The Laitlum Canyons is a colourful site located 45 minutes away from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. This is a canyon located on the top of East Khasi Hills and is quite a craze among trekkers. The peak of the canyon is one of the most sought after for those willing to experience the best of nature. When in the canyon, tourists can get a great view of the green slopes, bamboo plants and the lush green orchids, a sight worth admiring. Including the Laitlum Canyons in your Shillong Tour Packages ensures that visitors experience this breathtaking natural beauty.
The name Laitlum translates to the “End of the slopes” in the local language. In fact, this canyon is also known as Smit Valley by the local population.The route to this canyon may be slightly challenging, but tourists are assured of an adventure to get to the canyon. In the end, the trek to the canyon is so worth it, thanks to the best views that it offers.
Highlights
• Go for trekking to explore uncharted paths and give yourself the much needed adventure.
• Opt for birdwatching experience to spot some of the most rare and unique birds that call this canyon their home.
• Interact with the locals to know more about their lifestyle and experience their warmth and hospitality.
• Go with your camera for photoshoots and get yourself clicked with some of the best landscapes that you ever come across.
• Marvel at the views of the Laitlum canyon and watch the colours of the canyon change according to different times of the day.
How To Reach
By Car: The activity location is 24 km from the city centre, it will take 60 minutes via the NH 6 route.
Best Time To Visit
The Laitlum canyon is open throughout the year, so you can plan your visit to the canyon at any time of the year.
- Monsoon is the best season as this is the time when the canyon is in its full greenery and is worth looking at.
- Weekdays are the best time to plan your visit as there is a lesser chance of crowding and you can visit the place patiently.
- The best time of the day will be the morning, especially when the sky is clear for the best views of the canyon.
Other Essential Information
- People with mobility issues are not recommended to travel to this spot as the route is bumpy.
- There are local stalls located alongside the road to the canyon, so do taste the cuisine.
- If you are planning to trek, make sure to dress comfortably and choose a durable pair of trekking boots.
- This place is inhabited by the local Khasi tribe, so do respect their traditions and prevent any sort of littering.
- You will have to climb 3000 steps to reach the canyon, so be physically prepared for the same.
Trekking in the cave
The Laitlum canyon has rugged terrain that is a paradise for all adventure enthusiasts. Trekking through this rugged terrain can take you to some of the most stunning views. Some of the most sought after routes are the Ra Song Laitlum trek and the Laitlum-Smit trek. On the way you can come across a lot of lush greenery and waterfalls. Trekking is a popular adventure experience that is suitable for both first timers and experienced trekkers.
Interacting with the locals
The Laitlum canyon is surrounded by villages which are inhabited by the indigenous Khasi tribe. Interacting with them can give you a first hand experience of their lifestyle and hospitality. Many of the inhabitants are known to be warm and welcoming. Some of the best places include Rasong and Smit villages, where you can know more about their lifestyle. You can even check out their 100 year old Shad house and watch the vibrant Nongkrem dance during the autumn season.
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Try out birdwatching
A rare but worthy experience, Laitlum canyon is a home to a lot of vibrant birds. Some of the commonly spotted birds include the Oriental Magpie Robin and the Blue throated Barbet. For a more authentic experience, make sure that you carry a camera and a pair of binoculars to spot them much easier. To spot these birds, make sure you are alert so that you can spot the birds easily. For a more insightful experience, we recommend going with an experienced birdwatcher.
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