Which Shillong Tours & Experiences To Choose? We Rank The 15 Best

Exploring Shillong isn’t just about ticking off a few sights; it’s about enjoying Meghalaya’s unique charm, lush landscapes, and friendly local culture. What makes Shillong especially appealing is its variety of experiences—whether you prefer a quick guided walk, a leisurely day trip, or a more extensive multi-day adventure, there’s something to suit every traveler. We particularly like the Exotic Meghalaya tour for its combination of natural wonders like Elephant Falls and Mawlynnong, combined with the convenience of a managed itinerary and private group focus. In fact, staying in Shillong provides the perfect base for these explorations, with easy access to waterfalls, caves, and villages that showcase the region’s authentic beauty.

Many visitors are surprised by how rich and diverse Meghalaya’s attractions are, from the living root bridges in Mawlynnong to the waterfalls in Cherrapunji. Whether you’re after a short day trip or a longer private tour, the options below highlight the best ways to experience Shillong and its surroundings.

1. Exotic Meghalaya

At number 1 on our list, the Exotic Meghalaya tour offers a carefully planned four-day exploration of the region’s highlights. It starts in Shillong, where you’ll visit Elephant Falls, Ward’s Lake, and Lady Hydari Park—perfect spots for a quick dose of nature and local life. The trip then moves out to Sohra (Cherrapunji), where sights like Nohkalikai Falls and the Ramakrishna Mission are included, along with the impressive Maswai Cave. One of the tour’s standout features is visiting Mawlynnong Village, famous for being Asia’s cleanest village, and its iconic living root bridges. The tour concludes at Jowai, exploring local religious influences with a visit to Durga Temple. The private group setting and managed itinerary make this a straightforward way to experience Meghalaya’s top attractions without hassles.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a hassle-free, multi-day experience with a focus on natural beauty and local culture.

2. 7 Days Kaziranga Meghalaya Tour Package

Number 2 is the 7 Days Kaziranga Meghalaya Tour — a comprehensive week-long journey perfect for those eager to combine Meghalaya with nearby Assam’s famous Kaziranga National Park. This tour, rated 5.0/5, covers Umiam Lake, Laitlum Canyons, Mawkdok Dympep Valley, and key waterfalls like Nohsngithiang and Nohkalikai. It also includes a trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, a highlight for many. The itinerary is well-paced, with plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, cultural insights, and nature walks, making it excellent for those who want a broad taste of northeastern India’s landscape and wildlife. The tour is suited for travelers comfortable with longer days of exploration, and the group size is kept intimate.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a balance of nature, adventure, and cultural discovery packed into a week.

3. Mawlynnong: Guided Day Trip from Shillong with Hotel Pickup

The Mawlynnong day trip is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see the “Cleanest Village in Asia.” This guided tour includes exploring the living root bridges and the lush surroundings, with the added comfort of hotel pickup. It emphasizes cultural interaction, allowing you to learn about local sustainable practices directly from the community. The tour lasts about 10 hours, making it a manageable yet enriching experience. It’s best suited for those who prefer a relaxed, guided day without the complexity of multi-day travel. Guests consistently praise the friendly guide and the peaceful atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A perfect quick escape for those wanting an authentic, relaxed immersion in Meghalaya’s rural charm.

4. Cherrapunji: Guided Full-Day Trip from Shillong by Car

At number 4, the Cherrapunji full-day trip takes you to one of the wettest places on earth. This full-day private tour focuses on must-see sights like Nohkalikai Falls, the Seven Sisters Falls, and Mawsmai Cave, offering a taste of Meghalaya’s iconic waterfalls and rugged landscape. The guide provides rich commentary on the geology and local culture, making it more than just a sightseeing run. The tour’s highlights include walking through limestone caves and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding hills. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day of exploring without rushing, and the private setting ensures personalized attention. Some guests mention that the scenic waterfalls are best during the monsoon season for dramatic effect.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded day trip for lovers of waterfalls, caves, and mountain scenery.

5. Day Trip to Dwaki (Guided Private Sightseeing Experience from Shillong)

Number 5 is the Dwaki private day trip. For around $147, this personalized tour includes exploring Krang Suri Waterfall with its vivid blue pool and the clear waters of the Umngot River in Dawki. It’s tailored for those who want a flexible, intimate experience with a dedicated guide explaining local stories and natural features. The trip features scenic drives through Meghalaya’s lush hills, with plenty of time to relax by the river or take photos. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a private experience over a group tour, especially if they want to customize their day.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for intimate, flexible exploration of Meghalaya’s rivers and waterfalls.

6. 4 Days Private Tour at Meghalaya

The 4-day private tour offers a deeper dive into Meghalaya’s natural treasures. It begins with Umiam Lake’s tranquil waters and moves through Ward’s Lake in Shillong. The highlight is the inclusion of Mawlynnong and the Living Root Bridges, as well as Jowai’s local religious sites like the Durga Temple. This tour balances scenic views with cultural spots, making it suitable for travelers who want a compact yet comprehensive experience. Reviews are limited, but the private setting means you can tailor the schedule. Expect a focus on natural beauty, with enough time to relax and absorb the atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers seeking a personalized, shorter adventure immersed in Meghalaya’s natural and cultural sights.

7. 8-Day Golden Triangle Tour w/ Jaisalmer – Heritage & Desert

Number 7 shifts gears with the Golden Triangle Tour. While mainly Rajasthan-focused, it’s included here because many travelers combine it with trips to Meghalaya. This tour offers visits to Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s Amber Fort, and a camel safari in the Thar Desert. It’s a longer journey (8 days) with a focus on heritage sites and desert experiences. Though not in Meghalaya, it’s perfect for those wanting a varied trip encompassing both the northeast and Rajasthan’s deserts.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a multi-region trek with a mix of cultural, historic, and desert adventures.

8. Amritsar, Shimla, Manali Tour By Car 5 Nights/6 Days

This 6-day journey from Amritsar to Himachal’s hill stations is more about the Himalayas than Meghalaya but offers a scenic contrast if you’re combining trips. It includes visits to Golden Temple, Shimla’s colonial architecture, and Manali’s snowy peaks. Perfect for those interested in the Himalayan region’s diverse landscapes, but if your focus is Meghalaya, this might be a longer adventure for another trip.
Bottom Line: A scenic, culturally rich tour for travelers seeking Himalayan hill experiences.

9. Dawki: Guided Full Day Excursion from Shillong by Car

The Dawki day trip is another excellent option for exploring the crystalline waters and lush hills. It features visits to the Umngot River, Dawki Bridge, and Shnongpdeng, emphasizing scenic drives and river views. The tour is flexible, private, and perfect if you want to relax by the river or take photographs of Meghalaya’s natural beauty. It’s rated 3.5/5, reflecting that it’s a popular choice but perhaps less comprehensive than multi-day options.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a relaxed, scenic day focused on Meghalaya’s rivers and landscapes.

10. Delhi-6 Days Rajasthan, Heritage, Forts & Cultural Tour

While not in Meghalaya, this Rajasthan tour offers a deep dive into India’s forts and palaces, perfect for those wanting to expand their itinerary after Meghalaya. It covers Jaipur, Jaisalmer, and Delhi, showcasing some of India’s most iconic sites.
Bottom Line: Excellent for history and culture enthusiasts extending their India trip beyond Meghalaya.

11. From Shillong: Morning Guided Sunrise Trek

Number 11 is a short sunrise trek that offers a peaceful early-morning walk with stunning views. It’s a budget-friendly, half-day experience, perfect for those who want to start their day with a bit of adventure and panoramic photography. The trek involves walking on uneven surfaces and is best suited for active travelers.
Bottom Line: An affordable, invigorating way to see Shillong’s natural beauty at dawn.

12. Kerala – 3 Days Kumarakom & Alleppey Houseboat Cruise Tour

While in a different region, this Kerala houseboat cruise highlights India’s backwater experience. It’s a luxurious way to see rural life, with boat rides past paddy fields and village homes.
Bottom Line: For travelers wanting a peaceful, scenic escape in southern India, not in Meghalaya but worth considering for its unique perspective.

13. Shillong Green Trails: Guided Trekking Experience with Local

Number 13 features a guided trek through Shillong’s forests. It’s a lively way to learn about the region’s flora, fauna, and ecology, with visits to Laitkor Catholic Church and Shillong View Point. The tour is affordable, at just $17 per person, and suitable for those who enjoy walking and nature without a strenuous climb.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, nature-focused experience for active travelers.

14. Shillong: Guided Walking Tour with Museum Entry

This walking tour covers Shillong’s architecture, churches, and museum—excellent for history and culture lovers. It’s a short, affordable way to get acquainted with the city’s colonial and spiritual heritage. Rated at 5/5, it’s a straightforward intro for first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: A great, economical way to understand Shillong’s cultural fabric.

15. Sunrise Taj Mahal, Agra Fort & Baby Taj Tour

Although outside Meghalaya, this Sunrise Taj Mahal tour is a classic for early risers. It offers a once-in-a-lifetime view of the Taj at dawn, with visits to Agra Fort and the Baby Taj. Perfect for those wanting a compact, memorable experience in India’s most iconic monument.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a breathtaking early morning visit to one of the world’s most famous sights.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Shillong

Choosing the best tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you want an immersive multi-day experience that covers a wide range of sights, the Exotic Meghalaya tour offers a structured way to see waterfalls, caves, and villages comfortably. For those pressed for time but eager to see Mawlynnong and the root bridges, the guided day trip is perfect.

If you prefer a private, customized day exploring waterfalls and rivers, the Dwaki private trip and Dawki full-day excursion are excellent choices. For active travelers, the guided trek or the sunrise trek can provide memorable outdoor moments. Longer tours like the 7-day Kaziranga Meghalaya package are better if you want to combine Meghalaya with Assam’s wildlife.

Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability and the best rates. Think about your fitness level, interest in waterfalls vs. cultural sites, and how much time you have when choosing.

Final Thoughts

From quick guided day trips to extensive multi-day adventures, Shillong offers a rich variety of tours that showcase Meghalaya’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. For a hassle-free introduction, the Exotic Meghalaya tour is hard to beat. If you’re after something more personalized, private options like the Dwaki or Mawlynnong trips are fantastic. And for those wanting a broader India experience, combining Meghalaya with Rajasthan or Kerala can round out your trip.

Whatever your travel style, booking early and choosing the right tour for your interests will ensure you get the most from your time in this remarkable corner of India. Now is the time to start planning your trip—these tours fill up quickly during peak season, so don’t wait too long!