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Wellness tourism is having a moment, and it has sparked quite the mad scramble for resorts, spas and hotels, all falling over each other to market themselves as the ultimate sanctuary to rest the holy trinity of humanhood — mind, body and soul. But in the abode of clouds, wellness is nothing new. It is just a way of life.
Think about everything you look for in a wellness retreat: time spent in nature, organic food made from local produce, slow days and a chance to disconnect. In Meghalaya — yes, the literal abode of clouds — there is no fancy term for all of this. It is simply everyday life.
While Shillong should be your base, venturing just two or three hours outside this bustling, musical city can transform the landscape entirely. Places like Nongriat, Cherrapunji (also known as Sohra) and Mawphlang are only a day trip away, but feel like stepping into a whole other world where life is much slower, more relaxed and tucked away in nature.
And that is exactly why it should be your next wellness destination.
Lace up
The usual vacationing experience here almost always involves some kind of hiking: a fact that you may only discover when the driver drops you off at the parking lot and casually mentions that the actual destination is a “short walk” away. (It never is.)
To reach the famous Double Decker Root Bridge — one of the most extraordinary natural structures in the world — in the forest of Nongriat, you end up hiking for approximately four hours, both ways! While it is not very difficult, the length of the hike can become exhausting for those who are not seasoned hikers.
If you have a penchant for head-spinning adventures, you might like the Mawrynkhang trail, which runs along steep cliffsides and is constructed almost entirely out of bamboo, held together by ropes that are hand-tied by locals. This trail is steep in places, especially towards the end, but otherwise quite beginner-friendly.
This is the kind of physical activity that no gym can replicate: unfolding against lush green hills and forests that naturally draw attention away from your phone and the world inside it.
The trick? Invest in some good shoes and NEVER ask that forbidden question, “How much longer?”
Take the plunge
We have all read about the benefits of a cold plunge. It helps in muscle recovery, improves blood circulation… and if you’re anywhere in Meghalaya, you might just get a free exfoliation with it!
Almost every waterfall here is accompanied by a natural pool of its own, where the water is deliciously cold and refreshing.
Don’t know how to swim? Why should that stop you?
Just spot the nearest stall renting out life jackets (there is always one in the vicinity). Slip it on, slip into the water and simply float, while numerous tiny fish flock to you to nibble at your feet, giving you a fish spa you did not have to pay for.
If you’re heading to the Double Decker bridge, hike a little further up to Blue Lagoon, where the clear turquoise waters make it impossible to resist a dip. Dawki river, Krang Suri waterfall, Lyngksiar waterfall, all have natural pools of their own, each one cleaner and clearer, with views that are better than an infinity pool in any resort.
Hill-to-table meals
Expect the food here to feel earthy, rooted and exploding with flavours you have never tasted before.
Definitely try jadoh, which is red rice cooked in meat stock (often pork), infusing it with a subtle umami flavour. There are also plenty of dishes made of dry fish and roots and vegetables that have probably made their way to your plate from a nearby hillside — a hill-to-table experience, if you will.
Vegetarians might enjoy Ja Tyndong, which is a traditional method of cooking where rice, vegetables and spices are packed into hollow, whole bamboo, sealed with banana leaves and baked over an open fire until the bamboo is slightly charred.
Camping and adventure sports
During the summer months, the Dawki river bank transforms into a campsite where your alarm clock is the persistent chirping of a bird outside your tent and the river rippling past just outside. Breakfast options may not be varied but the peaceful boat ride down the tranquil Umngot river afterwards certainly makes up for it.
Those who are always looking for an adrenaline rush can find plenty of designated cliff-jumping spots, go swimming in the natural pool that is cordoned off from the main river, sign up for kayaking and even zipline across the river!
Beyond the itinerary
Of course, there is more.
In Meghalaya, there is always another cave to explore, or another waterfall to splash around in. The days are packed. The immersion in the natural world is so complete that you can’t quite tell how the hours have slipped past. And after a day of climbing, hiking, swimming and diving off cliffs, when you finally hit the bed, sleep wraps you up before you have the chance to set an alarm.
No screens. No scrolling. Just slumber that is broken by the chirping of birds outside the next morning.
And if that’s not luxury, what is?
How to reach Meghalaya?
Fly or take a train to Guwahati. From there, you can either take a bus, shared cab or rental car to any destination in Meghalaya.
Best time to visit Meghalaya?
Meghalaya is open to tourists all year round, but the ideal time to visit is from October to April — the humidity is low and the water is crystal clear. For monsoon lovers, July to September is ideal.
Where to stay in Meghalaya?
Meghalaya is essentially a homestay and Airbnb place. Luxury hotels are limited. Vivanta Meghalaya and Courtyard by Marriott are recent additions. Ri Kynjai in Umiam definitely fits the luxury bill but is an hour away.
What to pack for a Meghalaya trip?
Shoes with a sturdy grip, since you will often be walking along slippery trails. Switch your umbrella for a raincoat or a rain poncho to free up your hands and make movement easier, especially on hikes. Always have water and ORS in your daypack. Sanitiser, cap, sunglasses and sprays or ointments for sudden sprains or muscle cramps are other essentials to carry.
