assam
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Assam we have recnetly reviewed
Overview of the Trip
A Walk in the Clouds – Walking Holiday in Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, India
Overview of the Trip
This eight-day private hiking and wildlife journey in Meghalaya starts from Guwahati, offering travelers the opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty.
Highlights include the world’s longest living root bridge, remote caves, and cascading waterfalls. Participants will also spot wildlife, including one-horned rhinos, during a boat cruise through Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary.
The trip includes meals, accommodation in guesthouses or homestays, air-conditioned transportation, and guided activities like an elephant safari and Brahmaputra River cruise.
With a focus on immersing in Meghalaya’s stunning landscapes, this adventure caters to travelers seeking an authentic and nature-filled experience in northeast India.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Assam.
Inclusions
In ‘A Walk in the Clouds – Walking Holiday in Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, India,’ the trip includes 7 breakfasts, 7 dinners, and lunch, providing travelers with nourishing meals throughout their journey.
Accommodation is offered in guesthouses or homestays, allowing for an immersive local experience.
Ground transportation via air-conditioned vehicles, along with personal luggage transport and airport pickup/drop-off in Assam, ensures a comfortable and convenient travel experience.
Plus, the package covers guided activities such as an elephant safari and Brahmaputra River cruise at Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary.
These inclusions cater to the diverse needs of the travelers, creating a well-rounded and enriching experience in the picturesque Khasi Hills.
Meeting and Pickup Details
The walking holiday in the Khasi Hills begins at the New Airport Road in Borjhar, Guwahati, Assam, where the trip starts at noon on the designated start date. Travelers will receive the details of their transportation.
Guests will be picked up right at the airport and taken directly to the meeting point, ensuring a seamless start to the adventure. The air-conditioned vehicle will be used for the entirety of the journey, providing a comfortable way to explore the stunning landscapes of Meghalaya.
Luggage transport is also included, allowing participants to focus on the hiking and wildlife experiences without the burden of carrying heavy bags. The tour operator ensures a smooth and efficient start to this immersive exploration of the Khasi Hills.
Health and Accessibility Information
This tour’s accessibility is limited, as it isn’t wheelchair accessible and is near but not directly located on public transportation.
Infants must sit on laps, and the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions, given the moderate level of physical fitness required to participate.
The hiking and activities involved in this journey through Meghalaya’s natural landscapes necessitate a moderate level of physical fitness from all participants.
Prospective travelers should carefully consider their physical capabilities before booking this tour, which may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions or mobility limitations.
Pricing and Reviews
The tour’s starting price is $734.40, with the exact cost varying based on group size. Travelers can take advantage of the provider’s lowest price guarantee.
Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 6 days prior to the start date, providing flexibility for those who need to change their plans.
Based on 15 reviews, the tour has an impressive overall rating of 5.0 stars, with all prior participants awarding it the maximum 5-star rating. This overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests that the tour delivers an exceptional experience, exceeding traveler expectations.
With the ability to modify or cancel plans without penalty, and a proven track record of excellence, this Meghalaya walking holiday offers great value and peace of mind for adventurous hikers.
Exploring the Living Root Bridges
A Walk in the Clouds – Walking Holiday in Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, India
Exploring the Living Root Bridges
One of the highlights of this walking holiday in Meghalaya’s Khasi Hills is the chance to explore the region’s remarkable living root bridges, a unique and ancient form of infrastructure built by local tribes. These bridges, formed from the intertwined roots of the ficus elastica tree, can stretch up to 175 feet and support the weight of dozens of people. As visitors walk across these natural wonders, they’ll marvel at the ingenuity and sustainability of this traditional engineering feat. The bridges not only provide crucial transportation links but also serve as a testament to the deep connection between the Khasi people and their lush, forested homeland.
| Bridge Name | Length (ft) | Lifespan (years) | Load Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Umshiang Double Decker | 175 | 500+ | 50+ people |
| Nongriat | 154 | 100+ | 40+ people |
| Riwai | 102 | 150+ | 30+ people |
| Thangkharang | 65 | 75+ | 20+ people |
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary Boat Cruise
During the walking holiday, you will embark on a boat cruise through Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, providing an opportunity to spot the elusive one-horned rhinoceros in its natural habitat.
The sanctuary is home to the world’s highest density of one-horned rhinos, making it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Gliding silently along the waterways, travellers can expect to see not only the iconic rhinos, but also a variety of birds, including herons, egrets, and kingfishers.
The boat tour is included as part of the package, allowing guests to fully enjoy the sanctuary’s rich biodiversity without any additional costs.
This experience is sure to be a highlight of the Meghalaya walking holiday.
Meghalaya’s Natural Wonders
A Walk in the Clouds – Walking Holiday in Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, India
Meghalaya’s Natural Wonders
Amidst Meghalaya’s rolling hills and verdant landscapes, visitors uncover a captivating natural wonderland brimming with remarkable sights.
From the world’s longest living root bridges to mesmerizing waterfall cascades, this northeastern Indian state presents a treasure trove of magnificent natural formations and hidden gems.
Trekkers can marvel at the ethereal living root bridges, which have been cultivated over centuries by the indigenous Khasi people.
Cascading waterfalls, such as the Nohkalikai Falls, plunge dramatically over steep cliffs, while remote caves like the Mawsmai Cave offer a glimpse into Meghalaya’s geological wonders.
This hiking adventure showcases the awe-inspiring natural beauty that makes Meghalaya a premier destination for nature enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?
The average group size for this tour is not specified. However, the tour pricing varies by group size, suggesting that group sizes can range from small to large. The tour is suitable for a moderate level of physical fitness.
Can We Book Additional Activities During the Trip?
Yes, travelers can book additional activities during the trip. The tour includes an elephant safari and Brahmaputra River cruise at Pobitora, but participants can arrange other excursions or activities through the tour provider if desired.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the provider offers the option to extend the tour duration beyond the standard 8 days. Travelers can add extra days to explore more of Meghalaya’s attractions at an additional cost per day. This flexible arrangement allows for a customized experience.
Can We Request Special Dietary Requirements?
Yes, travelers can request special dietary requirements. The tour provider accommodates various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, upon request. Just inform the team during the booking process, and they’ll ensure your dietary preferences are met.
Is There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocol in Place?
The tour provider has implemented COVID-19 safety protocols, including mandatory mask-wearing, temperature checks, and sanitization of vehicles and accommodations. Travelers must provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test prior to the trip.
A Walk in the Clouds – Walking Holiday in Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, India
“This curated trip to Khasi Hills of Meghalaya was once-in-a-lifetime vacation. We got to see Meghalaya in the dry season. The activities included c…”
Recap
A ‘Walk in the Clouds‘ offers a remarkable opportunity to take in the captivating landscapes of Meghalaya’s Khasi Hills.
Travelers can expect to encounter the world’s longest living root bridges, awe-inspiring waterfalls, and remote caves, all while experiencing the rich cultural heritage and savoring the local cuisine.
With guided hikes, wildlife spotting, and comfortable accommodations, this walking holiday is a must for nature enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable adventure.