How Can I Go Meghalaya By Train?

Meghalaya, a breathtakingly beautiful state nestled in the northeastern part of India, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Known as the "abode of clouds," this lush green state is famous for its pristine landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and diverse indigenous cultures. If you're planning a trip to Meghalaya and prefer the convenience and charm of train travel, here's everything you need to know about how to reach Meghalaya by train.

1. Guwahati Railway Station

The nearest major railway station to Meghalaya is Guwahati Railway Station, located in the capital city of Assam. It is well-connected to several cities across India by regular train services. Many trains from major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai have direct connectivity to Guwahati.

Train Routes to Guwahati:

• Kolkata to Guwahati: Several direct trains are available from Kolkata to Guwahati, such as Kamrup Express, Brahmaputra Mail, and Saraighat Express. The journey takes around 17-20 hours.
• Delhi to Guwahati: Trains like Northeast Express, Rajdhani Express, and North East Express connect Delhi to Guwahati. The travel time is approximately 24-30 hours.
• Mumbai to Guwahati: To reach Guwahati from Mumbai, you can board trains like Dibrugarh Rajdhani Express, Guwahati Express, or Kamakhya Express. The journey duration varies between 48-60 hours.
• Chennai to Guwahati: The easiest way to travel from Chennai to Guwahati by train is to take a direct train like Chennai Egmore - Guwahati Express or Guwahati - Chennai Express. The travel time is around 50-60 hours.

2. From Guwahati to Shillong by Train

Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, is located approximately 100 kilometers away from Guwahati. Although there is no direct train connectivity to Shillong, you can easily reach there by road from Guwahati. There are several options available for commuting between Guwahati and Shillong:

• Taxis or Cabs: Hiring a taxi or cab from Guwahati to Shillong is a convenient and popular option. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
• Shared Taxis: Shared taxis operate from Guwahati to Shillong and are a cost-effective option for budget travelers. These taxis have fixed rates and can be found at various points in Guwahati, such as Paltan Bazar and Khanapara.
• Public Transport: Buses and shared Sumos also ply regularly between Guwahati and Shillong. While buses are cheaper, shared Sumos offer a faster and more comfortable journey.

3. Train to Other Destinations in Meghalaya

If you plan to visit other attractions in Meghalaya apart from Shillong, there are a few train options available:

• Guwahati to Jowai: Jowai is a picturesque town in Meghalaya known for its beautiful waterfalls and serene landscapes. From Guwahati, you can take a train to Lumding Junction and then proceed to Jowai by road, which takes approximately 3-4 hours.
• Guwahati to Tura: Tura, located in the Garo Hills region of Meghalaya, is famous for its scenic beauty and wildlife. To reach Tura from Guwahati, you can take a train to Guwahati Junction and then continue the journey by road. The road journey takes around 7-8 hours.

Conclusion:

Traveling to Meghalaya by train is an exciting and convenient option, with Guwahati Railway Station serving as the gateway to this picturesque state. From Guwahati, you can easily reach Shillong or explore other attractions in Meghalaya by road. Whether you choose to hire a taxi or opt for shared transport, the journey promises to be an enchanting experience, offering glimpses of the breathtaking landscapes that await you in Meghalaya.

So, pack your bags, hop on a train, and get ready to experience the mesmerizing beauty of Meghalaya!

Don't forget to share this blog post with your friends and fellow travelers who are planning a trip to Meghalaya!