Hidden Gems

Meghalaya Itinerary

Why Meghalaya is becoming a popular destination for travel in India

When talking about Meghalaya, you are talking about clouds and rain because it is referred to as the Abode of Clouds.” This is a place of cascading waterfalls, clean rivers, and green forests. This northeastern area is now all over Instagram and YouTube to explore. As a traveler, I know, you also want to know why Meghalaya is becoming a sensation on travelers’ bucket lists. Let me convince you that this place is not only about rain or clouds but more. On Instagram, you have seen many places, but in this blog, you will read more other untouched gems of Meghalaya. So let’s go, travel buddy to know unexplored places in Meghalaya to plan a trip here. Unexplored Gems in Meghalaya – Kongthong – The Singing Village In Meghalaya, villages look more beautiful than cities. Kongthong is a village known for the singing village in Meghalaya. In this unique village, residents communicate through whistled tunes. It means villagers have their names with some whistle tunes. I know, you have also seen this village on Instagram. Add this place to experience something new about this place and its people. – Nongkhnum Island Nong Khnum Island, Asia’s second-largest river island, offers pristine beaches and waterfalls. If you are looking for camping and picnics, this place has everything to give. Mawryngkhang Have you seen the most dangerous bamboo trail on the internet? Yes, then Maweynhkhang is the place of the scariest trek in Meghalaya. This bamboo trail offers thrilling views and a cultural connection to the Khasi community. This community has a special cultural heritage where family lineage and inheritance pass through the mother’s side. You have also heard about this place where the groom goes to the bride’s house to live after marriage. You will be shocked to know that most Khasi communities follow Christianity but many of them preserve ancient customs and beliefs. Wari Chora Wari Chora in Meghalaya is a hidden canyon in the South Garo Hills. It is a paradise for adventure seekers. To reach here, you need to do a short trek and enjoy canoe rides through its serene waters. Popular Places to Visit in Meghalaya Shillong Shillong, the capital city, is popularly known as the Scotland of the East. It has everything that you want to explore like waterfalls and rivers. You can visit Umiam Lake for water sports or a peaceful boat ride. The Don Bosco Museum offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Meghalaya. Entry fees for Umiam Lake are around ₹50 per person; meanwhile, the museum charges ₹100. Cherrapunji It is famous for being the wettest place on Earth, Cherrapunji boasts breathtaking waterfalls like Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India. Entry to Nohkalikai Falls costs approximately ₹50. The Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat is another marvel. You need to follow a trek and then reach Nongriat. Dawki – Crystal Clear Waters The Umngot River in Dawki is so clear that boats appear to float on air. A boat ride here costs around ₹500 per person. The nearby Indo-Bangladesh border adds a unique touch to your visit. Mawlynnong As you want to know why Meghalaya is becoming a popular travel destination, this village is the attraction point. It is Asia’s Cleanest Village, a model of cleanliness and sustainability. Explore the Living Root Bridge in Riwai, just a short walk from the village. – Mawsynram – The Wettest Place on Earth Known for its heavy rainfall, Mawsynram is a haven for nature lovers. Visit the Mawjymbuin Cave, which has a natural Shivalinga formation. If you are a spiritual traveler, then you must visit this place, popular on Instagram. Budget to Travel Meghalaya Traveling to Meghalaya can be budget-friendly with proper planning. Such as: Flights to Guwahati (the nearest airport) range from ₹2,000 to ₹6,000. Shared cabs from Guwahati to Shillong cost ₹600–₹1,200 per person. Homestays can cost ₹800–₹1,000 per night, while mid-range hotels are ₹1,500–₹3,000. And talking about the local meals may cost ₹100–₹300 per person. Meghalayan cuisine is a delightful mix of flavors. Must-try dishes include: Jadoh: A rice dish cooked with pork and spices. Doh-Khlieh: A pork salad with onions and chilies. Nakham Bitchi: A tangy fish soup. Pumaloi: Steamed powdered rice, often served during festivals. Pair these dishes with a cup of local tea for an authentic experience. If you want activities on this trip, entry fees and activities like boating or trekking ranges starts from ₹20 to ₹500. A 5-day trip can cost ₹10,000–₹15,000 per person, including transportation, accommodation, food, and activities. It is the best deal to plan an affordable trip to Meghalaya to explore everything. Why Meghalaya is becoming a popular destination Meghalaya’s charm lies in its blend of natural beauty, like waterfalls, clouds, and rain. Whether you are exploring its famous waterfalls, trekking to hidden villages, or learning about its rich culture, Meghalaya offers an unforgettable journey. That’s why you see Meghalaya on your Instagram feed every day. I also want to add that if you are watching these beautiful places on social media, save it and pack your bag to experience every place. If you need an itinerary for this click this and ta-da you have it!

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Kedarkantha trek in Winter

Kheerganga Trek for Beginners: Buckle Up to Add it to Your Bucket List of Treks

If you dream of walking amidst the mountains, but don’t know where to start, the Kheerganga trek is your perfect beginning. This trek shares a beautiful nature vibe in Himachal Pradesh’s Parvati Valley. This trek is not just a trek, but also about the peaceful villages, scenic rivers, sheep & cows from the mountains, and huge forests you’ll cross along the way. Do you also want to explore the Kheerganga Trek to see the mountain from the top? If yes, then this blog is for you to share every detail of how you can safely complete the trek. Read the full blog to understand everything related to the Kheerganga trek for beginners. Don’t miss anything? Where is Kheerganga? Kheerganga is located in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, as I have told you before, sitting at an altitude of around 9,750 feet. It is popular for its natural hot water spring and stunning views of the Himalayas. The trek is around 12 km one way and takes about 4–6 hours, depending on your pace and the route you choose. Because there are multiple destinations from which you can start this trek, I will tell you the shortest one. Kheerganga Trek for Beginners starting point Your journey starts from Manikaran, a holy town located near Kasol, famous for its hot water springs and gurudwaras. From Manikaran, take a cab or a shared taxi to Barshaini, which is the base point for the Kheerganga trek. It’s about 17 km from Manikaran, but from Barshaini it’s around a 12 km trek. After reaching Barshaini, there are multiple villages that you can choose to explore as well and stay there to start your journey from the early morning to use your time effectively. Where to Stay Before the Trek? Here are the most effective places where you can stay and explore these places as well, and start your trek too. Kalga: Just a 15-minute walk from Barshaini, Kalga is a peaceful village full of wooden homestays and cozy cafes. It is a crowd less place and gives a perfect offbeat vibe to start your trek fresh the next morning. But it can be hectic because you need to do a trek with your backpack if you are planning to stay. Moreover, this place is chill and can save you on the expenses of staying. Barshaini: This is a small town with a few basic guesthouses and local dhabas. If you’re looking for something quick and easy, you can stay here for the night. Both places offer budget-friendly options, with rooms starting from ₹300–₹800 per night. However, I suggest staying in Kalga to see some scenic views from the mountain and experience the beauty of nature. Routes for Kheerganga Trek There are three main routes from Barshaini to Kheerganga trek for beginners, mentioned below: Kalga Route (via forest): Starts from Kalga village and takes you through dense pine forests and narrow trails. It is the most popular route among beginners because it’s well-shaded and peaceful. Nakthan Route: The most direct route and a bit steeper. You’ll walk along the Parvati River, and though it’s a little challenging. But the views from here are worth it. Tosh Route: For those who start from Tosh village, this route merges with the Nakthan route. It’s ideal if you want to explore Tosh first. Tosh, a popular village in Himachal, offers calm forests and dreamy nature. Whichever route you take, the trek is full of surprises. You’ll cross wooden bridges, cascading waterfalls, and small cafes with chai & maggi. While trekking, you can meet fellow trekkers who will guide you as well for other Parvati valley treks. The air gets cooler as you go higher, and the sound of the river keeps you company, so grab a warm jacket with you in summer as well. what to do in Kheerganga Once you reach the top, the view is truly magical. I know that trek is not as easy as you think, but with the calm vibe of the mountains, it feels like a reward after the trek. But the best part? The natural hot water spring. Dip into the warm pool built at the top and feel your tiredness melt away. You will also find the Lord Shiva and Kartikeya temple in Kheerganga, which adds a spiritual touch to this journey. As you reached here on time, if you want to go back, you can go, but if you want to stay, there are plenty of camps and tents available at the top. Prices are ₹500–₹1000 per night (including meals). You can either pre-book a tent or just walk in, but I suggest booking before reaching here, so as not to be stuck. Additionally, you are free to set up your tent if you so like. Staying overnight under the starry sky is an experience in itself. If you’re lucky and the sky is clear, you’ll see a sky full of stars you’ll never forget. Tips for kheerganga trek for beginners Begin your trek early in the morning so you reach the top before dark. Though there are small cafes along the way, it’s good to have your own bottle and some energy bars. Wear Comfortable shoes. This one’s a must! Trekking shoes or strong sports shoes will help you walk comfortably. Only carry what you need such as jacket, torch, power bank, basic medicines, and toiletries. Additionally, don’t litter on the trek. Carry your waste back or use the dustbins where available. Best Time to Go The ideal time for the Kheerganga trek is between April to June and September to November. During the winter season, the trek is covered in snow. But if you’re up for an adventure, even snowy Kheerganga has its charm. Last thing to say Kheerganga isn’t just a trek; it’s a journey that opens your heart to the beauty of Himachal and the silence of the mountains. It’s beginner-friendly and budget-friendly to start your first trek as a beginner. So pack your

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Places to visit in Jalori Pass

All You Need To Know About Tirthan Valley, Jibhi: Places to Visit in Jalori Pass

Have you ever been to Manali in Himachal? It’s a yes, I know, but do you know that there’s a more beautiful and crowd-free place a little further from Manali? Yes, I am talking about Jibhi, the most tremendous and incredible place in the Kullu district. If you are looking for a breathtaking view of Himachal, there are many places to visit in Jalori Pass, Jibhi, and Tirthan Valley. While exploring Jibhi, I came to know how beautiful it is, with cascading waterfalls, green mountains, and rivers near the homestay. The place has a rich culture and a prosperous history. Let’s deep dive into Tirthan Valley’s places to experience the new wholesome. Places to Explore in Jibhi Jibhi is located in the Banjar Valley of Himachal Pradesh. This place offers breathtaking views of mountains and adventurous activities like fishing, hiking, and more. It features a waterfall located near the Beas River, known as the Jibhi Waterfall. The waterfall provides an authentic forest vibe after crossing 3-4 bridges on the way. In the nearby area, Mini Thailand in Jibhi is another spot that excites visitors the most. This peaceful nature site is known for the sound of gurgling rivers and its relaxing ambiance. Two rocks stand in support of each other, resembling the look of Thailand’s beach. After visiting Mini Thailand, you can enjoy a plate of Maggi and a cup of chai at the nearest cafe, The Pahadians Cafe & Stay. Along with this cafe, plenty of other well-designed cafes are waiting for you to enjoy their meals, especially Siddu, a local delicacy. Places to Visit in Jalori Pass? It’s time to explore Jalori Pass, an adventurous trekking destination. Serolsar Lake, Raghupur Fort, and the 360° viewpoint are filled with mountainous beauty. At Jalori Pass, there is a red board named “Jalori Pass”. It looks tremendously fantastic, and the surrounding mountains appear surreal and divine. If you visit between November and March, you may find heavy snowfall. But if you travel between April and September, the place appears greener than any forest. March is the best time to visit Jibhi if you want to experience light rain and some snowfall. To reach Serolsar Lake, you need to trek around 6 km, which may take 4-5 hours. Near the lake, there is a beautiful temple where you can spend time, click photos, and learn about the history of Serolsar Lake from local people. As I said, “There are plenty of places to visit in Jalori Pass“; one place is known from a blockbuster movie. Have you ever watched Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani? If yes, then this place will bring back memories of “Bunny”. The film’s scene exists where Deepika desired to see Bhairon Ka Mandir. Remember that snowy mountain scene? In winter, this place looks exactly like that. Also, you need to trek to reach this place and enjoy 360° View of the Himalayan mountains. Know More about Tirthan Valley After exploring Banjar Valley, it’s time to move forward to Tirthan Valley. This place is near Banjar Valley but offers a different view from the top of the mountain. The mountains are tall and greener than Jibhi. If you want to see a waterfall, start a 45-minute trek to reach the stunning Chhoi Waterfall. Chhoi Waterfall is a holy place dedicated to Chhoi Mata. Locals wish to keep this area sacred and clean, so travelers are requested not to litter. A big waterfall drops from a tall mountain, and the entire area is lush green. Here you can find small food stalls that sell Maggi, Momos, and Siddu. Grab some food, enjoy the view, and return before sundown. After exploring the famous spot in Tirthan Valley, check out the creative cafes with beautiful designs. You can find cafes by the riverside, on hilltops, or along the roadsides, whatever suits you the most. Summing Up Now you have all the details to explore this place hassle-free. After Manali, this is one of the best places to experience the beauty of Himachal. Chhoi Waterfall, Jalori Pass, and Jibhi will never disappoint with their charm. March is the ideal time to visit to enjoy the best weather in Jibhi. So, plan a trip to Jibhi and explore its villages and waterfalls. Get a friendly budget itinerary attached to the link below. If you are willing to know more about unexplored places like this, read my other blogs on this page.

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places to explore in April

5 Amazing Places to Explore in April in Indian Villages: Stop exploring touristy places anymore

Hello travellers April is the most scorching hot month when we all want to travel to cool places. Well, I know you may be looking for the best places to explore in April to make your vacation unforgettable. I have lists of many places that can make your vacation epic. Himachal’s Best Places to Explore in April One of the most beautiful and popular states is Himachal Pradesh. Places like Manali, Shimla, Palampur, and Kinnaur make this one special, but I have some incredible places that are less crowded, have epic viewpoints, and have small treks to reach there. Kalga, Pulga, and Tosh are the villages in the Kullu district. To reach these places, trek for 20 minutes and get the best location from the top. These places live in the shell of silence and nature’s lap. Villagers who are building their homestays, hotels, and restaurants to earn. Kalga has 2 treks, the Kheerganga and Bunbuni Pass trek, which are still unknown to the tourists. By reaching these treks, you can find hot spring water here and go camping for stargazing. Many villages in the district of Kinnaur offer breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains. Kinanur Kailash is one of the most popular in spirituality, filled with a thrilling trek. Kalpa, a village, is untouched and popular for monasteries and temples. Ladakh’s valleys We have dreamed of exploring Ladakh plenty of times but never actually planned it. Well, this is the perfect time to experience Ladakh’s Nubra Valley, Kaza Valley, and Khardung La. Pangong Lake is a must-visit in a lifetime, while Khardung La is one of the highest motorable passes in the world, offering thrilling adventures. There’s more to know about Ladakh, which you will explore by visiting these valleys. While planning a trip to Ladakh in April, you need 10 days to spend here and can go from Kashmir as well as from Manali. This will be the most expensive trip of your life, but it will be full of joy and adventure. Maharashtra’s Histories of Forts Maharashtra’s masterpieces of ancient Indian art and culture are the Ajanta and Ellora caves, also known as Verul Leni, located in Aurangabad city. These caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cities like Pune, Mumbai, Nashik, Nagpur, and many more are chilled and populous cities in Maharashtra. The echoes of the past, Rajmachi is one of the adventurous and historical forts that share the beauty of Pune. Khandala is a perfect place with lush green valleys and stunning viewpoints. Lohagad Fort, Pavana Lake, Bhaja Caves, and many more offbeat places are worth visiting. Kashmir’s heavenly locations “Kashmir is heaven on earth”, you may have heard this so many times. Then why haven’t you planned to visit here? This is the place that feels calm and home for us. Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Pahalgam are famous places yet less touristy. Escaping Delhi only for this heaven on earth is mandatory. Phalgam’s Betaab Valley is popularly known for photography and nature walks. Srinagar’s houseboat is famous here and provides a unique stay experience on the floating boats. Jammu is a sacred place known for the Vaishno Devi Temple in Katra. It is divine and gives you a cultural touch here. After visiting the Vaishno Devi temple, you can plan your trip to Patnitop, located in Udhampur, one and a half hours away from Katra. Kerala’s beaches and waterfalls Kerala in April is a mix of backwaters, beaches, forests, lakes, and hill stations. It includes places like Munnar, Alleppey, Varkala, and many more. Apart from these touristy places, Chembra beach-Wayanad, Silent Valley National Park-Palakkad, and Arekkal waterfalls, Kochi, are the offbeat places where you can sleep in nature’s lap, go for adventure, etc. Kerala’s Kochi is a must-visit place, where you find waterfalls, lakes, bird sanctuaries, hill stations, beaches, and whatnot. Kerala has the best places to explore in April, where you will find hidden places and the beauty of nature. April is best to explore meghalaya The abode of the Cloud is another name for Meghalaya. While exploring Meghalaya, you may find plenty of waterfalls, crystal clear lakes, beautiful viewpoints, mystical caves, etc., that can blow your mind with their beauty. The Bamboo Trail-Mawryngkhang Trek in Meghalaya is one of the scariest treks, taking you through bamboo bridges. Lalong Park in Jowai is a less-explored nature park offering breathtaking views of the Myntdu River. Surrounded by dense forests, Langshiang Waterfall offers a spectacular sight, especially during the monsoon. Umiam Lake is a man-made lake that offers adventurous kayaking activities and stunning sunset views. Summing up After knowing these places, if you still have no idea where to go, I don’t think you’ll ever go anywhere to spend your April peacefully. But I am one hundred percent sure that you will pick one of the locations from it and have fun in April. Apart from these, if you want to explore other places like Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Nagaland, or Goa, you can check out my other blogs about them.

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Mahakumbh 2025

How to Avoid Traffic jams to Reach Mahakumbh 2025: A Perfect Itinerary to Make Your Mahakumbh Hassle – Free

Who doesn’t want to visit Prayagraj this month to take a holy bath in Sangam? However, there are several challenges, including crowds, traffic, and places to stay. But, keep these problems aside because I have a perfect itinerary for Mahakumbh you can take a holy dip hassle-free.

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