Tucked in the Northeastern part of India, Meghalaya is also called the “abode of the clouds” as the stunning landscapes host the clouds rolling through the hills. This offers some of the best views of nature, and to experience this raw beauty, you must know how to reach Meghalaya from Delhi. From the living root bridges in Cherrapunji to the serenity of Umiam Lake, it feels as though nature is quietly welcoming you across the hills and away from the chaos of the city. If you're wondering whether to go by air, train, or road, this guide walks you through every possible route, with actual travel times and details on how far is Meghalaya from Delhi. Here is what to expect on each journey. Whether you’re planning a Meghalaya trip package for a quick getaway or taking your time to truly experience the travel, here is a detailed guide on everything you need to know before you go!
How to Reach Meghalaya from Delhi
If you are sitting in Delhi and planning a trip to Meghalaya, the first question that often comes to mind is how to reach Meghalaya from Delhi. To make your travel from Delhi to Meghalaya hassle-free and smooth, we have mentioned almost all the ways that you can opt for, and here is a detailed breakdown covering all the routes:
1. By Air
The most convenient way to reach Meghalaya from Delhi is by flight. The Delhi to Meghalaya distance by air is approximately 1490 kilometers. While there is a small airport near Shillong (Umroi Airport), most travelers prefer flying to Guwahati Airport in Assam, which is better connected and just a few hours from Shillong by road. The total travel time (including road from Guwahati to Shillong) takes 5 to 6 hours. This is the ideal choice if you’re short on time and want a smooth, hassle-free journey.
Both options have been listed below for your convenience:
Option A: Delhi to Shillong Airport (Umroi Airport)
- Some direct flights are available, mostly by smaller carriers. The total flight duration is around 3 hours. The Umroi airport is about 30 kilometers from Shillong city, and you will find cabs and taxis lined up just outside the airport.
Option B: Delhi to Guwahati Airport
- This one is more frequent and often more affordable. Multiple flights operate daily with IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara, with direct flights available as the connectivity is better. The duration of the flight from Delhi to Guwahati is 2.5 hours, and Guwahati to Shillong by road is about 2.5 to 3 hours.
2. By Train
Meghalaya doesn’t have a direct train line. The nearest railway station is Guwahati, which is well connected to Delhi. From Guwahati, you’ll be required to switch to a road journey to reach Shillong or other places to visit in Meghalaya. The Delhi to Meghalaya distance by train is approximately 1856 kilometers, and the journey takes 30 to 40 hours, including the road trip from Guwahati to Shillong. This route is slow, but good for those traveling on a budget or wanting to soak in more of the journey.
Train Options from Delhi to Guwahati
- Trains like Brahmaputra Mail, North East Express, and Rajdhani Express are best for traveling from Delhi to Guwahati. There are trains like, Dibrugarh special and the Brahmaputra special that operate daily. The journey time is around 27 to 36 hours, depending on the train. Ticket prices range from ₹700 (Sleeper) to ₹2,800 (AC 2-Tier).
Guwahati to Shillong
- The distance between Guwahati to Shillong is around 100 kilometers. The total travel time is 3 to 4 hours by taxi, shared cab, or ASTC buses. The roads take you along scenic roads through hills and forests.
3. By Road
If you love driving or road trips, or thrill and adventure in general, then it is possible to travel from Delhi to Meghalaya by road. But it’s long and takes around 35-40 hours of driving. The Delhi to Meghalaya distance by road is around 1,950 to 2,000 kilometers. The entire travel might take you 3-4 days, if you travel in segments, stopping for breaks at regular intervals. You’ll pass through several states, cross rivers, and ride through plains and hills before you finally reach the Meghalaya border. While the major highways are generally good, some stretches of the road in Meghalaya, particularly the curvy paths through the hills, can be challenging.
Possible Route
Delhi → Lucknow → Gorakhpur → Siliguri → Guwahati → Shillong.
Tips Before You Go
- Book flights early to get better deals, especially during the favourable season, which is the best time to visit Meghalaya.
- If you’re flying to Guwahati, pre-book your cab or shared taxi to Shillong to avoid the last-minute hassles.
- Carry cash, especially if you plan to visit smaller villages or trek routes, since an online mode of payment might not always be available, and the network might not be available most of the time in remote locations.
- Always check weather updates, as rainfall is frequent, which can affect travel and the adventurous things to do in Meghalaya.
- Bring a light jacket, even in warmer months, as the weather in Meghalaya can shift quickly.
Meghalaya isn’t the kind of place you visit without a plan. You choose to visit it. And part of that planning is figuring out how to get there from where you are. If you are wondering how to visit Meghalaya from Delhi, then your options may include a quick and comforting flight, or the long, drawn, slow but calm journey of a train, or the rhythm of the roads that take you there on an adventurous ride, each route to Meghalaya has its own mood. No matter which one you pick, the journey is part of the story. Take the route that feels right, and let the clouds meet you halfway. If you’re still wondering how to reach Meghalaya from Delhi, save this guide. Let this be your map, and let the rest unfold once you’re there.
FAQs
1. How far is Meghalaya from Delhi?
The aerial distance is around 1,490 km, while by road it’s nearly 2,000 km.
2. Is there a direct flight from Delhi to Meghalaya?
Yes, a few direct flights land at the Shillong Airport (Umroi), but most people fly to Guwahati as it has better connectivity and more frequent flights operating daily.
3. Can I travel to Meghalaya from Delhi by train?
There’s no direct train; however, you can take a train to Guwahati and then a cab, taxi, or bus to reach Shillong.
4. What is the best way to reach Meghalaya from Delhi?
Flying to Guwahati and then taking a cab to Shillong is the fastest and most practical route.
5. How to reach Meghalaya from Delhi on a budget?
First, taking a train to Guwahati and then shared cabs to Shillong is the most affordable option, although it takes longer to reach, but is easy on the pockets.
6. Which is the best time to visit Meghalaya?
The best months to visit Meghalaya from Delhi are October to February; the weather during these months is the most favourable, and the rainfall is minimal.
