Traveling to Meghalaya, the “Abode of Clouds,” requires knowing the most convenient airport access. While Meghalaya does have its own airport, understanding your options and planning ahead will ensure a smooth journey to this beautiful state in Northeast India. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information to make your travel plans hassle-free.
Which is the Nearest Airport to Meghalaya?
The Nearest Airport To Meghalaya is Umroi Airport (SHL), located in Shillong, the state’s capital. While this is technically the closest airport, it has limited flight connectivity. This often means travelers find it more practical to fly into Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) in Guwahati, Assam, and then travel to Meghalaya by road. Guwahati Airport is well-connected to major Indian cities and offers a more reliable and often more affordable option.
Understanding Your Options: Umroi vs. Guwahati
While Umroi Airport is closer to Shillong, its limited connectivity might require multiple layovers and potentially longer travel time overall. Guwahati Airport, despite being further away, provides more frequent flights and direct connections to several major cities, making it a popular choice for travelers heading to Meghalaya. The journey from Guwahati to Shillong by road is scenic and takes approximately 3 hours.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Airport
- Flight Availability: Check the flight schedules and availability to both Umroi and Guwahati from your departure city.
- Cost: Compare flight prices and the cost of ground transportation from Guwahati to Shillong.
- Travel Time: Consider the overall travel time, including flight duration and ground transportation.
- Convenience: Weigh the convenience of direct flights versus multiple layovers and the subsequent road journey.
Traveling from Guwahati to Shillong
The road trip from Guwahati to Shillong is a beautiful experience. The winding roads offer stunning views of the hills and valleys. Several transportation options are available, including taxis, buses, and private cars. You can find readily available taxis at the Guwahati airport pre-paid taxi counter, offering a convenient way to reach Shillong. For budget-conscious travelers, buses are also an excellent option. You might be interested in knowing more about the guwahati airport to shillong taxi fare.
Exploring Meghalaya from Shillong
Shillong serves as an excellent base for exploring the rest of Meghalaya. From here, you can easily access popular destinations such as Cherrapunji, known for its record-breaking rainfall, and Mawlynnong, often dubbed “Asia’s Cleanest Village.” Planning your onward journey from Shillong is essential for a seamless Meghalaya experience. Knowing about the nearest airport to shillong is helpful for returning as well.
Planning Your Trip to Meghalaya
When planning your trip to Meghalaya, booking flights and accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Researching and booking tours and activities beforehand can also save time and ensure a smoother experience. You may also find it useful to learn about places to visit near guwahati airport if you decide to spend some time in Guwahati.
Conclusion: Reaching Meghalaya with Ease
Planning your trip to Meghalaya starts with choosing the most convenient airport. While Umroi Airport is the closest, Guwahati Airport offers better connectivity for many travelers. By understanding the options and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth journey to Meghalaya and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the “Abode of Clouds.” Knowing more about shillong airport to meghalaya can also help you plan your itinerary effectively. If you’re planning a trip to the Kamakhya Temple, you might also want to check out information on the kamakhya nearest airport.
FAQ
- What is the airport code for Umroi Airport? (SHL)
- What is the airport code for Guwahati Airport? (GAU)
- How far is Guwahati Airport from Shillong? (Approximately 100 km)
- How long does it take to travel from Guwahati to Shillong by road? (Around 3 hours)
- Are taxis readily available at Guwahati Airport? (Yes, at the pre-paid taxi counter)
- What are some popular tourist destinations in Meghalaya? (Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong, Shillong)
- Is it recommended to book flights and accommodation in advance? (Yes, especially during peak season)
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