Umngot River & Offbeat Adventure : Discover Meghalaya’s Hidden Gem

Hey travellers!

If you’re planning a trip to Meghalaya, there’s one place you simply can’t miss – the magical Umngot River. It’s not just the cleanest river in India, but one of the clearest in all of Asia and one of the cleanest river in the World. The water is so pure, you can actually see right down to the riverbed – pebbles, giant rocks, and even your own reflection!

1. Why Umngot River Is Truly Special

If you’re exploring Meghalaya, the crystal-clear Umngot River is a must-see destination. Located between the Khasi and Jaintia hills, it offers emerald-green waters so transparent that objects, fish, and reflections below appear almost surreal.

• Incredible Clarity: You can spot fish, pebbles, and even little springs on the riverbed—giving the illusion that boats float above the water.
• Near Pristine Condition: Human settlements near the river are minimal, with only three villages—Dawki, Darrang, and Shnongpdeng—before it flows into Bangladesh. This lack of development ensures ultra-low pollution.
• Cultural Roots: Locals consider it sacred and carefully preserve its purity—unlike other rivers such as Wah Lukha near Brichyrnot, which have become polluted over time.

2. Dawki vs. Shnongpdeng—Which One Should You Choose?

Pro tip: If you want authentic scenery and adventure without the crowd, go for Shnongpdeng. It serves as the perfect base for tranquil and thrill-seeking experiences.

3. Unearthing Sliang—Shnongpdeng’s Best-Kept Secret

A short trek upstream from Shnongpdeng leads you to the hidden paradise of Sliang. Known for its unusual giant white rocks—resembling glacier ice—this spot is dreamlike and rarely visited by mainstream tourists.

How to Reach Sliang:

1. Trek from Amkoi Village
   – Length: ~3–4 km uphill; more challenging terrain; fewer visitors; requires strong fitness.
2. Boating + Trek from Shnongpdeng (recommended)
   – ~25–30-minute boat ride to a serene waterfall
   – ~2 km hike uphill through forests and boulders (rough and sometimes slippery).
   – Duration: 30–40 minutes. Difficulty: Moderate.

At the summit, you’ll encounter glossy white boulders, clear pools, and dramatic falls—ideal for taking breaths away and photos that last a lifetime.

4. Best Time to Visit

• October to April: Weather is dry and pleasant. Water clarity and lower levels are perfect for boating, cliff jumping, and exploring.
• Avoid Monsoon (June–Sep): Trails can become slippery, and water levels may rise too much for safe boating.
• April & May: Warm weather and sky-clear rivers in early daytime work well—just avoid harsh afternoon sun.

5. Getting There: How to Reach Umngot River (Shnongpdeng & Sliang)

From Kolkata/Northeast Indian Cities:

• Fly or Train to Guwahati
  – Train: Kanchanjunga Express, North East Express (~₹700–₹2,000, depending on class)
  – Flight (optional): ₹2,500–₹4,500 if booked early.
• Guwahati to Shillong (~100 km):
  – Shared cabs: ₹400–₹550 per person
  – Private taxis: ₹2,000–₹2,500 per car
• Shillong to Shnongpdeng (95 km):
  – Shared taxis or rental cars (~₹600–₹900 per person)

🕐 Note: Roads can get dark and winding, so aim to arrive before sunset.

6. Things to Do: Activities in Shnongpdeng & Surroundings

• Coracle rides / Inflatable boat rides over crystal waters (max 3–4 per ride)
• Kayaking & Snorkeling in pockets of shallow emerald water
• Cliff jumping from scenic rock ledges into deep plunge pools
• Zip-lining, rock climbing, rappelling (available seasonally)
• Trekking to Sliang or up local hills
• Riverside camping under starry skies
• Hanging bridge walk – iconic local pedestrian bridge
• Forest hikes along betel nut trails and dense terrain

🕒 Timings: Most activities run from 10 AM to 4 PM (weather and water levels permitting).

7. Where to Stay (+ Tip: Camping vs Guesthouses)

Budget Options:

• Camp Zingaros (Shnongpdeng) – Riverfront tents and dorms: ₹600–₹900/night
• Riverside bamboo cottages – Scenic and close to activity points: ₹800–₹1,200 for two
• Traveller’s Nest, Riverside Camps near Dawki/Amkoi – Basic cottages with local food: ₹1,000–₹1,500/night

✨ Camping Tip: Book in advance and bring a light sleeping bag. Camps offer shared bathroom facilities and simple power.

8. Where to Eat: Local Food Options

• Try a local Khasi Thali with rice, stewed vegetables, dal, and chutney
• Fresh river fish BBQ or curry (ask your host or local stalls)
• Boiled greens (spinach/tama leaves) with rice or bread
• Momos and tea are available in small stalls in Shnongpdeng and Dawki

➡️ Pack your own essentials if trekking to Sliang—no food stalls there.

9. Local Insight: Why the Water Is Crystal Clear

• Minimal human habitation along the river course between the hills
• Terrains are uneven and remote, preventing large-scale settlements
• Local communities practice earth-friendly livelihoods, maintaining river purity
• The river’s origin at higher altitudes and absence of industrial runoff help retain clarity

10. Insider Tips & Safety Pointers

• Remove footwear — slippery boulders at Sliang can be slippery.
• Always wear life jackets during water-based adventure.
• Hike conservatively — the jungle stretch may be muddy or covered in mulch in monsoon/post-monsoon.
• Take your trash back — no bins at trailheads or camps.
• Trekkers + cliff jumpers: Go with local guides familiar with river currents and depths.
• Hydrate well and pack dry snacks for hidden spots like Sliang.
• Plan early mornings for boating and cliff jumps—water4°C temperatures drop significantly by late afternoon.

🏁 Final Thoughts: Your Magical Meghalaya Adventure

From the calm serenity of the Umngot River to the thrill of cliff jumps at Sliang, Meghalaya offers both peace and adventure in one trip. Avoid crowded trails, immerse yourself in nature, and explore hidden places rarely touched by tourists.

If you love emerald waters, dramatic rockscapes, and quiet hillsides, this is the journey for you.