Planning a trip to Meghalaya and dreaming of an unforgettable road journey through hills, waterfalls, forests, and crystal-clear rivers?

Then exploring Meghalaya by car is absolutely the best way to travel.

When you rent a self-drive car from Shillong, you are free to stop where you want, take photos anytime, enjoy roadside tea, meet locals, and truly experience the beauty of the state at your own pace.

In this blog, we’ll explore the best road trip routes from Shillong, famous attractions along the way, and why self-drive car rentals in Meghalaya are becoming the most popular choice for travelers.

Why Explore Meghalaya by Car?

While Meghalaya has taxis and buses, nothing matches the comfort, flexibility, and thrill of driving your own car. With a self-drive rental in Shillong:

• You control your schedule

• You can visit multiple destinations in a day

• You can explore offbeat places not covered by tour buses

• You enjoy total privacy and comfort

• The road becomes a memorable part of your journey

If you love scenic drives, Meghalaya will feel like paradise.

Best Road Trip Routes from Shillong

Below are the most popular and scenic drives you can take starting from Shillong:

1. Shillong → Cherrapunjee (Sohra)

Distance: ~55 km
Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours

This is one of the most famous and beautiful drives in Meghalaya. As you leave Shillong, the landscape opens up into rolling green hills, pine forests, and dramatic cliffs. Every few kilometers, there’s a photo opportunity waiting.

Top attractions on this route:

• Nohkalikai Falls

• Seven Sisters Waterfall

• Mawsmai Caves

• Arwah Caves

• Eco Park

• Living Root Bridges (Tyrna)

This route is perfect for a full-day road trip, and with your own car, you can take your time at every viewpoint.

2. Shillong → Dawki & Umngot River

Distance: ~80 km
Duration: 2.5 – 3 hours

This drive is extremely popular among tourists, especially for the stunning crystal-clear Umngot River in Dawki. Driving through the mountains and valleys, you experience some of Meghalaya’s most peaceful scenery.

Must-visit spots:

• Dawki River boating

• India–Bangladesh border viewpoint

• Mawlynnong village (if you take a slight detour)

• Suspension bridges and village roads

Nothing beats the feeling of reaching the river after a beautiful drive and seeing boats floating on water so clear you can see right through to the riverbed.

3. Shillong → Mawlynnong (Asia’s Cleanest Village)

Distance: ~78 km
Duration: 2.5 hours

Driving to the famous Mawlynnong village is a great way to experience the clean, peaceful side of Meghalaya.

Top attractions on this route:

• Balancing Rock

• Sky View Tower

• Village walk

• Living Root Bridge (Riwai)

Having your own car allows you to combine Mawlynnong with Dawki in the same day – something that’s much harder with public transport.

4. Shillong → Krang Suri Waterfalls (Jowai)

Distance: ~90 km
Duration: 2.5 – 3 hours

This road trip is a bit offbeat, and that’s what makes it special. The roads are scenic, peaceful, and ideal for travelers who love less-touristy destinations.

Highlights:

• Krang Suri Waterfall – turquoise blue and absolutely stunning

• Jowai countryside

• Local villages and farmlands

With a self-drive car, you can stop anywhere for photography or a peaceful break.

5. Shillong → Laitlum Grand Canyon

Distance: ~23 km
Duration: 45 – 60 minutes

This short drive offers amazing views and is often less crowded compared to other tourist spots. When the weather is clear, you can see deep gorges, mist-filled valleys, and stunning landscapes.

This is perfect for a half-day trip from Shillong.

Self-Drive Travel Tips for Meghalaya

If you’re exploring Meghalaya by road for the first time, keep these tips in mind:

• Start early – morning views are beautiful and roads are clearer

• Avoid late-night driving – hill roads can be tricky at night

• Refuel in Shillong – petrol pumps are limited in rural areas

• Drive slowly on curves and foggy patches

• Carry some cash, as small shops may not accept digital payments

Driving safely ensures you enjoy every moment of the journey.

Why Self-Drive Car Rentals are Perfect for These Routes

Renting a self-drive car in Shillong gives you:

• Total independence

• Freedom to choose your own route

• Privacy with friends or family

• A comfortable ride for long distances

• Chance to explore offbeat locations without restrictions

From photography lovers to road trip enthusiasts and family travelers, self-drive cars make Meghalaya travel easier and more enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

Exploring Meghalaya by car is more than just a journey – it’s an experience filled with nature, culture, adventure, and unforgettable memories. The drives from Shillong to Cherrapunjee, Dawki, Mawlynnong, and Krang Suri are some of the most scenic in India, and renting your own vehicle allows you to enjoy them at their best.