How to Reach Cherrapunji: Air, Train, and Road Travel Guide

How to reach Cherrapunji is a question that excites many travellers planning their journey to Northeast India. Nestled in the lush hills of Meghalaya, Cherrapunji is renowned as one of the wettest places on Earth. This enchanting tourist destination offers a unique blend of natural wonders, from mist-covered landscapes to thundering waterfalls and living root bridges.

Reaching Cherrapunji requires some planning, as it is not directly connected by air or rail. On this exciting tour, you can expect a scenic journey that typically involves flying or taking a train to Guwahati, followed by a picturesque road trip through the Meghalaya hills. The final leg of this journey will reward you with breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, deep valleys, and cascading waterfalls.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various ways to reach Cherrapunji. Whether you prefer air, rail, or road travel, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan your journey to Cherrapunji seamlessly.

How to Reach Cherrapunji by Air

When considering how to reach Cherrapunji by air, your journey will begin at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam. This airport serves as the primary gateway to Northeast India, with regular flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, etc.

The airport to Cherrapunji route spans approximately 150 kilometres, typically taking 5-6 hours by car. To make this leg of the journey, you can hire a taxi directly from the airport or book a pre-arranged transfer.

As you ascend into the Meghalaya hills, you’ll witness a dramatic transformation in the landscape, offering a preview of Cherrapunji’s natural beauty. It is recommended to start this drive early in the day to fully appreciate the stunning vistas along the way.

How to Reach Cherrapunji by Train

If you are wondering how to reach Cherrapunji by train, it’s important to note that Cherrapunji itself doesn’t have a railway station. However, Guwahati Railway Station serves as the nearest major railhead. This bustling junction is well-connected to various cities across India, making it a viable option for train enthusiasts and budget-conscious travellers alike.

Upon arriving at Guwahati Railway Station, you’ll find numerous options to continue your journey to Cherrapunji. The station’s central location provides easy access to taxi services and tour operators offering transfers to Cherrapunji.

Alternatively, you can opt for a two-stage journey: first, take a bus or shared taxi to Shillong, and then proceed to Cherrapunji. This approach allows you to break up the trip and potentially explore Shillong along the way.

How to Reach Cherrapunji by Road

Preferring on how to reach Cherrapunji by road is an excellent choice to enjoy the freedom of the open road. The journey from Guwahati to Cherrapunji via the Guwahati-Shillong-Cherrapunji highway is a visual treat, offering panoramic views of Meghalaya’s landscapes. This well-maintained road stretches for about 150 kilometres, making it a comfortable drive for both private vehicles and public transportation.

If you’re starting from Guwahati, you have several options. Regular bus services operate from Guwahati’s Paltan Bazaar bus stand to Cherrapunji, offering day and night journeys. For more comfort and flexibility, consider hiring a private taxi or joining a shared sumo service. These options allow you to stop at viewpoints and explore charming towns like Shillong en route.

If you are coming from other parts of India such as Delhi, Mumbai, or Bengaluru, you can first reach Guwahati by road and then continue to Cherrapunji. Many states have direct bus services to Guwahati, from where you can easily find onward transportation to Cherrapunji.