Joy in the Land of Clouds: Arpan’s Reunion Trip with Friends in Meghalaya
It started with a simple message in our old college group chat - just three words that sent a wave of nostalgia crashing over me.
"Let’s meet soon."
For years, life had pulled us in different directions. Businesses to run, kids to raise, and responsibilities that never seemed to end. The last time we had all been together, we were carefree twenty-somethings, laughing over chai and dreaming about the future. Now, we were scattered across cities, too busy to even pick up calls.
But something about that message felt different. Maybe it was the exhaustion of routine, the craving for something beyond work and obligations. Or maybe it was just time.
"How about a trip?" I typed back.
And just like that, Meghalaya happened.
On April 29, 2023, I, along with 11 of my closest friends and their little ones, boarded a flight to Meghalaya. The land where clouds kissed the hills, waterfalls whispered ancient secrets and every winding road led to an adventure.
A Day Trip to Kaziranga
Our journey began in Kaziranga National Park. As soon as we entered the park, the air felt different. It was indeed purer and wilder. It seemed as if we had stepped into a different world, one where one-horned rhinos roamed freely and the forests hummed with a melody of birdsong.
The jeep safari that we took during sunrise was absolutely magical. As we drove through the mist-laden grasslands, our voices dropped to whispers, surprised by the majesty of the creatures that called this place home.
"Look! Rhino!" shouted Aarav, my friend’s seven-year-old, bouncing in excitement.
And there it was - a magnificent beast, standing tall against the golden glow of dawn, completely unbothered by our presence. It felt surreal, watching the prehistoric-looking giant move gracefully through the tall elephant grass.
The jungle was alive with sounds - the distant call of birds, the rustling of leaves as a family of deer moved past, and the occasional grunt of wild buffalo.
Later, we also immersed ourselves in Assamese culture at an orchid garden, where we watched vibrant dance performances under a starlit sky. The kids clapped along, and for the first time in ages, I felt the simple joy of being in the moment.
It was Indeed the Land of Waterfalls and Wonders
The next morning, we set off for Shillong, the Scotland of the East. The drive itself was an experience, with endless hills, mist rolling over pine trees, and Umiam Lake shimmering under the afternoon sun.
But it was in Cherrapunjee where Meghalaya truly revealed its magic.
We trekked through the dense forest to Wei Sawdong Falls, a surreal three-tiered cascade.
"How can a place be this perfect?" one of my college friends murmured in surprise.
From there, we marvelled at Nohkalikai Falls, stood at the edge of Mawkdok Dympep Viewpoint, and explored the dark mysteries of Mawsmai and Arwah Caves. Time seemed to slip away as we moved from one wonder to the next.
And the best part? We did not feel like tourists - we were explorers, seekers of stories and moments that would stay with us forever.
The Trek That Changed Everything
On the fourth day, we faced our greatest challenge: the trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat.
"3,000 steps down means 3,000 steps back up," our guide reminded us with a smile.
I looked at the kids - tiny warriors with boundless energy - and then at my friends, some already fearing the return journey.
"No turning back now," I said, and we began the descent.
The trek was tough but breathtaking as we crossed swaying suspension bridges and shallow streams, finally arriving at the ancient living bridge woven from tree roots. It stood there as a testament to time, nature, and resilience.
The kids splashed in the emerald pools, and their laughter echoed through the valley while we sat there, catching our breath and soaking in the beauty and silence.
That day, something shifted. Besides travelling, it was all about proving to ourselves that we were still capable of adventure, pushing limits, and experiencing life beyond routine.
A Farewell Under the Sunset Sky
Our final days at Meghalaya were a tornado of beauty: boating in the crystal-clear waters of Dawki, walking through Mawlynnong, and witnessing the raw power of Krang Suri Waterfalls.
On our last evening in Guwahati, we took a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River. As the golden hues of the setting sun reflected on the water, we sat together, thinking about the past week.
Raising his glass, one of my friends said, "This trip was a reminder of who we used to be - and who we still are."
I looked around at my friends, at their kids, at the bond that had only grown stronger with time. We had come to Meghalaya seeking adventure, but we were left with something far more precious - memories, laughter, and a renewed sense of self.
As the boat gently swayed, I closed my eyes and whispered to myself, "We should do this more often."
Because if there is one thing Meghalaya taught me, it is that life is too short for ‘SOMEDAY.’
So, the time to live is NOW.
Read more: Thrillophilia Meghalaya Reviews