AdventureKayaking on the Umngot
Paddle on one of India's clearest rivers with a local guide.
WhereEast Khasi Hills, near Shillong
From ShillongAbout 1.5 hours by road
TimingsDaylight, about 5 am to 5:30 pm
Best monthsOctober to February
Time1 to 2 hours
ParentsEasy at the top viewpoint
Check before you go: Timings, fees and access can change with the season, festivals and weather. Check the latest timings before you go; on our trips we confirm them for you.
Laitlum Canyons is a ridge near Shillong where the plateau drops into deep, forested gorges. It is about 1.5 hours by road from Shillong and open in daylight, roughly 5 am to 5:30 pm. Go between October and February, and aim for the afternoon, when the morning fog has usually lifted.
Laitlum Grand Canyon: the "end of the hills"
In Khasi, Laitlum roughly means "end of the hills", and that is exactly how it feels. The road runs out on a grassy ridge, and the land falls away into a maze of green valleys.
People often call it the Laitlum Grand Canyon. Below the ridge, a long stairway of about 3,000 steps links a village in the valley to the market above.
Is it okay for parents?
EasyStepsNone at the top viewpoint
WalkingShort and flat at the top; steep steps if you go down
ToiletsBasic
The view from the top is easy. Going down the valley steps is hard.
Best time for the Laitlum viewpoint
October to February gives the clearest views. Mornings are often foggy, so the afternoon is usually the better bet, and the light at sunset is soft and golden.
- October to February: clear and cool, the best season.
- March to June: warmer and still pleasant.
- July to September: heavy rain, fog and slippery paths.
How to reach Laitlum from Shillong
Laitlum is a short drive from Shillong through pine forest and villages. Most people visit it as a half-day trip from the city or on the way to Sohra (Cherrapunji). Self-drive rentals for tourists are not allowed in Meghalaya, so book a taxi or a trip with a driver.
Veg and Jain food
Small tea stalls. Carry snacks.
Experiences nearby
Do more with locals
Adventure
Must doWalk to the Riwai living root bridge
A short, easy walk to a bridge grown from living tree roots. A good choice for parents.
Food & peopleKhasi home lunch in Mawlynnong
Sit down for a home-cooked Khasi lunch with a family in one of the cleanest villages in India.
AdventureFAQ
Laitlum Grand Canyon: your questions
What is the best time of day for Laitlum Canyons?
The afternoon. Mornings are often covered in fog; by afternoon the valleys usually clear, and sunset light is lovely.
Is there an entry fee at the Laitlum viewpoint?
The main viewpoint has generally been free to visit. Small parking or local charges can apply, so carry some cash.
Can parents walk at Laitlum Grand Canyon?
Yes, the top of the ridge is easy. Only the long stairway down into the valley is hard, and you do not need it to enjoy the view.
Is Laitlum worth it on a foggy day?
Wait it out if you can. The fog often lifts within an hour or two, and the valleys appear all at once.
Can I combine Laitlum with Cherrapunji in one day?
Yes. Many travellers stop at Laitlum on the way from Shillong to Sohra, as we do on Day 2 of our Meghalaya trip.
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