There's something undeniably captivating about embarking on a road trip—an adventure fueled by spontaneity and a yearning to uncover hidden gems. Nestled in the mesmerizing landscapes of Meghalaya, India, lies a natural wonder that has been drawing travelers from far and wide—the breathtaking Laitlum Canyons.
The drive from Shillong to Laitlum Canyons is an experience that every nature lover must have. The journey is around 25 ish km long and takes approximately 45min to an hour to reach the destination (depending on traffic). The route is picturesque with lush green hills and valleys on either side of the road, making it a scenic drive.
We started by around 2pm. The excitement palpable as we hit the road from Shillong. The winding roads embraced us as we made our way through the lush green hills of Meghalaya. The journey itself was a visual treat, with every turn revealing panoramic views of valleys, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests. After a couple of hours, we reached Smit, a quaint village renowned for its vibrant local culture.
Usually, the best time to visit Laitlum Canyons is between November and March when the weather is pleasant, and the views are clear. But that day was chilly. On reaching Laitlum parking area, we could feel the cold breeze brushing against our skin. It was cold out there and it was in the month of May .
There are several trekking options available. You can take a short trek to the viewpoint and enjoy the breathtaking views of the valley below, or you can opt for a longer trek that takes you deeper into the canyon. The trekking trails are well-marked, and you can hire a guide if needed.
We parked our car and walked for about 15 minutes to reach the viewpoint. It was an easy walk to the viewpoint. As we reached the top, a breathtaking sight greeted us. The Laitlum Canyons unfolded before our eyes—vast, rugged cliffs carved by time and nature. The sheer drop-offs and the verdant valley below took our breath away. We couldn't help but stand in awe of Mother Nature's masterpiece .Laitlum means ‘end of hills’ and this place truly lives up to its name. It is a stunning hilltop like an amphitheater of nature, where you can see the endless horizon of green hills and gorges. The green valleys, rolling hills, floating clouds, the shining sun, all creating surreal effect that's insanely mesmerizing.
We had the pleasure of indulging delicious snacks (momos, corn bhutta, tea, chips, etc) from local hawkers, took tons of pictures, spend quality time with friends and family and just immersed ourselves in the ethereal beauty of the canyons.
A road trip to Laitlum Canyons from Shillong is an experience that encapsulates the spirit of adventure and the beauty of the Meghalayan landscapes. It's a journey that takes you beyond the beaten path, offering a chance to connect with nature in its purest form.
As we drove back to Shillong, our hearts were filled with gratitude for the opportunity to witness the splendor of Laitlum Canyons. The memories we made and the stunning vistas we encountered will forever hold a special place in our hearts. If you're seeking an offbeat road trip that will leave you in awe of nature's wonders, Laitlum Canyons is an absolute must-visit destination. It was indeed "A view to remember" and don't forget to carry your camera for breathtaking photos/videos.
To watch the video of Laitlum Canyons click here
Location & Things to do:
Location- Laitlum, East Khasi Hills District
Distance- 24 kms from Shillong
Nearest town- Smit
Activities- Sunset view, Trekking, Bird Watching, Leisure Time, Photography
Tips- Take your own food, water and warm clothes
Fun Fact- The Bollywood movie Rock On 2 was shot at this location