How to Reach

How to Reach

Jowai, the headquarters of West Jaintia Hills, is well connected to major cities like Shillong and Guwahati. However, since Jowai does not have its own airport or railway station, travelers need to rely on nearby transport hubs.

1. By Air

Jowai does not have an airport, but the nearest airports are:

Shillong Airport (Umroi) – 90 km

• Nearest airport (~2.5-hour drive from Jowai).
• Limited flights connecting to Kolkata, Guwahati, and Delhi.
• Taxis and rental cars are available from the airport to Jowai.

Guwahati Airport (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport) – 165 km

• Major airport (~4-hour drive from Jowai).
• Well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Kolkata.
• Hire a taxi or take a bus to Shillong, then continue to Jowai.

2. By Train

Jowai does not have a railway station. The nearest railheads are:

Guwahati Railway Station – 165 km

• The closest major railway station (~4-hour drive from Jowai).
• Regular trains connect Guwahati to Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore.
• From Guwahati, take a bus or taxi to Shillong, then another to Jowai.

Kamakhya Railway Station (Guwahati) – 170 km

• Serves express and superfast trains across India.
• Follow the same route via Guwahati → Shillong → Jowai.

3. By Road

Jowai is well connected by road to Shillong, Guwahati, and other towns in Meghalaya.

From Shillong (65 km / ~2 hours)

• Route: Shillong → Mawryngkneng → Puriang → Jowai (via NH6).
• Transport options:
  • Shared sumos (local taxis) available from Shillong’s Police Bazaar.
  • Buses (Meghalaya Transport Corporation – MTC) available at scheduled times.
  • Private cabs and rental cars are also an option.

From Guwahati (165 km / ~4 hours)

• Route: Guwahati → Shillong → Jowai (via NH6).
• Transport options:
  • Guwahati to Shillong: Take a private/shared taxi or bus (~3 hours).
  • Shillong to Jowai: Board a local taxi or bus (~1.5-2 hours).

From Silchar (125 km / ~3.5 hours)

• Route: Silchar → Umkiang → Khliehriat → Jowai (via NH6).
• Transport options:
  • Private taxis and buses operate between Silchar and Jowai.

Local Transport in Jowai

• Auto-rickshaws and taxis are the primary mode of local transport.
• Rental bikes/cars are available in Shillong for self-drive trips.

The best way to reach Jowai is:
✔ By Air: Fly to Shillong or Guwahati, then take a taxi/bus.
✔ By Train: Arrive at Guwahati Railway Station, then take a taxi/bus.
✔ By Road: Shillong to Jowai (65 km) is the most convenient road route.