Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Mawlai is located in Shillong, the heart of Meghalaya, making it a perfect base for exploring nearby attractions. Whether you’re looking for scenic landscapes, waterfalls, adventure activities, or cultural experiences, here are the best day trips from Mawlai.

 1. Umiam Lake (Barapani) – Meghalaya’s Own Mini Switzerland

 Distance: 17 km (~45 minutes by road)
 Why Visit?
✅ A massive man-made lake, often compared to Switzerland’s lakes.
✅ Offers boating, kayaking, and scenic viewpoints.
✅ Great spot for picnics and sunset views.

 Tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best experience.

 2. Laitlum Canyons – The Grand Canyon of Meghalaya

 Distance: 25 km (~1 hour by road)
 Why Visit?
✅ One of Meghalaya’s most stunning viewpoints, with deep gorges and rolling hills.
✅ Ideal for trekking, photography, and nature walks.

 Tip: Visit in the morning for misty views or evening for golden sunsets.

 3. Elephant Falls – Shillong’s Famous Multi-Tiered Waterfall

 Distance: 15 km (~30 minutes by road)
 Why Visit?
✅ A three-tiered waterfall, one of the most famous in Shillong.
✅ Surrounded by lush greenery and walking trails.

 Tip: Best visited during the monsoon (June-September) for the strongest flow.

 4. Mawphlang Sacred Forest – A Spiritual & Ecological Wonder

 Distance: 22 km (~45 minutes by road)
 Why Visit?
✅ A protected Khasi forest, rich in rare flora and cultural legends.
✅ Guided walks reveal ancient trees, hidden altars, and local folklore.

 Tip: Hire a local Khasi guide for an insightful experience.

 5. Khasi Heritage Village – A Traditional Experience

 Distance: 20 km (~40 minutes by road)
 Why Visit?
✅ A cultural village showcasing traditional Khasi architecture and lifestyle.
✅ Experience handicrafts, local food, and traditional Khasi dance performances.

 Tip: Best visited during Khasi festivals like Nongkrem Dance Festival.

 6. Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians – Shillong’s Iconic Church

 Distance: 4 km (~15 minutes by road)
 Why Visit?
✅ One of Shillong’s most beautiful churches, known for its Gothic architecture and stained glass windows.
✅ Offers a serene atmosphere and breathtaking views of the city.

 Tip: Visit on Sunday mornings for a peaceful experience.

 7. Shillong Peak – The Highest Viewpoint in Shillong

 Distance: 10 km (~30 minutes by road)
 Why Visit?
✅ The highest point in Shillong, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills.
✅ A great spot for sunrise and sunset photography.

 Tip: Best visited on clear days for the best views.

 8. Don Bosco Museum – A Journey Through Northeast India’s Culture

 Distance: Located in Mawlai
Why Visit?
✅ One of India’s best museums on Northeast India’s tribal culture and history.
✅ Features seven floors of exhibits and a skywalk with a panoramic view of Shillong.

 Tip: Spend at least 2 hours here for a full experience.

 9. Krang Suri Waterfalls – The Hidden Blue Waterfall

 Distance: 85 km (~2.5 hours by road)
 Why Visit?
✅ A breathtaking waterfall with crystal-clear blue waters.
✅ Great for swimming, photography, and nature walks.

 Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds.

 10. Dawki & Umngot River – India’s Clearest River

 Distance: 85 km (~3 hours by road)
 Why Visit?
✅ The Umngot River in Dawki is known for its crystal-clear water, where boats look like they are floating in the air.
✅ Enjoy boating, photography, and exploring the Indo-Bangladesh border.

 Tip: Best visited in winter (November–February) when the water is clearest.