Meghalaya to Arunachal Pradesh – A Combined Itinerary

Meghalaya to Arunachal Pradesh – A Combined Itinerary

Exploring the Northeast of India is a journey like no other. If you're dreaming of crystal-clear rivers, hidden villages, lush green valleys, and snow-capped mountains, then planning a Meghalaya to Arunachal Pradesh trip is the perfect idea. This combined itinerary lets you discover two of India’s most beautiful and culturally rich states in one go.

Start your journey with a well-planned Meghalaya tourist package, which usually includes visits to Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki, and Mawlynnong. These places are famous for their stunning natural beauty and friendly local culture. From there, continue to the remote wonders of Arunachal Pradesh, where places like Tawang, Ziro, and Bomdila await you.

A combined tour of Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh offers a perfect mix of adventure, peace, and cultural richness. Let’s dive into a detailed itinerary and guide for this epic trip.

Why Combine Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh?

Combining these two states gives you a balanced taste of Northeast India. Meghalaya is full of waterfalls, caves, and valleys, while Arunachal Pradesh gives you a high-altitude Himalayan experience with monasteries and scenic mountain passes.

• Meghalaya offers easy access from Guwahati, Assam.

• Arunachal Pradesh adds a colder, mystical charm to the trip.

• Both states are culturally rich with distinct tribal communities.

Best Time to Travel

The best time to plan a Meghalaya Road Trip and visit Arunachal Pradesh is from October to April. During this period, the weather is pleasant, skies are clear, and nature is at its best.

• Avoid Monsoons (June–September): Heavy rainfall in Meghalaya can disrupt travel plans.

• Winter Months (Dec–Feb): Snowfall in Arunachal Pradesh makes the scenery magical, especially in Tawang.

Day-by-Day Combined Itinerary

Let’s break down a 15-day itinerary that covers the best of both states.

Day 1: Arrival in Guwahati (Assam) – Transfer to Shillong (Meghalaya)

• Land in Guwahati, the gateway to the Northeast.

• Drive to Shillong (approx. 3 hours).

• En route, stop by Umiam Lake for a photo stop.

• Evening at leisure in Shillong.

Stay: Shillong

Day 2: Explore Shillong – The Scotland of the East

• Visit Ward's Lake, Don Bosco Museum, and Cathedral Church.

• Head to Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls.

• Enjoy local Khasi cuisine in the evening.

Highlight: The cool climate and colonial vibe of Shillong

Day 3: Cherrapunji Day Trip

• Drive to Cherrapunji (60 km).

• Explore Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, Mawsmai Caves.

• Visit the Living Root Bridges at Nongriat if time allows.

Pro Tip: Start early to make the most of the day.

Day 4: Dawki and Mawlynnong

• Visit Dawki’s Umngot River – one of the cleanest in Asia.

• Take a boat ride on the transparent river.

• Stop at Mawlynnong – Asia’s cleanest village.

Tip: Carry light snacks and water, as shops are limited here.

Day 5: Back to Shillong – Leisure Day

• Return to Shillong.

• Shop at Police Bazaar for souvenirs.

• Try local street food.

Day 6: Shillong to Tezpur (Assam) – Gateway to Arunachal Pradesh

• Drive from Shillong to Tezpur (approx. 6–7 hours).

• Cross the beautiful landscapes of Assam.

Stay: Tezpur

Day 7: Tezpur to Dirang (Arunachal Pradesh)

• Enter Arunachal Pradesh. Don’t forget your ILP (Inner Line Permit)!

• Visit Sangti Valley en route.

• Enjoy the cooler weather and mountain views.

Stay: Dirang

Day 8: Dirang to Tawang

• Drive through Sela Pass (13,700 ft) and stop by Sela Lake.

• Visit Jaswant Garh War Memorial.

• Reach Tawang by evening.

Day 9: Tawang Sightseeing

• Visit Tawang Monastery – the largest in India.

• Explore Tawang War Memorial and craft center.

• Optionally visit the famous Tawang Ropeway.

Day 10: Bum La Pass and Madhuri Lake

• Day trip to Bum La Pass (India-China border).

• Visit the scenic Madhuri Lake (Shonga-Tser Lake).

Note: You’ll need a special permit for Bum La – arrange it a day before.

Day 11: Tawang to Bomdila

• Drive back through mountain valleys.

• Explore Bomdila Monastery and local market.

Day 12: Bomdila to Ziro (via Itanagar)

• Long drive (approx. 10–11 hours).

• Stop at Itanagar if time allows.

Stay: Ziro

Day 13: Explore Ziro Valley

• Visit Apatani tribal villages.

• Explore pine-clad hills and paddy fields.

• Visit Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary if time permits.

Day 14: Ziro to Itanagar – Back to Assam

• Return towards Guwahati with an overnight stop at Itanagar or Naharlagun.

Day 15: Departure from Guwahati

• Drive back or take a train/flight from Guwahati.

Important Travel Tips

• Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for Indian tourists visiting Arunachal Pradesh. You can apply online or at Guwahati.

• Keep photocopies of your ID proof.

• Carry winter clothes, especially for Tawang.

• Roads in Arunachal can be rough – keep buffer time.

How to Reach

By Air

• Nearest airport: Guwahati (LGBI Airport)

• From Guwahati, hire a taxi or take shared transport.

By Train

• Guwahati Railway Station is well-connected with major cities.

Recommended Duration

• Meghalaya: 5–6 days

• Arunachal Pradesh: 8–9 days

This gives you enough time to explore without rushing.

Budget Estimate (Per Person)

Top Things to Pack

• Woollen jackets and gloves

• Raincoat/umbrella (for Meghalaya)

• First-aid kit and medicines

• Power bank and extra camera batteries

• ID cards and photocopies

Cultural Etiquette

• Respect local customs, especially in tribal areas.

• Avoid photographing locals without asking.

• Dress modestly while visiting monasteries.

Must-Try Local Dishes

In Meghalaya:

• Jadoh (meat & rice dish)

• Tungrymbai (fermented soybeans)

• Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame)

In Arunachal Pradesh:

• Thukpa and Momos

• Bamboo shoot curry

• Apong (traditional rice beer)

FAQs – Meghalaya to Arunachal Pradesh Trip

Q1. Is it safe to travel from Meghalaya to Arunachal Pradesh?

Yes, it's safe. Locals are friendly and tourism is well supported. Just ensure permits are in place and avoid night travel in hilly areas.

Q2. Can I get a shared cab or public transport for this route?

Yes, shared taxis are common in Meghalaya and parts of Arunachal. However, for comfort and flexibility, booking a private vehicle is better.

Q3. Do I need different permits for both states?

Only Arunachal Pradesh requires an Inner Line Permit (ILP). Meghalaya doesn’t require one for Indian citizens.

Q4. Are ATMs and mobile networks available?

ATMs are available in major towns like Shillong, Tawang, Bomdila. Mobile networks may be weak in remote areas. BSNL and Airtel work best.

Conclusion

A Meghalaya to Arunachal Pradesh itinerary gives you the best of both worlds – from rolling green hills and clean rivers to majestic monasteries and snow-covered peaks. It’s a journey filled with breathtaking views, diverse culture, and unforgettable experiences.

So, whether you’re planning with friends or family, start by picking the right Meghalaya tourist package, pack your bags, and get ready for an epic Meghalaya road trip and beyond into the highlands of Arunachal!