Guwahati to Cherrapunji Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Guwahati to Cherrapunji? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 150km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Guwahati to Cherrapunji
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 4h 30m | ₹1,433 Fuel & Tolls |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹155 – ₹452 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹214 – ₹1,656 |
How to Travel: Guwahati to Cherrapunji
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
By Train
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
By Bus
Budget travel, multiple stops
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 150km journey, driving is your best option. The 4h 30m drive gives you flexibility to stop at attractions along the way and explore at your own pace.
Before You Leave Guwahati
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Masor Tenga - A sour fish curry made with tenga (a local souring agent). Try it at Paradise Restaurant.
- local_dining Khar - A dish made with an alkaline extract from banana peels. Try it at a traditional Assamese restaurant.
- local_dining Pitha - Rice cakes, often sweet. Try them at local sweet shops during Bihu.
Paradise Restaurant • Chandmari
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Guwahati to Cherrapunji route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Shillong
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is a charming hill station often called the 'Scotland of the East'. Known for its rolling hills, pleasant climate, and vibrant music scene, Shillong offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
attractions Top Attractions
Don Bosco Museum of Indigenous Cultures
A seven-story museum showcasing the culture and traditions of Northeast India. It features exhibits on art, artifacts, clothing, and lifestyle of the indigenous people.
Elephant Falls
A popular waterfall named after a rock that resembled an elephant, which was destroyed in an earthquake. The falls consist of three successive falls set in picturesque surroundings.
Ward's Lake
A beautiful artificial lake surrounded by gardens and walking paths. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Jadoh - Rice cooked with pork blood and spices (try it at Trattoria)
Dawki
Dawki is a small town in Meghalaya, India, famous for the Umngot River. The river is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, making boats appear to float on glass during the dry season.
attractions Top Attractions
Umngot River Boating
The main attraction is boating on the crystal-clear Umngot River. You can see the riverbed clearly from the boat, making it seem like you are floating on glass.
India-Bangladesh Border
Dawki is situated right on the border between India and Bangladesh. You can visit the border crossing and see the neighboring country.
Mawlynnong Village (Asia's Cleanest Village)
Mawlynnong is known as Asia's Cleanest Village. The village is immaculately maintained by its residents.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Jadoh - Rice cooked with pork blood, a Khasi delicacy (try at local restaurants in Mawlynnong).
Top Attractions in Cherrapunji: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Cherrapunji, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
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Nohkalikai Falls
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹20 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners) • 🕐 08:00-17:00 dailyNohkalikai Falls is one of the tallest plunge waterfalls in India, cascading from a height of over 340 meters. The water plunges into a lagoon of turquoise water below.
Best Time to Visit: Morning - for clear views before the mist sets in
💡 Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and to get the best views before the mist rolls in.
-
Double Decker Living Root Bridge (Nongriat)
⏱ 5-6 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open all dayThe Double Decker Living Root Bridge is a unique bio-engineering marvel created by the Khasi tribe. It's formed by training the roots of rubber trees to grow across a stream.
Best Time to Visit: Morning - to avoid the midday heat and crowds
💡 Insider Tip: Stay overnight in Nongriat village to fully appreciate the experience and to avoid the long trek back in one day.
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Mawsmai Cave
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) • 🕐 09:00-17:00 dailyMawsmai Cave is a well-maintained limestone cave with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. It's one of the most accessible caves in the region.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of day
💡 Insider Tip: Be mindful of your head in the lower sections of the cave.
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Seven Sisters Falls (Nohsngithiang Falls)
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open all dayThe Seven Sisters Falls, also known as Nohsngithiang Falls, is a cluster of seven waterfalls cascading side by side. It's a spectacular sight during the monsoon season.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon - when the sun is more likely to be visible
💡 Insider Tip: Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the falls may be obscured by mist on cloudy days.
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Thangkharang Park
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) • 🕐 08:00-17:00 dailyThangkharang Park offers stunning views of the Bangladesh plains and the Khoh Ramhah rock formation. It's a well-maintained park with walking trails and viewpoints.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of day
💡 Insider Tip: Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park.
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Wakaba Falls
⏱ 2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open all dayWakaba Falls is a lesser-known but beautiful waterfall near Cherrapunji. It offers a more secluded and peaceful experience than the more popular waterfalls.
Best Time to Visit: Morning
💡 Insider Tip: Ask locals for directions, as the trail can be difficult to find.
Where to Eat in Cherrapunji: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Cherrapunji
Don't leave Cherrapunji without tasting these local specialties:
- Jadoh - Rice cooked with pork blood and spices (try at local Khasi restaurants)
- Dohkhlieh - Pork salad with onions, chillies, and ginger
- Nakham Bitchi - Dried fish soup
- Pumaloi - Steamed rice powder
- Tungrymbai - Fermented soybeans with spices
Recommended Restaurants in Cherrapunji
Orange Roots
Indian, Chinese • ₹₹ (₹500-800 for two)
Specialty: Indian Thali
Offers decent food with a focus on Indian and Chinese cuisine. A popular choice for tourists.
📍 Cherrapunji town
Polo Orchid Restaurant
Multi-cuisine • ₹₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two)
Specialty: Buffet
Offers a wide range of dishes in a luxurious setting. Known for its excellent buffet spread.
📍 Polo Orchid Resort
Cherrapunji Holiday Resort Restaurant
Khasi, Indian, Continental • ₹₹ (₹600-900 for two)
Specialty: Khasi Platter
Serves authentic Khasi dishes along with Indian and Continental cuisine. Offers a pleasant dining experience with scenic views.
📍 Cherrapunji Holiday Resort
Sohra Plaza Restaurant
Multi-cuisine • ₹₹₹ (₹900-1500 for two)
Specialty: Grilled dishes
Provides a fine dining experience with a wide range of cuisines. Known for its grilled dishes and excellent service.
📍 Sohra Plaza
Where to Stay in Cherrapunji: Accommodation Options
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
By The Way Homestay
Price: ₹800-1500/night
Location: Cherrapunji town
Simple and clean rooms with basic amenities. Offers a comfortable stay at an affordable price.
Coniferous Resort
Price: ₹1000-2000/night
Location: Near Sohra market
Provides decent rooms with essential facilities. A good option for budget-conscious travelers.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Cherrapunji Holiday Resort
Price: ₹3000-5000/night
Location: Laitkynsew
Offers comfortable rooms with scenic views. Has a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
Polo Orchid Resort
Price: ₹4000-6000/night
Location: Sohra
Features well-appointed rooms with modern amenities. Offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
Sohra Plaza
Price: ₹6000+/night
Location: Near main market
Offers luxurious rooms with top-notch facilities. Known for excellent service and hospitality.
Jiva Resort
Price: ₹7000+/night
Location: Nongkroh
Provides a serene and luxurious stay amidst nature. Features spacious rooms and a range of amenities.
Best Time to Travel from Guwahati to Cherrapunji
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Cherrapunji:
Best Time: October to May
Temperature: 15-25 degrees C
Weather: Pleasant weather with less rainfall. Clearer skies make it ideal for sightseeing and trekking.
Why Visit: This is the dry season, offering the best conditions for exploring waterfalls and living root bridges. Trekking routes are safer and more accessible. The views are less likely to be obstructed by mist and rain.
Important Note: This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. Book accommodations and transport in advance.
Shoulder Season: June and September
Temperature: 18-28 degrees C
Weather: Moderate rainfall, with occasional clear days. The landscape is lush and green.
Why Visit: The waterfalls are at their fullest, creating a spectacular sight. There are fewer tourists compared to the peak season, offering a more peaceful experience.
Important Note: Rain can still disrupt travel plans. Be prepared for slippery trekking conditions.
Avoid: July to August
Temperature: 20-30 degrees C
Weather: Extremely heavy rainfall, with potential for landslides. Visibility is often poor due to thick mist.
Why Visit: Avoid visiting during these months due to the incessant rainfall. Trekking is dangerous, and many outdoor activities are impossible.
Important Note: Some accommodations may be closed during this period. Travel can be severely disrupted.
Practical Travel Tips for Cherrapunji
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: Limited availability. Carry sufficient cash.
Payment Methods: Cash is preferred. Cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Expected in local markets and with taxi drivers.
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and stalls. Avoid street food that looks unhygienic.
Common Health Issues: Altitude sickness, stomach upset. Carry necessary medications.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio have good coverage. Buy a local SIM card at Guwahati Airport.
WiFi Availability: Available in some hotels and restaurants.
👕 What to Wear
Pack light, quick-drying clothes. Carry rain gear, including a waterproof jacket and umbrella. Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots.
Frequently Asked Questions: Guwahati to Cherrapunji
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