Northeast Odyssey
The land of cascading waterfalls, intriguing caves, rolling plans and incessant rains – Meghalaya, literally meaning the ‘abode of clouds’, is home to the legendary Garo, Khasi and Jaintia tribes. Formerly a part of Assam, it gained statehood as part of the Indian Union in 1972. Spread over an area of 22, 429 square kilometres, the state is bounded by Assam to the north and Bangladesh to the west.
A much loved destination for writers and music lovers alike, the capital city, Shillong, is where Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore chose for his many sojourns, while author Nirad C Choudhuri mentioned extensively in his book The Autobiography of an Unknown Indian’. In fact, today, Shillong is the music capital of Northeast with many home-grown singers and rock bands making it a lively state. It has hosted some of the major rock concerts held in the recent past by international groups and artistes like MLTR, Scorpions, Air Supply, Eric Martin and Petra. It is also home to one of the most natural and largest courses in Asia, the Gleneagles of the East.
A favourite day-trip destination for locals and tourists alike – the beauty of Cherrapunjee cannot be absorbed in just half a day. Polo Orchid Resort came up with a luxurious stay option that maximises the experience of this destination like no other.
Book one of the cozy cottages that sit on the literal edge of a cliff and overlook the most magnificent cascading waterfalls. During monsoon months, when the Seven Sister Waterfall is at its full glory, there is magic in the air. Mist swirls all around, and the sound of gurgling water can put anyone out of their deepest troubles – even if for a few days.
The five-star resort lies amid tranquility and seclusion, but it still offers all the comfort and splendour of any upscale property you can name. Nothing can beat the calmness of taking a dip in their rooftop infinity pool while looking over at the verdant green valley below. What’s more - Polo Orchid Resort is its own little hamlet offering up a wide selection of accommodation options for travellers – from cottages and log huts to villas and suites.
These modern and stylish cottages have en-suite bathrooms fitted with bathtubs, and an adjoining balcony that boasts of awe-inspiring views of Cherrapunjee. One night here will have you feeling like you are in the lap of luxury, even as pristine and natural wonders surround you.
Price: Starts from INR 12,480/- per night
The standard Rainforest Suites are fitted with all basic amenities such as air-conditioning, heater, television, minibar, and more. Sit back and relax in the jacuzzi, whilst watching the calm serenity that is right outside your window.
Price: Starts from INR 12,800/- per night
The spacious Villa is undoubtedly named after the clouds of mist that envelopes the entire property. You will feel right at home in this luxe setting – if only home were as close to dreamy hills and waterfalls! Wake up to breathtaking views right from your comfy bed. If not for the beautiful sights that await, you would not want to leave these homely rooms that are full of kitschy yet modern furniture.
Price: Starts from INR 16,800/- per night
The search for the ultimate experience ends here. Polo Orchid Resort’s Log Hut has the rustic charm and coziness of a log hut in the middle of a mystical fairyland. Made of real wood, these rooms are elegant and welcoming, sophisticated and guileless, all at once. A private plunge pool allows guests to sit back and enjoy a warm dip as nobody but the scenic mountains watch.
Price: Starts from INR 16,960/- per night
Sohra House, named after the local name for Cherrapunjee, takes a page out of Sohra’s colonial past – it attempts to emanate the feeling of the British-era bungalows that were once commonplace in this erstwhile capital of Assam. A courtyard and cliffside dining space allow guests to listen to the pitter-patter of frequent rains and the gushing of waterfalls as piping hot meals come through the kitchen doors. The chefs are adept at preparing meals of the intercontinental and oriental fare. Since authenticity and oneness with the North-East is the theme, you may choose to try dishes off the local menu that consist of hearty curries starring fish and pork.
For an intimate evening of fine wine and an eclectic choice of snacks, head on to the Sky Grill – an open-air restaurant that lets you dine under the stars. An impressive menu of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages aside, you can order the perfect accompaniments of the oriental or tandoor-ed kind.
Cherrapunjee’s waterfalls steal the limelight even with the plethora of natural wonders that surround the area. Thousand-year-old caves and the living root bridge are must-sees in these parts. Most of the best sights can only be accessed at the end of challenging treks and winding paths, so it is best to inquire at the front desk for relevant resources.
Seven Sisters Falls: The property overlooks this stunning Nohsngithiang Falls (also known as the Seven Sisters Waterfalls or Mawsmai Falls). It is a seven-segmented waterfall and is one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Water gushing down from a height of 1,033 ft over the Khasi Hills, is indeed a sight to behold.
Mawsmai Cave: Mawsmai Cave is 1.5 km from the property. A series of underground caves composed of stalactites and stalagmites make for an interesting view. There is a short hike through the forest to reach the main entrance of the cave. This hike takes you through some stunning views of the valley that is full of waterfalls during monsoons, and an occasional café playing local Khasi music.
Nohkalikai: The strategic location of the property comes handy as it overlooks the Nohkalikai Falls. This is the tallest plunge waterfall in India. Below the falls is a plunge pool with unusual green-colored water often luring enough for travellers to dive in and dip themselves.
Dainthlen Falls: Dainthlen is one of the most powerful sights you will come across in Cherapunjee. Gushing waterfall that cuts through the hard rocks and the high plateau of Sohra before it cascades down into lush forests. It is also a culturally significant place for the Khasi tribe. The Dainthlen Falls is a straight drop of around 80 metres. The viewpoint is on either side of the falls so you can see its natural splendour from up close behind the safety of a railing.
Living Root Bridge: A living root bridge is formed by guiding the pliable roots of the Ficus elastica tree across a stream or river, and then allowing the roots to grow and strengthen over time until they can hold the weight of a human being. Walk on it and feel a sense of achievement if you have come all the way here.
Arwah Cave: The caves are made of fossils largely formed by the Molluscs. The formation is said to be over 56 million years old and is a part of the evolution. The entrance to Arwah Cave is straight out of the Arabian Nights, a large sunken chamber that leads to a complex set of caverns. Arwah cave is of Meghalaya’s most famous caves and is pretty accessible to regular visitors. It is famous for its fossils which you can observe in the lit-up interiors, especially towards the end of the cave. You will find crustacean shells and fish bones fossilized in the limestone walls of the cave.
This resort in Cherrapunjee is 83 km away from Shillong Airport. It is about 4 hours and 40 minutes away from Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi Airport in Guwahati. The nearest railway station, Guwahati Railway Station, is about 4 hours and 20 minutes away from the property.
The White Orchid Guest House is a homely, comfortable place to bunk in.What with its spacious rooms well stocked with amenities like a kettle for hot tea and coffee, a television and a room heater for the chilly evenings. Located conveniently close to the central market area, Police Bazar, it is a short walk away from a ton of things for you to catch up on during the day. In case you need some directions, the staff is more than happy to provide them and a guide as well.
If you’re visiting Shillong and looking for a great place to unwind, this guest house should be on your list.
Room Tip
Dining
Breakfast is served on request
Location
Shilling Hotel for White Orchid, Upper Lachaumiere, Shillong - 793001
Contact
“Why stay in an ordinary hotel when you can have a home?”
This is what the Shillong Hill Guest House asks you and proceeds to show you exactly how staying with them is much, much better than staying anywhere else. Located at one of the most prime locations, the guest house overlooks most of Shillong and has a view to kill for. Especially in the evening when the entire city lights up brilliantly.
The food is always served up hot and with love and the chef is more than happy to belt out any personal requests of the guests as well. The hosts are very friendly and the staff have been trained to extend the same hospitality to the guests. In addition, the hotel is located far enough from the market area to make it a peaceful location and close enough to be very easily accessible on foot or by public transport.
Room Tip
All rooms are spacious and beautifully done up. Choose from any and remember to walk up to the roof for a look-see over the city.
Location
Upper New Colony, Laitumkhrah, Shillong, Meghalaya – 793003.
Contact
It is for no other reason that all guests who have stayed at The Pear Tree rave so much about their stay. The warmth is unmatched. Run with passion, every care is taken by the owner to ensure comfort and hygiene. This charming bed and breakfast unit is set a little ways off the busy streets of the main Police Bazar; the Pear Tree offers a lot of peace and quiet to its guests. Its homely setup and warm décor really redefines the perfect vacation. With only five rooms to cater for, the staff and the owner are able to give a lot of personal attention to each guest. Each room has been equipped with amenities like a TV, running hot water, a kettle for hot water and beveragesto make their guests’ stay more comfortable. There is also free Wi-Fi for those who are looking for some more entertainment and free parking for those who swing by in their own vehicles.
The Pear Tree has a beautifulpear tree in the backyard! The picture book kind of tree that bears some of the most perfect pears you would have ever seen. Don’t forget to grab a couple of pictures when you get to see the tree in full bloom!
While the distance from the main market can be a slight deterrent to explorers, one could simply request a transport to be arranged, at the reception and it shall be taken care of.
Dining
Breakfast is available on order
Location
Lachumiere, Shillong, Meghalaya - 793001
Contact
Tucked somewhere in between the modern era and the old world charm, the Habitat is a luxurious property in the hills of Shillong. With large rooms done up in antiques, conference halls and banquets and state- of- the- art modern luxuries, the hotel attracts many guests in their halls.There is attention to detail and very thoughtfully, guests love the array of entertainment accessible for them. From a well-stocked library to the surrounding greenery to a well equipped kitchen, the Habitat redefines hospitality.
A pleasant stay all year round, the property also has a lavish gift shop that is the best place to pick up some trinkets and souvenirs to keep the memories of the hills alive. This shop has been setup to support the local artisans who receive the proceeds from all the purchases made here.
Location
Asian Confluence Centre, Lady Veronica Lane, Laitumkhrah, Shillong – 793003, Meghalaya, India
Contact
Hotel Rosaville is a wonderful old property surrounded by a lush green lawn, bright flowers and towering pine trees. The real USP of this property is its neo-Colonial style appeal that’s been hosting guests from around the world. While it is not located near the main city centre, it is close enough to basic amenities like ATMs, small restaurants and easy transport for the local tourist attractions. The staff and the neighborhood dog are very good with the guests and the setup is the closest you would get to a home away from home experience.
The meals are delicious and always served up with love. But do remember that it gets cold at night so you could carry some warm socks and request for some blankets to snuggle up under!
Room Tip
Rooms number 4 and 7 are the best Deluxe rooms.
Location
Lawjynrieu,Upper Nongthymmai, Shillong, Meghalaya 793014
Contact
Inspired by the Khasi traditions, RiKynjai literally means ‘Serenity by the Lake’ and oh what serenity it is!
Born of these age old traditions, the hotel is also done up in Khasi thatch huts which are at once able to handle all the weather elements amazingly. The hotel offers privacy and peace to those who wish to get away from urban life. For the more adventurous, there are treks to two famous peaks in the surrounding hills or if nothing that taxing, then the expansive grounds are more than enough to tour around on. While there, don’t miss their rejuvenating spa therapies which have been drawing guests from all over the world to experience the ancient Khasi treatments.
Simple, understated luxury is embodied by the RiKynjai. Do stop over for a step into their perfect version of a dreamland.
Location
UminiuhKhwan, UCC Road, RiBhoi District, Shillong – 793103, India
Contact
Headed by the Meghalayan government, the Pinewood Hotel is a class apart in elegance and luxury. The added advantage of being located close to the bus terminal, airport and railway station, makes this hotel even more popular. The rooms are spacious and loaded with all the modern amenities to make your stay super comfortable.
With a banquet hall and a board room, the hotel is well equipped to cater to a multitude of personal and professional gatherings. Other amenities like a well-equipped gym, a health club, a doctor on-call 24 hours and travel assistance ensures that you are very well taken care of and can actually spend all your time unwinding indoors. If you choose to explore the city, the hotel is also located close enough to the Police Bazar to warrant a visit.
Dining
You ask for it and they have it! The hotel dishes out a scrumptious breakfast and a great selection from Indian, Chinese and continental cuisine.
Location
European Ward, Rita Road, Shillong – 793001, Meghalaya, India.
Contact
Located a little further away from the city centre, the Pine Hill Homestay is tucked away in a peaceful little corner of Shillong. Equipped with four fully furnished rooms and attached washrooms, this homestay is well equipped to handle a maximum of 12 guests, comfortably. The host couple is extremely hospitable and is available nearly 24 hours a day to service their guests.
All the rooms are located away from the street and allow the guest the basic luxuries of peace and privacy. They are also equipped with basic modern amenities and allow pets within their premises.
The distance from the city centre can be a bit daunting if you don’t have a mode of transport to fall back on but the hosts are most helpful and provide maps and directions on request.
Room Tip
Smoking is allowed in all rooms.
Location
Pine Hill Homestay
Lovely Residence, Mawnianglah,
7th Mile, Upper Shillong,
Pincode - 793 009,
Meghalaya, India,
Near Elephant Falls, H.Q. Air Force Eastern Air Command
Contact
The Orchid Lake Resort has long captivated its guests with its beautiful view of the Umiam Lake in the Ri-Bhoi district of Shillong. The 24-eoom resort sits pretty by the Lake also known as Barapani, which used to be a lovely picnic spot for people in Shillongwho would turn up with their tiffins. Not so today, as they now dine in conveniently at the resort. Run by the Meghalaya Tourism Department, the resort one of the best places you could choose to simply unwind and soak in nature’s unmarred glory.
Whether you’re looking a place to spend a romantic weekend or one where you can watch your stress melting away or even one where you want to give your camera some exercise, this hotel should definitely be on your Top 3 list of choices.
Location
Umiam, Ri Bhoi District, Barapani, Shillong, Meghalaya - 793103
Contact
A home away from home, the Lakkhotaa Lodge has a knack of teaching you all about love at first sight. Step into the hotel and be enveloped by the warmth of the staff and the décor of the hotel. Oscillating somewhere between North-East and Red Indian, the entire setup is sure to blow you away. As if that isn’t enough, the chef puts such mouthwatering delicacies on the table that your stay would turn into an unending food fest as well! You can request for food to be delivered to the room if you decide to just stay in and catch up on some much needed rest.
While the connectivity could be a bit of an issue, a word at the reception desk could take care of this concern pretty well. That is, if you don’t have your own vehicle. If you do, then parking is available as well.
Don’t miss an opportunity to witness what great hospitality looks like and do visit the Lakkhotaa Lodge.
Location
Mawpun, near Golf Club, Polo Hills, Shillong, Meghalay - 793001
Contact
A charming vintage lodge tucked away in a lovely corner of Shillong, the La-Chaumiere house is recommended for someone looking to get away from life’s mad rush. With sizeable rooms equipped to make the chilly evenings comfortable, the lodge beckons to all weary travelers. This was where visiting British community once retreated to every summer for their annual holiday. The place still retains that old-world charm and since it has been tastefully refurbished, there is no way guests wouldn’t love it. Some of the best features of the place are its manicured lawns, seasonal flowers lovingly nurtured, wooden interiors that exude warmth and the whispering pine trees around the property.
Public transport is available at a good price right outside the main gate.
Room Tip
Opt for the rooms on the upper level for a more beautiful view out of your window.
Dining
The vegetarian delicacies are not to be missed.
Location
Upper La-Chaumiere, East Khasi Hills district, Opposite Kommrah Limestone Ltd, Shillong - 793001
Contact
True to its name, the Hotel Centre Point is locate bang in the centre of the city of Shillong. An unassuming exterior hides a cozy and comfortable interior. The staff is extremely professional and honest which is one of the reasons why the hotel is so popular amongst the tourists. Shopping and sightseeing are very easily done as the market place is right outside the hotel gate. Transport is also very easily available and can be arranged soon enough from the reception.
Do visit this highly recommended hotel in Shillong and bask in its gentle hospitality for a perfect vacation.
Room Tip
Do ask for a room off the street as the traffic can get a bit noisy during the day. Also, the rooms on the upper floors have a better view of the city.
Dining
The breakfast menu is a little limited but scrumptious nonetheless. The restaurant is comparatively more pricey as compared to other restaurants but well worth the expense.
Location
Police Bazar (Khyndailad)
Shillong 793001
Meghalaya
Contact
Nearly a century old, the Highwinds hotel is almost like a step back in time, to the British Era. Located in the foothills of the evergreen pine forests that surround Shillong, the hotel affords a little slice of nature right in the middle of civilization. Despite being an old property, the entire setup is very well maintained and the little bits that may have been left out all come together and make the place even more charming.
The staff works hard to ensure the comfort and safety of the guests. Smoking on campus is not discouraged and alcohol is not served either. The hotel is located quite close to the Shillong city centre and offers plenty of opportunities for guests to explore, such as, the Lady Hydari Park and the Crinoline Swimming Pool.
Dining
The breakfast is included in the room rent. Dinner is generally served in the rooms.
Room Tip
Since the evenings tend to get a little chilly, the rooms are equipped with room heaters, 24 hours running water and an electric kettle for hot beverages.
Location
Pine Mount Ridge, Near Lady Hydari Park, Opposite Pine Mount School, Barik, Shillong, Meghalaya-793001
Contact
Guests who stay at Dew Drop In will get a sense of the place and the warm hospitality that is a part of life in the Northeast. The homestay is lovingly run to cater to the need of weary travellers looking for relaxation and serenity. The homely feel is striking right from the gate as flowers and potted plants greet you as if you are home. In that sense, Dew Drop In is a quaint little home away from home. Done up lovingly in wood, bright colours and whimsical décor, the BnB is a clean and peaceful getaway for vacationers. A short couple of steps onto the rooftop offer a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the city of Shillong and of the snow-capped peaks of the grand Himalayas.
The hostess and her Lady Friday, the housekeeping lady adds their own charm and warmth to the entire place. They’re always willing to lend a helping hand to the guests or just join them for a chat on the rooftop with the ethereal view.
Room Tip
Select the rooms in the front of the house that look onto the city of Shillong.
Dining
The restaurant offers a limited menu but all the selections are quite delicious, especially the local dishes.
Location
Dew Drop In, Lumsohphoh (Road to Buddhist Monastery), Lumparing, Shillong, Meghalaya 793004
Contact
Café Shillong BnB is an old refurbished bungalow restored to provide a total of seven rooms to prospective guests. The entire building has been done up in tasteful woodwork and exudes an endearing old world charm. Despite this, guests are made to feel warm and comfortable with modern room heaters and allowed to connect to the rest of the world with the hotel Wi-Fi. These amenities are in addition to the many others that are available for the guests.
The staff at the front desk is keen on helping out with directions, city maps as well as transport like taxis, which can be arranged easily, on request. The hotel is located at an easy distance from some interesting tourist attractions like Mawsynram, Spread Eagle Falls and the Don Bosco Museum.
Room Tip
Request rooms in the old bungalow instead of the new building. They are more spacious and offer more privacy. The rooms on the porch face small tea gardens which are a treat to the eyes.
Dining
Breakfast is included in the room rent but there is no provision for dining in the hotel. They order in from Café Shillong so you would need to give them at least an hour’s notice. The food is quite delicious and definitely worth the wait.
Location
31, Lower Lachumiere, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001
Contact
An understated old bungalow, the Bo Ville homestay has been beautifully refurbished by the owners and tuned into a homestay. Located off the Shillong city Centre this homestay welcomes all travelers to rest their weary feet in its comfortable setup. Surrounded by lush green forests and overlooking a lake, guests have a wonderful opportunity to get away from the mad world and get a breather. The lack of Wi-Fi also helps. Yes, you heard it right. No Wi-Fi. But that need not be a reason for you to give this little gem a skip.
The rooms have been equipped with all the modern amenities one could possibly want, including a television, running hot water and kettles for hot beverages. The staff is extremely eager to help and the kitchen belts out some fabulous food.
So take a break, make the right choice and come stay at the Bo Ville Homestay.
Location
Opposite St. Xavier’s School, Upper Nongthymmai, Shillong
Contact
Not on a shoe string budget? Then visit the Blueberry Inn and revel in the lap of luxury. Packed to the rafters with the modern amenities like flat screen televisions, refrigerators and wi-fis, their rooms are aesthetically pleasing and have large windows that allow you to bask in the gentle sunshine that seeps in. They also come equipped with room heaters which are a blessing in the chilly nights. The hotel is also located a short walk from the Shillong City Centre and the beautiful Ward’s Lake which means that tourists can just step out (in sensible shoes) and walk around a bit to soak in the sights.
The spacious parking bays and dormitories for drivers make it a convenient place to park vehicles. In addition, the staff of the hotel is extremely professional and well trained. They are more than equipped to handle a large guest list and very eager to do so.
Dining
The hotel serves up a variety of cuisines but their Mughlai dishes are well worth the taste. However, guests who are planning to sleep in might need to wake up a tad early as breakfast closes a little early.
Location
Rita Road, Opp Wards Lake, Shillong, Meghalaya 793001
Contact
Heritage is intertwined into every aspect of the Heritage Club, given that the property is owned and overseen by the young Maharaja of Tripura in person.Caution, however, is to be vigilant while driving since you can easily miss the signage as you drive from the bustling city, up the narrow winding road into an oasis of peace.
A wooden stairway leads to three well-appointed rooms which are designed by the Maharaja himself. Generous use of wood imparts the feel of a plushhome-style accommodation that exudes warmth. The spacious rooms open to a veranda overlooking a manicured lawn, and then a stretch of hills covered in lush pine trees.
The Heritage Club has a lounge bar that offers you the choicest brands of spirits, comfortable seating, good music and a good spread. Foodies love it for the exhaustive choice on offer: a mix of Continental, Chinese and Indian cuisine. Unwind with family and friends, or browse through the many treasures from the Maharaja’s personal collection that are on display. It’s not every property that offers personally signed memorabilia by a wide array of people from Adolf Hitler, Mussolini, Rabindranath Tagore, Franklin Roosevelt, Axl Rose, Mike Tyson, Messi and Ronaldo! You will probably also rub shoulders with the who’s who of Shillong who are Members of the Club.Membership is only on an invitation by the Maharaja himself. And if being indoors is not for you, step out into the lawns and enjoy the outdoors. Catch some sun or play pool. The personal touch from every staff is what makes the The Heritage Club the obvious choice when in town.
The Heritage Club, Tripura Castle, Tripura Castle Road, Cleve Colony, Shillong, Meghalaya - 793003. Dial: +91-364-2505516
It’s a family home lovingly transformed into a guesthouse retaining all the warmth of a home. A Jaguar perpetually parked in the front driveway only adds to the charm of the place. Guests who come from all over the world love it for the sheer ambience that’s coupled with hospitable and efficient service. Set in the heart of Shillong, the cottage is surrounded by plants, fruit trees, orchids and many blooming seasonal flowers all through the year.
Personalized service under the supervision of owner Sharlene who leaves nothing to chance is perhaps the defining character of the place. Minute little details are important to ensure comfort and aesthetic appeal. The handcrafted beds in all the five well-appointed rooms that come with crisp yet soft cotton linen are inviting. Whether it is the home cooked meals complete with wholesome breakfast, freshly-baked cookies with tea that’s served either in the garden or the spacious balcony if not in the dining room only heightens the experience. The in-house library, wireless Internet on demand and a wellness studio ensure guests have plenty of options.
Conveniently located in the prime area of town, guests can ramble around the local market and go shopping. Those looking to explore the hidden sights of Shillong and beyond can rely on Sharlene who specializes in customizing programmes and activities to the unknown spots of Meghalaya.
It’s a royal retreat built by the then Maharaj of Tripura, Maharaja Bir Bikram in the early 1920s. Since then it was used as the summer retreat of the Maharajas of the Manikya dynasty of Tripura. In 2003, the young and visionary Maharaj Bir Bikram Manikya Deb Burman, the present Maharaj of Tripura, converted it into the region’s first heritage hotel. Royal Heritage - Tripura Castle naturally transports you to an old-world charm. It’s tucked away in the midst of thick pine trees and bamboo groves and the sprawling nine-acre forest is dotted with exotic orchids and the rose garden has a tunnel opening into it that dates back to World War II. Seeped in history, each room reflect a past glory with warm wood interiors, brass fireplaces and art deco furniture. Art work, antique collection and photographs by the royal family sum up the décor. The most sought-after Maharaja suite boasts of an old writing desk used by Rabindranath Tagore during his many sojourns. A well-equipped conference hall, multi-cuisine dining room, tea lounge, Mezzanine Bar, billiard room and a therapy centre with holistic and indigenous herbal treatment feature in the property.
Website:www.royalheritageshillong.com
