Hansraj’s Family Expedition Through Meghalaya’s Hidden Wonders with Thrillophilia
The winding roads of Meghalaya, the cool breeze, and the excited faces of my wife, kids, and parents made the drive feel like the beginning of something magical. We had just passed through a small village and were heading toward our first stop- Umiam Lake in Shillong.
The landscape outside was lush green, dotted with misty clouds hanging low over the hills. I could see my little ones eagerly pressing their faces against the windows, their eyes wide with wonder at the beauty around us. It was one of those moments when you realise that traveling with family is the best way to create memories that last a lifetime. Little did we know, this trip would be full of adventure, laughter, and breathtaking views that we would never forget.
Exploring the Wonders of Meghalaya
Following a relaxing day in Shillong, we were ready to explore the wonders of Cherrapunji. On our way, we visited the Elephant Falls, a beautiful three-tiered waterfall located near Shillong. The sound of the water crashing down the rocks echoed in the air, and my daughter couldn’t help but giggle as the mist from the falls splashed onto her face. We took a short hike down to get closer to the falls, and I could see the joy on my wife’s face as she snapped pictures of the kids playing around. The falls were truly majestic, and we all agreed it was one of the highlights of our trip.
Not far from there was Mawkdok Dympep ViewPoint, where we were greeted with panoramic views of the lush valleys below. It felt like we were standing on top of the world. My son, always the adventurer, tried to climb a nearby rock for a better view, and of course, we all had to stop him. The views were breathtaking, and we spent a good amount of time soaking in the beauty of the place.
As we continued our journey, we visited Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters’ Falls, both of which left us speechless. Nohkalikai Falls, in particular, was a sight to behold. The water cascaded down from a height of 1,100 feet, creating a misty veil that looked almost magical. My wife and I took a moment to sit on a nearby bench and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings while the kids ran around, their laughter echoing through the air.
Mawsmai and Arwah Caves in Cherrapunji were next on our list. Exploring the caves was a thrilling experience, especially for the kids. The narrow passages and stalactites hanging from the ceiling created a sense of mystery and excitement. My son, with his ever-curious nature, was the first to venture into the deeper parts of the caves, and we all followed him, laughing and trying to keep up.
One of the most memorable moments of our trip was visiting Mawlynnong, known as Asia’s cleanest village. The locals took great pride in their environment, and it was evident in every corner of the village. We visited the famous Balancing Rock, a huge stone precariously balanced on top of another. It was a perfect photo opportunity, and we couldn’t resist taking a family picture there.
Our trip wouldn’t have been complete without a visit to Riwai Village, where we saw the famous Single Decker Living Root Bridge. The bridge, made entirely of intertwined tree roots, was an engineering marvel. Walking across it was a surreal experience, and we were all in awe of nature’s ingenuity.
Finally, we made our way to Umngot River in Dawki, where the water was so clear that it looked like a mirror reflecting the sky. We spent a peaceful afternoon here, watching the kids splash around in the water and the adults lounging by the riverbank. The surrounding hills added to the serene beauty of the place.
Our last stop was Krang Suri Waterfalls in Jowai. The waterfall was simply stunning, with crystal-clear water cascading down into a turquoise pool. We took a dip in the cool water, and it was the perfect way to end our exploration of Meghalaya’s natural beauty.
Thrilling Adventures for All Ages
Apart from sightseeing, Meghalaya also offered us plenty of opportunities for adventure. One of the first activities that we all loved was shopping at Shillong’s local market. The vibrant colours of the stalls, the sweet smell of local spices, and the hustle and bustle of the market made for an exciting experience. My wife and my mother picked up some beautiful handwoven shawls, while the kids found some funky souvenirs to take home.
Next, we embarked on a 200-meter hike to Wei Sawdong Falls. The hike was a bit challenging for my elderly parents, but they were determined to make it. The kids, on the other hand, were full of energy, racing ahead and eagerly waiting for us at the falls.
The Nongriat Trek was another highlight. It was a bit of a challenge, but the reward at the end was worth it— the beautiful Double Decker Living Root Bridge. We all made it to the bridge, and the kids were thrilled to cross it, laughing and holding hands as they skipped across the roots.
One of the most exciting moments was when the kids went ziplining in Dawki. They were both nervous at first, but once they got the hang of it, they couldn’t stop grinning. Watching them zip through the air was a moment I’ll never forget.
We also took a boat ride in the crystal-clear waters of Umngot River, which was a peaceful experience. The kids loved rowing their little boat, while my parents relaxed and took in the beauty of the surroundings.
The Last Moments of Our Trip
As we sat by the river at Umngot, watching the sun dip below the horizon, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of contentment. My family was together, happy, and healthy, and we had just explored one of the most beautiful places on earth.
The kids were playing by the water, my wife was taking pictures, and my parents were quietly enjoying the moment. Silently admiring my family and being thankful for this amazing trip, I knew that this was a journey we would cherish forever.
Read More: Thrillophilia Meghalaya Reviews