🌄 Introduction: Why Choose the “River & Rocks” Trail?

For travelers on a budget, thrill-seekers, or first-time explorers of Meghalaya, this South Meghalaya tour package—River & Rocks of South Meghalaya: A Backpacker’s Delight—offers the perfect mix of adventure, affordability, and natural beauty. Over the course of three immersive days, journey through crystal-clear rivers, scenic border towns, pristine root bridges, and hidden turquoise pools tucked away in the rocks of the Jaintia Plateau.

Ideal for solo travelers, small groups, and budget-conscious backpackers, this trail covers Dawki, Mawlynnong, Shnongpdeng, and the lesser-known Mawshun region. What makes it unique is the authentic local experience: stay in riverside homestays, use public transport to cut costs, and explore raw, untouched nature by foot or kayak.

Whether you’re floating over the transparent waters of the Umngot River, walking across a living root bridge, or diving into remote natural pools, you’ll collect stories and photos that go beyond the tourist trail. It’s simple, it’s stunning—and it’s budget-friendly.

🗺️ Day-Wise Itinerary

📍 Day 1: Shillong → Dawki → Shnongpdeng – Clear River Adventures

• Catch a shared sumo or local bus from Shillong early in the morning (approx. 3–4 hours).
• Stop briefly at Dawki, a border town with scenic views of Bangladesh. Snap photos from the suspension bridge and explore the Indo-Bangladesh border market.
• Continue 10 km ahead to Shnongpdeng, a quieter riverside village famous for its glass-clear Umngot River.
• Rent a kayak, go cliff-jumping, or try boating across the stunning green water.
• Stay in budget riverside camps or homestays in Shnongpdeng.

🛶 Backpacker Tip: Shared tents or bamboo huts are available under ₹500/night. Pre-booking recommended in peak season (Oct–Mar).

📍 Day 2: Shnongpdeng → Mawlynnong → Riwai Root Bridge

• After breakfast, take a sumo or hitch a ride towards Mawlynnong, about 1.5–2 hours away. Known as “Asia’s cleanest village,” it offers neat stone paths, traditional houses, and garden-lined lanes.
• Explore the sky view tower—a bamboo platform offering views into Bangladesh—and interact with the friendly Khasi locals.
• Walk a short trail to Riwai Living Root Bridge, an accessible single-level bridge just 15–20 minutes from the village.
• Enjoy local Khasi lunch in a homestay and rest for the afternoon or walk to nearby viewpoints.
• Overnight stay in a dorm, village guesthouse, or homestay.

🍛 Local Tip: Try traditional dishes like jadoh (rice and meat) or tungrymbai (fermented soybeans) at Mawlynnong’s home-run cafés.

📍 Day 3: Mawlynnong → Mawshun Pools → Shillong

• Early departure to Mawshun, a hidden gem known for its caves, rock formations, and turquoise pools. These natural wonders are still largely unexplored and see minimal tourist traffic.
• Enjoy swimming or picnicking by the natural pools, and explore short trails or small cave openings nearby.
• Head back toward Shillong in the afternoon, catching a public jeep from the Pynursla/Dawki route.

💦 Caution: The trails to Mawshun pools are semi-raw—wear trekking sandals and avoid during peak monsoon (July–Aug).

✅ What’s Included

• Flexible itinerary with local transport options
• Budget accommodation recommendations (homestays, riverside dorms)
• Kayaking, cliff jumping, root bridge walk, and cave visit suggestions
• Local food and culture experiences
• Tips for safe and budget-friendly travel

🌟 Tour Highlights

• Kayak on Asia’s clearest river at Shnongpdeng
• Stand at the edge of India in Dawki’s border zone
• Visit the cleanest village in Asia – Mawlynnong
• Hike to the beautiful Riwai Living Root Bridge
• Swim in turquoise natural pools of Mawshun

📆 Best Time to Visit

• October to March: Perfect weather, clear water visibility, and pleasant for hikes and boating.
• April to June: Still great for water activities, though Mawshun trails may be slippery.
• Avoid July–August: Heavy monsoons make river and cave access difficult.

👤 Who Should Book This?

• Backpackers traveling solo or in small groups
• First-time visitors to Meghalaya looking for ease and thrill
• Budget-conscious travelers who enjoy natural wonders
• Adventure seekers who love kayaking, swimming, and short treks

📞 Let the Rivers and Rocks Guide You

This South Meghalaya tour package is all about simple travel with rich experiences. It's designed for the curious traveler who prefers campfires to resorts and river dips over spas. You'll come home with wet shoes, starry-night stories, and maybe a few local songs in your heart.

📲 Reach out today for route maps, local contacts, or to book a custom backpacker’s itinerary. Our team ensures authentic stays, safe transit, and unbeatable travel tips—at a price that won’t hurt your wallet.