If you are looking for a place to escape to, so that you can “start afresh”, then backpacking to the Northeast of India may be one of the best options out there. As it also happens to be one of the coolest places to be right now, you may as well stop your search right here, and start planning your one-of-a-kind trip! Our local guides of Roots and Leisure helps you explore the most happening local hotspots in the region so be assured that we’ll fill you in sufficiently with all the exclusive and local info.
Today, our contributor Mahna Slong from Shillong takes us to the Laitlum Canyons in Meghlaya. Laitlum means “End of hills” and is a must visit if you wish to get a taste of what the region has to offer beyond the sturdy hills that defines the region.
Mahna enjoying her hot cup of tea and the picturesque view of the Laitlum Canyons
Manha Slong from Shillong enjoying the picturesque view of the Laitlum Canyons
-
About the Laitlum canyons, Meghalaya by Mahna
“The mountain and the hills have their way of challenging me so that I can climb their steepness into a deep satisfaction of personal liberty in the end. Most of us have acquired a state of mind where, if our goals and dreams are not fulfilled, we feel worthless. Our mind plays victim to these cumulus thought explosions that we become too weary, too tired and too indecisive. We find ourselves cocooned in a spot where we chew onto our own fears – heavily influenced by external noises and often find ourselves convinced that we are no more capable to take on anymore challenges and at some point in our tired lives, all we are left with is our desperate desire to seek refuge and solace in the comfort of our already stale four walls – only to remain stagnant and even more unhappy.
But the lucky ones somehow awaken to the truth that we can renew our tired spirit in the kindred offerings of nature. Stepping out there into this “real world”, as I have experienced, will fill up your tired body and mind with fresh perspectives – that is pure, and meant solely for you. The one place that has brought peace to my soul and made me feel wondrously small – where even my seemingly ginormous problems seem tiny and irrelevant – in the cosmic order of things is ‘Laitlum’!
Heavenly Spread of Laitlum canyons, Meghalaya
“Laitlum translates to ‘end of hills’ and this sublimely beautiful hilltop appears to be true to its name. At Laitlum, all one can see are breathtaking gorges and steep winding stairways that snake their way down to the lush valley.”
Peace and Serenity as offered by Laitlum canyons, Meghalaya
Catch up with yourself and your friends over a conversation overlooking the quiet and peaceful view of the canyons, and its never ending stretch of the wide open sky.
Watching the sunset over some conversations in Laitlum Canyons, Meghalaya
“We watched more sunsets in that one visit to Laitlum, than we’ve ever had in our lifetime.”
Sunset in Laitlum Canyons, Meghalaya
Enjoying a hot cup of black tea – a local favourite, on the hilltop of Laitlum
Sipping on hot black tea in Laitlum Canyons, Meghalaya
-
How I Reached the Laitlum Canyons
I had my palms all sweaty and knees shaky to get to the edge of this hill . . . but nature being the smartest planner, Laitlum has numerous curves and bends that offer a spectacular view to the climbers – and a great (and challenging!) trekking experience. The tiresome climb is definitely worth the view from the top, but I suggest you not to try it if you are acrophobic. But do not despair, there are several other ways experience the beauty the Laitlum.
Just 22km away from the Shillong City, the Laitlum Grand Canyon is is partly surrounded by clouds amidst the picturesque view of the hilltops.Make sure to wear a warm jacket that is wind proof as the chilling and gusty wind can be piercing
It takes an hour for villagers in the area to go to the nearest marketplace for food and supplies. You will meet them along the way, do not miss to stop and say hi. You can borrow some strength from these locals who climb these steep pathways everyday
So when are you planning your trip to the Laitlum Canyons? If you wish to know more about the place and the trip, comment below or drop us an enquiry to info@rootsandleisure.com
Our local guides of Roots and Leisure helps you explore the most happening local hotspots in the North East of India. Click here for more.
