Himanshu’s Love-Filled Journey Through Meghalaya with Thrillophilia
The sound of raindrops on our windowpane, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and a packed suitcase waiting by the door— this was the start of our much-awaited trip to Meghalaya.
My partner and I had been planning this getaway with Thrillophilia for months, and finally, it was happening. Meghalaya, with its nickname “The Abode of Clouds,” promised us an adventure wrapped in romance, and we were ready to soak in every moment of it.
The Magic of Meghalaya
Our journey began in Shillong, the charming capital of Meghalaya. Known as the "Scotland of the East," Shillong welcomed us with its cool breeze and lush green hills. Our first stop was Elephant Falls, a cascading beauty nestled amidst dense greenery. The sound of water tumbling down the rocks was almost meditative. My partner couldn’t resist dipping her toes into the chilly water, after which she practically had to jump and race to revive her numb feet.
From there, we visited the Mawkdok Dympep Viewpoint, a stunning vantage point that offered breathtaking views of the surrounding gorges. Hand-in-hand, we stood there silently for some time, feeling on top of the world.
Next, we ventured to Cherrapunji, also known as one of the wettest places on Earth. The Mawsmai Caves were a highlight, with their limestone formations creating a natural art gallery. Walking through the narrow passages, we marveled at the stalactites and stalagmites, occasionally bumping into each other and laughing at our clumsiness.
But the real gem of Cherrapunji was the Double-Decker Living Root Bridge. This marvel of bioengineering, created by intertwining the roots of rubber trees, left us speechless. Crossing the bridge felt like stepping into a fantasy world, and we couldn’t stop taking pictures to capture its magic.
Conquering Meghalaya’s Adventures
Meghalaya isn’t just about sightseeing, it’s also a playground for adventure seekers. For us, the highlight was trekking to the Dawki River, known for its crystal-clear waters. The trek was a mix of fun and challenge, with my partner constantly teasing me about my lack of stamina.
“Come on, Himanshu! Even the kids are overtaking you,” she laughed, pointing to a group of energetic youngsters.
But all the effort was worth it when we reached Dawki. The river was so clear that the boats looked like they were floating in the air. We couldn’t resist enjoying a boat ride, and as we glided over the glassy water, it felt like we were in a dream.
Another unforgettable experience was zip-lining at Mawkdok. Flying over the lush valley, with the wind in our faces and the stunning views below, was both thrilling and romantic. My partner, who was initially hesitant, ended up loving it and insisted on going for a second round.
The Warm Hospitality of Locals
One of the most heartwarming aspects of our trip was the people we met along the way. The locals of Meghalaya are some of the friendliest and most welcoming people we’ve ever encountered.
At Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia, we were greeted with warm smiles and curious glances. A kind elderly woman invited us into her home and served us tea. She shared stories about the village’s history and how the community works together to keep it pristine.
“You must try our bamboo shoot pickle,” she said, handing us a small jar. It was tangy, spicy, and absolutely delicious.
We also had the chance to witness a traditional Khasi dance performance in a local village. The vibrant costumes, rhythmic drum beats, and graceful movements left us mesmerised. Riya even joined in, much to the delight of the performers, while I stood on the sidelines cheering her on.
The Taste of Meghalaya
Food is an integral part of any travel experience, and Meghalaya didn’t disappoint. From momos to Jadoh (a flavourful rice and meat dish), every meal was a culinary adventure.
One evening in Shillong, we dined at a cosy little restaurant where we tried Dohneiiong, a pork dish cooked with black sesame seeds. It was rich, smoky, and packed with flavour.
In Cherrapunji, we indulged in Tungrymbai, a fermented soybean dish that was both unique and comforting. Paired with freshly baked bread, it was the perfect meal after a day of exploring.
We also had to try plenty of street food. From piping hot samosas to sweet jalebis, the vibrant markets were a feast for the senses.
A Memory Etched Forever
Back home, as we were unpacking, I pulled out a small jar of bamboo shoot pickle we had bought from Mawlynnong. I held it up with a smile, and just like that, we were transported back to the lush landscapes, the sound of waterfalls, and the warmth of the people we had met.
“Himanshu, let’s open this when we’re missing Meghalaya,” my partner said, placing it carefully inside the kitchen cabinet.
Our trip to Meghalaya was a journey of discovery, love, and connection. From the natural wonders to the adventures, the hospitality of the locals, and the delectable food, every moment was a treasure.
As we settled back into our routine, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the memories we had created. Meghalaya had left an indelible mark on our hearts, and we knew that someday, we’d return to relive its magic.
Read More: Thrillophilia Meghalaya Reviews