As I planned my trip to Shillong, the crown jewel of Northeast India, Laitlum Canyon emerged in my research as an awe-inspiring natural wonder not to miss. The plunging valleys, lush forests, and stunning high-altitude views of this breathtaking canyon beckoned my adventurous spirit. I set out to explore this lesser-known travel gem on the outskirts of Shillong in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. In this post we talk about Travel Musings Laitlum Canyon Shillong.
Journey to the Canyon
I began my journey by arriving in Guwahati, Assam by train. From there, I caught a shared taxi for the 3-hour ride to reach Shillong. After checking into my homestay and fueling up on a traditional Khasi meal, I connected with a tour operator to arrange transportation to Laitlum Canyon at first light the next morning.
The drive took about two hours, the last stretch bumping along narrow dirt roads twisting deep into the countryside. Our SUV finally pulled up to a simple metal bridge with a handful of ramshackle food stalls framing the entrance to a steep hiking route—this was the gateway to the canyon that had lured me here.
The First Glimpses
Eager for my first glimpse into the lush gorge, I crossed the creaky bridge on foot and started along the rocky trail used by local farmers to access their fields. Around the first bend, the low-lying clouds suddenly parted to unveil stunning views down into the lush green canyon cut dramatically into the surrounding hills. My audible gasp was lost in the whipping winds as I took in deep ridges blanketed in thriving forests of pine as far as the eye could see.
The Lookout Point
Reinvigorated by the spellbinding initial views, I continued hiking along the undulating trail, thankful I had worn sturdy shoes with good traction. The grade increased sharply before leveling out at a wooden shelter built for hikers to rest and take in the scenery. I shared smiles and simple pleasantries with a friendly local tribal family before claiming a spot on a rustic bench.
As I caught my breath, a kindly grandmother pointed out an even higher vantage point up a set of makeshift log stairs. I thanked her through hand gestures and climbed up to discover an unobstructed, jaw-dropping panorama in every direction. I had found the ultimate Laitlum Canyon lookout. Spellbound, I sat down on an old stump and let the outrageous beauty wash over me.
Into the Clouds
I had expected verdant, rolling hills, but I hadn’t envisioned being literally immersed in the clouds. Moody fog rolled across the canyon, then disappeared from view entirely, over and over in an endless dance. When the mist thinned, I distinguished tiny homes and small farms carved right out of the steep canyon sides. But mostly I saw endless emerald hills blanketed in lush forests. The scale was almost too massive to comprehend.
As the afternoon sun jousted with the shadows cast by fast-moving clouds, the light changed by the minute creating an awe-inspiring show. Then a curtain of rain in the far distance sent faint rainbows arching over the furthest ridges—my heart swelled at the living, breathing magic of it all. I pulled out my notebook and pen to journal and sketch before my eyes, hoping to permanently etch the wonder into memory.
A Personal Sanctuary
In the late afternoon, the weather shifted noticeably cooler and fog rolled in, obscuring all views. The friendly family beckoned me back to their shelter where they had gathered brush and logs to start a small fire. My guide explained that they live in a nearby tribal village and often come here to forage edible and medicinal plants. They welcomed me to join them beside the fire to take tea and stew as we waited for the fog to lift again.
Huddled around the crackling fire sharing tea and stories with my new friends as misty gray shadows danced around our sanctuary, I felt a level of inner peace I didn’t know I was missing. I had discovered more than staggering landscapes. I had found connection, wonder, and restoration for my weary soul. And I had seen firsthand the everyday magic of Mother Nature going about her mysterious work transforming light, shadows, and spirits.
Bidding a Reluctant Farewell
As the last hints of daylight disappeared, I knew I had to begin the trek back down the canyon and return to Shillong before nightfall made the roads too tricky. After sincerely thanking my companions, I began retracing my steps, treading slowly and carefully on the uneven path. I paused often to breathe in the refreshingly crisp, clean air scented faintly of pine and woodsmoke.
Reaching the canyon floor, I crossed back over the swinging bridge as darkness descended. The bone-chilling temperature drop urged me to pick up my pace for the 30-minute walk back to meet my driver. My legs ached pleasantly from the day’s exertion as I sank into the backseat, flushed with contentment, déjà vu and anticipation of returning one day. This extraordinarily alluring secret spot had captivated my imagination and unlocked a profound sense of inner calm. As we drove away, I gazed back longingly through the fading light, bidding a loving farewell to Laitlum Canyon and the kind strangers who had welcomed me into their world.
Planning Your Trip For Travel Musings Laitlum Canyon Shillong
If my eloquent words and admittedly amateur photographs have inspired you to experience the magic of Laitlum Canyon for yourself, here are some tips for planning your visit:
When to Go
The ideal season is October to May when skies are likely to be clearer for best views. Be prepared with plenty of warm layers as the temperature drops sharply once the sun goes down.
Travel and Tours
Allow 2+ hours’ drive each way from Shillong. Hire an SUV or 4×4 and experienced driver/guide familiar with the remote roads. Most hotels and homestays can arrange round-trip transportation and guide service.
What to Bring
Dress for hiking and fluctuating weather with proper footwear, windbreaker, hat, gloves etc. Bring plenty of drinking water plus snacks/lunch to fuel your outdoor adventure. Don’t forget your camera!
Time Needed
Plan to spend at least 4 hours to allow for transportation plus ample time exploring the trails, lookout points and shoulders of the canyon at a comfortable pace. An overnight stay would allow you to see sunset and sunrise vistas.
Precautions
As with any remote destination, protect yourself by traveling with a guide. Check weather reports and only set out if conditions seem safe for hiking. Beware of loose gravel, overgrowth or steps along the paths and refrain from dangerous selfie spots at the canyon rim!
Ready, set…start dreaming and planning your visit to magnificent Laitlum Canyon. I’ll be reminiscing about my magical experience there until I can return to explore its natural splendor again! Let me know how your own canyon revelations unfold in this largely undiscovered corner of incredible India. I hope this Travel Musings Laitlum Canyon Shillong post helped you.