1. Nongpoh | 58 km

Nongpoh, with its pristine natural beauty and peaceful ambiance, is a perfect stopover on the way to Shillong. This short road trip from Guwahati to Nongpoh is smooth and offers a glimpse into the serene countryside of Meghalaya.

• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Popularity: Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary and Kyllang Rock
• Activities to do: Wildlife spotting, trekking, and exploring local markets
• Ideal Route: Guwahati – Nongpoh

2. Umiam Lake | 82 km

Umiam Lake’s vast, serene waters offer a tranquil retreat for those looking to escape the city’s chaos. The Guwahati road trip to Umiam Lake is short but incredibly scenic, making it an ideal getaway for a day or weekend.

• Best Time to Visit: March and June
• Popularity: Known for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views
• Activities to Do: Boating, kayaking, water cycling, water scooters and picnicking
• Ideal Route: Guwahati – Umiam Lake

The following are the top 10 road trip destinations from Guwahati that promise unforgettable experiences and scenic views:

3. Shillong | 106 km

Known as the ‘Scotland of the East’, Shillong’s captivating beauty, with its rolling hills and colonial architecture, makes it a perfect road trip destination from Guwahati. The journey itself is a delightful experience, with scenic views and pleasant weather.

• Best Time to Visit: September to May
• Popularity: Tribal heritage, nightlife, natural beauty and colonial architecture
• Activities to Do: Visit Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, museums, parks, and enjoy the local markets
• Ideal Route: Guwahati – Nongkhrah – Shillong

4. Cherrapunji | 154 km

Famous for its living root bridges and waterfalls, Cherrapunji offers an ethereal experience amidst clouds and rain. The drive from Guwahati to Cherrapunji is an adventure through some of the most spectacular sceneries in the Northeast.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February.
• Popularity: Living root bridges, Nohkalikai Falls, rich culture and scenic landscapes
• Activities to Do: Trekking to the living root bridges, exploring caves, and waterfall hopping
• Ideal Route: Guwahati – Shillong – Cherrapunji

5. Mawsynram | 160 km

Holding the title of the wettest place on Earth, Mawsynram is a mesmerising destination with lush greenery and enchanting waterfalls. The road trip to Mawsynram is a journey through the heart of Meghalaya’s rain-soaked landscapes

• Best Time to Visit: June to September and October to February
• Popularity: Its natural beauty and unique weather patterns make it a sought-after destination
• Activities to Do: Explore the Mawjymbuin Cave and witness the majestic waterfalls
• Ideal Route: Guwahati – Shillong – Mawsynram

6. Kaziranga National Park | 168 km

Home to the majestic one-horned rhinoceros and elephants, Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The drive from Guwahati to Kaziranga, along the lush tea gardens of Assam, is indeed scenic.

• Best Time to Visit: November to April
• Popularity: One-horned rhinoceros, wild water buffalo, elephants, tigers and swamp deers
• Activities to Do: Jeep safaris, elephant rides and bird watching
• Ideal Route: Guwahati – Nagaon – Kaziranga National Park

7. Dawki | 181 km

Dawki is renowned for its crystal-clear river, a natural marvel that attracts tourists from across the globe. The road trip from Guwahati to Dawki, with its picturesque landscapes, is an experience of a lifetime.

• Best Time to Visit: November to May
• Popularity: The clear river waters and boat rides are major attractions.
• Activities to Do: Boating, camping,  suspension bridge and visiting the India-Bangladesh border.
• Ideal Route: Guwahati – Shillong – Dawki

8. Jaintia Hills | 187 km

Offering a blend of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Jaintia Hills is a hidden gem in Meghalaya. The journey from Guwahati is a picturesque drive through rolling hills and serene landscapes.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Popularity: Nartiang Monoliths, Waterfalls, Caves and Lakes
• Activities to Do: Trekking, exploring caves and sightseeing
• Ideal Route: Guwahati – Shillong – Jaintia Hills

9. Tura | 214 km

A picturesque town in the Garo Hills, Tura is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The journey from Guwahati to Tura, through winding roads and lush landscapes, is as beautiful and memorable as the destination itself.

• Best Time to Visit: October to April.
• Popularity: Known for its wildlife and cultural festivals.
• Activities to Do: Go on a wildlife safari, visit caves, and explore local villages.
• Ideal Route: Guwahati – Dudhnoi – Tura

10. Bomdila | 258 km

Nestled amidst the Eastern Himalayas, Bomdila enchants travellers with its picturesque landscapes and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. The road journey offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys.

• Best Time to Visit: April to October.
• Popularity: Bomdila Monastery, Dirang Valley and Apple orchards
• Activities to do: Visit monasteries, trekking, birdwatching and apple orchards
• Ideal Route: Guwahati – Bhairabkunda – Bomdila.

Road trips from Guwahati are not just about the destinations but the journeys themselves. Each route unfolds its own set of marvels, from the lush greenery of the Eastern Himalayas to the cultural richness of the tribal lands. Whether you seek adventure in the wilderness or tranquillity amidst nature, these destinations promise an enriching experience.