Northeast India is home to many underrated gems that most Indians aren’t even aware of. The region, filled with lush green mountains, azure blue waterfalls, old temples, and untouched natural beauty, is no less than a dream haven for travelers. One such place in Northeast India is Meghalaya’s Laitlum Canyon. The canyon is surrounded by lush green hills, making it seem like the Scottish countryside has been transported all the way to India! If you’re a nature enthusiast and love some adventure, here’s how and why you should visit Laitlum Canyon.
Laitlum Canyon In Meghalaya
What Is Meghalaya Laitlum Canyon
The word ‘Laitlum’ translates to ‘the end of the world’ or ‘the end of the hills’. Canyon is located in the state of Meghalaya, about 22 kilometers (km) away from the city of Shillong. The hills surrounding Laitlum Canyon will remind you of the Scottish countryside, which is why this place is also called the ‘Scotland of the East’. These hills are also known as ‘Meghalaya’s Amphitheater’. The hills are covered in hues of green, brown and red that beautifully play with the sunrays to offer a vibrant panoramic view.
The way to reach Laitlum Canyon is not that easy, however, the views that you get from the Laitlum hilltops are truly surreal. From the top, you’ll be able to see deep gorges and canyons carved out in the hills and stretching out as far as your eyes can see.
How To Reach Laitlum Canyons
By Air
The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati is the closest airport to Laitlum Canyons, located about 140 km away. You can get direct flights from major cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can take a cab to Shillong to rest and then take another cab from Shillong to Laitlum Canyon. Alternatively, you can take a direct cab to reach the canyon. The total journey can take about 6 to 7 hours.
By Rail
Guwahati Junction is the closest railway station to Laitlum Canyon, located about 120 km away. From the station, you can hire a cab or a bus to reach Shillong and then hire a cab to reach Laitlum Grand Canyon Meghalaya.
By Road
By road, you can take a bus or a cab and even drive from Guwahati to Shillong. On your way, you’ll be greeted by scenic hills, winding roads, and pleasant views of Meghalaya. This journey can take about 3 to 4 hours, after which you can head towards the Laitlum Grand Canyon Meghalaya. Laitlum is located ahead of the village of Smit. To reach there, take the National Highway 44 to Jowai, Jaintia Hills and then divert towards the right to reach Smit Road.
What To Do At Laitlum Canyons
To reach the Laitlum hilltop, you can trek your way up like many trekkers do or take the 3000 steps etched into the mountain. You’ll be making your way through lush green meadows as well as rocky pathways. Once you reach the top, you’ll be mesmerized by the panoramic views of the deep gorges and valleys looking over the East Khasi Hills. Depending on the sunlight, these views change colors – from a bright golden hue to a lush, verdant green shade.
If you’re making your way to the hilltop in the morning, you’ll witness the hills covered in thick layers of fog and mist. Plus, the hilltop can also become windy. On a fine sunny day, you can get a clear view of the surroundings, especially in the afternoon. On the top of the hilltop, as you scale the 3000 steps, you’ll reach the hamlet of Rasong. As you make your way to Rasong, you’ll also be welcomed by orchids and bamboo plantations.
Laitlum Canyons are a haven for photographers, trekkers, and nature lovers alike.
Best Time To Visit Laitlum Canyon
The best time to visit Laitlum Canyon is in the months of October to April. The place is open from 6 AM to 5:30 PM every day. The weather is pleasant, cool, and not too hot in these months. October to April is the best time to visit this place as you’ll be guaranteed a mesmerizing view on most days. Make sure that you don’t end up here in the early morning or evening as the view is usually foggy at these times.
Many people also visit Laitlum Canyons in the monsoon months of June to September. A big advantage of visiting it in these months is that you’ll be greeted with deep verdant hues and a cool, rainy atmosphere. Meghalaya receives heavy rainfall and the path to the hilltop can become slippery, so make sure that you take necessary precautions while making your way up.
Summing Up
Meghalaya is blessed with untapped natural beauty, be it deep valleys and gorges, verdant green hills, tranquil rivers or streams. And one such place in Meghalaya is the Laitlum Canyon. If you’re wishing to experience a slice of Scotland right here in India, this destination is just for you!
FAQs
Which Is The Most Visited Place In Meghalaya?
These are some of the most visited places in Meghalaya:
- Dawki River
- Nohkalikai Falls
- Double Decker Root Bridge
- Umiam Lake
- Mawsmai Caves
What Is The Elevation Of Laitlum Canyon?
Laitlum Canyon is located at an elevation of 1,966 meters above sea level.
Which Month Is Best To Visit Meghalaya?
The best months to visit Meghalaya are the months of October to February.
