Living Root Bridges

Day 1

Drive to Shillong (from Guwahati if taking a standalone trip or from Kaziranga if adding this to the end of one of our longer North East India tours). Freshen up at hotel, then take a walk around the busy bazaar getting a feel for this modern hill station. Take your pick from a selection of excellent restaurants and spend the rest of the evening at ease. Overnight in Shillong. Meal plan: B,L

NOTE: if booking flights, you will fly into Delhi or Kolkata, with onward connecting flight to Guwahati.

Day 2

Set off after breakfast for Cherrapunjee, the wettest place on earth. En-route stop off at spectacular waterfalls. Drive through Meghalaya`s rolling hills, enjoying sublime views of its craggy cliff-faces and rugged flora. Arrive at Cherrapunjee Resort, tucked away in the Southeastern Khasi hills. Relax with chai and snacks in serene surroundings. After resting, take a gentle walk through the local Khasi villages, learn about the local culture and customs. Return for a delicious evening meal. Sit outside and look out at the plains of Bangladesh. Overnight in Cherrapunjee. Meal plan: B,L,D

Day 3

After a filling breakfast, embark on what must be one of the most spectacular hikes in the world. Walk along the meandering edge of the cliff face and then start the descent downwards, trekking through the lushest green vegetation. Passing small villages on the way, you will be awestruck by the phenomenal Double Decker Living Root Bridge.

This unique climate is home to the remarkable Indian rubber tree (ficus elastica) whose incredible properties were discovered by the War-Khasis. They coaxed the roots of these trees across the streams forming these amazing natural bridges, which can take up to 15 years to grow end-to-end. What better setting for your picnic lunch.

Start the climb back up, stopping off at one of the natural pools for a swim. Wander back through the villages dotted along the hillside back to the Cherrapunjee Resort. Rest your weary limbs and tuck into a well-earned meal. Overnight in Cherrapunjee. Meal plan: B,L,D

NOTE: This trek requires a high level of fitness. Alternative, less arduous treks can be arranged to other living root bridges.

Day 4

Free day to do more walking to other living root bridges - your guide will suggest some walks. You can also visit the local market where everything is traded, from local produce to Khasi shawls. Overnight in Cherrapunjee. Meals: B,D

Day 5

Leave in the morning for Mawphlang, site of the Sacred Forest. Still revered by locals and an ancient burial site, the Sacred Forest is a treasure trove of unique flora and fauna, with an abundance of aroids, pipers, fern-allies and orchids. Our guide will give you privileged access to this ancient site. Continue onwards to Shillong. Spend the rest of the day exploring Shillong`s bustling street, do a bit of souvenir shopping or simply unwind and relax. Overnight in Shillong. Meal plan: B,L

Day 6

Early breakfast, then depart for Guwahati. Catch flight from Guwahati to Delhi or Kolkata, followed by onward flight home (included if booking this trip with flights). Meal plan: B

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