
Laitlum Canyons Shillong
Experience the 'End of the Hills' at Laitlum Canyons, offering breathtaking panoramic views of lush valleys and dramatic gorges near Shillong.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds, enjoy peace

Laitlum Canyons Shillong
Best Time
Avoid crowds, enjoy peace

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the 'End of the Hills' at Laitlum Canyons, offering breathtaking panoramic views of lush valleys and dramatic gorges near Shillong.
"Laitlum Canyon is one of the most stunning places I visited in Meghalaya, truly lives up to its name."

🎯 Go to the 'End Side'
After parking, take the straight road near shops. The real beauty is on the right side, past the main viewpoint.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be steep and sometimes slippery, especially after rain. Good footwear is essential for exploring.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Valley Views
Rasong Viewpoint
Breathtaking vistas of lush green valleys, rolling hills, and dramatic gorges. A true 'end of the world' feeling.

Cloud Gazing Experience
Edge of the Canyons
Witness clouds drift and swirl through the canyons, creating a mystical and ever-changing landscape.

Sunrise and Sunset Spectacle
Rasong Viewpoint
Experience vibrant colors painting the sky over the vast landscape, a photographer's dream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Getting There & Budget Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go to the 'End Side'
After parking, take the straight road near shops. The real beauty is on the right side, past the main viewpoint.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be steep and sometimes slippery, especially after rain. Good footwear is essential for exploring.
🚗 Cab Negotiation
Expect to pay around ₹500-1000 for a cab from Smit to Laitlum. Haggling is advised.
☁️ Check the Weather
Fog can completely hide the views. Visit on a clear day for the best experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go to the 'End Side'
After parking, take the straight road near shops. The real beauty is on the right side, past the main viewpoint.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be steep and sometimes slippery, especially after rain. Good footwear is essential for exploring.
🚗 Cab Negotiation
Expect to pay around ₹500-1000 for a cab from Smit to Laitlum. Haggling is advised.
☁️ Check the Weather
Fog can completely hide the views. Visit on a clear day for the best experience.
💧 Carry Snacks & Water
Facilities are minimal. Bring your own refreshments for a comfortable visit.
📸 Drone Shots Welcome
Capture stunning aerial views of the canyons and landscape.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Laitlum Canyons for its breathtaking panoramic views of valleys and clouds, describing it as a peaceful and untouched natural wonder. The serene atmosphere and stunning landscapes make it a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers, though some note the challenging trek and limited facilities.
"One of the best place to visit. Such a beautiful view of the valleys and clouds. Soft breezes with cold weather throughout the months and it just makes you feel the peace. Great place to sit and chill with friends and family. You must visit if you are planning for a vacation in Meghalaya."
Prerana Das
"Laitlum Canyon is one of the most stunning places I visited in Meghalaya. Often called the ‘End of the Hills,’ it truly lives up to its name with breathtaking panoramic views of deep valleys, rolling hills, and endless greenery. The peaceful atmosphere, fresh breeze, and untouched beauty make it an ideal escape for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who just wants to sit back and enjoy the calmness of nature. The trek down to the canyon is a little challenging, but the views along the way are absolutely rewarding. It’s less commercialized compared to other tourist spots, which makes it even more special and serene. If you are planning a trip to Meghalaya, I would definitely recommend adding Laitlum Canyon to your itinerary – it’s an experience you will cherish forever."
sai yashwanth
"Beautiful place with awesome environment..
There are two view points one is near parking that is left side of the main market road but another side is total adorable, real nature beauty, Must go to the end side, after parking take the straight road near small shops at the end check your right side..
I Visited this place 2nd week of Sep2025 entry near parking view side is Rs10 and Entry for Another beautiful side is Rs20 for Indian adults.."
Abhishek Rawat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by hiring a taxi from Shillong, which takes about 45 minutes to an hour and costs around ₹1500-2000. A budget-friendly alternative is to take a bus to Smit and then try to reserve a cab from there, potentially for ₹500-1000, though haggling is necessary. Without a reserved cab, you might have to walk a significant distance.
Direct public transport to Laitlum Canyons is limited. Travelers often rely on taxis or private vehicles. Taking a bus to Smit is an option, but further transport to the canyons might still require a taxi or a long walk.
Laitlum Canyons is located approximately 25-45 kilometers from Shillong city, depending on the specific route taken. The drive usually takes about 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
Yes, you can drive your own vehicle or a rented car to Laitlum Canyons. There is parking available near the viewpoints. The roads leading up to the canyons are scenic but can be winding.
Several local tour operators in Shillong offer packages that include visits to Laitlum Canyons. These can be convenient if you prefer an organized trip, but booking a private taxi might offer more flexibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there are nominal entry fees for the viewpoints. One viewpoint near the parking area might cost around ₹10, while another more scenic side can be around ₹20 for Indian adults.
Laitlum Canyons is generally accessible throughout the day. However, for the best experience with sunrise or sunset views, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours.
No, advance booking is typically not required for Laitlum Canyons. Entry fees are usually collected at the viewpoints upon arrival.
While there are no major restrictions, visitors are advised to be cautious near the steep cliffs and edges. Respecting the natural environment and avoiding littering are important.
Yes, Laitlum Canyons can be visited during the monsoon season, but be prepared for potential fog and rain which might obscure the views. The landscape can be particularly lush and dramatic during this time.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activity is enjoying the breathtaking panoramic views of the valleys and hills. You can also trek down towards the villages, relax, meditate, or take stunning photographs.
Yes, Laitlum Canyons offers trekking opportunities, especially for those who wish to descend into the canyons towards the villages. The trails can be challenging and rocky.
Expect stunning, vast panoramic views of deep green valleys, rolling hills, steep cliffs, and dramatic cloud formations. It's often described as the 'End of the World' or 'End of the Hills' for a reason.
Absolutely! Laitlum Canyons is a paradise for photographers, offering incredible landscapes, dramatic light during sunrise and sunset, and the unique phenomenon of clouds moving through the valleys.
It can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Visiting on a weekday, particularly in the morning, is recommended to enjoy the peaceful and secluded vibe.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are small local shops and tea stalls near the viewpoints where you can buy snacks and tea. However, for a full meal, it's best to dine in Shillong before or after your visit.
The food options are limited to basic snacks and tea from local stalls. It's advisable to carry your own vegetarian snacks and water if you have specific dietary needs.
Local stalls typically offer tea, coffee, and simple snacks like biscuits or local munchies. These are perfect for a quick refreshment while enjoying the view.
It's more of a place to enjoy the scenery with a cup of tea. For a proper meal, Shillong offers a wide variety of restaurants.
You can bring your own food for a picnic, but please ensure you clean up after yourselves and dispose of any waste responsibly to preserve the natural beauty.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Clear mornings also provide excellent visibility of the valleys.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the distant hills. A drone can provide unique aerial perspectives.
The Rasong Viewpoint offers stunning vistas. Exploring the 'end side' past the main parking area also reveals particularly beautiful and less-crowded photo opportunities.
Fog and mist can create a mystical, ethereal atmosphere, perfect for moody shots. However, heavy fog can obscure the grand canyon views. Clear days offer vibrant colors and sharp details.
Tripods are generally allowed, especially during less crowded times. They are very useful for capturing long exposures during sunrise/sunset or in low light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing along snacks and drinks, as food options are limited to basic stalls. The peaceful atmosphere allows for a relaxing experience, and the sheer scale of the canyons can be a great way to introduce children to the wonders of nature. Visiting on a clear day will ensure they get the best views, making the trip more engaging and memorable.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers
When it comes to transport, be prepared for potential challenges if relying solely on public transport. Booking a taxi from Smit might be a good option to manage costs. Engaging with locals at the viewpoints or tea stalls can also enrich the experience, offering insights into the area and its culture. Remember to prioritize safety and inform someone of your travel plans.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Timing is crucial for capturing the best light; aim for sunrise or sunset for golden hour magic. Don't miss the 'end side' viewpoint for potentially less crowded and equally stunning perspectives. Drones are permitted and can provide breathtaking aerial footage, showcasing the sheer scale of the canyons.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Meaning and Majesty of Laitlum
The experience at Laitlum is not just about the visual grandeur; it's about the feeling it evokes. Visitors often describe a sense of calm and wonder, enhanced by the soft breezes and the often misty or cloudy atmosphere that adds a mystical charm. The raw, untouched beauty of the place makes it a sanctuary for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It's a place where you can simply sit, breathe, and absorb the magnificence of nature's artistry.
While the primary attraction is the panoramic viewpoint, the area also offers opportunities for trekking. Adventurous souls can venture down into the canyons towards the villages nestled below, adding a layer of exploration to their visit. However, even a short visit to the viewpoints provides an unforgettable experience, reminding visitors of the humbling power and beauty of the natural world.
Navigating to Laitlum: Practicalities and Tips
For budget-conscious travelers, a more economical option involves taking a local bus to Smit, a town closer to the canyons. From Smit, you can attempt to negotiate with local taxi drivers for a ride to Laitlum. This approach requires more effort and flexibility, as securing transport from Smit might involve haggling for a fare in the range of ₹500-1000. Be prepared that if you can't find a taxi, you might face a considerable walk to reach the viewpoints.
It's also worth noting that the roads leading to Laitlum can be winding and, at times, challenging, especially after rainfall. Driving your own vehicle is feasible, but ensure it's in good condition. Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, checking the weather forecast is crucial, as fog can significantly obscure the breathtaking views, turning a planned scenic trip into a cloudy experience.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Laitlum
Beyond the grand panoramas, the unique atmospheric conditions add another dimension to photography here. Clouds often drift through the canyons, creating a mystical and ethereal mood that can be captured with wide-angle lenses. For those with a drone, the aerial perspective offers an unparalleled view of the canyon's vastness and intricate topography, making for truly unique shots.
To make the most of your photography experience, consider visiting on a clear day for maximum visibility, or embrace the mist for moody, atmospheric shots. A tripod is highly recommended for capturing sharp images during low light conditions or for long exposures. Remember to be mindful of the steep edges and ensure your safety while seeking the perfect shot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit