Rhododendron Trek Shillong: An Epic Adventure

Rhododendron Trek Shillong is a popular nature trail among tourists who visit this picturesque hill station in Northeast India. The trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Shillong, with its lush greenery, stunning vistas, and diverse flora and fauna.

This trek is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, who can immerse themselves in the serenity of the wilderness and enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The purpose of this blog post is to provide a comprehensive guide to the Rhododendron Trek in Shillong for those who are planning to embark on this adventure.

By the end of this post, readers will have all the information they need to plan their trip to Shillong and enjoy the Rhododendron Trek to the fullest.

Overview of Rhododendron Trek Shillong

The Rhododendron Trek in Shillong is a renowned hiking trail that traverses through the dense forests of the Khasi Hills. As the name suggests, the trek is known for its vibrant Rhododendron flowers that bloom along the trail, providing a mesmerizing visual experience for hikers.

The trek spans over 14 kilometers and takes approximately 6 to 8 hours to complete, depending on one’s pace and the time spent on taking in the stunning views. The Rhododendron Trek takes you through dense forests, serene meadows, and steep slopes, providing a diverse range of terrain and landscapes to experience.

Hikers can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and small mammals while enjoying the natural beauty of the Khasi Hills. Overall, the Rhododendron Trek is a must-visit for anyone who wishes to explore the raw beauty of Shillong’s natural surroundings.

Best time to go on the Rhododendron Trek

The Rhododendron Trek in Shillong is open for hikers throughout the year. However, the best time to embark on this trek is between the months of March and June, when the Rhododendron flowers are in full bloom, painting the trail with vibrant hues of pink and red. The weather during this time is also pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for hiking.

The monsoon season, which lasts from July to September, should be avoided as the trail becomes slippery and treacherous, and there is a high risk of landslides. Similarly, the winter season, which lasts from December to February, can be extremely chilly, with temperatures dropping to as low as 0 degrees Celsius, making it difficult for hikers to enjoy the trek.

Therefore, the best time to go on the Rhododendron Trek is during the spring and summer months when the weather is pleasant, and the trail is at its most beautiful.

How to reach Rhododendron Trek Point

Getting to the Rhododendron Trek in Shillong is relatively easy, and there are various modes of transportation available to reach the starting point of the trek. The trek starts from a village called Mawphlang, which is around 25 kilometers away from Shillong city center.

One of the easiest ways to get to Mawphlang is by hiring a taxi from Shillong. There are several taxi services available in the city, and the fare usually ranges between INR 1200-1500 for a round trip. Another option is to take a shared taxi from the Shillong Taxi Stand, which is cheaper but less comfortable than a private taxi.

Also Read: Best Tracking at Shnongpdeng

For those who prefer public transport, there are frequent buses that operate between Shillong and Mawphlang. The bus journey takes around 1 hour and costs approximately INR 50-100 per person.

Another popular mode of transportation to reach Mawphlang is by hiring a motorcycle or scooter. This option is ideal for those who enjoy riding and want to explore the scenic beauty of the Khasi Hills at their own pace.

1 Night 2 Days Itinerary from Guwahati to Rhododendron Trek

Here is a suggested 1 night / 2 days itinerary for the Rhododendron Trek in Shillong, starting from Guwahati:

Day 1:

• Start early from Guwahati and drive to Shillong, which takes around 3 hours.
• Check into your hotel in Shillong and freshen up.
• Take a taxi or shared transport from Shillong to Mawphlang village, which is the starting point of the Rhododendron Trek. The drive takes around 1 hour.
• Start the Rhododendron Trek, which takes around 3-4 hours to complete. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Khasi Hills and the beautiful Rhododendron flowers in full bloom.
• Return to Mawphlang village and head back to Shillong.
• In the evening, explore the local markets and try out some local food in Shillong.
• Overnight stay in Shillong.

Day 2:

• Wake up early and have breakfast at your hotel.
• Visit the popular tourist spots in Shillong, such as the Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, and Don Bosco Museum.
• Return to Guwahati in the evening.

This itinerary offers a chance to explore both Shillong and the Rhododendron Trek, making for a perfect weekend getaway from Guwahati. However, travelers can modify the itinerary according to their preferences and time availability.

What to bring for the Rhododendron Trek?

Packing the right gear and essentials is crucial to ensure a comfortable and safe Rhododendron Trek experience. Here are some of the essential items that hikers should bring along:

Comfortable hiking shoes: A good pair of hiking shoes is essential for the Rhododendron Trek as it involves walking on steep and uneven terrain. Make sure to wear shoes that are comfortable and provide good ankle support.

Lightweight backpack: A backpack is necessary to carry essentials such as water, snacks, and a first aid kit. A lightweight backpack with adjustable straps is recommended.

Water bottle: Staying hydrated during the trek is important. Carry at least 2 liters of water per person.

Snacks: Carry energy bars, fruits, and nuts to keep your energy levels up.

Rain gear: The weather in Shillong can be unpredictable, and it is always advisable to carry a raincoat or poncho.

First aid kit: A basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and pain relief medication is recommended.

Insect repellent: The Khasi Hills are known for their dense forests, and carrying insect repellent can help keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay.

You must know by now that packing the right gear and essentials is essential for a comfortable and safe Rhododendron Trek experience. Hikers should also pack light and carry only what is necessary to avoid unnecessary weight and fatigue.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Rhododendron Trek Shillong is a beautiful and rewarding experience that should not be missed by nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. This blog post has provided an informative guide on the trek, covering topics such as what the trek is, when to go, how to get there, and what to bring.

The Rhododendron Trek offers a chance to explore the scenic beauty of the Khasi Hills, with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and the opportunity to witness the beautiful Rhododendron flowers in full bloom.

We hope this guide has been helpful to travelers planning to visit Shillong and embark on the Rhododendron Trek. We encourage everyone to take the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Shillong and embark on this beautiful trek. Happy hiking!