Is Laitlum Canyon, Meghalaya, Worth It? Location, Distance, Attractions, And Everything You Must Know
I met Laitlum Canyon on the way to Cherrapunji from Shillong. It means the end of the hills, and it is one of the most dramatic viewpoints you will come across in Meghalaya.
Around 30 km away from Shillong, it is a hidden gem for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
While Shillong is getting all the attention from travelers worldwide, and Skyscanner names it as the “most trending travel destination in the world,” Laitlum Canyon and other nearby hidden gems, such as Mawsmai Cave and Shnongpdeng, are setting benchmarks for sustainable tourism in the region.
Laitlum Canyon is also quite mysterious. If the day is clear, you will get a clear view of the canyons, and on a misty day, clouds engulf them! The ultimate magic of nature!
Furthermore, if you love a little adventure, you can enjoy a light trek through the steep stone trail leading to the Rasong Village.
Hi, do you want to know more about the dreamy charm of this viewpoint in Meghalaya? Here is a detailed guide.
Why Visit Laitlum Canyon? Is It Worth It?
At an altitude of more than 2400 feet, Laitlum Canyon is famous for the views of the deep gorges, verdant hills, and quaint villages. The floating clouds here create the most amazing play of lights and shadows on the ground.
Furthermore, despite being so close to Shilliong and easily accessible, Laitlum Canyon has not lost its pristine nature. The place also has a spiritual vibe, allowing you to connect with nature and introspect.
1. Laitlum Canyon Ecosystem
Laitlum Canyon is home to more than 400 species of birds, colorful orchid beds, and bamboo plantations.
Furthermore, you can spot animals such as flying squirrels, clouded leopards, langurs, gibbons, and various deer here.
It also has indigenous plants such as Sohphie and Sohiong, adding to the local biodiversity.
With such a rich presence of animal and plant life, Laitlum Canyon is a favorite of adventure seekers who love trekking, nature photography, and birdwatching.
2. The Cultural Significance Of Laitlum Canyon
The indigenous Khasi people consider Laitlum Canyon a sacred ground for farming and agriculture. Furthermore, the local people believe that it is the abode of benevolent spirits.
So, Laitlum Canyon establishes a sacred and spiritual bond with its land and nature. Also, its proximity to the Rasong Village and other villages dotting the area makes it an important place to learn about farming, sustenance, and other aspects of culture.
Where Is Laitlum Canyon?
Laitlum Canyon is in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills District. It is also known as Smit Valley due to its proximity to the village of Smit.
From Shillong, it is just a short drive south (for about 1 hour). Once you reach the parking lot, you will have to take a short walk to reach the main cliff.
As you walk, you will find the scenery before your eyes changing suddenly. The plains will get transformed into lush green meadows and surrounding rolling hills.
How To Reach Laitlum Canyon
Laitlum Canyon is located around 30 km south of Shillong, and the distance from Guwahati is around 121 km.
Shillong Airport (SHL) or the Umroi Airport is the closest to Laitlum Canyon. However, the Guwahati Airport is the most suitable choice for people traveling from other parts of the country.
Furthermore, the Guwahati Railway Station (GHY) is around 130 km away from Laitlum Canyon. So, even if you are traveling to the Shillong or Guwahati Airport and by train to the Guwahati Railway Station, you have to travel the rest of the distance by road.
1. How To Reach Laitlum Canyon By Road? (Private And Shared Transfers From Shillong)
Shillong is the most popular gateway to Laitlum Canyon. Though you can travel to this dramatic viewpoint directly from Guwahati, I would suggest a Guwahati to Shillong drive early morning, and exploring places such as Umiam Lake and Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary.
Plan an overnight stay in Shillong, and from there take a private car, shared taxi, or a bike.
Shillong To Laitlum Canyon Private Taxi
Drive or rent a private taxi to reach Laitlum Canyon from Shillong. Taxis are easily available from Police Bazaar and other prominent taxi stands in Shillong.
You will reach the Laitlum Canyon in 1 hour, and the price for a one-way or round trip will be around INR 1500-2000.
An SUV is ideal for this route as the scenic route gets rough in sections.
Here are the contact numbers of some reliable taxi service providers in Laitlum Canyon.
| Service Name | Contact Number | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Shillong Travel Taxi | +91 98630 72266 | Full-day sightseeing & multi-day packages. |
| Travel Trek North East | +91 87300 81838 | Shared taxi options (approx. ₹800/person) and local day tours. |
| HurryUp Cabs | +91 70811 23339 | On-demand private rentals and 24/7 airport drops. |
| Travenjo | +91 91013 54331 | Budget-specific hatchback tours (Alto/Celerio). |
Shillong To Laitlum Canyon Shared Cab
You can take a shared Sumo to the nearby Smit Village and walk for 2 kms to reach Laitlum Canyon. If you don’t want to walk the distance, you can take a local cab or try a hitch ride with a local.
The shared cab price is INR 50 to 150 per person.
Shillong To Laitlum Bike
If you are traveling solo, renting a bike is the best thing. Take a bike on rent for INR 500-800 per day in Shillong and explore Laitlum and all the nearby attractions at your own pace.
Short Walk Or Trek To Laitlum Canyon
The main viewpoint is within walking distance of 2 to 5 minutes from the parking lot in Laitlum. However, if you want some adventure, climb down a steep route with 3000 steps to reach the Rasong Village.
2. Shillong To Laitlum Canyon In The Iconic Wooden Buses
If you love history and heritage, you must consider a ride on the iconic blue and yellow Bos Dieng buses. Started in the early 20th century, these wooden buses still connect Shillong to Smit, Mawsynram, Jowai, and other villages in the East Khasi and Jaintia Hills.
You will get these buses from the Mawlonghat / Mawlai Bus Stand of Shillong, and Shillong to Smit is the best route to travel in these buses.
Furthermore, these buses are cheaper than the sumos or taxis that ply between Shillong and Smit Village.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Laitlum Canyon? (Month-By-Month Guide)
October to May is the best time for a visit to Laitlum Canyon. The temperature is around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius, and a clear view makes the months ideal for hikes, nature photography, and nature exploration.
You will get the best views of the surrounding valleys, cliffs, and villages between late morning and early afternoon on a day. The early mornings and late afternoons usually remain misty.
April to June is also a decent time to visit Laitlum Canyon as the visibility is clear despite occasional rainfalls setting in, and there is less crowd.
July to September is a risky period to visit Laitlum Canyon or any part of Meghalaya, especially Cherrapunji and its nearby places. The lush greenery is magical, but heavy rainfall and slippery road conditions make trekking and outdoor exploration risky in these months.
Check out the table below for a brief idea about the seasonal photography tips and trail conditions in Laitlum Canyon.
| Seasons in Laitlum Canyon | Best for and Visual Vibe | Photography Tips | Trail Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (November to February) | • Clarity & Sunsets • Golden Meadows • Crisp Blue Skies • The Sharpest Visibility of the Valley | • The Rasong Viewpoint Looks Amazing with Sunset Colors. • Reach the Viewpoint by 3:30 PM to See the Sun Dipping in the East Khasi Hills. | • Dry and Dusty |
| Spring (March to June) | • Orchids and Greenery • Mix of Blooming Wildflowers • Green Slopes | • Use Drones for Incredible Aerial Perspectives. | • Dry and Dusty |
| Monsoon (July to September) | • Drama and Mist • Swirling White Clouds • Intense Mystical” Atmosphere • Cascading waterfalls | • Don’t Leave if It’s Foogy. • Follow the Window Technique. • Wait for the Clouds to Move. • As the Sun Breaks Through, Get Dramatic, High-Contrast Shots of the Valley. | • Slippery and Moss Covered |
| Post-Monsoon (October to November) | • Clear Weather • Greenest Hills | • Emphasize the Depth of the Canyon by Using the 3,000-Step Stairway or the Tiny Houses of Rasong Village Far Below as a Sense of Scale. | • Less Slippery Still, Loose Gravel is there on the Trail. |
What Are The Laitlum Canyon Opening Hours And Entry Fee?
The Laitlum Canyon remains open from 6 AM to 5 PM. There is no entry fee to the canyon. However, carry cash as you will need to buy snacks, and if you are taking a local/shared transport to the Smit village, you will need to make payments in cash.
However, it is ideal to visit the canyon when the Sun shines brightly for better visibility.
Where To Stay In Laitlum Canyon, Meghalaya?
Grace Canyon is the enlisted homestay of Meghalaya Tourism near Laitlum Canyon. The homestay is at Mawkynrew, which is around 18 km from the canyon. Contact the homestay at 8730841114 for the details.
You can even stay at Meghalaya Tourism-enlisted homestays in the Smit Village, which is just 9 kms away from the Laitlum Canyon.
RC Homestay at Lumkynsai (Contact Number: 8837485877) and IAI-NEH Homestay at Lum Kynsai, Smit (Contact Number: 9819133594) are some of the best options.
The price range of the homestays near Laitlum is varied. The charge is around INR 800 to 2000 per day.
What Are The Things To Do At Laitlum Canyon?
From short hikes to cultural exploration, the things to do at Laitlum Canyon are diverse. Thus, this hidden gem near Shillong caters to solo travelers, couples, and families alike.
1. Enjoy The Panoramic Views
The panoramic vistas of surrounding valleys and villages are the main attractions at Laitlum Canyon.
The sharp ridges and the dramatic routes for trekking also make the place look otherworldly.
2. Photography
Laitlum Canyon offers you endless photo opportunities. You can capture picture-perfect frames, sunrise views, lush greenery, and the play of clouds.
Also, you will get the best frame when the rays of the Sun pierce through the floating clouds.
3. Picnic
If you are traveling with your family, you can pack your food and find a spot near the canyon for a picnic. Enjoy your meal while cherishing the natural beauty.
4. Trekking To Villages
You can trek to the Smit Village, which is around 9 km away, or the Rasong Village, which is less than 2 km away. However, the trek to the Rasong Village will be difficult as you need to climb down 3000 steps.
5. Visiting Nearby Attractions
Once you are done trekking, you can visit nearby attractions such as the local bamboo bridges, the live root bridges of Cherrapunji, Umiam Lake, and Shillong Peak.
6. Meeting The Locals
You can go for spontaneous nature walks and find the local Khasi people busy with agricultural and farming activities.
Listen to their stories and learn how they spend their days. If you are visiting Laitlum Canyon post monsoon, you will see the villagers using the ancient ropeway pulley system to transport goods such as broom grass and potatoes.
They climb up from the Rasong village to the canyon rim. This is a signature post-monsoon sight in Laitlum Canyon.
What Are The Offbeat/Hidden Gems Near Laitlum Canyon?
The Mawphlang Sacred Forest is probably the most important attraction near Laitlum Canyon. There are also some trekking trails, quaint villages, and viewpoints near Laitlum Canyon.
Check out the table below for brief details on the offbeat attractions near Laitlum Canyon and why you must visit them.
| Offbeat Locations Near Laitlum Canyon | Distance from Laitlum Canyon | Why Visit Them? |
|---|---|---|
| Mawphlang Sacred Forest | 34 Km | • A Protected, Ancient Forest • Rich in Khasi Culture and Biodiversity |
| Mawlyngot | 27 Km | • Peaceful Village with Beautiful Umsong River Valley • Organic Farming • Tea Garden |
| Smit Village | 9 Km | • Traditional Bamboo Houses • The Cultural Heartland of the Khasi People |
| Nongjrong | 30 Km | • A Hidden Paradise • Wonderful Sunrise Views Above a Sea of Clouds |
| David Scott Trail | 34 Km | • Historic, Scenic Trail Runs from Mawphlang to Lad Mawphlang • Offers Deep Valley Views |
| Wah Kaba Falls | 37 Km | • Impressive Seasonal Waterfall • Surrounded by Greenery and Natural Caves |
| Mawphanlur | 83 Km | • Rolling Hills • Small Lakes for Boating and Fishing |
Local Culture And Village Life Near Laitlum Canyon
The Nongkrem Syiem’s Courtyard of the Smit village gets decked up for the Nongkrem Dance Festival in November. In this religious harvest festival, the Khasi tribe thanks the Goddess Ka Blei Synshar for prosperity.
The Syiem of Khyrim, or the chief and high priest leads this ceremony. It also includes the Pomblang ceremony or goat sacrifice.
This dance performance with traditional tribal music, especially the drums, celebrates the matrilineal structure of the Khasi Society.
However, it is not just about the festival. Smit, being the cultural heartland of the Khasi people, always offers warm and rich experiences. You can also have traditional Meghalaya food here.
Rasong Village, on the other hand, nestled deep in the valley, gives us an insight into how people live in a remote rural setup.
Terrace farming is the primary livelihood in these villages. However, you can also find people making beautiful bamboo handicrafts and selling them to tourists.
Safety Tips And Responsible Travel To Laitlum Canyon, Meghalaya
- Do not hike Laitlum Canyon in the monsoon season. Carry a light jacket and rain gear even in summer as the weather can change dramatically.
- Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes to hike safely through the slippery terrain.
- The area does not have enough guardrails. So, you have to maintain a distance from the edges, especially when there is fog or rainfall.
- Download offline maps as the network connectivity is limited in this area.
- Carry a first-aid kit.
- Littering can lead to a booking. So, carry all the trash to Shillong.
- Avoid single-use plastics and noise pollution.
- Support the local economy by hiring local guides and buying local handicrafts as souvenirs.
- Keep a few numbers handy. Those are Emergency Helpline: 112, Medical Emergency: 108, Police: 100, and Fire Services: 101.
Laitlum Canyon Itineraries: Based On Traveler Types And Budget Guide
Here are the convenient itineraries and cost breakdown for budget, mid-range and luxury travelers in Laitlum Canyon.
1. Itinerary For Solo Travelers And Small Groups: The “Sunrise & Solitude” Day Trip (Budget-Friendly)
| Itinerary | Budget Breakdown |
|---|---|
| • 5 AM: Departing Shillong • 6 AM: Arrival at Laitlum for Sunrise • 10 AM: Trekking Down the 3,000 Steps to Rasong Village • 10:30 AM: Stopping at Smit Village on the Way Back to See the Ling Sad (Traditional Royal Thatch Palace of the Khasi King). • 12:30 PM: Return to Shillong for Lunch at Police Bazar. | • Taxi (Hatchback/Alto) ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 (Total for 4 people) • Entry & Parking ₹50 – ₹100 • Breakfast/Snacks ₹150 (Carry Your Own or Visit a Local Stall) • Total (If Shared by 4) ₹600 – ₹700 |
2. The “East Khasi Highlights” (Mid-Range) For Families
| Itinerary | Budget Breakdown |
|---|---|
| • 9:00 AM: Starting from Shillong. • 10:30 AM: Laitlum Canyon Exploration and Photography. • 1:00 PM: Lunch at a Local Cafe in Laitumkhrah (Try Trattoria for Authentic Khasi food). • 02:30 PM: Visit Elephant Falls or Shillong Peak for a Panoramic City View. • 04:30 PM: Evening Boat Ride at Wards Lake. | • Private Sedan/SUV₹2,500 – ₹3,500 (Total for Group) • Lunch (Mid-Range) ₹300 – ₹500 • Entry Fees (Multiple) ₹200 – ₹300 • Total (If Shared by 3) ₹1,500 – ₹1,800 |
3. The “Cloud Chaser” (Nongjrong And Laitlum) For Photographers
| Itinerary | Budget Breakdown |
|---|---|
| • 3:00 AM: Departure for Nongjrong Viewpoint from Shillong. • 5:30 AM: Watch the Sunrise Over the Clouds in the Umngot Valley. • 10:00 AM: Drive toward Laitlum Canyon through Scenic Backroads. • 12:00 PM: Picnic Lunch at the Canyon Rim. • 3:00 PM: Return to Shillong. | • SUV (Mandatory for Nongjrong) ₹4,500 – ₹5,500 (Total for group) • Driver Night/Early Fee ₹500 (Standard for 3 AM Starts) • Food & Water ₹400 • Total (If Shared by 4) ₹1,800 – ₹2,200 |
4. Budget Breakdown If You Choose To Stay Near The Canyon
Are you planning to stay overnight near the canyon or at Shillong? Here is your budget breakdown.
| Budget Guesthouses | ₹1,200 – ₹1,800 Per Night |
| Meals | ₹150 for a Local Khasi Thali₹Around 400 for a Cafe Meal |
| Shared Taxi from Shillong (Anjalee Parking) to Smit | ₹50-₹150 |
| Local Taxi from Smit to Laitlum | ₹500 |
A Visual Guidance For Laitlum Canyon, Meghalaya: Best Photography Spots And Sunrise/Sunset Timings
The sunrise time is around 5 AM in the summer season and in the winter season, you will not get a clear view of the Sun until 6:30 AM.
Similarly, the sunset time is around 4 PM in the winter months and 5:30 PM in the summer months.
| Best Spots for Photography | Details |
|---|---|
| Top Ridge, The Main Viewpoint | • Enjoy a Panoramic View of the Wahrew valley and the Entire Gorge. • Great for Wide Landscape Shots. |
| The Descent Trail | • A Winding, Narrow 3000-Steps Stairway Trail Descending into the Gorge • Offers Dramatic Perspectives of the Vertical Cliffs |
| The Edge of the Canyon | • Provides a Sense of Scale • Hovering Clouds |
| Near Rasong Village | • Located at the Bottom of the Canyon • Surrounded by a Rural Landscape and Cliffs |
Laitlum Canyon: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Laitlum Canyon, Meghalaya.
Mawlynnong, located at a distance of around 90 km is the cleanest place in Shillong. This village, located in the East Khasi Hills, is also known as the “Cleanest Village of Asia.”
Yes, a trek can happen in Laitlum Canyon. You have to climb down 3000 steps to reach Rasong.
It is an arduous trek through steep terrain.
Traditional bamboo and cane crafts such as furniture and handmade items, local spices, scrubs, and ethnic jewelry are some of the best things to buy in Shillong.
Furthermore, you can shop for handwoven shawls/textiles (Eri Silk, Jaintia fabrics) from the Police Bazaar or Khasi Emporium.
