Travel Tips & Safety

Travel Tips & Safety

Nongpoh, a beautiful town in the Ri Bhoi district of Meghalaya, is known for its scenic landscapes, rich culture, and peaceful atmosphere. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, here are some essential travel tips and safety guidelines.

 Best Time to Visit Nongpoh

✅ October to April – Best time for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities.
✅ May to September – Monsoon season; great for greenery but roads can be slippery.

 Tip: If visiting during the monsoon, carry rain gear and waterproof shoes.

 Transportation & Getting Around

How to Reach Nongpoh?

• From Shillong (50 km | 1.5 hours) – Take a shared taxi or bus from Police Bazaar.
• From Guwahati (50 km | 1.5 hours) – Take a bus or shared sumo from Paltan Bazaar.
• From Guwahati Airport (80 km | 2 hours) – Hire a taxi or private car.

Local Transport

✅ Shared sumos (local taxis) are available but limited.
✅ Auto-rickshaws & cabs are the primary modes of transport.
✅ Self-drive options (car/bike rental) are available from Shillong or Guwahati.

 Tip: Roads can be foggy, so avoid nighttime travel for safety.

 Accommodation & Staying Safe

Where to Stay in Nongpoh?

✔ Budget Options: Ialong Tourist Lodge, Highway Dhaba Guesthouses
✔ Mid-Range: Tyrchi Inn, Royal Hotel Nongpoh
✔ Luxury: Few high-end hotels; better stay in Shillong for luxury stays.

Safety Tips for Accommodation

✅ Book hotels in advance, especially during festivals and peak season.
✅ Choose hotels with secure parking and positive reviews.
✅ Lock your room and store valuables safely.

 Tip: If exploring rural areas, inform your hotel about your itinerary.

 Food & Water Safety

✅ Try local Khasi dishes like Jadoh, Tungrymbai, and Doh Khleh.
✅ Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues.
✅ Eat at clean local restaurants or trusted food stalls.

 Tip: Avoid eating uncooked street food during the monsoon season.

 Money & Payments

✅ ATMs are limited, so carry cash, especially for rural areas.
✅ Digital payments (UPI, Google Pay, PhonePe) may not work everywhere.

 Tip: Withdraw cash in Shillong or Guwahati before traveling to Nongpoh.

 Mobile Network & Internet

 Best Networks: Jio & Airtel (but limited coverage in remote areas).
 BSNL works in some areas but can be unreliable.

 Tip: Download offline maps before traveling to avoid getting lost.

 Shopping & Local Markets

• Visit Nongpoh Market (Iew Nongpoh) for:
  ✔ Fresh pineapples & oranges
  ✔ Lakadong turmeric
  ✔ Handmade bamboo crafts
  ✔ Khasi-Jaintia woven shawls
• Bargaining is common but polite.

 Tip: Markets close early (~6 PM), so shop during the day.

 Trekking & Outdoor Safety

✔ Go with a guide if trekking in remote areas (e.g., Lum Sohpetbneng, Laitlum Canyons).
✔ Wear sturdy shoes for treks; trails can be slippery.
✔ Carry a flashlight if exploring caves or forests.

 Tip: Always inform your hotel or guide before heading out on long treks.

 Wildlife & Nature Safety

✔ Be cautious of wildlife in forested areas like Marngar Lake & Kyllang Rock.
✔ Do not disturb or feed animals.
✔ Avoid trekking alone after sunset.

 Tip: If visiting caves, carry a headlamp and wear proper gear.

 Emergency Contacts in Nongpoh

 Nongpoh Police Station –  +91-364-222234
 Civil Hospital Nongpoh –  +91-364-220569
 Meghalaya Highway Helpline –  +91-364-2502580

 Tip: Save emergency numbers and share your itinerary with family/friends.

 Packing Essentials for Nongpoh

✔ Raincoat/Umbrella – Weather can change unexpectedly.
✔ Trekking shoes & warm clothes (if visiting in winter).
✔ Power bank & extra batteries – Limited charging points in rural areas.
✔ Basic medicines & first aid kit.
✔ Offline maps & flashlight (essential for caving/trekking).

 Safety Tips for Solo & Female Travelers

✅ Nongpoh is generally safe for solo and female travelers.
✅ Stick to well-lit areas and avoid remote places at night.
✅ If traveling alone, inform your hotel or guide about your plans.
✅ Trust locals, but be cautious with strangers.

 Tip: Dress modestly in villages to respect local culture.

Nongpoh is a beautiful and peaceful town, perfect for those looking to explore nature, culture, and adventure. By following these travel tips and safety guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip!

 Best Mode of Travel: Private taxi or rented car.
 Recommended Stay: 1-2 days for a full experience.