The Reflection of the Rainclouds: Samyami’s Meghalaya Trip with Thrillophilia
“In the silence of the hills, where the clouds whisper secrets, the soul finds its melody.”
For Samyami, the news of her best friend’s upcoming marriage was a moment of joy and nostalgia, but it also stirred a bittersweet realisation. A chapter of their carefree friendship was coming to an end. Before she started her new life, she had the desire for one unforgettable adventure together - something meaningful, something memorable.
When her friend casually suggested Meghalaya, it felt like the perfect idea. The idea of exploring the “abode of clouds” struck a chord, promising both adventure and fulfilment. “Let us make it count,” her friend had said with a smile, and with that, their plan was set.
The hills were calling, and they were ready to answer.
To the Blissful ambience of Shillong
As their cab wound its way up the pine-fringed roads leading to Shillong, a quiet thrill covered Samyami and her best friend. Often called the “Scotland of the East,” the city revealed itself before them with its rolling hills, charming cottages, and a sky painted in hues of blue and white. For two souls seeking solace and celebration, Shillong gave them a perfect start.
Their first stop - Phan Nongliat Park - welcomed them with a melodious tune of rustling leaves and birdsong. Sunlight filtered through a canopy of trees to create patterns that danced on the ground. The two strolled happily, snapping photos and indulging in laughter that felt lighter here. It was as if the park whispered to them, “Pause, breathe, and savour the moment.”
Later, they were caught in surprise at Elephant Falls, where the water cascaded down rough rocks in a dazzling display of nature’s artistry. The cool mist touched their cheeks as they leaned in for a closer look.
As dusk fell, the city came alive in a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds. Wandering through the vibrant streets of Shillong, they tasted tangy Jadoh and steaming momos while raising a quiet toast to friendship over cups of tea.
A Test of Strength
The next day brought a challenge as daunting as it was exhilarating - a trek to the legendary Double Decker Root Bridge in Nongriat. From Tyrna Village, the trail descended 3,500 steps, weaving through lush green hills and lined with wildflowers. The descent tested their limits, with each step echoing of effort and deliberation.
When they reached the bridge, it was like stepping into another world. Crafted from the living roots of rubber trees, the bridge was both an undertaking of natural engineering and a proof of humans living in harmony with the environment. The crystalline water below glittered in the sunlight and invited them to pause and soak in the serenity.
They crossed the bridge barefoot and felt the cool damp roots beneath their feet. By the stream, they sat in silence and let the soft gurgle of water and the rustle of leaves create a melody unlike any other.
The River of Glass
Their next adventure took them to Dawki, where the Umngot River sparkled like a sheet of emerald glass. As their boat glided silently across the water, the clarity was so surreal that it felt as though they were floating in midair. The rocky riverbed below seemed close enough to touch with bare hands.
The two friends spent hours by the riverside and their laughter was mixed with the gentle sound of the river. They skipped stones, shared stories, and tasted freshly grilled fish from a local vendor. “It tastes as if the hills themselves have flavoured this,” Samyami said, savouring each bite with a smile.
As the sun dipped low and painted the horizon in shades of gold and crimson, they sat on the edge of their boat. “We came here to escape,” her friend reflected, “but we found something much deeper - pieces of ourselves that we ourselves never knew existed.” The quiet truth of those words stayed as a touching reminder of the magic that Meghalaya had revealed inside them.
Simplicity in the Cleanest Village of Asia
Their final day in Meghalaya led them to Mawlynnong, a village celebrated for its pristine beauty. Since it is the cleanest village in Asia, it radiated a charm that went beyond appearances. It was evident in the smiles of the locals, the neatly swept streets, and the ambience of the place.
Climbing the Sky Walk offered them panoramic views of the vast expanse of green valleys stretched before them. It showcased the beauty of the Bangladesh plains in a very marvellous manner.
Before heading back, they visited the enchanting Krang Shuri Waterfalls. The turquoise pool at its base seemed almost enchanting, and they could not resist taking a refreshing dip. As the cool water washed over them, it felt like the perfect end to a memorable journey. “We will always carry this with us,” her friend said softly, the promise as unshakeable as the roots of the hanging bridges that Meghalaya was filled with.
A Poetic Goodbye
On their final evening, as they sat under the starry Shillong sky, Samyami penned a few lines in her journal:
Where clouds embrace the hills so high,
And rivers mirror the endless sky,
Meghalaya’s charm, so pure, so true,
In every breath, it touches you.
As they boarded their flight back home, she looked out of the window and watched the hills fade into the distance. It had been a truly special journey for these friends.
Read More: Thrillophilia Meghalaya Reviews